Damian McGillicuddy, Author at The Society of Photographers | International Photography Organisation

Damian McGillicuddy

Damian McGillicuddy is an award-winning photographer, educator and mentor renowned for his creative approach to photography and his mastery of light. Known in the popular press as “The Lighting Wizard”, Damian has enjoyed a career spanning several decades and has won 19 Photographer of the Year titles, alongside numerous other accolades including multiple Fellowships and the rare Grand Master Double Bar title.

His distinctive work, characterised by elegance, creativity and innovative lighting, has been featured by leading international brands and publications including Swedish Vogue, L’Oréal and Aston Martin Racing. From his early career as a freelance photographer, Damian went on to become Olympus UK’s Principal Photographer and educator, as well as a European visionary for the brand, following in the footsteps of his photographic hero, David Bailey.

Damian is also passionate about education and mentoring. He has helped more than 50 photographers develop their skills and achieve their own awards and recognition, sharing his knowledge of lighting, creativity and professional photography with the next generation of photographers.

Drawing on his own experiences of overcoming personal challenges, Damian is a strong advocate for inclusivity and disability rights. His approach to photography and education reflects a belief in encouraging creativity, challenging convention and helping others realise their potential.

Damian McGillicuddy Phoography Business Advice

Kerrching Beats Bling Bling: Why Relevance, not Reach, is the Real Currency in Modern Photography By Damian McGillicuddy

March 26, 2026 Damian McGillicuddy

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Article, Photography, Photography Business

The Gap Between Attention and Income I was recently in a room with a talented photographer, decent following, plenty of...

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Photography in the Age of AI: How Photographers Can Adapt

August 16, 2025 Damian McGillicuddy

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AI photography, Article

By Damian McGillicuddy Artificial intelligence is no longer something photographers can treat as a distant possibility. It is already changing...

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How to Use Lighting to Create Better Portraits

October 7, 2022 Damian McGillicuddy

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Article, Photography Lighting

Good portrait lighting isn’t simply about making sure your subject is correctly exposed. Light changes the way we see someone....

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Motorsport Photography Tips: How to Photograph Racing Safely and Creatively

August 18, 2014 Damian McGillicuddy

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Article, Sports Photography

by Damian McGillicuddy My Dad always advised that if everybody was zigging, I must zag. I often think the same...

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How to Use Off-Camera Flash Outdoors for Better Portraits

December 1, 2010 Damian McGillicuddy

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Article, Photography Lighting

By Damian McGillicuddy Outdoor portraits don’t have to mean relying entirely on whatever light happens to be available. One of...

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6 Portrait Lighting Techniques Every Photographer Should Understand

December 11, 2009 Damian McGillicuddy

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Article, Photography Lighting

By Damian McGillicuddy Good portrait lighting doesn’t necessarily require a complicated studio setup. What matters is understanding what each light...

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