SHOOT FIRST, ASK QUESTIONS LATER

Richie is a photographer based in Scotland. The journey to becoming a photographer has been just that, a journey.

I joined the Army at 16 and left having become disillusioned with Army life. After spending time in the renewable industry, I cycled through Europe to find out what everyday life was like. Thirteen years in the military had blinkered my view of the world, and I needed to take the blinkers off.

Following this trip, everything changed. After working with refugees and hearing about other people's experiences in places that I had visited and experienced, I returned to education as a mature student. Having graduated from University and returning to the renewable industry as a Wind Turbine technician and site supervisor, I find myself behind the camera. It's been more of a meander than a straight path. However, each turn in this journey has brought new experiences and skills.

I learned to keep calm under pressure in the military and take the time to think things through. Along the way, I began to understand that most people in the world are living their lives out and just trying to make it the best life they can.

I have found common ground with others through empathy and understanding, seeing things from someone else's point of view, and learning not to judge or guess someone’s situation but to ask and listen. Everybody has a story to tell.

Running daily operations on a busy offshore wind farm has taught me how to build a sense of teamwork around a common goal in a different way than the military mindset. Every situation is different, and people are never the same.

All these learned experiences and the diverse people I have met along the way have helped to give me a unique perspective, not only through the lens but also in my broader understanding of the world around me.

If you wish to get in touch for work, collaboration, or to discuss any upcoming ideas, please get in touch.

mail@richardhancox.com