Film director hails photo as ‘one of the best’

MARTIN McKeown is creating a buzz after swapping nursing for photography. The former advanced nurse practitioner at DGRI is now studying photography at Dumfries and Galloway College and his work caught they eye of film director Mark Cousins. The pair have collaborated for a series of unique portrait pictures as the Scottish-Irish documentarian promoted his latest film The Story of Looking in Germany. One of Martin’s images of Cousins has featured in a national newspaper, while two more pictures have been hailed by the filmmaker himself who has posted them online for fans to talk about and share. He said: “Thank you Martin McKeown for taking this picture of me. I’ve been photographed a lot, but this is one of the best.” Martin may have swapped hospital life for a career behind the lens, but the 58-year-old is using his new skills to also pay tribute to his former profession and co-workers.

In a bid to capture the ‘human’ side of NHS staff, he has been snapping 28 of his old colleagues doing a range of activities, including sewing, crocheting, running, cycling, paddle boarding, music/singing, inshore rescue and a radio DJing. Martin, who is set to complete his HND in the summer, said: “The NHS project was a labour of love and I am humbled by the response and feedback I have received. “And, now, getting the opportunity to photograph Mark Cousins . . . it was incredible and such a thrill to work with him and show him in a different perspective.” College principal Joanna Campbell said: “Everyone at the college is thrilled to see Martin’s success with his two main projects so far. “He continues to excel and the recognition he has received recently is well deserved.”