‘Inspirational’ images by Cathal

Cathal McNaughton, 33, was presented with a Power of Photography Award by Amateur Photographer Magazine at a ceremony in London at the weekend.

The award recognises Cathal’s 16 year career as a Press photographer and his winning body of work includes images taken in the Glens of Antrim as well as photographs taken on assignment in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Amateur Photographer editor Damien Demolder said Cathal’s work was “exceptional” and “inspirational”.

Speaking at the awards presentation ceremony in Whitehall, London Mr Demolder said: “This year’s Amateur Photographer Power of Photography Award goes to a news photographer who creates pictures that inspire emotions as well as relate the straight facts of the story.

“Most press photographers simply take a photograph to illustrate a current news story. Cathal’s pictures go further and very often are the story.

“His pictures use powerful compositional techniques to draw the viewer to the subject and to deliver an immediate attachment to the event. His images are truly moving.”

Cathal, who was Royal Photographer of the Year and UK and Irish Press Photographer of the Year, began his career in Northern Ireland, working for the Belfast Telegraph, Irish News and Sunday Life, before moving to Dublin and then London to work for the Press Association.

Cathal said: “I am delighted to receive this prestigious award. It is particularly exciting for me to see pictures that I took close to my home in Cushendall and throughout Northern Ireland being showcased internationally.”

More of Cathal’s pictures can be viewed at www.cathalmcnaughton.com.