In this weeks professional contexts session we looked at writing a CV appropriate for getting a job in photography or any arts. We established that your CV should be:
-accurate
-up to date
-relevent
-clean
-concise
But then they should additionally include:
-Name
-website
-social media (if you want it on there for people to look at)
-small details of yourself- you should keep these details minimal though to avoid any form of discrimination
-educational history- from A Levels onwards
-solo and group exhibitions
-photographic collections- private and public with the dates
-awards- those you have won or been shortlisted for
-publications
-commissions (include the year, the commissioner, the outcome)
-exhibition committees- or any shows you have assisted with curation
-internships
-personal skills
-training courses
-references
With all these things in mind you should use your experiences on your CV to make yourself sound as attractive as possible by elaborating your achievements but remember although you are a student you are also a young professional so don’t over do it. Therefore, do not write in third person and remember that the first paragraph is the most important as this will be the reader’s first impression of you- after all this could be your future employer!!
What I gained from this session was not only how to write a successful future CV but also that as a student your CV will probably start out to be quite barren with not that achievement and that’s okay as you won’t have had many experiences yet. However, with time your CV will change and develop as you gain some experience and start to add these to your CV.
Here is an example of an arts CV I made for myself:
Isobel Colnaghi
DOB: 29th May 1998
Address: 14 Stuart Place, Oldfield Park, Bath, Somerset, BA2 3RQ
Mobile: 07753226285
Email: icolnaghi@mac.com
Instagram: izzycolnaghiphotos
Profile:
I am an individual who is eager to learn and constantly striving to improve, both in my personal and professional life. I have studied photography in an academic setting for 7 years, with practice outside of that too. I am a quick learner and enjoy adapting to new challenges in the working environment.
I am currently studying for a BA(hons) in photography at Bath Spa University and in my spare time I enjoy improving my photography, whilst completing personal projects, listening/going to see live music, health and nutrition and spending time with friends and family.
Education:
Qualification Grade Subject Date
Alton College
AS Level E Psychology. 2015
AS Level C English Literature 2015
AS Level E Law 2015
AS Level B Photography 2015
Alton College
A Level D Psychology 2016
A Level C English Literature 2016
A Level B Photography 2016
Bath Spa University
BA(hons) tbc Photography 2020
Skills and Experience:
I pride myself in being able to get on with almost anyone and enjoy meeting new people and getting to know them. My social skills and reliable personality resulted in me being trained further in previous retail jobs where I have been commended by previous managers for being able to adapt to demanding situations, and as such am considered a reliable employee.