FPA Member Profile

What came first, sport or photography?
“Sport. I grew up watching Peterborough United, moved to Shrewsbury in 2005 and started watching Shrewsbury Town. Matthew Ashton gave me a camera and I never put it down. It turns out that I was quite good with it!”

What was your career path?
“I was a senior staff nurse in emergency medicine, and after 10 years found myself with a camera. I met the right people, some doors opened for me and thought I’d take a peep through, and I never looked back. It took me a long time not to want to run onto the pitch to help with injured players, but I’m over that now.”

Who did you look up to when you were young and who has helped you most during your development?
“I didn’t start my photography career until I was older, but have been very influenced by Matthew Ashton, Peter Robinson, Hans van der Meer, Stuart Roy Clarke and Mark Leech. The Getty photographers have also been huge inspiration.”

Favourite football ground to work at and why?
“A North London derby between The Emirates and the New Tottenham Stadium; both excellent facilities with great backgrounds.”

Biggest lesson learnt?
“It’s hard to pinpoint this one, there are so many. Don’t beat yourself up if you miss a picture, it happens.”

Canon, Nikon or Sony?
“Canon.”

Best advice for youngsters?
“It’s not all about goals and celebrations. Look around you and tell the story. and don’t be afraid to ask us for guidance, we’ve all been there.”

First football match photographed?
“TNS vs someone else in the Welsh Premier League.”