Award for lifeboat photograph project
Reporter A GEORDIE photographer has taken these stunning images of RNLI stations across the country.
Jack Lowe, who lives in Newcastle, is on a mission to capture all 238 RNLI sites on a Victorian camera.
He began work on the Lifeboat Station Project in January 2015 and aims to visit every station in the UK and Republic of Ireland using a 113-year-old camera which produces spectacular images of RNLI crews on glass plate.
Jack has just reached the halfway point of the project after spending four years on the road photographing more than 120 stations.
During that time, he has taken pictures of more than 2,000 volunteers travelling in his mobile darkroom – a former NHS ambulance called “Neena”.
He has also been charting his work online through a website and on social media. Now Jack has been awarded a certificate of merit for “Best Use of Digital Media” by the Maritime Foundation, at the Maritime Media Awards.
It was presented to him by Admiral Sir Philip Jones, First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff. The Maritime Foundation praised Jack for his dedication and “presenting the volunteers in an interesting and unique way, using photography on glass plates”.
Jack said: “When I embarked on the Lifeboat Station Project I Newcastle photographer Jack Lowe receiving a certificate of merit from Admiral Sir Philip Jones simply couldn’t have foreseen that my work would be recognised in this way at the halfway point some four years later.
“But this isn’t just recognition for my efforts, it’s recognition for the extraordinary people on our coastline who are prepared to drop everything at a moment’s notice when the emergency call comes.
“Over the years, I’ve grown to love thinking of imaginative ways to tell the story of the journey online via the website and my social media channels.
“So, it feels extra special to be complimented by the maritime community on this element of the project.
“But without the RNLI volunteers, there would be no story to tell. And this unprecedented body of work is only possible with their help. As ever, my heartfelt thanks to every single person who’s taken part so far – I couldn’t have done it without you.”
Oli Dillon, social media engagement officer for the RNLI, added: “Jack Lowe’s website really communicates the character of the Lifeboat Station Project and captures the spirit of the volunteers he photographs.
“It has the perfect balance of information and functionally. With an innovative use of different platforms including podcasting and films, you feel like you are a part of Jack’s epic mission.”
To follow Jack’s journey online, see Instagram – @lordlowe, Twitter – @ProjectLifeboat or Facebook – fb.com/LifeboatStationProject