Rob Flemming of Lens and Pen

Lens & Pen

& Rob Flemming

An experienced photographer, journalist, photojournalist, feature writer, reporter, editor ~ all accurate descriptions of the multi-skilled person at the head of Lens and Pen. Then throw in a little videography, book writing and photo editing combined with management skills. Plus passion, dedication, professionalism and a sense of humour! Loves a challenge, happy to work independently or as part of a team and well used to meeting deadlines!

Rob works mainly on a freelance basis, offering individual skills or combinations to the media, private and corporate clients. But when it comes to reporting or feature writing, he prefers to illustrate the copy with his own photographs – that ensures that they complement each other in the best possible way. And obviates the need for another writer or photographer, depending on the bias of the job. Clients have included Nexus (a globally distributed expatriate magazine), the Institute of Directors, Octane magazine, Nina Ricci, Food Devon magazine, the Source, New Holland and many more.

But he’s not averse to being employed. As a staff reporter and photographer he often delivered breaking news and had front page splashes. From 2007 – 2008 he worked for an English regional newspaper based in Exeter, Devon, the Express and Echo. Recruited as a Senior Features Writer, after a few months he was asked to be a Senior Reporter for the newsdesk. Subsequently, during the recession, he wrote a daily page (not column!) on saving money and also took on the role of Business Reporter.

In 2005/2006 Rob was a Senior Reporter for one of the two leading English dailies in Dubai, the Khaleej Times. Writing for the broadsheet, tabloid City Times and the Weekend magazine, he covered a vast array of stories ranging from hard news to light features as well as a weekly column, City Buzz. During that period he covered the tail end of the Israeli invasion of Lebanon, from the devastation of the southern Beirut suburb of Haret Hriek to the desecration of Bint Jbeil and Qana.

In addition, Rob also ran a successful photographic library for seven years prior to going to Dubai, with a stable of some 175 other photographers. During that time, he was a member of the British Association of Picture Libraries and Agencies (BAPLA). That was on top of all of his other work! And before that, was a joint partner in the Swift Group, an organisation that provided services incorporating business training and recruitment as well as photography and journalism.

Member of the National Union of Journalists