A PROFESSIONAL photographer and former police officer who said living in Dorset helped him to recover from PTSD is set to rub shoulders with celebrities after reaching the finals of a national competition.
Former Dorchester man Paul Williams will be tutored by world-famous fashion icon John Rankin Waddell alongside five other contestants to find a new name in British photography for the BBC Great British Photography Challenge.
The BBC4 TV show, airing from May 24, will feature a host of celebrities including British actress Anna Friel, BBC Winterwatch presenter Chris Packham, award-winning documentarian Maryam Wahid and creative Lamarr Golding.
Mr Williams, 60, said: “Dorset inspired me with its landscape and wide variety of animals and birds.
"I served in the army and police - careers which caused my PTSD.
“Much of my recovery is directly linked to finding quiet areas near where I lived in Dorchester.”
The army veteran will be joined by five other photographers hailing from Northampton, London, Luton, Shrewsbury, and Dunfermline.
The six passionate photographers will be given a variety of challenges in the four-part series.
Mr Waddell said: “This has been an incredible opportunity to nurture the next generation of photographers.
“All the contestants had such unique and varied backgrounds, but what brought them together was their love for photography. The contestants have exceptional promise and I’m excited for the UK to see their talent.”
Each episode starts with an on-the-spot challenge set by Rankin to deliver a winning picture in just one hour, using nothing more than smartphone cameras.
The contestants will undertake a range of themed, weekly challenges, and although ultimately a winner will be chosen, none will be eliminated. The series follows the journeys of all six individuals throughout the series as they demonstrate their individual flair and vision. Mr Williams moved to Wales in November but spoke about his favourite spots for snapping across the county.
“Some of my best memories in the 10 years since I was diagnosed are of being on Brownsea Island and photographing the red squirrels - many of the images were used to promote Dorset Wildlife Trust,” said Mr Williams.
BBC Arts commissioning editor, Emma Cahusac said: “With smartphone photography being more popular than ever, we’ve never been more fascinated by the art of taking a good photo.
“Mentored by one of the best names in the business, along with extra help from some stellar celebrity guests, Rankin provides six photographers with a unique masterclass in the art and craft of photography that allows them to develop and shine before our eyes.”
The show will also feature fashion editor Cheryl Konteh, and emerging cutting-edge bands Walt Disco and Ninth Wave.
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