Veteran Oldham photographer Richard now focusing on helping others

A veteran photographer is hoping to inspire others to develop their love of the art.

Richard Adams has spent almost two decades photographing everything from sunsets and landscapes to models and mice.

His award-winning photographic career began accidentally after he was medically discharged from the RAF where he was an aircraft engineer.

He said: “I spent 19 years repairing damaged and crashed aircraft.

"I suffered nerve damage through excessive use of power tools and had to retire on medical grounds in 2006.

"I just felt lost.

“My parents bought me a bridge camera and I did a lot of nature work which got me out of the house.

"I entered a competition and won a DSLR camera, so I sold the bridge camera and bought a computer and started doing portraits.

"It started with family portraits at Christmas and other gatherings and went from there.

“As the business built up, I bought more equipment and realised I needed a studio.”

Richard’s journey led him to Osborne Mill in Oldham, where he feels at home with other artists, including painters and photographers who often collaborate together.

He has created an environment that enables photography students, camera clubs as well as experienced professionals to create spectacular images.

Richard has hundreds of lighting and backdrop combinations to create effects ranging from nature to the supernatural – and everything in between.

Richard said: “I love what I do and I really enjoy teaching and passing on my knowledge to other photographers, especially those who are just starting out.

“When we do shoots in the studio, I love seeing how different photographers get different results with the same subject or model, and you can make a suggestion or alter a setting, and it creates something spectacular they were not expecting.

“Even when doing corporate headshots, I like to give the clients a really bespoke service which makes them stand out.

“I still love taking pictures and really enjoy being able to pass on my experience and expertise to others, especially if they are just starting out.”

For details about workshops and studio shoots, visit the Studio 9 website here

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