Students' photos used for bus ad campaign

Photography students from the West Midlands are set to see their work featured as part of an advertising campaign encouraging people to use the region's buses.

The students' work was chosen during a competition designed to support young local talent and create images for the Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) You're Bussing It initiative.

Participants were briefed and asked to submit a creative proposal, similar to the way a professional photographer would when pitching for commercial work.

"These images show the depth of talent and creativity we have in our region and it's only right they will be seen by thousands of people," said West Midlands mayor Richard Parker.

The successful students were paid for their time and for the use of their images.

The initiative came about through a partnership with Birmingham City University and marketing agency Impero.

Joshua Thomas, a second-year photography student, said the project helped him gain experience of working professionally.

"I really enjoyed working with the team, working to a creative brief, engaging with members of the public and working with them to capture candid moments on the transport network," he said.

Second year student Nikhil Odedra, from Tamworth, said: "This has meant a lot to me as a student as it has given me an insight into what it's like to work on an advertising campaign. It's something that's great to add to my CV."

Jasleen Kaur, who is in her final year, said: "I got to put myself out of my comfort zone and gained more confidence.

"Getting this opportunity so early on in my career has been an eye-opener and has made me more open to other opportunities."

"The real-world industry experience and connections are going to be invaluable for me," added fellow final year student Joshua Reilly from Birmingham.

"The best part of the project was meeting the team on the shoot, interacting with them and learning from how they act," he said.

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