‘Friesian’ by Luke Parkinson LPRS
Photography has been a constant for Luke Parkinson LRPS since he picked up a camera to keep him occupied through a period of ill health as a boy.
Now 30, Parkinson’s passion for photography has led him to achieving his Licentiate and establishing a career as an equine photographer.
Below, the New Forest native reflects on his achievements so far and why he is drawn to photographing wildlife more than any other genre.
‘Dartford warbler’ by Luke Parkinson LPRS
A lifelong hobby
My passion for photography started at eight years old when I was gifted a 35mm film camera by my parents. I was battling a heart condition, undergoing surgery and spending large amounts of time resting. Rather than the sedentary life becoming a negative experience for me, it reinforced my passion for photography.
I spent many hours sitting by my local pond in Boldre waiting for the elusive kingfisher. The excitement was phenomenal when I finally secured my shots.
I owned a 70mm lens by then and had to patiently wait for the film to wind on to the end. After the anticipation of processing and developing the prints, the final product was somewhat disappointing. This lengthy process, coupled with the appearance of a small blue speck in the centre of a 6x4 print, resulted in my desire to improve my kit.
Fast forward to today where I now own an upgraded digital camera, an array of lenses and enough equipment to avoid a repeat of the kingfisher experience. My photographs are now enjoyed by a far wider audience than those early days where my family and friends spent hours encouraging me.
‘New Forest pony’ by Luke Parkinson LPRS
A career in focus
In 2012 my kingfisher images got me shortlisted as Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year and British Wildlife Photographer of the Year.
Since then I’ve been awarded Bronze Equestrian Photographer of the Year 2023, and achieved two nominations in the Fine Art Photography Awards in 2021 and another in 2024.
Alongside competitions I’ve focused on honing my photography skills. I’ve achieved qualified status with the Guild of Photographers and gained my Licentiate with the RPS in 2015 through my Level 5 HND in Photography.
‘Eye of the storm, Connemara’ by Luke Parkinson LPRS
A story of steeds
Given that I was born in the New Forest, famous for its horses, and was raised by a family who had ponies, photographing horses felt like a natural fit.
To ensure I get the best shots it’s crucial I establish trust-filled connections with the horses I’m photographing. It’s important to remember every horse is different when considering an image composition.
Dressage and showjumping horses, for example, tend to stand tall and proud – but they have distinct differences that my images can highlight. I tend to focus on the curvature of the dressage horses whereas the impressive muscularity of showjumping horses always draws my attention.
‘Eye of the storm, Connemara’, one of the most recognised photographs I’ve taken, was runner up in the Worldwide Guild of Photographers Equine Image of the Year 2018 and a nominee in the Fine Art Photography Awards 2018.
I really enjoy the image’s simplicity. The fact it doesn’t give any clues away about the horse’s professional career leaves the viewer wanting to know more.
‘Badger reflecting on life’ by Luke Parkinson LPRS
A wonder for wildlife
Horses aren’t the only animals I enjoy capturing. I’m interested in photographing all kinds of wildlife – including badgers.
This prize capture of the badger was my reward after spending many hours waiting for the opportune moment. It was a nominee in the Fine Art Photography Awards 2024.
‘Mature red stag’ by Luke Parkinson LPRS