Laurie Campbell: Taking Stock – A Retrospective

Born in Berwick-upon-Tweed in 1958 and with a life-long interest in the natural world, Laurie Campbell has dedicated almost fifty years to photographing Scotland’s distinctive wildlife, flora and landscape. In the beginning his aim was simple, to show what he had witnessed to others who might have neither the time nor the inclination to go out into the field and experience nature in as much detail for themselves. After graduating from a four year degree course in photography at Napier University in Edinburgh he continued accumulating stocks of photographs from the natural world and in 1985 became arguably Scotland’s first full-time professional nature photographer. His imagery is published across a range of media internationally and is widely recognised for its distinctive style and his preference for using natural light and belief in photographing subjects just as he finds them in the field. 

Inspiration for his work comes from simply adopting an open-minded approach believing, strongly that there is limitless photographic potential in virtually everything in the natural world, regardless of how common it may be. Being a generalist makes him receptive to a wide range of subjects from lichens to golden eagles and it is this which has helped him appreciate how different habitats work and with it, the interdependence between species. 

In recognition of the effect that his photography has had, he was voted to be included in ‘Highland Naturalists’ an exhibition staged at Great Glen House, Scottish Natural Heritage’s headquarters in Inverness. Similarly, he was given a ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ in the RSPB Nature of Scotland Awards 2014 in recognition of the effect his photography has had in conservation in Scotland.

As well as contributing to various television and radio programmes, Laurie has authored three books, and also writes and illustrates a monthly column about nature photography in ‘Outdoor Photography’ magazine. Major photography commissions have included projects from Scottish Natural Heritage  At present, he is working on a long-term commission for the North Harris Trust to document the natural history and landscape of the 62,000 acre community owned estate.

VISITORS

Visitors are welcome to attend tonight’s talk. Single and couple (shared screen) tickets are available below.