Andy Catterall

What do you do now? 

I’m a photographer based in Windsor.

I never did thank my Photography teacher at South Craven – I wish I had. I struggled academically, but I had the help of my Maths teacher (who took the time to spark my interest) and Photography teacher, who inspired me and sowed the seed. It was quite unique to have a darkroom for photography and unusual for schools to offer Photography O Level in the mid-80’s – I’m glad South Craven did! You have to be confident and get on with people quickly in my job, so the Drama department also helped me a lot.

I left South Craven after O Levels and attended the photography college of my choice in Blackpool. I had three happy years in Blackpool then moved to London to start my career. Photography is very competitive, so I worked as a freelance assistant alongside some of the country’s leading photographers. After six years I wanted to work on my own alongside commercial clients, so I now work with Heathrow Airport and within the education sector. I mostly shoot in the UK, but I’ve taken photos at schools all over the world.

Highlights in my career include working for ‘Hello’ magazine, which took me round the world shooting in glamorous places – but carrying heavy equipment! Highlights include spending time with Pavarotti, Ryan Giggs, the Royal Family, Tony Bennett, Take That, Iron Maiden and the usual celebrities of the time.

What advice would you give your 17-year-old self?

Try everything, make the most of any opportunities and get involved with school productions.

Find your passion in life, whatever it is!

Images: Examples of photography work and Andy on the set of Madonna's 'American Pie' music video shoot.

All images courtesy of Andy Catterall.