Mine site photographer.
I have been a Professional Photographer for almost 20 years and covered many projects and commissions. I’ve done most things within the industry. However, I have only done a little as a mine site photographer. But, what was my former life like? Well, I have worn many capes before and even wore my undies on the outside of my clothes(Well almost).
The first mine site experience
If you rewind the clock back 20+ years ago, I was plying my trade as a Boilermaker. Yes, that’s right, I was one of those guys that liked to wear leather and do it in all positions. I would weld, gouge, repair and manufacture all things metal. I spent many days away from home on mine sites all over Australia.
A New Career
Then one day, I decided on a change. I didn’t instantly put down the oxy torch and pick up a camera and I definitely did not consider becoming a mine site photographer. That would come a few years later. But it was while sweltering on a remote mine site in the blazing heat, with dust and fumes all around me, that I decided that I needed some kind of change.
Shutdown work
Recently a touch of curiosity got the better of me. A friend (let’s call him that) invited me to join him on a special mission to do a shutdown at a remote mine site in WA’s north. Without much hesitation and with the promise of treasure as a reward, I embarked on the journey.
The journey and the reward
Word probably won’t give a true indication of how much of a mission this was, so I hope that the pictures will give tell the story. It was a month in my life, I will never forget. Forever the social butterfly I made many new friends. It wasn’t quite boilermaking, however, I was able to lean on a few old tricks. Plus I learned a whole lot of new ones too.
So get make yourself comfortable. Sit back in your favourite chair with a bowl of ice cream and enjoy the show. My latest crazy adventure.
mine worker preparing to don acid suit before the job commences
Mine workers scoping out the job
