Get some insight into our newest Pro Team member Geraint Radford, and learn all about his passion for photography!
We have a range of different people on our Pro Team and collectively their talent is infinite! It's about time you got to know one of our members, Geraint Radford, an amazing macro wildlife photographer!
Was there a single event that made you decide to become a professional photographer?
Not really, I began working as an events photographer very early into my career. It wasn’t until 2016 that I decided to try and make a living from nature photography, and it has been quite a journey!
What is your favourite location to capture?
I love to explore forests and ancient woodlands; they are calming and capture my imagination. Even if there are no insects around there’s always something to see and to photograph.
Social media – love it or hate it?
Both! I love that social media can help us connect with others, I love to encourage folks to get out into the macro world. The downside is that it can sometimes feel a bit all consuming.
Favourite camera you have ever used or owned, and why?
My current camera, The OM-1 from OM System is amazing for my outdoorsy method of photography. It’s small and lightweight and has some cool features such as in camera focus stacking which is lifesaver in the field!
What’s in your kit bag?
My OM1, 60mm macro lens, 90mm macro lens, flash and Cygnustech diffuser. Loads of spare camera flash batteries because I take a lot of images!
I have Jay and the AirHed VU, coupled with the snazzy Vanz feet. It’s a very useful and flexible setup that I take with me on every shoot.
Name 5 essential items in your photography bag.
Flask, biscuits. Hat with mosquito net attached. The 3legged thing Toolz. Change for Parking.
Are there any strange/unusual items in your photo bag? Household bits?
No household bits, but some strange and unknowable things sometimes make it home from a day out shooting. I like to collect cool stones and feathers along my travels.
How would you describe your style of photography?
Photographic “style” is something I’m constantly trying to find and things are everchanging. Recently I’m exploring creative ways of shooting, as well as showing cool closeups.
What is one thing you have learnt over the past year?
Metal health is rather personal and difficult topic to discuss. But there have been some difficulties that have been present for as long as I can remember. Last year, I discovered how much I’d underestimated the importance of physical exercise, and how time spent in nature, coupled with a routine that is manageable can liberate one’s mind from negativity and a massive lack of self-confidence.
What is your earliest memory of handling a camera?
When I was around 14 or fifteen years old, my parents got a small compact camera for me to take on my hikes with my friends. I discovered the little flower icon, and it opened my eyes to a whole new world.
If you hadn’t of gotten into photography, what do you think you’d be doing now?
Music is my first love; I was raised with music in the house, and I’ve been a metal musician for 27 years…I don’t think I’d be making money, but I could see myself playing a lot more and writing. Having said that, photography has allowed me to treat myself to a new Schecter 8 string…
What is one question you’d like to be asked and never have been?
You want to photograph a T-rex fossil?
What is the most random fact you know/love?
Puffins in Burrows sound like Dot Cotton from Eastenders when they go “oooooo”
What’s your favourite bug?
I have a soft spot from globular springtails but any bug that stays still is my best friend.
Have you even been bitten by an insect or creature?
Once upon a time, I was bitten by a Splayed Deer Fly and I didn’t want to squash it, so I just left it there. When it’s belly was full with my haemoglobin, the fly landed and rested for a while. I took a photograph that ended up being published in the Outdoor Photographer of The Year Book!
What’s your worst photographic disaster?
Very recently, I was unloading my camera back from my car and the zip had broken. All of my gear fell out on the road and I wiped out 3 pro lenses, it was devastating but OM System saved the day. I’ve since got a Toxic camera backpack to keep my gear safe.
All Photos: ©Geraint Radford
