This week’s Newsmaker is Tauranga photographer Bob Tulloch, who received a standing ovation when he won the documentary category of the New Zealand Institute of Professional Photographers Iris Professional Photography Awards for pictures taken at the commemorations of the battles of Gate Pa and Te Ranga.
1. Describe yourself in three words.
"Short, sociable, alert."
2. What is the all-time favourite picture you have taken and what was your motivation behind it?
"My son James in his pyjamas at 18 months standing on the wash basin and cleaning his teeth. It perfectly showed his sense of adventure, even at this age. He pretty much has carried on like that."
3. If you had the opportunity, what street art (a la Owen Dippie) image would you like to create?
"A toss-up between one of my favourite rugby action shots and some abstract aerials of the Tauranga Harbour patterns."
4. If you could wave a magic wand and make one improvement in Tauranga, what would it be and why?
"To get rid of the railway line along the Strand. It would allow the waterfront to be developed to its full potential and be the iconic feature of the inner city along the lines of Wellington or Auckland.
Otherwise to extend the boardwalk right along Marine Parade."
5. Out of anyone in the world, alive or dead, who would you most like to spend lunch with and why?
"Leonardo da Vinci. Just to listen to and appreciate this incredible genius."
6. What was the best piece of advice your mother or father ever gave you?
"When I announced I was marrying Lena, she said, 'Always help with the dishes', and I am sure it was not simply superficial."
7. You're well known for your work with a camera, but what else would people in Tauranga know you for?
"Back in the '60s I was heavily involved in surfing, both as a sport and as an occupation. Rugby has been a big part of my life with photography taking over from a playing background. Being elected as a city councillor was a privilege and I had some totally satisfying times."
8. When you have had a busy week, what is your favourite way to wind down?
"Around the barbecue with entertaining company and a few red wines is always good."
9. Who is the most famous person you've photographed, and what do you remember the most from that shoot?
"There are quite a few like Bob Owens, Sylvia Ashton Warner the author, Winston Peters, Rob Muldoon, Murray Mexted.
"But the portrait of Sir Bob Owens was one where I wanted to show the man and his life, and it was particularly satisfying to come up with a picture that the family enjoyed as much as I did. Quite simply it was in Sir Bob's office, it took 15 minutes and he was surrounded by his life's memorabilia."
10. Please finish this sentence - Life would not be complete without . . .