Spotlight On Ricky Barnett Photography 9 Nov 2022
Ricky Barnett Photography
With his camera always to hand, local photographer Ricky Barnett has an eye for taking exceptional shots of St Albans and the surrounding area. Constantly dreaming up new projects and angles, his work is exciting and innovative. We caught up with him to find out more.
When did your love of photography start?
I bought my first “real” camera, a film SLR, when I was about 16. Straight away I was really into creative photography and played around with special effects filters to produce “arty” pictures. Any other form of image manipulation was beyond my means, as digital photography didn’t even exist back then. Over successive years I steadily upgraded my gear and was always “the one with the camera” on holidays and at occasions with family and friends.
What do you like about living and working in St Albans?
In 1980, my first job straight from school was as a trainee engineer at United Glass in St Albans. As well as working here, I would spend every weekend having fun in the vibrant pubs and clubs of the city. The Boot was always a favourite, regularly descending into a raucous sing-along to loud pop music. My affection for St Albans continued unabated for many years, finally resulting in a permanent move here in 2002.
Do you have any particularly memorable projects?
My first serious photography project was capturing St Albans pubs at night-time. I posted a few on Facebook, and the positive response inspired me to photograph all 97 pubs in the St Albans area. This collection included the first photograph I ever sold, a picture of the Rose and Crown in St Michaels. Another well received project was my recent “Unsung Hero Buildings”, featuring photos of the remarkable, but often overlooked architecture of St Albans.
Do you specialise in any particular type of photography?
I don’t specialise in any genre, but I have concentrated a lot on documenting the architecture and scenery around St Albans. I’ve also done some interesting street photography, including documenting life during the pandemic and lockdowns. I take my camera almost everywhere I go, nationally and internationally, but between trips I’m never short of a subject to point my lens at. I like to try any type of photography that can expand my skills.
St Albans has a strong community spirit; have you been involved in any community events?
I’ve been involved in many local events. I’ve documented the markets, festivals and celebrations, and also grass-roots sports such as netball and football. I am often asked to contribute images to local non-profit and charitable organisations and do my best to oblige at low or no cost. Outside of photography I chaired my children’s primary school PTA for some time. Involvement in a team like that is a great way to engage with your community.
For people visiting St Albans, what would be your three top tips for them to enjoy the best of the city?
1) Experience the city at different times of the day. Take an afternoon stroll by the lake, followed by an evening among the restaurants and pubs buzzing with live music, real ale and fine food.
2) Visit the villages surrounding the city. There are many country pubs and tea shops hidden among the quaint cottages and pretty little hamlets.
3) My third tip has to be “Bring a camera”! You’ll never be short of a subject in our great city.
What is next for you?
I’m constantly looking for unique perspectives on our city and have several unpublished projects on the go. My latest calendar “Images of St Albans 2023” is now available, as is my second book “St Albans in 100 Images”. This latest book features many of my favourite local photographs and has been very well received, appealing to a wide audience. Any proceeds are ploughed back into supporting future projects.
How has social media changed how your work?
Social media has had an enormous effect on my photography. The encouragement I have received via various groups has driven me to keep improving. Social media has enabled me to reach a global audience, with many of my books and calendars making their way to countries as far away as Australia, Canada and the USA.
To purchase Images of St Albans 2023 calendar and to find out more information visit rickybarnett.com or @rickybarnettphotography
