My name is Nick, and this is my AMA (ask me anything):
Why are you a photographer?
It was an accident. I grew up with art, but can’t paint or draw to save my life. I wanted to be a sculptor or an architect, but didn’t have the right A levels for Architecture and had no idea how to be a sculptor, and when I was 17 photography seemed like a cool idea, and I was pretty sure it’d help me meet girls.
Isn’t it cool then?
It has its moments (ask me about them), but it could always be really tough, even back in the days of film and darkrooms chemicals. You’ve got to love it to carry on once the novelty’s worn off.
The girls?
Nope - they still fancied guys who were in bands or had cars…
OK, so, best moments of your career?
Tricky one… A mid-summer moonrise over the Continental Divide in Colorado, while waiting for an athlete to come by - that was pretty special. Meeting exciting and inspirational people, and making them smile. Discovering new friends (and countries) in Europe while making a series of portraits: That has to be the best. Actually there are loads.
Any photographic ambitions remaining?
Lots! I’d love a cover image on a ‘proper’ Sunday Magazine - The Observer or Sunday Times, for example. I’d like to continue travelling and making portraits all over the world, and I’d be over the moon if I won a prestigious photo competition.
Any words of wisdom you’d like to share?
For new photographers? Nothing is less important than the gear you use - the only vital piece of kit is between your ears.
For clients? Communication and trust are key.
I often sum this up as “The 3p rule”: Personality, Portfolio, Price - in descending order of importance.
Personality is crucial if you’re to get along with anyone creatively, especially if it’s a social or portraiture setting.
Portfolio matters too. Does their work look like something you’d pay for, or are you looking for a style that they don’t do?
Price: If you’ve found someone you get on with, trust, and who’s work you actually want - and you can afford to pay them - then the price will always be right. Trust the process.
Wow, that’s a lot of good information. Thank you.
You’re quite welcome. Drop me a line if there’s anything else you’d like to know.
I’ve worked for a few names you might have heard of…
