VALE of Glamorgan Camera Club has hundreds of members and we regularly feature their pictures both in paper and online

But we thought it would be good to find out more about the people who make up the club - which you can join at www.facebook.com/groups/valephotosgroup

Today we meet 39-year-old Paul Murphy, a retinal photographer for the NHS who reaches for the stars.

Barry And District News: Me!

When and why did you take up photography?

I took up photography around six years ago, but also studied photography at GCSE level back in 1998.

Why do you love taking pictures?

I just love the outdoors, especially the sea. You can’t beat the feeling of seeing the sun rise or set, or hearing the waves crash against the rocks! Being able to express myself visually with my camera is something I love to do.

Where is your favourite place to take pictures and why?

I just love the night sky, we are blessed to have dark skies here in the Vale of Glamorgan. You will usually find me anywhere between Nash point and Southerndown. Also I love taking photos of my home town of Barry.

Barry And District News: Southerndown

What equipment do you use?

Nikon d750 - I use various lenses but at the moment my go to lens is the Nikon 20mm 1.8, it’s super sharp and great for astrophotography

What is the favourite picture you have taken and why?

This photo [at the top of this page] taken at Nash Point, of me and my family - holding hands watching the Milky Way rise in the night sky.

Why did you join our Camera Club?

It’s a great page to see photographs of the local area, plus it’s always nice to see and support local work.

Barry And District News: Nash Point lighthouse

What advice would you give anyone who wants to get into photography?

If you’re thinking of buying a camera just do it! Take the plunge - you won’t regret it!

If you could photograph anyone or any place what would it be and why?

Iceland and the Aurora Borealis. I’ve seen so many lovely images, but never seen it myself, plus Iceland looks amazing!

Barry And District News: International space station over the vale of Glamorgan

Anything else you think we should know?

I also shoot wedding throughout the year. Check out my website for more of my work: pdmurphyphotography.co.uk

If you are a member of Vale of Glamorgan Camera Club and want to be featured you can share your story here.