Happy 100th Birthday to the Royal Air Force

This year the Royal Air Force celebrates it’s 100th year! Back in 2000 I joined the RAF as a photographer and did my basic training at RAF Halton. I passed out with the award for showing the most effort and determination on my flight and then got sent to RAF Northolt in London. Northolt was a blast and I loved living in the capital, with Ruislip Gardens tube station over the road, I could be in the centre of London in just 20 mins. 

From Northolt I went on to RAF Cosford to be trained as a photographer at The Defence School of Photography (the largest school of photography in Europe). During my 6 months extensive training I was taught everything from shooting on 33mm and medium format cameras, dark room printing and even how light works. I went on to have my photography work featured on the front pages of National Newspapers (see photo of a very young looking me holding them!). I covered everything from Royal visits, huge military exercises, The Royal Military Tattoo in Edinburgh and more. Having served nearly 5 years, I decided I wanted a new challenge and moved back home to the North East. 

I loved my time in the RAF and wouldn’t be doing the job I’m doing now, if it wasn’t for the amazing training they gave me. Happy 100th Birthday to the Royal Air Force!!