Picture perfect - Family and friends say farewell to Winston Sill in fine style

His love for photography and his quiet, professional disposition did not escape the memories of those who gave tributes at the thanksgiving service for Harold Winston Sill at the Church of the Transfiguration in St Andrew yesterday.

Among those who turned out to pay their respects were former Prime Minister Bruce Golding, communications specialist Jean Lowrie-Chin and several members of the media fraternity.

Veteran journalist Clarence 'Ben' Brodie, who represented the Press Association of Jamaica, declared that Sill has left a legacy that should be emulated by young persons in the media.

"The association has given me an opportunity to see for myself the origin and development of a master photographer. A significant feature that stands out to me is that you can start your career at the bottom, learning the basics and still excel," Brodie told mourners.

"For most of us who attended the 'University of North Street' (The Gleaner), it began in the dark room. In the pre-digital age, the dark-room technician could make or break a photographer. It took patience, a keen eye, paying attention to details and a lot of timing to get it right. Winston gradually moved up the ladder, and these were the qualities Winston took with him that made him into a full-fledged photographer," recalled Brodie.

ALWAYS PROFESSIONAL

He added: "Sill was always professional, and as the field continues to face challenges, this will be integral going forward. We all have to bear in mind that regardless of how much state-of-the-art equipment we have and how much we are able to straddle the digital divide, without the kind of professionalism displayed by Winston Sill, our objective of informing and educating the public will be that much more difficult to achieve."

Garth Sill, Winston's son, in an emotional address, said his father's love for his work will never be forgotten.

"He loved making kites and he also loved cricket. However, as soon as he got introduced to photography, that became a significant element in his life. My dad expressed his love for photography and you would not see him without his camera bag strapped around his shoulder," said Garth.

"He was passionate about everything and valued the importance of perfection. As a father he instilled in all of us the importance of neatness. Our clothes were always properly pressed and shoes very clean and most importantly we had to be on time," Garth said of a man who has straddled the local media stage and left a mark that will never be forgotten.