I joined The Master Photographers’ Association a year ago, an organisation that strives to support, inspire and improve photographers and their trade in the UK. As part of their services, they run an annual national photography competition.
I wasn’t able to attend the awards, but had entered 13 photographs in their Up & Coming category (for photographers who have recently joined the MPA)

It was brilliant to learn that I have won the Commercial Photographer 2019 category with the image below, which I captured for Roseisle Luxury Campervans.

The picture was captured on a pitch black beach on the Isle of Mull. I had been out capturing the motorhomes in a beautiful sunset, and as it turned darker a very faint Northern Light could be seen on the horizon. With my camera on a tripod and a very long exposure, I was able to see it more clearly. Aside from the warm orange light seen on the horizon, there was absolutely no light pollution, so I was able to see the aurora borealis undisturbed. I then spent the night stumbling up and down the dunes to start the camera exposure, then “paint” the motorhomes with light, then stumble down again to assess the result.

I was also pleased to have this image of artist Maja Quille given a Highly Commended award. The photo was taken at Edinburgh Sculpture Workshop, where Maja was working on a project. We made this image as she was moving her sculpture out of the kiln, where it had spent several days. The sculpture is of her son, and the tender touch (and heavenly light) perfectly summed up her proud and tender reaction.

Picking up a handful of Merit Awards in the Wedding and Portrait categories was the icing on the cake!

I always aim to create striking images for my clients and it’s a real honour to have my work recognised by fellow photographers. Thank you to the MPA and the jury for the award, and for the new office bling!

You can see more of my commercial work here