TEACHING.

With a wealth of experience in various fields of photography, I extend my passion for the craft to teaching, sharing the nuances of visual storytelling and the art of capturing moments with aspiring photographers. Serving as a mentor, I draw from both academic achievements and practical insights gained throughout my career.

My teaching philosophy revolves around instilling not only technical skills but also a profound appreciation for the narrative potential inherent in every image. Whether delving into the intricacies of composition, the play of light, or the psychological impact of visual elements, I guide students to unlock the expressive power of their lenses. My interests extend beyond the technicalities; I am fascinated by the intersection of art and empathy, encouraging students to explore how photography can be a tool for fostering understanding and connection in our diverse world.

Through engaging workshops and dynamic classroom discussions, I strive to nurture the next generation of photographers, fostering a deep love for the art and an awareness of its transformative potential.

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tHINK TANKS & CONFERENCES.

Participating in the Think Tank at the Museum of Contemporary Photography in Dublin, convened by Ailbhe Greaney in collaboration with PhotoIreland and Ulster University, my perspective was deeply influenced by the insights of theoretical physicist David Bohm. His notion that the chaos in the world reflects the "mess within ourselves" served as a foundation for my exploration of contemporary photography as a tool for empathy activation. Within the context of Ireland and Northern Ireland's evolving 'States,' I emphasized the unique role of photography in exposing subconscious processes, prompting dialogues between viewer and subject, and contributing to the understanding of complex, multiple identities.

During the Think Tank, I delved into the challenges posed by the saturation of images and social media addiction, impacting emotional cognition and empathy. Aligning with psychologist Carl Rogers' views on empathy, I stressed the initiative required for empathy activation and the call to action within the exploration titled "Photography: An Empathetic Gesture." This initiative underscores the pivotal role of imagery in conceptualizing reality and positions contemporary photography as a potent agent for social discourse. Recognizing the current states as a decisive moment for evaluating the gestural capacities of contemporary photography, I passionately believe it presents an exciting opportunity for artistic self-expression, representation, and innovative applications in the dynamic social landscape of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

This work was referenced at the "Healing Through Photography" conference, hosted by Belfast Exposed, where specialists in utilizing photography for mental health and wellbeing gathered. The conference aimed not only to share insights from Belfast Exposed's mental health programs but also to foster a broader conversation about the intersection of mental health and photography. By connecting the community with industry experts, the conference sought to diversify opinions, explore new research, and encourage organizations to harness the benefits of photography for improved mental health and wellbeing care.