I have been into photography since Year 9 at Hymers. I would have been around 15 when I first properly picked up a camera. Funnily enough, if it hadn’t been for my brother letting me borrow his camera to shoot a family event, I may have never even picked up photography to begin with - which is mind-blowing to me, as now it is my life and taken me on so many incredible journeys!

When I was at Hymers, there used to be a photography club, however there weren’t enough members to meet frequently. Despite this, I have fond memories of having Mr McTere for Business and often showing him the photographic work I had produced, as he was a big fan of the subject! From this, I started experimenting more and more and eventually took Photography as an A level at Wyke Sixth Form College, alongside History and Criminology. It was at this time my love for photography grew and blossomed!

Despite spending plenty of time within my other studies, gaining a B in History and an A in Criminology. I found myself in my photography teacher's office every day - working as hard as I could to produce the best work I possibly could to eventually gain an A*. This love of photography also led me to gain an award at the end of my college time, which was only picked up by the two best students in the year for the subject in which they were chosen! 

My hard work, dedication, a little luck, and the right contacts have allowed me to photograph some of the world's best-known international music artists. To name a few, I’ve photographed legends such as Nile Rodgers, The Kaiser Chiefs, McFly & Busted! This year, I have an amazing-looking line-up which I am super grateful for, including names such as Example & RAYE.

Achieving these experiences at the age of 19 is incredible and something I could have only dreamed of as a child. The adrenaline produced doing these shows is off the charts and often I have been overwhelmed with happiness when leaving the venues. You often wonder when doing these shows, if you will ever receive recognition from the artists themselves - which I have been lucky enough to achieve, having the Kaiser Chiefs share some of my work on their social media. I never take these experiences for granted and the special moments that occur sometimes within these experiences will stay with me forever.

One moment in particular stands out to me and it was when I was photographing Busted! James Bourne - the guitarist and singer for Busted looked straight into my camera lens, pulled a pose, and stayed this way until I gave him a thumbs-up! It was at this moment in particular, that I said to myself, "I want to experience this magic for the rest of my life!"

If I were to give any piece of advice to anyone who may find themselves with similar goals to the ones I had, I would advise you to work as hard as possible and stay as humble as possible. Take as many opportunities that come your way and reach out to as many people within the industry as you can for as much experience as you can. Always be grateful to the ones who have helped you and give back to show your appreciation as contacts are the main thing in this industry! 

Millie Warkup, OH 2016-21

mwarkuphoto.co.uk