D&A Photography Student Success

Kaelyn Robertson (18) from Arbroath is entering the first year of the two-year HND Photography course at Dundee and Angus College.

Having approached David Darling, Executive Producer of The Science Fiction Experience as the show prepared to debut at Dundee’s Gardyne Theatre in April 2023, Kaelyn volunteered on the first evening of the two-night show.  Having impressed David and his band, Kaelyn was then invited to complete her first-ever paid photography job on the second evening.  She has since launched her own business, KMR Media. 

Now, Kaelyn has been appointed official band photographer as the newly-named Science Fiction Rock Experience prepares to return to the Gardyne Theatre for one night only, Friday 22 September 2023. Thereafter, Kaelyn will travel with the band as they go on tour around Scotland and the north of England.

With stunning visual effects and a custom-made light show, The Science Fiction Rock Experience eight-piece professional rock band will once again perform a variety of songs themed around science and science fiction, ending with much-loved anthem, The Power of Love.   Produced by science writer David Darling, author of 50 books published in over 20 countries, and singer/songwriter Rebecca Connelly, the show will once again take the audience on a journey through the cosmos with 21 distinct pieces of music set against a backdrop of theatre and drama. September’s show promises to be ‘bigger and better’ than the debut gig, with a stronger narrative and story arc running through it, dazzling costumes and five new tracks.

David said, “We were extremely impressed by Kaelyn’s work when we wowed audiences with our April show, and her images have proved crucial as we market the show for its subsequent tour.  We were blown away by her can-do attitude and her enthusiasm to get stuck in. 

“Myself and most of the band are local and we’ll always have our roots here, despite now heading off to other venues. It was really important for us to use local specialists and to give back to the community who are supporting us, so it’s amazing to have Kaelyn on board and help build her business further as we prepare to entertain and entice new audiences across Scotland and beyond.”

Kaelyn, who also provides photography services to Young Scot and Dundee Michelin Ice Hockey, said, “My College course has provided me with a brilliant grounding in photography and is helping me develop and perfect many techniques and skills.  However, I’ve always been determined to build my portfolio alongside that and gain real-life industry experience. It’s an absolute honour to be given this role and responsibility so early in my career and to see my work playing such a key role in the growth of the show as it’s snapped up by other venues and festivals around Scotland. I never thought I’d get an opportunity like this before graduating!”

Lee Lappin, Head of Sector: Creative, Cultural and Digital at Dundee and Angus College, added, “Gaining tangible industry experience is so valuable, as it enables students to apply their skills in a professional workplace setting. We appreciate opportunities for our students to gain hands-on experience and encourage our students to seek these out, so we’re impressed by Kaelyn’s initiative and proactive approach, which has secured both paid work and unrivalled experience.”

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.sfeconcerts.com

For more information about Kaelyn, visit https://kmrmedia3.wixsite.com/kmrmedia

Photos below: KMR Media