Nigel Kirby – Unsung Hero

Behind the Lens: A Charming Look at Nigel Kirby Photography

When it comes to capturing the elegance of thoroughbred’s mid-gallop or the earnest poise of a working gundog, Nigel Kirby is the Mr. (or shall we say, Nigel “Flash”) of the rural sporting photography scene.

From corporate cubicle to countryside crusader
Based near Sandbach, Cheshire, Nigel began life in what he humorously refers to as the “Corporate World” – a place where the only thing moving quickly were trains to London and Glasgow, planes to Germany as well as red tape. Then, about a decade ago, he grabbed his camera, left behind endless spreadsheets, and launched his own photography business. Spoiler alert: he has never looked back

Horses, dogs, and the great outdoors—oh my!
Nigel’s speciality? Capturing horses, gundogs, equestrian sports, country sports, and outdoor events. He is the trusted photographer for Doncaster, Uttoxeter, and Worcester Racecourses and often steps in for Wolverhampton, Hereford, and Chepstow too. His client roll reads like a “Who’s Who” of rural Britain, including BASC, The Gundog Journal, and he regularly visits top racing stables such as Olly Murphy Racing, Jonjo O’Neill Racing, Dan Skelton Racing, and Kim Bailey and Mat Nicholls Racing as well as the leading equine vet’s Guasco & Associates and of course Grace & Dotty.

Attention to detail sharper than a Doppler radar
Nigel prides himself on delivering more than just a decently exposed shot. Every image is personally edited – no lazy, straight-from-camera uploads here. He crafts both standout “flagship” images and coherent series that truly “Capture Life’s Moments,” all with a professional, courteous approach. Expect him to go that extra mile, probably in well-worn boots, with a cup of strong tea to hand.

Ambassadorial paw-suits (see what I did there?)
Nigel is an Associate Photographer for Sporting Saint Gundog Training Equipment. Alongside this, he volunteers his time to causes such as Riding for the Disabled (RDA), Labradors in Need and Racing Groom—showing he is not just about great shots, but also great deeds. 

The man behind the lens
On top of all that, there is a warm personal side. Nigel is married to Vesna and together they have four Labradors- three of whom are working dogs and frequent stars in his Sporting Saint shoots. Talk about combining family and business with flair!

Words from the fans
Clients have praised Nigel as “top class,” citing “great attention to detail,” “excellent customer service,” and “great communication.” Clearly, he is still setting the standard, one shutter-click at a time. (Source: Trustpilot)

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In summary: Nigel Kirby is not just taking snaps – he is crafting stories, freezing athletic elegance, and freezing the boundless energy of a well-trained working dog in motion. All while combining the precision of a seasoned pro with the heart of someone who would probably give you his last biscuit – or rather, share it in the images he creates. If you are after photographs with flair, humour, and just the right amount of rural authenticity, Nigel’s your guy.

Looking for a photographer who can catch a horse mid-stride—or a gundog’s proud gaze—with the finesse of an artist and the wit of a witty uncle? Nigel Kirby Photography is worth every click.

Post Image : Courtesy of Andrew Kelly Photography

5 Quick Fire Questions

We gave Nigel 5 quick fire questions and took his first answer

1. What was your favourite ever Horse Racing shot?  – Virgilio winning the Summer Cup at Uttoxeter in 2018 because of the pure emotion showed by Harry Skelton – he absolutely loves that horse.
2. Which shot do you wish you had taken, and why?  – I had a real soft spot for a horse called Dubai Millennium and so I wish I was able to capture him winning the Dubai World Cup at Nad Al Sheba on 25 March 2000 – I watched the race at home with my new born daughter who 8 days old !.. It was heartbreaking when Dubai Millennium died of grass sickness at only 5 years of age.
3. What makes you get out of bed in the morning? – To capture an image that will put a smile on someone’s face.
4. What is the first website or app that you look at on your phone in the morning? – My email account!
5. Horses or Dogs? Which do you prefer to photograph? I love both horses and dogs but having four Working Labradors at home (and no horse) then dogs have to be slightly ahead, although i love Horse Racing too!
6. Long Day ……… A cold beer, A heart Red or Cheeky White? – In the summer then a cold beer but a hearty red will apply in all Seasons.