World Photography Day 2021: the best work of military photographers
On World Photography Day we recognise and celebrate the hard work of military photographers around the world.
Photographers serving in the UK Armed Forces contribute to military operations and record moments in history, all while coping with demanding conditions on the front line.
Their photographs allow us to see what is endured by Armed Forces personnel on operations and help explain the vital work of the Armed Forces to the communities they serve.
On World Photography Day 2021, we hear from two Armed Forces photographers on how their work contributes to the life of the Armed Forces on deployment around the world — and enjoy some of their favourite photos.
Senior Aircraftman Tom Barnard has been serving as a Royal Air Force photographer for just a year, but has already captured major events on film and seen his work published by the international media.
“Since graduating from the Defence School of Photography I have been able to put my training to full use, being tasked with many high-profile jobs and responsibilities,” he explains.
“You face many challenges on a daily basis. However, the training that is provided to us prepares us for any scenario.”
Royal Air Force photographers are trained to use their skills on operations to help identify casualties, gather intelligence and respond to equipment failures in the field.
Tom explains: “The job covers a wide and unique spectrum of tasks including public relations, medical and dental photography and crime scene analysis.”
Tom also has encouraging words for anyone who dreams of a career in photography.
“For me personally, World Photography Day allows photographers to gain recognition for the hard work that they do, as well as encouraging the next generation of people who want to pursue photography as a hobby or even a career.”
Leading Photographer Belinda Alker has enjoyed incredible experiences while serving as a military photographer.
“I’ve been in the Royal Navy for seven years, first as a hydrographer, before transferring to become a photographer three years ago.”
“I am now based in Portsmouth, covering a huge variety of jobs, from set pieces with the First Sea Lord, to news stories such as ships’ homecomings or ceremonial events.
“The best part of the job is deploying to where the action is to get images nobody else would have access to. Getting to lean out the door of a Merlin helicopter with your camera beats most days in the office!”
Military photographers serve on ships, in aircraft and alongside personnel on military operations in hostile conditions and breathtaking landscapes.
“My personal highlights have been filming the F-35B jets with the Carrier Strike Group (feeling the roar of the engines) and experiencing the Arctic with HMS Protector — I was very privileged to see a polar bear mum and cub.”
World Photography Day is an important opportunity to thank our military photographers for the work they do to reveal the contributions the Armed Forces make to communities in all four corners of the globe.
