Parisa Couture
“This had been a hobby for both of us for quite some time; Nasima studied Fashion design at college, but didn’t pursue it as a career, but carried on designing as a hobby. Nasima started making customised outfits for musicians and Rusana has styled for Asian bridal catwalks and works as a freelance fashion stylist. We met at a charity event and found that we had both similar and opposite tastes in fashion that could potentially work amazingly well together!
Any method of promotion is good promotion, but we think articles are pretty much the best way to showcase our work, as well as fashion shows. As we are fairly new, building a fan base is really important for us, so people get to know our style.
In order to succeed in the industry, learn the basics of fashion, do a short fashion course it will definitely help you. If you have a flair or talent you will succeed no matter what. You just need passion, self belief and motivation and you’ll pretty much shine through. Networking is a must, and just stay honest and genuine to yourself and your original goals and let the rest happen.”
Terri Lee-Shield, Photographer
“After starting to study graphic design at uni, I realised I preferred photography. I combined my skills with both and got offered a job in a photography studio. I worked for them for three years until I was ready to go solo.
The best and worst thing about being self employed in the creative industry, is it’s all you. The rewards are fantastic when things go right, but it’s also down to you if things go wrong.
The biggest challenge I face at the minute is competing with other young talented photographers who also want to get noticed, as well as competing against established photographers who already have contacts and clients. I always push myself to do the best I can so my work stands out from the crowd, and I’m always genuine with the people I meet; after all, I am my own product and I want people to want to work with me.
To be successful, you need to work, work, work, and do it with a smile. Success doesn’t happen by doing nothing, so if you want to be a great photographer, or anything for that matter, you have to be prepared to put in the work. And want it. You have to be passionate about what you do when you work for yourself. If you truly want something you’re more likely to get it.”
