In July Ripon City Photographic Society (RCPS) lost one of their long standing and well-respected members of the society with the passing of Iain Cairns.
Iain was well known throughout the photography community, not only here in Yorkshire, but much further afield where he would network with many professional photographers, some overseas.
Iain was so much more than a talented photographer, he had a generous spirit, was always willing to lend a hand, share wisdom, and help others capture the world through their own lens.
Iain wasn’t just someone who took photographs. He brought people together, and was often seen assisting fellow members, quietly offering advice, or helping set up a perfect shot. The camera was an extension of who he was, and in later years happily adopted the use of smart phone photography. He moved with the times always with kindness and friendship.
But his story stretched far beyond photography. Iain served with courage and commitment in the Fire Service. He gave countless hours to mountain rescue and caving teams always ready to lend a hand in moments when others needed it most. This was especially true of his beloved Wales, an area he had a true affinity with he was often heard sharing inspiring stories of his time there.
He was also a Lifetime Liverpool fan and was extremely proud of the recent achievements in winning the Premiership title this season.
He also worked in the windscreen fitting business turning a practical skill into another way of helping people get safely on their way. Clearly service and community were at the heart of everything he did.
Many will know Iain had a style, wit and character all his own, he had an extensive knowledge of photography and would often showcase other photographer’s work, not to copy but to gain inspiration, to learn and to seek ways to experiment and improve his work.
Within the RCPS Iain’s legacy will live on in the countless inspiring images he created, and the many friends he made. Friends not only in the society but to the innumerable photographers he contacted remotely, some of whom he never met. His quips and comments will be missed greatly by this wider community.
Iain will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and deep sense of camaraderie. Whether in the dark of a cave, the heart of an emergency, or through the viewfinder of a camera, he saw the world from a unique and different perspective and helped others see this too.
RCPS members will miss his warm presence at meetings, outings, and exhibitions, but we are grateful for the moments shared and memories made.
RIP: Iain you leave a lasting impression on all those who met you, your work lives on as a legacy to your friends and family.
Hwyl fawr cymerwch ofal