THE Journal’s and Denbighshire Free Press’s talented photographer has been shortlisted for the Wales Media Awards.

Don Jackson-Wyatt has been shortlisted for News Photographer of the Year. Don, 39, has worked for NWN media - which was taken over by Newsquest last year - for nearly four years.

The senior photographer, who grew up in Ruthin but lives in Denbigh, has been lucky enough to photograph the Champions League Final in Cardiff and along with the action shots, Real Madrid superstar and Welsh international Gareth Bale cutting a piece of the goal netting to keep as a momento after winning the trophy.

One of his favourite shots was a car hitting the water at speed at the Wales Rally GB. He also had a brush with royalty when Prince Charles visited Llanarmon yn Ial.

Don said: “I have read the Free Press since I was young, so I’m very proud to have worked for the paper. Working with the Free Press and Journal has brought me closer to the communities that I have grown up with and working alongside them has been a fantastic experience.

“For me a good photograph is not just about composition and capturing, but its the work that goes in to it. For example, anticipating the action.

“Sure, you can get lucky shots, but anticipating the events unfolding and being ready to capture it is just as important for me.”

Speaking about being shortlisted, Don said that it was a “fantastic feeling”.

“It would mean a lot to me wining as it is a prestigious award and knowing that the standard is so high.

“In 2012, I won the Pure Rawk Photographer of the Year award for a music magazine due to my photography in the music industry. I have been lucky enough to photograph my idols such as Metallica, Iron Maiden, Linkin Park.

“Life as a news photographer can be hectic and can change at very short notice due to breaking news.

“There can be a lot of driving and there are ups and downs but it ‘s very rewarding when you have a front cover image and your name credit alongside it.”

Winners will be revealed at a ceremony hosted by Huw Edwards on March 23 at Mercure Holland House Hotel in Cardiff.