2022: Embrace The Chaos

Who would have thought we would be here, eh? We’re currently living in a post-pandemic era where as things start to normalise, certain life events have gotten a little dark on our Planet Earth. But, we’re all hitting missions without skipping a beat. Looking back from picking up my first assignment in February, to then taking three months from shooting in April to now shooting with my Nikon mirrorless gear in June… it’s been a little emotional while reviewing this year’s photo collection.

Firstly, I got to represent one of my all-time favourite bands at both Download Festival and Bloodstock Festival (in a restricted setting). I thought it wouldn’t be possible to be part of their fantastic year and gain confidence from a creative perspective. My hugest of thanks to the Swedish phenoms Orbit Culture who are a fantastic bunch of lads and have smashed every achievement since returning to the live circuit. I hope to team up with the troupe again! Next, I was made runner-up in this year’s Event Photography Awards in the Amateur Category. Certainly the most unexpected moment to happen! However, I’m grateful that my work was recognised by a panel of judges in a prestigious award ceremony. Another surprising moment was when the ace Damnation Festival team asked me to be an official member of their photography team! After a decade covering the festival with Metal Hammer, taking photos in both official and print capacity was an amazing thing to do. Also, I was honoured to be main photographer for Dark Earth Records first triumphant curation alongside outstanding artist Eliran Kantor! My pictures of the event was shared all over the globe, inclding Brave Words and Rock Hard to help coincide his equally successful Berlin exhibition back in September. Lastly, my last goal was to fully embrace the moshpit and its chaos. Comparing my work from 2021, I can see the growth being near the action. Although there’s definitely room for improvement, it’s lovely to see my work developing further to be enjoyed by many viewers.

As I am celebrating my 14 year anniversary since picking up a camera, I couldn’t have done all of this without all clients past and present. My appreciation goes to my friends in Metal Hammer Magazine, Distorted Sound Magazine, Total Rock, Renegade, Rock Sins and Pop Sins for once again allowing me to capture the many shows and festivals.

So, what are my plans for the new year? I can reveal that it’ll be a new year for new memories. I’ve put in a lot of objectives that may expand my work further and in hopes to collaborate with current & new clients. Ambitious, you say? I say it’s a good thing.

And… this is on a personal level. I cannot forget the moment where over six months ago, Phill put sindoor on my forehead and the mangalsutra around my neck in front of close family & friends. We have done everything for a very long time (approaching 17 years this upcoming 9th April) and handing my hand onto his was the single most proudest thing I’ve ever saying yes to. We cannot wait for our second wedding to make things officially, official. Many more adventures to come with my love. Bring on 2023 with you all!