We caught up with Gerard Binks from Gerard Binks Photography about socially distanced photoshoots and his 18 years working for the Yorkshire Post.
Introducing: Gerard Binks Company name: Gerard Binks Photography Company website: www.gerardbinksphotography.co.uk Social Media: @GerardBinks
Normally behind the camera, this week we turn our focus onto freelance photographer Gerard Binks to find out about how he achieved socially distanced photoshoots during lockdown and his 18 years working for the Yorkshire Post…
When was the company founded and how has it grown?
The company was founded in August 2018 after leaving the Yorkshire Post where I was a senior photographer before becoming Multimedia Image Editor after 18 years’ service.
Why do you stand out from your competition?
Having over 25 years of experience in press photography covering every format from sport, news, advertising features, fashion, home interiors and awards ceremonies. Also being the Multimedia Image Editor gave me new skills in layout templates and gives me second-to-none knowledge in what publications are looking for visually with their photography, with magazines, newspapers and social media platforms.How has Covid affected your business and how did you cope?
Covid did affect the business. As soon as the lockdown came in all the events photography that had booked in advanced cancelled overnight. Clients were nervous about actually meeting to do a photographic shoot. Even in these difficult times it is still possible to get striking images whilst adhering to the Covid-19 rules. Social distancing, the wearing of face masks, shooting outdoors can still lead to good photography. I just tried to get the message out there that it is possible, and it does work. I have not stopped working during the pandemic.Who would you most like to have a drink with and why?
I would love to share a bottle of Argentinian Malbec with Marcelo Bielsa. Being a huge Leeds United fan I would love to chat about his thoughts on the Premier League, what he looks for in a player, his work ethics and the current squad of Leeds players, also his views on Yorkshire as he quite clearly loves living in Wetherby!What advice would you give the next generation starting their careers?
You need to be skilled in all formats of photography. To be master of one is not the way forward. You need to be skilled in stills, video and drone photography.Why do you like doing business in Yorkshire?
It's the people and location. Everyone has a view, a tale to tell and all have their quirks, whether it’s a moorland sheep farmer, a shop assistant, a footballer or businessman/woman.
Working in God's own county, what is there not to like? From the east coast to the Dales and towns like Harrogate, it's not a bad place to work.
Name your favourite local business and explain what makes them special.
My favourite local business is Bass & Bligh camera shop on Beulah Street, Harrogate.
In this day and age when so much is online shopping, it's great to have a camera shop with friendly and very knowledgeable staff. The shop is an Aladdin's cave, so well stocked and nothing is too much for this team - they go that extra mile. It's a little gem shop in Harrogate.
Would you like to feature your business in the Your Harrogate Business Focus? Email Claire Strachan (claire@clairestrachan.co.uk) for your chance to get involved.
Read more local stories from Your Harrogate here.
Works to start on James Street in Harrogate
Harrogate Paralympic powerlifter to represent Team GB
Ripon classic car gathering to return this weekend
'A bad idea': Ripon council objects to lower speed limit on A61
Olympics to be screened at Victoria Shopping Centre
Harrogate cyclists set off on 600km fundraising trip to Paris
Harrogate care home shortlisted for national luxury care award
Amateur Harrogate football club helps men kick excess weight
Harrogate charity ball raises £14,000 to combat loneliness in older people
Harrogate's new MP speaks in Parliament for first time
New Harrogate outpost launched off coast of Africa
Maltkiln developer updates proposals for 4,000-home settlement
Harrogate bus firm awarded world's top quality and safety benchmarks
Knaresborough choir set to perform at prestigious London venues
Three teens arrested after violent incident in Bilton
Residents battle developer at 53-home Knox Lane inquiry
Popular village pub near Knaresborough is put up for auction
Alice in Wonderland trail launched in Ripon city centre
Ripon's Passport Scheme returns for the summer
Popular Harrogate venue to host family events throughout summer
