My Photographic Journey: A Life Behind the Lens

My journey into photography started decades ago and has evolved into a lifelong passion. It’s been an incredible ride, filled with changing technology, diverse subjects, and the constant thrill of capturing the perfect moment.

The Formative Years: Film & First Obsessions (1970s-1980s)

My first camera was a Practica MTL3, a classic 35mm film camera. On an apprentice’s wage, the cost of film and developing was significant, but I was completely hooked. It felt like an addiction – one that, thankfully, produces fantastic results!

I dreamed of capturing live music, from Pink Floyd at Wembley to Led Zeppelin at Knebworth and The Rolling Stones. My early photography often focused on fast cars and candid shots of people, including the pit girls at Santa Pod Raceway. Looking back, those photos might not have been my best, but this was well before digital cameras. My interest then shifted to nightlife and clubs, as cameras improved with autofocus and basic spot metering, though still relying on 35mm film.

Embracing the 90s: Rave Culture & New Adventures

As the 90s arrived, digital cameras were still a distant concept, but I was fully immersed in the Rave culture. I followed iconic DJs like Paul Oakenfold, Sharkey, Hixxy, and Brandon Block, experiencing legendary nights at venues like Slamming Vinyl, Dance Paradise, and The Rhythm Station.

My work at the UK Tribal Gathering led to publications in many dance magazines. Driven to push further into music photography in London, I secured press accreditation for a Fem 2 Fem concert at the Apollo Hammersmith. This gig introduced me to their support band, Salon Kitty, and a flyer for a Fetish Club. Intrigued, I called, sent samples, and was invited to shoot The Skin Two Rubber Ball at Hammersmith Le-Palais (which, oddly, Google Maps tells me isn’t there anymore!).

That was an unforgettable night, resulting in publications in Skin Two Magazine, Paul Raymond’s Mayfair, Club International, and various dance music magazines. I also shot at Clothes Show Live and London Fashion Week. Beyond that, I explored glamour, wedding, and family portrait photography. We frequently shot glamour and fashion on location for portfolios, and we’d be happy to help any aspiring model build theirs.

The Digital Transition: A Humbling Challenge (Late 90s-2000s)

The introduction of digital photography brought a significant turn. My first digital camera, a Fuji S2 Pro, constantly produced out-of-focus images. This frustration led to a significant dip in my enthusiasm. I even lent it to a friend who had the same problem, and the shop found “nothing wrong” with it after service. Watching others embrace new digital tech while I struggled was humiliating. Eventually, I sold it cheaply and invested in a Nikon D90 – a true workhorse that got me back on track.

BOOM! I was back in the room.

A New Chapter: Shared Passion & Thrilling Speed

Now married to my wonderful wife, Christine, she has fully embraced my passion, offering immense help and support. Together, we returned to London for alternative club nights at venues like The Way Out Club, The Magic Theatre, Brighton Pride, and White Mischief, capturing artists such as The Human League and Ella Henderson.

A trip to 24hr Le Mans reignited my love for speed and photographic challenges. My D90 was soon replaced by a Nikon D750 with f/2.8 lenses. Panning shots of cars approaching 200 MPH was a challenge I relished – the fuel and exhaust smells, the unbelievable noise. I’d stay up for the entire 24 hours, roaming trackside to capture different angles and master shooting speeding cars day and night.

My evenings also included concert photography, shooting bands like Dr. Feelgood, Jamiroquai, Blancmange, and Ekkoes.

In 2018, our move to Hayling Island was a big step, especially with friends involved in powerboat racing. Attending a couple of events opened up new challenges in speed and dynamics. Imagine standing on a slow-moving “bucking bronco” with a handheld 300mm lens, trying to photograph a powerboat roaring past at up to 120 MPH, with only a 4-second window to get the shot! I was immediately hooked. This led to publications in Portsmouth News, powerboat racing magazines, and online sites like UKOPRA and BPRC. I’ve continued to upgrade my gear, now using Nikon D6 and D5 cameras with a 300mm f/2.8 prime lens and a 24-70mm f/2.8.