Ref. 29263-12Few people are lucky enough to make a career out of their hobby but that is exactly what Rich and Rebecca Lehmann are doing.

And their new lines of business are a far cry from their former jobs.

The couple, of Stafford Street, Old Town, who married last May, both worked as finance analysts at Intel until recently.

But Rich is now a freelance photographer and Rebecca is an animal portrait artist, and part-time receptionist at Eastcott Vets, Bath Road.

Rich, 28, said: "We both had a longing for something more satisfying than just being a cog in a huge corporation.

"We wanted to get back to basics and earn money using our creative talents.

"I've been taking photographs since I was six, but a new camera from Becky for my birthday a couple of years ago was the trigger for me to get into photography seriously.

"Once I'd taken my first really good photo and thought, 'wow that's great' I was hungry for more.

"I spent last year getting some more experience in portrait photography and it was people liking my work that made me realise that this was something I had to do full-time."

Rebecca, 27, has a creative flair that also stems from her childhood. She said she experienced a similar feeling: "I've learned that money's not a priority in my life, but being happy with the work I do is.

"I've discovered that it's best to find the things you love doing and try to work with them. For me, it's drawing and being around animals.

"I drew throughout most of my childhood, always having had a passion for drawing animals. Since leaving school, I only occasionally picked up the pencil until I started drawing again in the summer of 2002.

"But don't be an artist if you want to be rich. Patience is really important, it takes 30 to 40 hours to complete a drawing."

Becky, who works mostly in graphite to create a realistic effect, added: "After building up a good customer base, I'd like to investigate selling prints of my drawings. I would also love to have the chance to exhibit my drawings in art galleries."

People can purchase prints from Rich's City and Suburbia ranges, which may be seen on his website. A two-hour photoshoot costs from £40, while unframed prints cost from £4.

Becky's animal drawings cost an average of £100. For more information about getting your pet's portrait visit her website at www.Rebecca-lehmann.com

Rich's photography may be seen at www.theotherday.co.uk

Alex Emery