Photographer’s focus on three very different childhoods

Alex, 28, credits his photographer sister for inspiring his decision to carve out a niche in an industry in which it is difficult to make a mark.

And his nephew Dylan was one of the subjects which helped him receive a commendation in the Spirit of Place and Cultural Diversity competition.

Alex, brought up in Hull and now living and working in Leeds, submitted three photos of children.

One shows a young monk, the other a glue-sniffing boy, both taken in Nepal.

“My sister gave me the inspiration to pursue photography. She is a well-established wedding photographer,” said Alex, who works in child mental health services in Leeds.

He hopes one day to devote more time to travel photography but it has been hard work to break into the business.

“Coming from Hull, being artistic is not something that’s celebrated within the culture that I grew up in.”

He was delighted to get a nod from the judges in the Accademia Apulia diversity competition.

“It’s a real boost to my confidence.”