For more than three decades, Liverpool ECHO photographer Colin Lane has documented the Royal Albert Dock's most significant moments, from celebrity arrivals at ITV's This Morning to unexpected encounters with Doctor Who. As the dock celebrates its 180th anniversary, Colin, 55, reflects on a career intertwined with the waterfront's transformation from a restored landmark to a top tourist destination.
Early Memories and This Morning Era
Colin's connection began in his teens, when his father, an engineer, worked on the site's restoration. He recalls visiting the then-abandoned dock, wishing he had a camera. Professionally, his earliest assignments included photographing guests in the Green Room for This Morning and working at Tate Liverpool.
During the 1990s, This Morning broadcast live from the dock, drawing millions of viewers and boosting Liverpool's profile. Colin credits the show for making the dock a tourist hotspot.
Unforgettable Encounters
One standout moment involved actor Dudley Moore, who invited Colin to play piano with him before a performance on Richard and Judy. Another surprise came late one night when road closures led Colin to discover the Doctor Who set, capturing Jodie Whittaker in just ten minutes.
Other highlights include photographing the late Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip aboard the Yellow Duckmarine in 2012, and the giant spider during La Machine's 2008 performances.
Advice for Photographers
Despite major events, Colin treasures simple shots of the city skyline reflected in the dock water. He advises following crowds at sunset near the Billy Fury statue for spectacular natural light displays.
To mark the anniversary, Colin and colleague Andrew Teebay have shared their favorite images, and the public is invited to submit personal photos for a digital memory book and a Dock Shorts projection in late September.
