Top Belfast Photographer Dies

The sudden death of a prominent NI photographer who snapped most of the VIPs to come to the Province, John Harrison MBE, has been reported this morning.

BBC NI said that Mr Harrison, one of Northern Ireland's leading press photographers, died aged 50.

His early career was with the Ballymena Guardian and then with the world famous picture agency, Pacemaker, whose south Belfast offices beamed images of the worst of NI's Troubles around the world, before setting up his own highly successful photo agency, Harrison Photography.

As well as having many top PR agencies on his books, and organisations like Royal Mail, he was a popular figure among the national and international Press corp. and had just returned from the United States where he was covering the economic conference in Washington.

The BBC reports that he even attended a function at Belfast's Europa Hotel late on Thursday where he made a presentation. Mr Harrison was awarded the MBE in 2008 for services to photography.

Stormont First Minister, Peter Robinson has this morning expressed his shock and sorrow on the sudden passing of Mr Harrison, whom he described as the foremost photographer in Northern Ireland.

"Almost every seminal and important moment in Ulster's history over the last 20 years has been documented by John Harrison.

"From Royal visits to significant political developments to international events, John was always on hand to capture unfolding events.

"His sudden passing has come as a great shock to everyone who knew him.

"John had a wonderful way with people and was always able to get the best out of those he was taking photos of," said the DUP leader.

"His kind-hearted nature and warm humour will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him.

"I had lunch with John in Washington only two days ago and am deeply saddened by his passing.

"Our heartfelt sympathy goes to John's family and loved ones at this time," the First Minister concluded.

(BMcC/GK)