'I love creating lasting memories to keep us warm in our old age'

Roy Hawkins takes centre stage this week.

He borrowed his dad’s camera on holiday when he was five and his passion for photography was born.

Here Roy, who lives in Heswall, tells us about creating lasting memories for people by taking their pictures, helping them feel relaxed in front of the camera.

If you would like to appear in our Behind the Lens feature, email heidi.summerfield@newsquest.co.uk

If you would like to join Wirral Globe Camera Club, visit facebook.com/groups/wirralglobecameraclub

Roy Hawkins

When and why did you take up photography?

I have been interested in photography since I borrowed my dad’s camera on holiday, when I was about five years old – some 60 years ago! At each significant birthday, my dad would buy me a better camera to encourage me to carry on learning. Over the years, I have worked in my own darkroom for endless hours before moving to digital in the early 2000s.

A day out in Llangollen

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What do you love about taking pictures?

I love the idea that a camera can capture a fleeting moment and create a connection with a subject or scene. I like creating a lasting memory, which can keep us warm in our old age.

A sunny day in Arrowe Park

Where is your favourite place to take pictures and why?

I’m not sure I have one, but the variety of Wirral provides lots of wonderful places to shoot. The beaches at Thurstaston and Red Rocks - particularly if there’s a stunning sunset - and the backdrops of Port Sunlight as well as the rows of trees at Arrowe Park.

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“Monochrome photography allows me to capture scenes in different ways”

A Wirral couple photographed in Chester

What is your favourite subject matter and why?

I just love photographing people. I love to get to know them and try to capture their unique personality. Many people can be nervous when they’re being photographed, and the usual ‘smile for the camera’ doesn’t always result in the best photograph.

What do you enjoy about being part of Wirral Globe Camera Club on Facebook?

I enjoy seeing people photograph our lovely area in different ways, which in turn always challenges me to improve.

Becky at Thurstsaton Common