Photography students from the West Midlands, including Nikhil Odedra from Tamworth, have been selected to see their work featured on billboards as part of an advertising campaign encouraging people to use the region's buses.
The students' photographs were chosen through a competition designed to support young local talent and create images for the Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) You're Bussing It initiative.
How the competition worked
Participants were briefed and asked to submit creative proposals, similar to the way professional photographers pitch for commercial work. The successful students were paid for their time and for the use of their images.
The initiative came about through a partnership with Birmingham City University and marketing agency Impero.
Student feedback
Nikhil Odedra, a second-year student, said the project had given him valuable experience. "This has meant a lot to me as a student as it has given me an insight into what it's like to work on an advertising campaign. It's something that's great to add to my CV," he said.
Other students praised the real-world experience. Joshua Thomas, also a second-year photography student, said he enjoyed working to a creative brief, engaging with members of the public and capturing candid moments on the transport network.
Final-year students Jasleen Kaur and Joshua Reilly from Birmingham highlighted how the project had boosted their confidence and provided industry connections valuable for their careers.
West Midlands mayor Richard Parker said: "These images show the depth of talent and creativity we have in our region and it's only right they will be seen by thousands of people."