Just Popping to the Blog.

Finally, six months after submission, I am thrilled to see that my Jacob Rees-Mogg image is now hanging in Room 37 of the National Portrait Gallery. Whilst i am chuffed to bits, I'm not sure Mr Mogg will be asking for a copy..

I've just returned at some ungodly hour from the Winners' party for the Portrait of Britain exhibition in London's Docklands. A great night, with a chance to catch up with many influential snappers (and partake of a free bar..) This image of the Deputy CEO of Hadlow College in Kent was selected along with 99 others, and can be seen on digital billboards across the country during September. This is my third year as a winner, which means I'm going to have to really give it some to get in next year..

The thing about a commission is that it is rarely straightforward. A while back, Radio Times called to ask if I would like to photograph Sir David Attenborough (again), but with a few 'props'. Hmm,props ..ah yes of course-lion cubs, nice and easy. The idea developed into a simple Lion face/David face picture, except of course, you can't quite plan what might happen. We turned up at David's house on a rainy day complete with backdrops and the usual disturbing amounts of kit. David looked worried when he saw it all. 'Can't we just do a quick snap in the garden?' he said. 15 mins later after much convincing, David let us in to set up in the available space. Thing is, I just wasn't sure exactly what was possible. The lion keepers suggested that milk might be the answer, but endless shots off a milk bottle would not be ideal.  So, lights up and a table in place, I started to try and direct the shoot. Big mistake. David immediately engaged with the...