´óÏó´«Ã½

How did you start out in photography?

I've always been quite arty and had a camera since I was little, but I used to take pictures of just anything! I got a digital camera when I was at university and a lot of my friends did photography, so I kind of took tips from them about it.

What equipment do you use?

A Canon G7 Power Shot - I like using that rather than an SLR because I can make videos with it, and it’s not as big either. I've got an Optika semi-fish eye lens, a wide converter lens and a Sigma EF500 DG Super flashgun.

Paramore at Slam Dunk Festival

What’s been your highlight this year?

Groezrock in Belgium. That was a really good experience because I was in the pit with all these amazing photographers - it was just really good to see how it all works. And I got a pass for the Slam Dunk festival in Leeds and there were only five photographers - my pictures came out really good from that gig, so that was a highlight.

What bands or festivals would you like to do photography for?

Leeds Festival and My Chemical Romance, because I've liked them since 2003.

Have you won any awards for your work?

I entered this competition in Durham called the Art Garden Exhibition - it was mostly nature photography and landscapes, which isn't what I usually do, but I just thought it'd be quite a good experience. They had a big opening night and I found out that I'd won the fine art prize.

How easy is it to do gig photography?

I've got this theory that if you are really musical it helps when you're taking band photos - you know the rhythm of the music, when someone’s going to move or scream or jump. I was in a band when I was at university and I thought it was hard but it’s even harder doing photography! If you know a valuable contact, then it’s going to be easy, but it’s getting that person in the first place.

What advice would you give to anyone wanting to get into music photography?

Don't do it on your phone! You don't need an amazing camera if you can compose a picture well. Also, being right at the front, not standing behind peoples heads and holding the camera in the air. Keep practicing and take pictures of local bands - get into the local scene first and build up a portfolio.