Influences and Heroes
My approach to photography, and what I shoot, have been influenced by many photographic heroes, both past and present. Here are some of the most significant.
| Landscape photographers
One of my greatest inspirations is the landscape photographer Joe Cornish, one of the Britain’s foremost practitioners. I feel privileged to have taken part in some inspirational workshops with Joe, and feel that these special times have helped me develop as a photographer. Not just technically, but artistically and philosophically.
Another of my inspirations is landscape and travel photographer David Noton, who has also given generously of his time in the past. David has helped hone my skills, as well as those of other photographers. David’s awe-inspiring travel photography captures beautifully the colour and diversity of the countries and peoples he documents.
Lee Frost is a very successful photographer and writer. Lee is works with many different kinds of camera, from iPhone to Toy, traditional film to fully-featured DSLRs, approaching each type with enthusiasm to extract their creative potential.
| Documentary photographers
The late, great Elliott Erwitt is another of my heroes. The candid nature of many of his images, as well as their gentle humour and humanity, appeal to greatly. I was very touched when the judge in a photography competition commented on my image ‘Poolside Cat‘ – featuring a cat skirting cautiously round a swimming pool – saying ‘Elliott would be proud’.
In a very different style, the photography of Martin Parr is something I turn to for inspiration and entertainment. Martin Parr is a documentary photographer and photo journalist, with a satirical and witty approach to his subject-matter, whose use of saturated colours enhances and emphasises the humour in his images.