About Me
I’m a photographer, an options trader, and a very proud dog parent. Before stepping into semi-retirement, I spent many years working in art and design education, teaching photography and graphics, and providing specialised Mac support. That chapter shaped much of who I am today—creative, curious, and always learning.
Now, with more freedom in my schedule, I’ve been able to immerse myself fully in the things I love: travelling, creating, and exploring the arts both in the UK and further afield.
My personal philosophy is simple: be content and be kind. I’ve always believed that kindness is one of life’s greatest returns. Life is short, so I make a point of enjoying each day whenever I can.
Photography & Creative Work
I’m especially drawn to portraiture, travel, and street photography. I favour natural light and often work in classic black & white—there’s a timeless quality to monochrome that still feels unmatched. These days, my photography is something I do purely for myself, without commercial pressure, and that freedom has made it even more meaningful.
I studied at Central Saint Martins College of Art & Design, earning an MA in Communication Design (Photography). Over the years I’ve exhibited work (never as much as I’d like), and I’m also listed with the National Portrait Gallery.
https://www.npg.org.uk/collections/search/person/mp66525/dominic-old
Recently, I travelled through Italy—wandering Venice, absorbing Rome’s history, and walking among the ruins of Pompeii. My next destination isn’t set yet, but I am definitely going to Estonia.
My Perspective on Photography
Photography has transformed dramatically in the last two decades. I still remember shooting on film—everything from 8×10 plate cameras to 35mm—when every frame was precious, equipment was expensive, and exposure mistakes were costly. Film was an art of patience, skill, and a bit of magic.
Today, everyone carries a camera in their pocket, and AI is capable of generating images that look real but aren’t truly lived. As powerful as technology has become, I don’t believe AI can ever replicate a photographer’s individual eye or the emotional truth behind a fleeting moment. At best, it can only imagine one.
Because of this shift, making a sustainable living from photography has become increasingly difficult, especially for independent creatives. The industry is saturated, competition is global, photo education, AI and digital tools have changed expectations.
I still accept commissions or projects if it interesting. I may also do photography for charities for free. Please feel free to message me.
But the heart of photography hasn’t changed.
What remains is the human instinct to capture a decisive moment—something authentic, something personal—and the simple joy of sharing it with others.
These days, I take pictures just for myself. And that, in many ways, feels like coming home.
Do follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dominic.old/ for more up to date pictures.
Dom, 6 years in Persopolis, Iran