ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

As I sit here typing these words, we’re all living in very strange and very testing times. The COVID-19 virus has reached across the world and impacted all our lives.

It’s been challenging, and we’ve all had to find ways to adapt. But most importantly, even though we’ve had to keep apart, we’ve still pulled together.

As this is my book, I wanted to use some of the space within it to acknowledge a few people that, no matter what, are always there to help, support, encourage, and, at times, just listen to me as I let off a little steam. If I needed them, they’d be there, and likewise I’d be there for them.

I’m so incredibly happy to have space in a published book to acknowledge each and every one of them.

My Wife, Anne: I bloomin’ love you! In dedicating this book to you I said it once, but I’ll say it again: thank you so much for sticking with me, for trusting me, for loving me, and for supporting me in everything I do. My wife, my best friend. Life is good!

My Mom, Sandra Elson: As an author, I still can’t find the words to adequately express how happy I am that we are in each other’s lives. Although many years apart, I thought of you always, I missed you constantly . . . but now I’m whole again. Thank you for making me who I am. I love you. I hope I make you proud.

My Brother Greg: You have no idea of the positive impact you have on the lives of everyone you meet. Always seeing the good. Always seeing the possibilities. Always wanting the best and going the extra mile for others. I’m so incredibly honored to be your brother. Love you.

My Brother Liam: Sometimes I daydream and wish we could be kids again doing stunts on our bikes and climbing and jumping out of trees. Great memories and many more to come, although maybe not the stunts. Love you. Always here for you.

My Sister, Cara: Such an incredibly talented artist. I’m constantly in awe of your imagination and creativity. I love how you carve your own path and are true to yourself. I’m so excited to see the life you’re making. I love you, Sis.

My Brother Scott: A smile. A kiss. That’s all it takes, and everything is good in the world. I love you, Scottie.

Uncle Dave: I wouldn’t be writing words on these pages if it wasn’t for you. It’s you that sparked my interest in Photoshop and photography and ultimately put me on this path. I think the world of you, and I’ll be forever grateful.

Uncle Jeff: Spending time with you is never long enough. I love it when we just sit and talk. You’re more than an uncle to me; you’re a role model. I hope you know how fond of you I am. Man hugs to you and Uncle Dave.

Anthony Crothers, Ian Munro, Brian Dukes, Steve Deakin, Gerwyn Williams, Simon “Foxy” Fowler & Peter Morgan: What we all have is something very special: true friendship. A group of people from different backgrounds, but with so much in common. Spending time with you is always a boost; at times, a much needed tonic. Thank you for the laughs, your loyalty, and your unfaltering support.

Chris Edwards: I’m so incredibly glad you contacted me when you did and told me about your dad, because from that, a wonderful friendship has grown. Your dad, David Edwards, was a truly delightful man (one of life’s greats) and I feel privileged that we became friends. Photographing him as I did for my 39-45 World War 2 Veterans Portrait Project was a life-changing experience and has shown that family exists in friendships. Love you, my brother.

Jocelyn Howell (my editor at Rocky Nook): Your professionalism and eye for detail is outstanding! Thank you so much for your patience, and for deciphering my writing so that this and my other books become a reality.

Scott Cowlin, Ted Waitt, Lisa Brazieal, Mercedes Murray, and all at Rocky Nook: A pleasure to know you and always a pleasure to work with you. The day we can catch up again in person can’t come quick enough!

Dave Cross: I’m over the moon that you wrote the foreword for this book! Without your willingness to share your knowledge and to help others develop their skills in Photoshop, I honestly don’t know what I’d be doing today. I turned to you from day one and haven’t looked back since. “Thank you” are two words that will never fully express how grateful I am to you and for your friendship! You set the standard!

Dave Clayton: My fourth book and my fourth killer book cover. We’ve experienced and grown so much in such a short span of time. To now see you being recognized for who, what, and how damn good you are is fantastic to see.

Mark Baber: Working with you is always a blast! Your boundless energy, drive, and constant desire to improve and do the very best you can motivates the heck out of me. Our friendship is yet another thing for which I am so thankful to this wonderful, creative industry.

Paul Genge: A true friend! A great support. Always willing to offer advice. Always good to spend time with you and your wonderful family. Thank you for everything.

Danny Greeno: Being Ambassador of your incredible Veterans Charity (https://www.veteranscharity.org.uk) is one of my proudest achievements. Your drive and determination to help others in need as you do our veterans is nothing short of inspiring. Proud to know you. Proud to call you a friend. Always here to help.

Barry Payne: No matter the time, no matter the distance, you’ve been there. More than a friend, you’re family. Love you, mate.

John Noonan: Truly one of life’s good people. John, thank you for always having my back, for the laughs, and for the genuine friendship.

Tom Baxter & Al Green: Goodness personified. We’re so grateful to have you in our lives. The greatest gift you can give is time, and you both have always been there for us with an open door and open arms . . . and a delicious bowl of soup. We’re truly blessed.

Keith & Bridget Trayling: Through the good times and the not so good, you’ve always been there for us with words of support or a shoulder to cry on, and have celebrated our successes as if they were your own. We truly hope you know how much you mean to us both. Much love.

Noel Hannan: I have the most incredible people in my life that I can call friends, and to use your words, “some friendships are such that, even though you may be miles apart, in lockdown or whatever, you know they are still there.” One hundred percent my friend. The Hannan Wing awaits your arrival.

Joel & Amy Grimes: I’m sure you know how much I treasure our friendship, but thank you for the constant support and encouragement, and thank you for unknowingly setting me on the right path. You’re truly wonderful people.

Scott Kelby: I’ll always be grateful for the trust you had in me right at the beginning; so much has happened since then that has had such a positive impact. Through your willingness to share, you’ve opened up the doors to creativity to so many people around the world, and I join them in thanking you.

F.J. Westcott (Brandon Heiss, Amanda Ybarra, and all): I cannot thank you enough for the support and encouragement, but in addition to that, the best products available enabling me to do what I love to do every single day. You folks are the best!

TetherTools (Jesica Sill): You are awesome! I honestly don’t know what else to say other than it is an absolute dream to work with you. Thank you for everything.

BenQ: Wonderful product. Wonderful people. Says it all!

And finally: Dear friends whom I love and miss so very much each and every day: Squadron Leader Allan Scott DFM, David Edwards, and Jim Hooper.