FPA Member Profile

What came first, sport or photography
“Sport. Newcastle Utd fan from the age of seven, then interested in cricket from the 1981 Ashes, which was when I started buying Wisden Cricket Monthly where I would see Patrick Eagar’s photos. Those photos kick started my interest in photography. Sports photography was the next best thing to playing or watching sport, and allowed me to combine my two favourite interests. When I realised I wasn’t going to be playing in the black and white stripes of Utd it was the next best thing.”

Do you have a favourite memory or anecdote from your time as a football photographer?
“I did Man Utd vs. Leeds Utd on New Years Day 1994, and it was an early kick off. I got in at about 4am from NYE celebrations and was so tired. I don’t know how I got through the game, but I had a 600mm with me and I had this picture of Eric Cantona sticking his finger up Steve Hodges’ nose. I can’t remember taking the photo, and it was a bizarre moment. I mean, why would you put your finger up someone’s nose?!”

First football match photographed?
“Carlisle Utd 2-1 Blackburn Rovers, 18th January 1986 in the old Second Division, I remember it well. It was a dark day, John Halpin scored for Carlisle, and I got the a pic of the goal. I also remember meeting the Blackburn photographer who was a really nice older woman, who might also have been working for the local rag.”

Favourite Footballer to photograph, and why?
“Brazil and Real Madrid full back Roberto Carlos for Pepsi. He didn’t speak any English but was a top bloke – really nice. He waved to me when doing a team group at the France ’98 World Cup.”

Favourite football ground to work at, and why?
“Manchester City – Etihad Stadium, because of the great backgrounds. That worm’s eye view allows you to lose the ad boards at the far end.”