"At the end of last year, I came across an opening for a job at Tennis Australia through the PSC Job Register. Having had experiences in many areas except sport, I took the challenge to apply for a photographer at the December showdowns and then a role as a photo assistant at the Australian Open.
After completing some simple assignments for Tennis Australia I got the job and started work within a week of getting the position.
It was incredible to experience both on court shooting and being behind the screen of some magnificent sport images. I knew what it was like to be behind the camera and getting the shot, but to be behind the screen and have a say in what images should get published was a tough call. I also got the chance to be on court and shoot images and if my photos were first in they had the chance of getting published.
I learnt many skills during my role at the Australian Open, but I am grateful for the knowledge on how to deal with PR and sponsors. Out of this fabulous event, I made some wonderful contacts from photographers to court umpires. One contact has lead me to have a mentor for final year. He has agreed to not only help me with ideas but give me feedback and advice into the commercial world.
I would recommend anyone even a bit interested in sport or just processing images to give 2014 Australian Open a go".
