With graduation now 5 weeks away, we want to introduce you to some of the students who are graduating in 2017.

First up is Ena Skaljic, a photojournalist student whose graduating folio was working with Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park to to shine a light on the relationship between humans and animals.

Ena Skaljic, 'Untitiled', 2016

Hey Ena, why did you choose photography?
I have always been fascinated by photography, the camera itself got my attention when I was young and saw my mum through the lens thinking it was magic.

What was it like when you first started at PSC? Did you have an idea back then of what you wanted to be doing now?
Starting at PSC I had no idea about my aesthetic but I knew I loved science and nature so I focussed on that. I never had a set idea as far as commercial, art or photojournalism. I'm glad I came in open-minded cause I'm not sure if I’d produce the work I do now if I did otherwise.

Ena Skaljic, 'Untitled', 2016

Looking at the work you're producing now, how would you describe your style?
My style is nothing like it was the first year, however it was a gradual growth. My aesthetic alone changed while in Malaysia during the OBSCURA festival with the support from Sarker Protick. Style in shooting has developed into confidence and based on instincts.

What is the most beneficial thing you have learned in the last three years?
Personally the most beneficial thing I learned during my three years at PSC is support and finding confidence in my instincts. It is extremely important to have people to support you - I'm not talking about your parents who think all your photos are nice but friends, artists, teachers and mentors who aren't afraid to tell your flaws and be honest. As far as instincts, I was focussed on pleasing the teaches and students showing them what I thought they would like, I eventually went on my instincts (subjects, timing, concepts) and that is when I produced my current aesthetic and subjects.

Did you have any challenges in that time?
The most challenging aspects at PSC was finding the confidence in my own work and not to feel intimidated by others but learn from them.

What would you suggest to current students?
I would encourage current students to take advantage of what PSC offers! You have the most talented and amazing teachers there for you, great studios and equipment at arms length, unlimited networks, all this and more that no other Uni or place can provide. Oh & have fun, take risks and get out of your comfort zone, that's the prime time to do all that!

In taking risks, what was your final folio on?
My final folio was focussed on the human, animal relationship by documenting Moonlit Sanctuary's conservation work and animals. I knew I wanted to work with wildlife, after lots of research I knew I wanted to base it on Australia's wildlife and the limbo they are in between surviving and extinction.

Ena Skaljic, 'Untitled', 2016

So you're quite passionate about animals, where do you get your motivation from?
My passion for what I am shooting drives me. Inspiration-wise of course it is from fellow students, teachers, other artists of all mediums but also from nature as cliché as it sounds. I like to observe movement, lights and shadows that alone can inspire me completely.

What are you working on at the moment?
Right now I am getting into contact with The Save the Tasmanian Devil Program in hopes of working alongside them and documenting their incredible work.

That's awesome! Do you have a dream job/shoot that you would love to do?
I would absolutely love to keep working on wildlife, mainly within Australia as there's a huge gap that needs to be filled in order to raise awareness and create a change.

See more of Ena's work here on her website

Ena Skaljic, 'Untitled', 2016