“He took pictures and made them into works of art” - Tributes to Norwich music photographer Rob Powell

Rob Powell. Picture: Courtesy the Powell family (Image: Archant)

The music community in Norwich was struck with grief at the news last week that the gig photographer had passed away at home on February 4.

Rob moved to Wicklewood from Essex in 1989 and attended Wymondham High School before studying Computing Science in Business at Huddersfield University.

He soon returned to Norwich where he became embedded in the local music scene.

'He spent all his spare time following his passion for photography through supporting many live music and entertainment events throughout East Anglia,' said his dad Mac. 'He had great respect for and was keen to support up and coming local musicians.'

Rob's long term ambition was to become a professional photographer so he established his own business Music Art Study, promoting a host of events including Pam's House, Norwich Rock's and Pop up Pictures.

'We are all immensely impressed how his photographic skills have developed from winning the children's photographic competition at a local village show at the age of eight,' added Mr Powell.

Over recent years Rob acted as a moderator for the Secret Norwich Facebook page, with more than 23,000 followers.

After the news broke of his death hundreds of messages of condolence were posted for him.

Dibs McCallum said: 'Rob really was one of the really nice guys. It was never a dull moment when he was about and I am so happy to have called him a friend and fellow photographer.'

Charlotte Burns said Rob was an 'intelligent, passionate and lovely guy', and a 'big loss to the world.'

Angela Adams said of Rob: 'Such a caring and likeable chap. His kindness and generosity to others, regardless of what he was experiencing himself, truly set him apart.'

Abigail Blake called him 'one of life's genuine good guys'.

Another friend said 'News of Robs death has sent a huge shockwave through the Norwich live music community with many people using one of Rob's photos on their Facebook profile as a tribute to him. He was one of the most supportive, generous, kind and gentle people in my world and I shall miss him very very much indeed.'

Graham Loton said: 'What a huge talent he had for creative photography. He took pictures and made them into works of art.'

Mr Powell added his son will be 'greatly missed' by the whole family.

'Rob did not have a straightforward path through his life and had many ups and downs but when times were hard he had an inner courage to smile and face each day as it came,' added his mother Jane. 'So many have commented on his support of others, his generosity and honesty.'