I've been a professional photographer for over 30 years - the past 21 working as a freelance editorial/sports and commercial photographer based in Napier, New Zealand.
My photography journey started in high school after a broken leg sidelined me from football. That passion grew into a career, first in the military, then in newspapers, and finally working for myself.
That journey has seen me cover news and sports events around New Zealand and the world, including the Rio and Tokyo Olympics.
I love the passion and drive shown by athletes - the highs and lows of sport.
Alongside the editorial work I'm lucky enough to have a great group of commercial clients, from fruit growers and wine makers to ports and power companies. No chance for me to ever get bored with the job I love!
What is in your camera bag?
My bag, either a Think Tank roller bag or an F-Stop Tilopa pack, is always pretty full. I've got a decent selection of Sony glass so I mix and match for the job.
For a sport like rugby or football, it's usually going to include:
- 3 x Alpha 1 bodies with grips
- 1 x Alpha 9 III body with grip
- FE 400mm F2.8 GM
- FE 300mm F2.8 GM
- 1.4x and 2x teleconverters
- FE 135mm F1.8 GM
- FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM II
- FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM
- PocketWizard triggers for a remote camera
For basketball or other indoor sports I'll also throw in:
- FE 85mm F1.4 GM II
- FE 50mm F1.2 GM.
For commercial work, it'll be whatever I need to get the shots my client wants.
What is your go to in your Alpha kit and why?
I love the Alpha 1. It's an amazing camera, and paired with a 300mm or 400mm it's perfect for most sports. I'll always have a shorter lens on another body for closer images, and the 135mm F1.8 GM might as well be glued to my third Alpha 1!
Most memorable moment shooting with Alpha?
That's easy - the Tokyo Olympics! It was my second Games, but with the impact of COVID it was a very different event. It was a privilege to be there capturing the best athletes in the world at their peak. It was my first Olympics using the Sony system - now I'm hooked.
