I’ve always liked taking photos, but I first began to take photography more seriously when I was working as a research scientist. We had a very dynamic Photographic Society with some exceptional photographers (one of whom is now a full time photographer and judge). I eventually became Secretary of the Society for a few years.

Initially, I had an old Praktica SLR, which eventually made way for a Pentax K1000. However, I’ve never really been into the technology of cameras – I just enjoy creating images.

I eventually left research and became a freelance copywriter and author (www.phila.co.uk). I now own a Nikon D50 (I’ve never been able to stretch to the more exotic cameras), but it serves me pretty well.

I suppose most (but not all) of my images would be classified as ‘mood photography’. Being a writer, I also enjoy putting images and words together. They say that ‘a picture paints a thousand words’, but words themselves are also pretty powerful, and can arouse great emotions.

This thought has led to a collaborative project with another SCC member, Paul Rapson – we have now staged a couple of exhibitions of his images accompanied by my words. So, if anyone knows a company that would like to produce a high quality ‘coffee table’ gift book, please let one of us know!