Dominic Gibbons, 24 from Burton-on-Trent, graduated with a first-class degree in BA (Hons) Photography from Staffordshire University in 2020.
He said: “Winning the Motorsport UK MPB Young Photographer of the Year has been an ambition of mine since my second year at Staffordshire University when I first found out about the award during a module where we researched our chosen photography sector. So, I’m thrilled to win what is quite a prestigious award in motorsport photography!”
Since graduating, Dominic has worked as a freelancer and has just completed another season photographing a wide range of national motorsport, including for leading agency, Jakob Ebrey Photography. He has photographed the British Touring Car Championship, Goodwood Festival of Speed and Formula 1 at Silverstone, as well as getting the cover photo for Autosport magazine from Le Mans.
Dominic has also photographed his hometown’s football team, Burton Albion FC, working with Staffordshire-based sports agency, Epic Action Imagery.
“I’ve always had an interest in cars and motorsport, so when my dad bought a Caterham sports car, and we attended track days and the Goodwood Members Meeting, I caught the bug and it came naturally. I started off taking pictures on my phone, then borrowing a camera, getting my own, then starting at Staffs and borrowing the great kit there.”
MPB, a unique platform that has transformed the way that people buy, sell and trade in photo and video kit, partnered with Motorsport UK to support the award. Dominic was honoured at Motorsport UK’s annual Night of Champions, held at the Royal Automobile Club, last month. He also received a cheque for £1,000 to help further his career in the sport and a £1,500 MPB voucher, allowing him to purchase photographic equipment.
The judges were impressed with the originality and creativity in the shots that Dominic submitted, with a particular note on his use of lighting, textures, and angles. His submission showcased a broad range of imagery, including studio shots and candid photography from around the paddock to supplement his on-track images.
Dominic added: “The advice that I’d give to students both new and close to graduating would be to find the area of photography they love and stick at it if they want to make it work. For me, that was going to my local racetrack Donington Park for test and track days, experimenting with kit and developing as a photographer.
“Contacts in the industry are vital so go out and gain what experience you can, don’t be afraid to ask questions, and follow your passion while you have the chance and support. Make the most of it!”
Discover more about Staffordshire University’s BA (Hons) Photography and range of Art and Design degrees.