Gavin Watson is one of the most iconic photographers on the planet and also one of the most unique in terms of his work and personality. He’s basically one of us. It’s all about passion, being real, not giving a fuck and doing it your own way. So that’s why we’ve not only invited him to get behind the lens for a load of the editorial features, but we also convinced him to sit down with us and chew the fat. Oh, we should also mention these old B&W photos of bikes are from his archive and never been seen before. So you, reader, have an exclusive on your hands!
So let's set the scene. Mr Gavin Watson, a man whose detailed history of photography includes his books Skins, Skins & Punks, Raving '89, album covers for Plan B and Jake Bugg, ad campaigns for Dr Martens with Agyness Deyn, editorial work in the likes of Vice, Sounds, Dazed and exhibitions of his work everywhere from Australia to Paris. In essence, his work celebrates British Historic Youth Culture and gives a personal insight into people's lives, in particular Skinheads, which was so monumental it became the key inspiration for Shane Meadows directing his iconic film 'This is England'.
With his daughter Kayleigh on duties behind the camera to give him a break (he’s not the kind of man that takes a selfie), we spoke to Gavin at length about his varied forays with photography, bikes, music and more.