Yes…. it is me. Back in the dark distant last century!
Inspired by Debbie’s post this morning title ‘Cherished Car’
(https://travelwithintent.com/2023/10/01/a-cherished-car/)
It is also an image that is posted to redress the balance, as requested by Sue (https://suejudd.com/) following yesterdays ‘Eyes’ post from the 60’s.
I should explain a little. The car was indeed very special to me. I didn’t own it, but it was my first company car. I applied for a job that was advertised by a Leading Publishers, as Photographer…. honestly never thought I would get it, as the job spec. was detailed and demanding…. but I did.
At the age of 20, I was provided with this brand new Ford Anglia (red so it could be used as a photo prop). Along with the car I was also provided with over £7000 of brand new photo equipment. Not sure what £7000 would be in todays money, but it was more valuable than the car!
The brief was simple. I was given a shooting script for the year (updated each year). My location was to cover the UK from Lands End to John o’ Groats, Stately Homes, Cathedrals, Castle, Coastal Resorts and of course our beautiful Landscape and Villages. The only area not included was London, Kent and Sussex. The script just simply stated, to visit the locations as seasonal changes and local special events demanded ….. with the by-line of ‘make your own arrangement and just get on with it’.
The only other instruction was to always dress smart, a business suit ideal but clothing could be relaxed (what we would now call smart casual) if location and conditions required.
Yep… that is all there was to it, just an expense float and an encouraging boss who just said – be your own boss and make the most of the opportunity.
I did just that, along with the Ford Anglia, we covered over 90,000 miles that first year. That hard worked car did me proud, as did several others that followed that worked equally as hard….. but that Red Anglia was very special.
I have always said I have been lucky all my life. I had already worked for an Engineering Group as a Staff Photographer, which provided the widest experience any photographer could hope for. Heavy Engineering Works, Blast Furnaces, Chemical Plants, Coal Mines (yes you can photograph in black coal mines) to Flour Mills, Ship Yards and Bakeries.
Lucky you bet…. I know it and now I am just being a little self indulgent 🙂
Reflecting on your stories, planning the next adventure or simply dreaming…. as always….
Please Remember ….
Stay Safe …. Be Kind…. Look After Each Other
1st October
(C) David Oakes 2023
DAVID OAKES - IMAGES. 