Freddie Bingham

Switching to Documentary Photography at USW

Photography
Photography student smiling for a photo, sitting on a desk in a classroom

The networking opportunities on the course have been invaluable, especially getting to know so many industry figures through events and exhibitions.


Finding my place in photography 

I’m studying Documentary Photography at USW, but I actually started on the film course. I quickly realised it wasn’t for me, and after connecting with people already on the Documentary Photography course and seeing what they were creating, I knew I had to make the switch. Photography offered the perfect mix of creativity and storytelling that I was looking for. 

I chose USW because I wanted to stay in Wales, and Cardiff felt like the ideal creative city—small enough to be familiar but buzzing with life, like a mini London or Bristol. I didn’t attend an Open Day, but I came from College Gwent, which has strong ties to USW, so I felt prepared. 

Find your course

ONE OF MY PROUDEST PROJECTS WAS WORKING WITH CARDIFF BAY WARRIORS, A SOMALI-RUN FOOTBALL TEAM IN CARDIFF.

Freddie Bingham

Documentary Photography student

Industry opportunities and future ambitions 

The course has provided loads of industry opportunities. We’ve collaborated with professionals on projects, travelled to London for gallery visits, and even partnered with the National Portrait Gallery for a brief inspired by the Taylor Wessing Prize. The networking have been invaluable, especially getting to know so many industry figures through events and exhibitions. 

One of my proudest projects was working with Cardiff Bay Warriors, a Somali-run football team in Cardiff. They invited me to document their journey to Canada for the Somali Champions League, which was an incredible experience and a highlight of my studies. After graduating, I’d love to go freelance and continue working on projects like these. The course is small but tight-knit, and we support each other like family. 

Employability and Careers

Interested in Photography?

With courses in Photography and Documentary Photography, USW has gained a national and international reputation for excellence. You’ll find world-class photography studios on campus and a community of passionate people engaged in shaping the future of visual culture.