Simon Apps, director of Professional Images, is a highly skilled press and PR photographer. His company works with over 120 photographers across the UK. He founded the business in 1989 after working as a regional press photographer. His goal was to bring press-style photography to corporate clients and PR consultancies.

Simon’s passion for photography began in college. He quickly saw the power of strong visuals and realised he had a natural eye for capturing compelling images. Early on, he learned how a single photo could tell a story. The college’s publicity officer noticed his talent and asked him to take PR photographs. Soon, his images appeared in the local newspaper—his first published work.

This early success as a budding photojournalist led him to a full-time role as a staff photographer for a regional newspaper group. There, he refined his editorial skills and learned how to make subjects feel comfortable in front of the camera. A senior editor once told him, “People tell stories.” This advice still shapes his approach to photography today. During this time, he covered major events, including the Hungerford Massacre, with his photos published worldwide.

In 1986, a serious motorcycle accident changed the course of his career.

Simon explains: “I sustained multiple fractures, including my neck, arms, and leg. Fortunately, they all healed without lasting effects. However, I suffered a more severe injury—four nerves were avulsed from my spinal cord, leaving the upper part of my right arm completely paralysed. Surprisingly, the accident itself wasn’t the most transformative moment. Instead, my time in the spinal unit profoundly shifted my perspective. As I witnessed others with far worse injuries, I realised how fortunate I was. From that moment on, I chose to focus on the future and work hard to achieve my goals.”

Determined to move forward, Simon returned to press photography in Swindon. In 1989, he took a bold step and launched Professional Images, offering corporate clients high-quality press photography for their news releases. As a result, the business quickly gained success. Clients soon discovered that hiring an experienced press photographer significantly increased the chances of their images being published.

Simon explains: “I sustained multiple fractures, including my neck, arms, and leg. Fortunately, they all healed without lasting effects. However, I suffered a more severe injury—four nerves were avulsed from my spinal cord, leaving the upper part of my right arm completely paralysed. Surprisingly, the accident itself wasn’t the most transformative moment. Instead, my time in the spinal unit profoundly shifted my perspective. As I witnessed others with far worse injuries, I realised how fortunate I was. From that moment on, I chose to focus on the future and work hard to achieve my goals.”

Determined to move forward, Simon returned to press photography in Swindon. In 1989, he took a bold step and launched Professional Images, offering corporate clients high-quality press photography for their news releases. As a result, the business quickly gained success. Clients soon discovered that hiring an experienced press photographer significantly increased the chances of their images being published.

As demand grew, Simon saw an opportunity to expand. He built a nationwide network of skilled PR photographers, ensuring businesses across the UK could access professional press photography whenever and wherever needed. Today, the company continues to thrive, staying true to Simon’s vision of delivering press-quality images with professionalism and creativity.

Beyond his career, Simon remains deeply connected to his community. He lives in Wiltshire with his wife, Maxine, their youngest son, Luka, and two energetic working cocker spaniels. In 2023, he was elected as an independent town councillor in Highworth. Passionate about improving his community, he now serves as deputy chair of planning and sits on the environment and leisure committees, both of which play a crucial role in enhancing the town’s services and public spaces.

Outside of work, Simon enjoys scuba diving and has explored breathtaking dive sites worldwide. Additionally, he and his wife share a love for hiking in the British countryside, particularly in remote areas. The Lake District’s tors remain a firm favourite. Whether on land or underwater, Simon always carries a camera, capturing the beauty of the world around him. Many of his stunning landscape and marine images can be seen on Instagram, where he shares his unique perspective with others.

For expert insights, tips, and Simon’s thoughts on photography, visit our Expert Blog or follow his personal photos on Instagram.

We maintain a comprehensive network of expert PR photographers across all regions of the UK. This ensures that, irrespective of location, we have a PR press and editorial professional photographer available nearby. Our transparent and competitive fixed rate fees are consistent across all locations, facilitating straightforward campaign and budget planning for our clients.