Success for Paul Atkinson in KAEFER’s Photo Competition 2023
KAEFER Group’s seventh bi-annual Photo Competition took place earlier in the year. The competition encourages members of the international KAEFER team to capture moments linking to a specific theme which ties into KAEFER’s core values.
This year, the theme was #TOGETHER – a powerful reminder of how everyone contributes to the larger fabric of the business and highlights the importance of teamwork.
There was a brilliant response from the KAEFER photographers around the world, all showing different interpretations of what together means to them. You can view all 318 submissions here.
Amongst the winners was Paul Atkinson, Business & Strategy Analyst based at our KAEFER UK & Ireland Head Office in Jarrow. Despite only being a member of the KAFEFER team for less than two years, this is the second time that Paul has submitted a winning entry, being amongst the winners in 2021 too!
We sat down for a quick chat with Paul to understand the story behind the winning photograph.
Q: Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your role in the company?
I joined KAEFER in September 2021 and work in the Business and Strategy department. My first major task was managing the implementation of a new CRM system. Since then, the department has formed a close team.
Q: What inspired you to participate in the photograph competition?
I have always had an interest in photography which has developed overtime as I have helped my wife – who is a professional photographer- with photoshoots. As we have invested a lot of money in photography equipment, I have been able to learn more about photography and further my interest.
Q: How did you come up with the idea for your winning entry?
It was quite challenging to come up with a unique idea. Most pictures that aligned with the theme of ‘#TOGETHER’ were of groups of people, yet I knew that obtaining authorisation from people to have their photo published may prove difficult, causing me to go for a shot without any individuals. I drew inspiration from stock photos and incorporated elements of others’ ideas.
Q: How did you feel when you found out that you had won the competition?
I felt elated to have won the competition and extremely grateful. It was a privilege to be recognised among such talented entries.
Q: Could you provide some details about the photograph you submitted? What was the story behind it?
The idea stemmed from noticing my daughter’s shoes left in the hallway. However, the laces spelling out ‘together’ are entirely separate laces that were ironed and then placed carefully to create the shot.
Q: Have you always had an interest in photography, or is it a hobby that developed over time?
Over time, photography has developed into a lifestyle business for my wife, and I have been fortunate to utilize her equipment and enhance my skills.
Q: Do you have any advice for other employees who might be interested in participating in future workplace photography competitions?
I would encourage everyone to give it a. Photography is subjective, and you will never know if you have an eye for it unless you attempt it. There is nothing to lose, and you might discover a hidden passion.
Congratulations to you, Paul!
