‘Film another career option’

Students are being urged to consider careers in photography and film rather than the conventional careers if these careers are not their passion.This advice came from Minister of Culture and Community Development Steve Blackett as he addressed the opening of the Film Garrison photo exhibition last Monday evening.Blackett said that youth were usually forced into thinking they needed to get into the well known fields in order to make it. He added that it was an erroneous and outdated idea that stifled the development in new areas.  Noting that photography could open doors internationally, the minister said the doors first needed to be opened locally. To this end, Blackett said, a bill would soon be taken to Parliament that would look at introducing duty and tax concessions on equipment to help support the industry.He added that the film industry in Barbados had great potential as it was still a young industry. He therefore encouraged the young photographers to hone their skills so that when the industry developed they would be way ahead of the others.Garrison Secondary principal Matthew Farley highlighted the fact that schools of the era should diversify their offerings rather than continue to stick to the traditional curriculum. He added that with the current curriculum students who did not fit the mould were kept outside and not able to fulfil their potential.The photographers were awarded special prizes, with Ashauna Hussein being deemed Best Overall Photographer. Other prizes went to Donathan Regis, Zarah Beckles, Joy Drayton, Charlene Deroche, Mercedes Hunte, Leann King and Atia Cadogan.The exhibit, under the theme Making Images, is currently on display at the Old Stables, George Washington House. (LK)