Breanne Sinibaldi, Photography, Class of 2009

Posted on Wednesday, March 30th, 2011

Breanne Sinibaldi is a graduate of the Two-Year Photography program.

I had the opportunity to travel to Christchurch, New Zealand over the 2008 Christmas holiday. As part of my post secondary education curriculum I was required to take part in a field placement with a photography studio of my choosing. I was encouraged to source out a studio that shared my artistic vision and allowed a vast opportunity for learning. I knew before starting the semester that I wanted to try and find a placement outside of Ottawa. At the time never really considering going outside of Ontario, let alone Canada.

After extensive research I discovered Lightworkx Studios in Christchurch, New Zealand. Their style and subject matter were what I hope to one day produce in my images. I sent them an email and was pleasantly surprised when they were very receptive to my application and portfolio, and accepted me as a co-op student immediately.

For several weeks I was involved in multiple photo shoot days. I was even able to participate in a large ad campaign for the Canterbury Crusaders rugby team. Which in Canada is almost equivalent to participating in an NHL hockey team campaign. Not only did I get to watch how the shots unfolded I was also able to participate and my face now appears in a crowd of people in the ad on pamphlets and bus advertisements.

Working at this studio I was also able to assist a visiting photographer who rented their space. This was great because I was able to see another photographer’s style of work. How he packed and travelled with his own equipment, how he dealt with clients, models, and crying babies. (It was a shoot for “nappies”, otherwise known as diapers to us Canadians).

Participating at Lightworkx Studios I was able to put forth many of the skills I have learned at Algonquin College and contribute feedback and assistance during the photo shoots. I worked hand-in-hand with the photographer and postproduction editor to learn as much as I could about all aspects of the industry.

The education I received at Lightworkx Studios was invaluable for my future career as a photographer. The international opportunity brought out new skills and processes in me that will help me achieve success in Ontario’s competitive photography industry.

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