The Photo is on the Wall

Deborah was retiring from Brunel University and needed a headshot portrait almost immediately.

I’ll let he tell you in her own words:

The organisers of an event, being kept secret from me, realised a week beforehand that no one possessed a ‘decent’ photograph of me, including myself. Forced to tell me about it at such short notice, I panicked, thinking I might have to use my passport photo (not great, so it had to be the last resort). Expecting I had left it all too late, I decided to contact Matthew – the best thing I could have done.

The whole process, from that initial enquiry to the purchase of the selected photos, was so easy, incredibly quick, efficient and seamless. Clearly a very experienced professional photographer, Matthew is also patient and a genuinely ‘nice’ human being. During the shoot, in order to understand the purpose of the photo, Matthew asked various questions and really listened to my answers. This also helped to put me at ease so that the end results give no indication of the cramped space Matthew was working in or the fact that I genuinely ‘hate’ having my photo taken. The results were amazing. I ended up being spoilt for choice, so I had to consult my family for some constructive advice on which photograph to use. We all decided to order additional photos on top of the two included.

On the day of the award, colleagues, students, family and friends all commented on how much the selected photograph, mounted on a wall alongside those of previous recipients, captures the essence of ‘who I am.’ I would 100% recommend Matthew’s services as a photographer. Totally worth it.

Deborah Chat - Brunel Law School Alumna of the Year Award (2025/26)

The funny part of the story is that Deborah was in a meeting and planned to leave. Thinking she had left, the speaker then addressed the room about Deborah winning the award. But Deborah was still in the room! The secret was out!

© Sally Trussler

Photos belong on the wall, so mission accomplished.