Behind the Lens with Gazette Camera Club member Jon Allard

The service engineer has a girlfriend called Carey Streeter, two daughters, Sophie and Bethany, a young son, Sebastian, and a stepdaughter, Kayleigh.

Why did you take up photography?

I've always been interested in photography and, in 2017, my girlfriend bought me a couple of lessons. From then on, I've been out trying new things and techniques with my camera.

Why do you love taking pictures?

I love taking pictures as I find it relaxing, especially at night when there's no-one around and the skies are clear, with all the stars showing bright.

Where is your favourite place locally to take pictures? How about further afield?

My favourite places locally to photograph are Brightlingsea and Alresford. There's so much there and they're good for sunsets. My favourite places are the dark skies in Suffolk, though. On a moonless night, you can see the milky way with the naked eye.

What equipment do you use?

The equipment I use is a Sony A7 camera, with a wide-angle lens and remote control so I don't disturb the camera.

What is your favourite picture you've ever taken?

One of my favourite pictures is of the milky way, over the beach huts at Brightlingsea. I was there with some friends, taking pictures of Comet Neowise. I turned around and could see the milky way, so set up my camera facing the opposite way to everyone else.

Why did you join our Camera Club?

I joined the Camera Club four years ago and like looking at other people's styles of pictures and locations.

If you could photograph anyone or any place in the world, who/what would it be?

I'd like to photograph the northern lights in Norway.

What advice would you give anyone who wants to get into photography?

If you want to get into photography don't go spending lots on your gear. I get by with a camera, tripod and remote for most of my shots and use a few different filters for sunset photos. Also look for some pointers on YouTube.