Single mother-of-two Katherine Bailey from Noosa has reignited her creative spark and achieved her dream of starting her own business, after swapping her 20-year long career in television graphics and animation for one behind the camera.
Having graduated from TAFE Queensland’s Nambour campus with a Diploma of Photography and Photo Imaging just last year, Katherine, 46, has hit the ground running, turning a passion that initially began as a hobby into a thriving small business.
“Before I took the plunge into professional photography, I was mostly self-taught, snapping photos whenever I could,” Katherine said.
“After having my two boys, I realised I needed something more creatively fulfilling – something that would reignite my passion.
“By chance, I saw an ad on Facebook for the Diploma of Photography and Photo Imaging being run at my local TAFE Queensland Nambour campus, and I knew this was my chance to turn my passion into more.”
Katherine had studied screen production straight after high school, and for 20 years worked in graphics and animation at television networks and at post-production houses.
It was during this time she learned and grew her interest in visual storytelling, but her work as a graphic designer eventually became repetitive and began to lose its spark.
“That’s when I turned to photography, and I haven’t looked back since,” Katherine said.
Katherine began her diploma full-time at the Nambour campus, completing her qualification over the course of a year.
“The facilities at Nambour were state-of-the-art, with everything we needed to learn and practise our skills. But the real stars were our teachers,” Katherine said.
“They are not only incredibly knowledgeable but also practising photographers, so as their students, we were exposed to the most current industry insights and connections.
“I genuinely wouldn’t be where I am today without their support and the opportunities the diploma provided. It wasn’t just about photography; it was about building confidence, understanding the business side of things, and preparing for a successful career,” Katherine said.
‘Where’ she is today is the owner with a photography studio in the Noosa Hinterland, boasting repeat clients, a significant and diverse portfolio of work, and a changing calendar that keeps her energised and engaged.
“Some days I’m on location or in the studio doing shoots – portraits, headshots, boudoir, fashion, or model tests. Other days I’m editing photos, replying to client emails, marketing my business, or creating social media content,” Katherine said.
“I must emphasise just how much I appreciated the business content in the course. Many programs focus only on the technical side, but TAFE Queensland made sure we were prepared to actually run a successful photography business. Learning how to market myself and manage the business side of things was invaluable.”
One key ‘real-world’ assignment was to create a comprehensive Business Book – a deep dive into the ‘nuts and bolts’ of running a successful photography business.
“Crafting a vision statement – one small part of this assignment – was a pivotal moment. It pushed me to really define my business idea and values. It wasn’t just about what I wanted to do, but why it mattered and what principles I stood for. That clarity has been a guiding light ever since,” Katherine said.
The assignment also saw her create her competitive edge, and a strategic marketing plan.
“The assignment’s criteria was more than just checkboxes – they gave me the confidence and direction to launch and grow my business,” she said.
Katherine also credits her TAFE Queensland teachers for giving her the self-belief she needed to open her studio, Katherine Bailey Photography.
“Opening my own studio was a huge step for me, especially as a creative introvert, but it was a dream I was determined to achieve,” she said.
“The skills I learned at TAFE were crucial in giving me the confidence to take that leap. The teachers were my biggest supporters, providing not only technical knowledge but also practical advice – from client relations to marketing strategies.
“Their approach helped me feel ready to face the challenges of entrepreneurship and pursue my passion with confidence.”
For those who are keen to pursue a career in the creative industries and are looking to get off on the right foot, visit tafeqld.edu.au
