My coverage of sport has generally involved turning up at a ground or stadium and taking pictures of the events in and around a match. However on the odd occasion I have photographed some of the personnel involved which hasn't always been the most pleasant experience. Lack of time, lack of will and a general mistrust of the media/person holding the camera by the subject have not always made it a favourable task.
Therefore a commission to photograph Newcastle United goalkeeper Rob Elliot for the team's match day programme made me quite anxious. Fortunately these feelings were short-lived as he proved to be an easy subject to work with. Generous with his time, agreeable to instruction and comfortable in front of the lens meant our shoot around Tyneside seafront went as well as could be expected.
The programme which featured the images and article on Rob Elliot was released on the Saturday of Newcastle United's home match against West Ham United. The first league victory (3-0) of the season for the former which has since been followed by two more consecutive wins meaning the club currently sit in fourth position in the league. Coincidence.....?
