Since early teenage, almost too long ago to remember, I have taken photographs. At first with an antiquated box Brownie which was not very well light-sealed and then with various incarnations of 35mm cameras, which I loved for their portability and flexibility. I was always equipment “junkie” and still love the technical however, it is the narrative which holds my interest now.

I left office work in 2009 and have been steadily increasing my skills ever since, firstly with a BTEC Diploma for which I studied at night-classes in Richmond, (England); I then achieved a Licentiatship of the Royal Photographic Society. and last year I enrolled on a BA(Hons) degree course in Documentary Photography at University of Wales, Newport. Being a mature student is invigorating, the young members of my year may lack experience but more than make up for it with enthusiasm and creativity, both of which are infectious and stimulating.

I had expected to learn the process of documentary but had not anticipated the depth of study of famous and influential photographers, both historical and contemporary. The impact they have had on my approach has been tangible.

For a communicator the greatest joy is in talking to people and in learning something about them, their lives, motivations, achievements and stories. I am always looking for an extra dimension, something which will transform the image from a mere reflection to one that shows some essential characteristic. Gaining a little understanding, it becomes possible to augment the photographs one would have taken, making them multi-layered.

In addition to documentary projects I still love to photograph the landscape and wildlife, particularly birds of prey. Perhaps for my next project, I will be able to find a documentary theme exploring a combination of all of these interests.