Welcome to the first article marking my 30th year as a professional photographer….

Thirty years ago this month, I left secondary school and after a brief spell as photographer’s assistant, went straight into my first job as trainee press photographer.

The much sought after Royal press pass

One of the most exciting assignments for a young photographer, was a royal visit.  I have had the fortune to have photographed most of the Royals at some point in my career.

The Queen and Duke Of Edinburgh met many dignitaries during a visit to Ayrshire in 1987. This was part of my four years at the Ayrshire Free Press group of newspapers in Scotland. There was a strict etiquette for photographers as to where you could be and what was appropriate to be snapped. As photographers, we were all equal whether local free paper or a national title.

Expressions on the faces of the waiting crowds made just as good photography sometimes and being in front of the barriers, as a press photographer, you got a great view.

One of my best Royal shots was this very lucky one of the Princess Royal (who generally doesn’t tend to smile a lot for cameras), looking very happy. Another Ayrshire shot from the early days of my photography career. Being one of the most active Royals, I have photographed her several times during my career.

My favorite Royal photograph is this one of a very jolly Prince Charles apparently waving directly to my lens. A good picture would always be clear, close, unobstructed view smiling with a good expression.

Prince Charles at Chipping Village Hall in 2003.

Look out for another article on my press photography career coming soon.

CLICK HERE  to view  my press archieve.

COMING SOON… My ’30 Years Behind The Lens; Press Photographer & Beyond’ photography exhibition and talk, at Lancaster Library (28th October to 12th November). Details to follow shortly!