David Warren first came on CommunityAd’s radar with his brilliant photos that documented the community event that all in Tunbridge Wells should be proud of, Local and Live.
We wanted to find out a bit more about the man behind the lens.
Having called Tunbridge Wells home all of his life we asked what has made the town a pleasant community to be a part of throughout his 43 years? He answered enthusiastically: “Definitely the music scene. I absolutely love being involved in up-and-coming acts’ rise to fame. Although I do not get paid, I absolutely love it. It has definitely saved my life”.
David’s passion for photography stems from a gift “I first picked up the camera when I was about 10 years old. I was given a Polaroid instant camera by my step-dad and my love affair with photography was born. I absolutely love it and it and music has definitely saved my life. Photography is by far the best thing to ever happen to me”. David is inspired by the colours of both winter and summer but he excels at event and music photography, “I absolutely love it”.
What do you find aesthetically so charming about Tunbridge Wells and its surrounding areas?
The music scene. It has most certainly saved my life. I came out of a very scary domestic violence situation at the end of 2012 where my abusers tried to kill me. If it wasn’t for Dan Littlechild from the Acoustic Reverb Collective or Paul Dunton for taking me under their wing to both support live music while helping to raise thousands of pounds for charity through music events.
I have been an active photographer for the Local and Live Music Festival in Tunbridge Wells since 2013. Although I do not get paid, I absolutely love being involved in such a fantastic event that supports local talent. If it wasn’t for Dan Littlechild and Paul Dunton for taking under their wing, I don’t think that I would be here now. Thank you so much.
You’re in the right place then, as there is a great music scene locally, isn’t there?
Absolutely. I am so blown away by the massive amount of talent from people, especially youngsters who are only just starting out in Tunbridge Wells. The talent is literally off the scale. Truly world class. As an example: Issabella Coustock is a rising talent who is currently touring with the amazing Jools Holland. I last saw her performing at the Grey Lady in Tunbridge Wells alongside Kitty Montague who is equally amazing. I love every minute being involved with their journey to stardom.
What bit of advice would you give to any novices starting out in photography?
Follow your dreams and never give up. Join Facebook photography sites. I’m an active member of the ‘Emily Dews Photography and Mental Health Support Group’. The amazing Emily has kept my love for photography alive through daily photography tasks in what has been for most a very difficult time. Thank you, Emily Dews Photography. You are truly amazing.