We love to have a photographic record of events we host at the Art for Guernsey Gallery, and we know that John-Ross Hainey will always do a great job of capturing the atmosphere. We spoke to John-Ross to find out what it is like to work with us.
How long have you been working with Art for Guernsey?
From the beginning, with Eugen Gorean’s exhibition back in 2016.
What is it like to work with us? Are we demanding customers?
No, you’re not demanding. I know what you like and want you want out of each project, as we’ve got a mutual understanding that’s built up over the years. I’ve just been booked in for November, and I can put it straight in the diary without us having to arrange a meeting about it.
Has any project been a particular highlight?
They’re all so different, but I’d have to say Chris Foss: A Sci-Fi Journey is one of my favourites because I like sci-fi and I’m a big fan of Marvel. It’s impressive that Chris comes from Guernsey and his work is known all over the world.
How did you get into photography and can you tell us more about what you specialise in?
I photograph events, weddings and corporate business – headshots and so on. I got into photography because of my son; I borrowed a camera three months before he was born to get some practice for when he came along, and I bought my first camera the day before he arrived. Once he was here I took lots of photos of him, as well as landscapes when we were out and about, and it grew from there. My son is a teenager now and doesn’t like me photographing him at all!
Do you think people appreciate the skill that goes into capturing an event?
No, I don’t think they always do. It’s all about keeping your eyes open and listening to people, trying to predict their reactions to get those great candid shots. I’ll be listening to the conversations around me, concentrating on one person then spinning around to photograph another. It’s all about capturing the story and the atmosphere of an event.
Do you like to be creative outside of work?
I like graphic design, and I like getting creative with music and having a little spin on the decks with my mates.
What do you think is the best photograph you’ve ever taken?
As with most photographers who strive for that perfect shot, I am my own worst critic. However, one of my favourites and one of the most popular images here in Guernsey has to be “Lightning Striking Fort Grey”. It was a quick decision to head out and chase a storm, and I had some of the most intense and scary hours of my life. I was in the middle of a huge storm in the middle of the night with my camera on a large metal tripod, just waiting for the right moment, which was as exhilarating as it was dangerous as lightning was striking all around me. At the end of it all I came away with some incredible images. Perseverance certainly pays.
Is there a place in the world you’d like to visit to take a particular photograph?
There isn’t really one specific place, although Iceland and Spain would certainly be high on any list. Spain in particular: because I grew up there, I know the people and the language, it would be a missed opportunity not to record its diversity and splendour through my lenses.
