NUFC fan captures 'behind the scenes' of kit launch

George Dixon was invited behind the scenes to photograph Newcastle United's away kit reveal, which features David Ginola

A football fan, who photographs other fans on film as a hobby, was invited to capture "behind the scenes moments" of his club's home and away kit reveal.

George Dixon, 30, runs floodlightson, which has been showcasing Newcastle United fans on film since the pandemic.

He said during Covid lockdowns people were desperate to feel the fan experience they would usually get at matches, and he kept photographing games all the way through the subsequent Saudi-backed takeover and the "transformation" of the club.

Mr Dixon said being invited to the official kit reveal shoots was "still a real pinch me moment".

He said his photography journey started because of the pandemic.

"Some people turn to baking or gardening but for me, I discovered film photography," he added.

During Covid lockdowns, Mr Dixon started taking pictures of fans outside empty stadiums.

"I got the photos back and all I could think about was how special it would be to eventually be able to take photos to show that feeling when we're able to return through the turnstiles to watch the Mags," he said.

George Dixon started photographing fans during the Covid pandemic

Mr Dixon said he takes photos on match days "to champion our fans".

"Showcasing the sense of passion, dedication and sense of community that we have as a fan base, I just strongly believe our supporters are second to none in this country," he added.

He said Toon fans from all over the world, without easy access to the games, have thanked him for capturing the spirit of the fans through his photography.

"I found a great sense of purpose celebrating that and capturing the raw moments of match days on film."

Mr Dixon usually uses a "point and shoot" film camera on match days

For most match days, he uses an Olympus point and shoot camera because it is compact.

"I love the nature of being selective with shots, there's a need to focus on the subject and the composition, just knowing there's a finite amount of shots you can take on a single roll," Mr Dixon said.

Mr Dixon said he wants to champion NUFC fans with his work

He said the company behind Newcastle United's creative output, the Midnight Club, reached out to him to capture "behind the scenes" of the home and away kit reveal.

"It was nuts, it's still a real pinch me moment," he said.

Mr Dixon said that being invited to the kit reveal shoot was "surreal"

During the home kit reveal shoot, he captured his "hero" Alan Shearer as well as this season's players.

He said he also saw Jason Tindall beating Eddie Howe at pool during a break at the Strawberry Pub, which is opposite St James' Park, and popular with fans.

Mr Dixon then went on to photograph moments from the away kit reveal shoot, which was filmed on board a train.

"David Ginola has aged like a fine wine," he laughed, adding: "It's only really after that it sunk in, how mental the whole experience was.

"I'm truly grateful for it."