“I Just Followed My Passion” – 18-Year-Old Havering Photographer Turns Dream Into First Museum Exhibition


An 18-year-old Havering photographer has turned his lifelong passion into a dream come true after seeing his work displayed at Havering Museum in his very first exhibition.

“I just followed my passion and now I have my first exhibition.”

Those are the words of 18-year-old Chris Charnick, who has loved photography throughout his life and is now seeing his passion celebrated by the local community.

Chris has combined his love of photography with his second great passion, motorsport, and is already making his mark as a freelance photographer, with many of his photographs now being sold.

His talent was clear to visitors attending the launch of his exhibition at Havering Museum on Saturday, 15 August.

Guests were impressed by the quality, technique and presentation of his work, with comments including “stunning display” and “wonderful photos by Chris”.

Alongside his photography, Chris is also displaying a small selection of LEGO and limited-edition model cars, giving visitors an insight into some of the interests that have helped shape his creative journey.

The exhibition has also attracted motorsport enthusiasts, including a former Brands Hatch rally driver who was able to relive memories of his rallying days through Chris’s photography.

Ellen Owen, the launch facilitator, said Havering Museum was proud to give young people like Chris the opportunity to showcase their creativity, particularly when it comes to their passions.

For Chris, however, this exhibition represents something much bigger.

It is the beginning of what could become an exciting career behind the camera.

From following his passion to selling his photographs and now seeing his work displayed in a local museum, the 18-year-old is proving that sometimes the first step towards achieving a dream is simply believing in what you love.

Chris’s exhibition is running from 15 August until 17 September.

Visitors are advised to check with Havering Museum regarding access to the exhibition before travelling.

Museum opening hours are Wednesday to Friday, 11am to 4.30pm.

Havering Museum


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