Portfolio: Alan Betson, photographer of the year

The portfolio of pictures I submitted for the 2015 Press Photographers Association of Ireland Awards had a little bit of everything, writes Alan Betson

Wed Feb 11 2015 - 12:00

Irish Times photographer Alan Betson won first prize in the Reportage category and was named Photographer of the Year for his portfolio at this year's Press Photographers' Association of Ireland awards.

Betson’s first prize for Reportage was awarded for his stunning montage of the Dublin Liffy Swim 2014, but the action was nearly missed altogether.

"It nearly didn’t happen!" Betson said. "15 minutes before the race was due to start there was no sign of the press boat. The start of the Liffey swim was over 3km away from where we were standing beside the Jeanie Johnston. Take a taxi, jump on a bicycle or simply run were the options flashing through our minds. Thankfully, in true Irish style, the boat was late and the race start was late. As luck would have it a flock of swans were about to have a blissful afternoon, lolling around, disturbed by over 300 energetic swimmers."

President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins, inspecting the Guard of Honour in the Quadrangle at Windsor Castle during the state visit by the President. Photograph: Alan Betson

Capturing the perfect shot is more than luck and timing - it's knowing how people work and being ready for their reactions. "Most of what we do as press photographers is all about prediction. Guessing what will happen next and being ready for it. A little bit of psychology helps, as you read personalities, people and gauge the mood," Betson explained.