VOLUNTEERS who courageously shared their stories on mental health have formed the backdrop for an award-winning photograph.

Jennifer Charlton became the first-ever female photographer to win the MPB Scottish Portrait Award in Colour Photography at the Scottish Portrait Awards.

The winning photograph, which was taken in North Berwick, is one of a series from

Jennifer’s BA Hons degree titled ‘A Hidden Community’.

The winner said: “‘The common denominator for those in my photographs to come forward was to help others.

“Anyone, anywhere at any time can be affected by mental health issues and everyone’s story is different.

“The subjects chosen are all diverse to demonstrate this. 

“When I took the winning image of John on a freezing cold February morning, I promised him I would do my very best to find a way to make this image successful in terms of getting his story out there.

“He had left home at 5am, sat in freezing cold water and was the perfect subject willing to do anything I asked to realise my vision.

“He had made himself vulnerable sharing his story to me and allowing it to go public.

“I just wanted John’s bravery and selflessness to be recognised.

“Of course, never in my wildest dreams did I ever think it would win the MPB Scottish Portrait Award in Colour Photography.”

There was also another connection between the photographer and her subject.

John’s mum, Vicky, had supported Jennifer through “a very difficult time in my life” and given her money, telling her to “put it towards my first camera”.

Jennifer added: “It therefore gave me the permission I needed to buy something for myself when we were struggling to cover the essentials.

“Without Vicky’s vision and kindness, I would never have taken up photography.

“To win this award with her son’s portrait means everything.

“It feels like we have come full circle.”

The awards recognition is the latest step for Jennifer, who has had photographs published in the Courier when covering boxer Josh Taylor’s fights.

She said: “For a number of years, I’ve worked as a sports photographer in the male-dominated arena of boxing. 

“Every time I stand ringside as the only woman amongst all the other photographers, I hope one female might see me and decide she wants to try it as well.

“Going to college to study photography as a single mum, I had no idea how I was even going to find a weekly sitter for the evening class, the logistics of doing a degree was unthinkable.

“I hope to inspire others in difficult circumstances that anything is possible if you want it enough.”

Jennifer, who lives in Duns, received a £2,000 prize for her award-winning photograph.

Previously, she worked alongside former undisputed light-welterweight champion Taylor for a Knives Down Gloves Up campaign.

A picture of Taylor en route to victory in Glasgow over American Ryan Martin in the World Boxing Super Series was raffled off.

The campaign aimed to discourage youngsters from using knives as weapons and instead using boxing as a way to get them off the street.

The Scottish Portrait Awards 2024 exhibition can be seen at the Scottish Arts Club, Edinburgh, until next Saturday (September 28).

The exhibition will then move to Banff from October 4 to January 31, before stopping off at the Charles Rennie Mackintosh Gallery at the Glasgow Art Club from February 8-27.

Anyone looking to get involved in Jennifer’s project should contact jc.photography@outlook.com