Meet Steve
Artist, historian & nyctophile
“Through the utilization of long exposure techniques and refined editing processes I am able to unveil the magnificence of the night sky. This deliberate revelation of the unseen elevates the narratives of my subjects, providing viewers with a poignant sense of perspective. Comparable to a researcher contextualizing archaeological discoveries, there is always a deeper story to contemplate beneath the surface.
Within the tapestry of the creative process, spanning from the inception of a concept to the finalization of an image, I find myself meandering through a voyage of contrasting thoughts. Seeking equilibrium amidst the absurdity of human conflict against the backdrop of an expansive universe, or juxtaposing the violence of war with the serenity of the night sky, I am compelled to acknowledge the hope and solace the heavens so often provide upon those embroiled in strife or touched by profound loss.
Those threads of contemplation and emotions are what draw me towards these enduring testaments of historical significance. The challenge of portraying both the essence of conflict and the essence of commemoration within an image deserving of the fallen is a ceaseless source of inspiration that propels me forward.”
- Steve Catlett
Growing up in the South East of England, Steve was never far away from the picturesque countryside of the UK
and the centuries of history it’s borne witness to.
The numerous visible reminders of the Second World War dotted throughout London and the Home Counties were seen with intrigue and excitement when viewed through the eyes of a young boy. With fond memories of family outings to watch air displays at old RAF stations, it’s no surprise that Steve developed a fascination with aviation, a passion which still ensues today and is evident in his voluntary work with the Royal Air Force and RAF Charitable Trust Enterprises
Steve has spent most of his professional career in the NHS, with over 21 years as a Paramedic fulfilling several specialist roles.
It was during his time working permanent night shifts that he rediscovered his affinity with the night, appreciating the resplendence of the night sky and comprehending a sense of mystique often associated with the nocturnal, hidden world which few get to experience on a regular basis.
Steve’s interest in photography began in those early airshow days, trying to capture highly mobile, fast moving subjects with a 1980s compact camera certainly had its challenges, but he was hooked.
Steve went on to gain basic photographic qualifications at High School but has largely been self taught until 2021 when he enrolled in the Night Photography Academy. Now an alumni of several of the Academy’s masterclasses, the images Steve creates are not only a culmination of his influences but of a life long love of photography and learning