In the early days of my career as a press photographer, one name stands out like a lighthouse spotted at sea by a sailor in need of guidance; Ronnie O’Gorman. He was my first editor; a creative and innovative thinker who fearlessly challenged the status quo. Under his supervision, I learned invaluable lessons that shaped my career and, ultimately, my life.
When I first met Ronnie in 1983, I was an enthusiastic but clueless aspiring press photographer. I had no portfolio and no experience—just a fierce determination to capture the world through my lens. Despite my inexperience, Ronnie saw something in me, as the phrase goes, and decided to take a chance. His faith in my potential was the catalyst that propelled me into the world of press photography.
Galway at that time was a city on the brink of cultural transformation. The Druid Theatre and the Galway Arts Festival were in their formative years, offering a vibrant and dynamic backdrop for my nascent career. Ronnie assigned me to various events and stories, giving me space to experiment and develop as a photographer. Through these assignments, I honed my skills and learned to see the world from multiple angles, always striving to capture the essence of each moment.
Ronnie had a profound commitment to giving a voice to minorities, ensuring their stories were told with the depth and respect they deserved. This ethos became the base of my own approach to photography; teaching me that above all, there is always more than one side to every story. It was a perspective that enriched my work and broadened my understanding of the world.
After five years under Ronnie’s mentorship, he sat me down to discuss the next step in my career. He encouraged me to move to Dublin to work for a national newspaper, a move he believed was crucial for my growth. All these years later, I still have, and treasure, the letter of reference he wrote for me—an amazing testament to his belief in my abilities. The letter was so heartfelt and filled with pride that it often brought smiles to the faces of editors interviewing me for new positions.
Ronnie’s advice to "not look back and do what it takes to achieve your goals" has stayed with me throughout my career. As a farewell gift, he gave me the book "The Lives of Lee Miller," the story of an American Vogue model who became a renowned war photographer. This carefully chosen gift was a nudge to look beyond my immediate surroundings and broaden my vision.
Inspired by Ronnie and guided by the story of Lee Miller, I embarked on a journey that took me around the world, often into conflict zones. Through all these experiences, Ronnie’s influence remained a constant presence. His early support and unwavering belief in my potential were the foundations upon which I built my career.
Today, as I reflect on my forty-year journey, culminating in my role as a staff photographer with The Irish Press and The Irish Times and eventually the Picture Editor for The Irish Times, I am filled with gratitude.
During those early days in the top-floor newsroom of O’Gorman’s Bookshop in Galway, I remember Mary O’Connor in her corner writing weekly news and fashion articles, and Ronnie with his long legs stretched out, hands behind his head, engaging in lively debates over the phone.
It was in that modest newsroom that Ronnie taught me the most important lesson of all: to see beyond the surface and capture the true essence of every story. His legacy continues to inspire me every time I pick up my camera.
For that, and for everything else he gave me, I owe Ronnie my eternal gratitude.
