Meet Julie Patrick, a graphic designer and photographer based in Hilton, just outside of Pietermaritzburg.
The thing we like about Jules is that she has a great sense of style and, in her own words, aims to capture the beauty in the world around her. We like her vibe and her ability to recognise great design. She’s a “huge fan of God, of music, of art, and of chocolate”. Ok, we’re fairly non-plussed when it comes to the latter (except maybe for Berto), but the rest we’ll say “Ayoba!” to.
Q&A
Name: Julie Patrick
Age: 24
Family: Mom – Lorraine (grade 2 teacher) Dad – Mike (DUT lecturer) Brother – Alan (second year video technology)
Which schools/tertiary instituions did you go to?
I spent my whole childhood within a 5 km radius – preschool at Hilton Pre Primary, then hopped across the road to Laddsworth for primary school, then across the fence to St. Anne’s Diocesan College for high school. Tertiary = I went to Durban University of Technology and studied Graphic Design for four years.
How long have you been a photographer?
As a hobbie & enhancement to my design – about four years.. Professionally – about a year.
What got you interested in photography?
I studied Graphic Design; which taught me a lot about creativity, light, composition, and colour – these are some of the foundations of photography. We did a short photography course in my 3rd year of design, and for my B-Tech practical I decided to do a book of photographs featuring children. After this my lecturers encouraged me to pursue a career in photography, and gave me a top photo editing program as a prize with one of my awards. This program has been hugely helpful so I’m incredibly thankful to them for their thoughtfulness in choosing it for me.
Why do you love it?
Capturing a moment and preserving it is something that makes photography appeal to everyone. You can re-live an experience through photographs. In the fast-paced world we’re in, there’s so much going on.. but even the most busy, non-stop people will sit down for a time, and look through photos – if the subject matter is relevant to their life. I love to give people preserved moments that make them smile.. it’s the most fulfilling part of my job.
What equipment do you use?
I use a Canon EOS 550D with the standard 18-55mm lens, and my favourite little 50mm 1.8 lens (the nifty fifty). I also use a Speedlite 430EXII flash when necessary.
Describe your ideal weekend?
Hmm that’s a tough one.. but it would definitely include a laid back Saturday morning at home, time with friends, a lunch in the midlands or at the beach, church on Sunday and eating a lot of chocolate while watching a series / reading (because in an ideal world, chocolate has no calories).
Who or what do you value the most?
What I value more than anything is God.
What’s your favourite lunch-time meal?
Fegos Prada Salad or Cape Town sushi:)
If clothing was a genre (like styles of music), how would you describe your wardrobe?
Haha.. hmm probably Indie..
What are you most looking forward to in the next year?
I’m moving down to Durban next year so lots of changes – looking forward to meeting new people. I also have a few weddings lined up – some are friends so that will be great.
What are your plans for the future?
No definite plans as yet – I work for an NPO which has exciting times ahead, but other than that.. we’ll just have to see!
Check out Julie’s photos of the RCB opening for Prime Circle.
[rps]
