Looking back and pushing forward

Fifteen months ago I didn't own a Fuji camera. I purchased an XT-1 in July 2016. Realising that for the purposes of writing this blog stops me in my tracks a little. Being that photography has become such an important part of my life since (both personally and professionally), it surprises that it's been such a comparatively short period of time. Of course if you read my previous blog you'll know that my association with photography traces back 25 years, but it's this latest chapter that I'm focussing on here.

Aside from the immense enjoyment I get from my personal and street work, in a little over a year I've been commissioned to photograph conferences, charity events, live music & theatre, a soccer school and the icing on the cake,  shooting portraits of my childhood footballing idols.

Former Watford, AC Milan and England striker, Luther Blissett photographed for an upcoming book

I also have two weddings booked in 2018, this is something that I’m incredibly excited and very proud of. The reason for my delight is that I have no direct background in wedding photography. I was approached as both couples liked the way I shoot and felt that my documentary style/technique is right for their big day. I can’t think of a bigger compliment, I honestly can’t.

I firmly believe these assignments in particular are directly linked to my first blog points about using my cameras to shoot what I feel. Whatever I’m working on, my photography has to connect with me on an emotional level first and foremost and I hope that this is their main strength. Naturally composition, light and exposure all play a part in image making, but for me, especially when photographing people, it’s the moment that has to stand out above all else and take centre stage. 

Noah and Henry exploring the woods and climbing trees in Devon.

Aside from all this, off the back on my earlier blog I’ve had some lovely comments from those who took the time to read it and to my astonishment I've had personal dialogue/feedback with Olaf Sztba and Kevin Mullins who featured in it. Bonkers!

I have no idea what the next 15 months hold, the last year of my life has taught me that on many levels but I’m genuinely excited to discover what’s in store for my photographic journey.