This week, world famous photographer Rankin took up the role of school photographer at Great Ormond Street Hospital. 

The photographer, best known for iconic shots of the likes of Kate Moss and the Rolling Stones, was invited by Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (GOSH Charity) to capture the first ever ’school photo day’ at the hospital to ensure no child misses a key milestone.
 

School photo day is one of many missed childhood moments that children who face hospital treatment might miss out on. A survey of UK parents found that 88% feel collecting school photos throughout their childhood is important, with more than half (56%) keeping every single one. Three quarters (76%) of parents look back at school photos to remind them of their child’s journey.

With almost 1 in 3 parents saying that photos of their children growing up are their prized possession, with their child’s first school photo day being a key milestone of their childhood (32%), GOSH and Rankin are giving children and parents a chance to partake in these precious moments. 

Switching up his famous white background for the classic powder blue backdrop used by schools up and down the country, Rankin and GOSH Charity aim to give seriously children at GOSH the full school photo experience.

Among those photographed was Arthur (5) who was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) at six weeks old. His mum Jennifer says: “Arthur has spent his childhood in and out of GOSH, it's been really tough watching him miss out on special milestones like having his school picture taken. There are so many different factors that come from not being at school for a couple of weeks, it affects his friendships and his education. It really means the world to me that Arthur had his first ever school photo taken by Rankin and it's something I will treasure forever. No child should have to spend their childhood in hospital, but GOSH Charity has helped make sure that Arthur doesn’t miss out on some of those childhood moments that matter most.”

GOSH Charity raises vital funds to give seriously ill children the best chance and childhood possible. The School photoshoot is an example of how the charity aims to bring children a moment of normality and fun during their time in hospital, underlining its mission of ensuring no childhood is lost to serious illness.

“I am really proud to be a part of this incredible initiative from GOSH Charity and it was an honour to meet the children and their families,” said Celebrity Photographer, Rankin. 

He added: “Hearing their experiences was incredibly moving and hopefully our School Photo Day will provide families with nostalgic keepsakes, as every child deserves to have their lives and important milestones documented and celebrated. I hope our work today produces cherished reminders and highlights how GOSH Charity ensure that no childhood is lost to serious illness.”