FirstFootprint 2011 launched

The hunt is on for a university or college whose students would like to pitch for a place on a 4x4 expedition.
Last year's competition focussed on photography students at London College of Communication. Around 30 students were briefed by the scheme's organisers, Mark Williams and Peter Girling, and  shortlist of five was eventually chosen. Winner Josh Horwook was taken to the French Alps, far off the beaten track, and assembled a stunning portfolio of pictures.
"Now it could be your turn," said Mark Williams. "We want to hear from college and university departmental heads but we're happy to follow up contact from photography and art students who feel their college or university would like to take part in the scheme. Just send us contact details and we'll do the rest."
The destination for FirstFootprint 2011 is still being decided but the format of the trip will be the same; the student selected has only to make travel plans to join the expedition group in the UK, and needs just out-of-pocket expenses, basic camping gear and, of course, photographic equipment. The rest is provided.
The trip will be outside of normal term time and photos shot on the trip will be made available afterwards to the sponsoring expedition company. Copyright, though, remains with the student, and the portfolio can afterwards be used in any way you like.
Sign up by dropping a line to mark@thewideangle.net

Josh scales the heights on FirstFootprint expedition

A photography student who won a seat on an overland expedition says it was the experience of a lifetime.

Josh Horwood travelled in a 4x4 deep into the Alps along mountain tracks, taking pictures to add to his portfolio: “I did work hard but I enjoyed it, so it never felt like a chore,” said Josh, a third-year student at London College of Communication. “It provided a base of images to create a portfolio which I can then use to approach potential employers.”

Sponsored this year by 4x4 tour company Atlas Overland, the trek was Josh's reward for beating off a challenge from 30 other students, shortlisted to seven. Eventually, Josh found himself in the final three, and his attitude and samples of his work won over the judges.

“Josh was just what we'd been looking for,” said Peter Girling, who runs Atlas Overland and jointly launched the scheme. “He was keen as mustard and had the energy and enthusiasm needed to take some stunning pictures. I hope he benefits from the experience.”

The trip ran south from Calais into southern France, over old trade routes, then up into Italian mountain villages at the base of a 10,000-foot glacier. On the return trip, the route took in an off-road driving site at Val d'Isere before heading, via Mont Blanc, back to the ferry.

The great news for the UK's photography students is that the initiative will be run again next year, at another college or university, with another amazing trip available to the most promising student.

“If I were to do it again, I would get a motorbike and drive ahead,” said Josh, who lives in Camberley, Surrey. “That would enable the photographer to set up better shots.”