Six decades behind camera
Lensman Louis Flood dies at 84
Highly-regarded Perth photographer Louis Flood has died at the age of 84.
Born and bred in the city, Louis captured the changing face of Perth and her rural hinterland, along with generations of local residents, over six decades behind the camera.
Educated at Perth Academy, Louis began his long and distinguished career in photography with an apprenticeship at Star Photos in 1947, at the tender age of 14.
After completing National Service with the RAF, he enjoyed a spell with the Daily Mail in Dundee before joining the staff at Alex C Cowper in the Fair City and later establishing his own business, Louis Flood Photographers, in 1977. Until recently, it was continuing under the management of his son, Louis T. Flood.
Louis’ work, and passion, for the national and local press featured heavily in a well-received ‘Golden Age of Photojournalism’ exhibition staged by Perth Museum.
In the pre-computer and digital days of photography, the in-demand freelancer could recall racing to Perth Station to ensure his prized images reached papers in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee and Aberdeen in time for their late night deadlines.
A member of the National Union of Journalists, Louis was the go-to photographer for everything from hard news stories to Royal visits, weddings, social gatherings, sport and agricultural events, including the world famous Perth Bull Sales, Perth Show, the Highland Show in Edinburgh and the Smithfield Show in London. His strong ties to the Scottish farming community were reflected in membership of the Guild of Agricultural Journalists
He was regularly commissioned by many local whisky companies now lost to Perth, including Bells, Dewar’s and Matthew Gloag.
Louis played a prominent role in civic life, serving with the Society of High Constables of the City of Perth, including two years as Moderator.
Always proud of his roots, he was a member of the Guildry Incorporation of Perth, joking that the historic role of “ale taster to the burgh” was one of his more arduous tasks.
He was a past president of the Rotary Club of Perth and a member of Perth Probus, and Dunning Golf Club.
Louis, of Fairies Road, is survived by his wife Kathleen – they met during his stint with the Daily Mail and married in 1959 - son Louis, daughters Laura and Liesa and three grandchildren, Lottie, Rory and Joseph.
His funeral is being held at St Mary’s Monastery on Wednesday, February 15, at 1.30pm.