Jonathan Gawthorpe

Photographer Jonathan Gawthorpe has worked on Yorkshire newspapers for almost 30 years. Covering a wide range of subjects – everything from museum exhibitions to regional sporting events – for the Yorkshire Post, he is passionate about the diversity of the region and the characters he meets along the way. This passion shines through in the quality of his work.

His inspiration is that of an ‘old school’ press photographer, travelling light with just one camera body, a couple of lenses and one flash, rather than portable studio lighting. This can be a challenge at times, but Jonathan says he enjoys that challenge, using his ingenuity and a variety of light sources to get the picture he wants.

One such example is a striking shot taken at the Harrogate Antique Fair, showcasing a trader looking at his Rene Lalique Victoire Car Mascot, known as the Spirit of the Wind. Jonathan thought on his feet to source a glass table and LED spotlights to light the Spirit of the Wind, resulting in a dramatic photo. 

Judges’ comments: “There's something unique about each of Jonathan's photos. They make you want to sit and just look at them.”