Brian Swinyard - Biography

Brian E Swinyard BA (Hons) LRPS EFIAP DPAGB PSA1* BPE2*v

An 'Aspirational' Photographer with special interest in Creative, Travel and Portrait photography.

Born in 1943 in Bristol, England, Brian developed his first B&W photograph at the age of 13, although he did not begin a serious interest in photography until 1984. Since then, he has been an active member of various Camera Clubs in UK (currently member of Cheltenham and Gloucester Camera Clubs) and overseas (founder member of Ayios Nikolaos Photographic Society, Cyprus).

Regarded in the UK Camera Club Circuit, not only as a prolific image-maker but also as an inspiration to others. His photography, which nowadays is almost exclusively digitally-based, is varied, shows a great deal of technical expertise, originality and enviable imagination. Many of his images have been accepted (some medal winners) in National and International Exhibitions and Salons in Europe, Middle East, Far East and American continents. His work has been published in In-House and Photographic Magazines and
some of his images can be viewed on the member's gallery at the Royal Photographic Society website.

Recently made the transition to digital with the purchase of a Canon EOS 20D, assorted lenses and accessories. Prior to this, whenever abroad on business or pleasure, his trusted Minolta SLR Dynax 7xi and 7000i cameras were his constant companions. His preference, with his wife Angela, is for the long-haul, off-the-beaten track, back-packing type of destinations. Recent expeditions have included Tasmania, Bolivia, Peru, Cambodia and Vietnam.

Currently working towards the Fellowship of the Royal Photographic Society (FRPS), Excellence of the International Federation of Photographic Art/Bronze (EFIAP/b), Master of the Photographic Alliance of Great Britain (MPAGB), Photographic Society of America (PSA) Two Star Award and British Photographic Exhibition (BPE) Three Crown Award.

Graduated BA(Hons) in Psychology with The Open University, MA in Photography with De Montfort University, Leicester. The latter included critical surveys and analysis of: Moment Of Death photographs in war photography, Urban Landscapes viewed as monochrome negatives and Personal Identity: Transition from Camera Club to Fine Art Photographer.

Joined the Photographic Society of America in May 2004.