FPA Member Profile

Camera
“Canon.”

What came first, sport or photography?
“Football… I started playing the game very early. Inspired by John Barnes I began playing U7’s all the way through to floodlit U18’s, making it onto the first team pitch at Ely City with a stand and occasional crowd.

I began to shoot football alongside other sports in the mid 90’s aged 14. I was lucky enough to have a darkroom at school where I learnt to develop, print and study photography. I then went on to take a BTEC HD course in photography, before moving onto a degree course. I shot a whole season at Notts County which wasn’t that rewarding but good practice.

When I moved to London in 2004 for a job with Getty Images, I joined a mate’s Sunday league team at Hackney Marshes, and I still try to play football when time allows.
Working with some of the biggest football clients, whether governing bodies or commercial brands, they all bring their photographic challenges and enjoyment. Taking you places I couldn’t have dreamt of.”

Do you have a favourite memory or anecdote from your time as a football photographer?
“Trying to gain access to a River Plate match whilst in Buenos Aires with Tommy Hindley and Roger Parker, without any form of ID. Tommy advised me to make up my passport number when asked to gain entry…we got in!”

First football match you ever photographed?
“Ely City v Wroxham, or something like that, in 1996 working for the local newspaper.”

Best footballer to work with?
“David Luiz. The guy loves a photo, his modelling skills are great, and his free kicks aren’t bad, either!”

Favourite football ground to work at, and why?
“San Siro. An architecture masterpiece.”

Biggest Lesson Learnt in the business?
“Follow the scenario of a penalty shootout during a Champions League Final correctly.
I learnt this when Manchester United played Chelsea in the 2008 UEFA Champions League Final in Moscow, which finished around 1.30am local time in the pouring rain. Concentration is everything.”