Photography student snaps Movember campaign for the Cornish Pirates

29 November 2024

benj

Documentary & Editorial Photography BA student Benj Gilbert has been putting his camera skills to excellent use, supporting the Cornish Pirates and Mousehole AFC’s Movember campaign. 

Earlier this month, the two teams faced off in a series of challenges to raise funds for men’s health charity Man Down Cornwall. The event saw Mousehole’s footballers testing their aim at the rugby posts, while Pirates players tried their hand at a penalty shootout, with the rugby club securing a narrow victory. 

Benj generously donated his time to document the event and spoke to us about how it compared to his other recent sports shoots. 

Over the past couple of years, you've taken some amazing sports photos – what were the standout moments and your favourite shots? 

Thanks! One standout moment was shooting at the England cricket Test matches this past summer at the Oval and Lord's – a dream I’ve had for over six years. Alongside this, I photographed King Charles’s coronation from the streets of Whitehall. It was a 20+ hour day, but absolutely worth it. 

How did you get involved in the Movember photos for Mousehole AFC/Cornish Pirates? 

I got involved through journalism lecturer Kevin Bishop. Photographing the players during training sessions and matches, while they raised money for Man Down Cornwall, was a fantastic experience and a privilege. Man Down supports men’s mental health, which is very important to me. With its connection to sport and Movember, it’s been a meaningful opportunity. I even attempted to grow a moustache myself – though not very successfully! 

What are the key things you’ve learned on your course? 

The best part of the past three years has been the people I’ve met and the connections I’ve made, including both current and past students. The industry knowledge I’ve gained has been invaluable, helping me progress as a sports and news photographer. The support from my tutors has also been instrumental in taking the leap into professional photography. 

When did you discover your love of photography? 

I first discovered my love for photography when I was around nine or ten. My dad took me to a cricket cup final at Lord’s Cricket Ground, and I brought along my camera. I couldn’t stop taking pictures of the game I loved, and my passion for photography has only grown since then. 

What would be your dream event to shoot? 

I’ve got a long way to go in my career, but photographing a football World Cup or the Masters golf tournament at Augusta would be at the top of my list. 

External links 

Cornish Pirates vs Mousehole AFC Movember page 

Benj’s Instagram 

Benj’s website 

Follow in Benj's footsteps

Use your camera to expose truths, prompt emotion or evoke action with Documentary & Editorial Photography at Falmouth University. With expert tuition from industry-connected lecturers and access to specialist photographic facilities, you’ll learn to tell compelling visual stories for the media.    

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