Starting out
My career began at 17 with my first full-time job as a darkroom technician with Grampian Police Identification Bureau (IB). This role marked my introduction to photography and crime scene investigation. We used Hasselblad medium format film cameras to capture and print evidential images—there was no room for error. You only got one chance to take the perfect shot!
Building skills, qualifications and experience
Keen to further myself, I became the youngest Forensic Photographer to gain an Associateship with the British Institute of Professional Photographers (ABIPP). I then qualified and subsequently lectured at the Scottish Police College as a Crime Scene Manager and a Victims of Serious Crime Cognitive Interviewer.
During this stage of my career, I worked on many high-profile crime cases and major incidents, however the Piper Alpha disaster, which marked its 37th anniversary this year, will be embedded in my thoughts forever.
Finding my why
Throughout the 24 years that I worked with the police, I always respected, appreciated and felt fortunate to perform such a privileged role. I was ever mindful that I was dealing with people’s lives: my role brought me into contact with everyone from Royalty to the most vulnerable in society—criminals, victims, and people facing both the best and worst circumstances.
‘Pinch me’ moments included working on set on a James Bond movie and featuring in two television advertisements. I was star-struck then, and I still feel awed thinking about it today!
From police to private industry
Eighteen years ago, I made the move into the small business sphere that is now known as digital reality technology. I was fortunate to work with incredible people who shared their business knowledge and experience of running a business, a business I feel proud to be a part of.
By combining my photography skills with their business expertise, I was privileged to be at the forefront of developing spherical photographic processes and evolving a photographic interface for 360° photographic technology from a crime scene management tool, to the visual asset management platform we offer today at ZynQ 360. Our team were the first to bring 360° spherical photogrammetry to the North Sea and we continue to help businesses to streamline their processes and improve productivity. Today, digitalisation, photogrammetry, point cloud and 360 spherical images are part of industry vocabulary: they are no longer viewed as 'nice to have'.
Retaining my why
My focus is to keep ZynQ 360 at the forefront of the digital technology industry. Client relationships, high standards and first-class service are very important to me; however I will always regard my colleagues with the utmost respect: they make the business and working environment rewarding. I continue to learn from others.
My career in context
My passion is teaching and playing the bagpipes, and my love is my wife, Gemma, and my family. Values drive me in all areas of my life: respect, loyalty, passion, care and self-belief in what I do for others.
I work hard to do the best I can, for whom I can, as often as I can.
Advice for others
To those 17-year-olds who may be about to take their first steps beyond school, remember that there is a path out there for everyone in this life - don't be frightened to find the right one for you. Your journey will be filled with ups and downs, so learn from others, take the positives from each challenge you embark on and always use these experiences to better yourself. Believe in yourself - make it count!
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Thank you to Gus and ZynQ 360 for their support with this article.
The #NoWrongPath campaign runs from 4-8 August 2025. Find out how you can get involved here.
If you know a young person who is considering their next steps, please direct them to our Young People & Parents portal. For those seeking immediate assistance with their SQA exam results, the Skills Development Scotland helpline is open from 5-8 August. Call 0808 100 8000.
