Former Sidmouth College student Kyle turns passion for pictures into a business

A last-minute change from sports shoes to the studio proved decisive for one Sidmouth student – who has turned his art into a business.

Kyle Baker hadn’t studied it at GCSE but teacher Penny Roberts let him swap from PE to photography for the A-level course - and he went on to ace it.

He got Prince’s Trust funding to join its business enterprise programme and now has his own photography and videography company – from a custom-built studio in his back garden.

“I discovered I really enjoyed every aspect of the [photography A-level], especially working in the dark room and experimenting with artists’ styles,” said Kyle, 19, whose part-time job at Sidmouth Print gives him the freedom to develop his business.

“I was fortunate to have work experience with the Archant photography department during my AS-level year, which made me determined that photography was the career I wanted to pursue.

“Following the [Prince’s Trust] course, I now have a business mentor, who I meet with regularly and who advises and supports me – he has always done the best to provide his time and effort in order to improve my business.”

Kyle’s parents, are both self-employed, and they were ‘really supportive’ when he said university was not for him and he would rather pursue his photography.

The Fleming Avenue resident added: “I want to help as many people as I can – I’m offering people that can’t really afford the high-end stuff my talent.”

Visit www.facebook.com/kylebakerphotography to see his introductory offer.