On the spot with: Tyrone photographer Cara Coll

A queen of the camera, with creativity her calling, Cara Coll regularly delights and enchants and inspires her Facebook friends and followers with photographs that bring our beautiful Tyrone to life in entrancing technicolour. Currently living in Drumquin, but never forgetting her much-loved hometown of Omagh, Cara began her craft during the first lockdown – and now her camera has become both her best friend and her marvellous muse

If you could be invisible for a day, what would you do?

Having a bit of fun scaring people… especially those that have wronged me in the past!

What is your least appealing habit?

I have a tendency to complain and whinge a lot.

What is your greatest trait?

For a sweet and short answer… loyalty.

If you could ask God one question, what would it be?

Why can you not give us a cure for cancer?

Did you have a role model as a youth?

My parents. They are hardworking and caring, and just about the best role models you could get.

How would you describe Tyrone to someone who has never been here before?

We have mountains (The Sperrins); forest parks (Gortin Glen); history parks, (Ulster American Folk Park); loads of shops; coffee shops; restaurants and pubs, where there is great craic to be had; the most friendliest people; and last, but not least, the best Gaelic football team in Ireland.

What are you watching on television?

At the minute, I am watching I’m a Celebrity and Narcos on Netflix.

Tell us a song that reminds you of your childhood.

There are so many. My sisters and I all loved to watch musicals, but the one that stands out Is a song from ‘An American Tail’, where Fievel sings ‘Somewhere Out There’.

Who is your favourite musician?

Don’t really have a favourite, but I’m listening to Ed Sheeran in the car at the minute.

What is your favourite film?

There are so many films… Maybe ‘Green Mile’ or ‘Shawshank Redemption’!

What is your favourite memory?

Climbing Croagh Patrick with my family many years ago, and all our trips to Donegal.

And your saddest?

Losing my great Aunt Sissie, who was like a granny to my sisters and I.

What makes you angry?

Simple answer… Bad drivers!

Has there been a defining moment in your life that has got you to where you are today?

During the first lockdown, when I really got a big interest in photography. It is why I am getting the opportunity to answer these questions today.

What is the most embarrassing thing you have done?

Falling in a shop that I worked in, in front of other staff and customers.

What is your most treasured possession?

I have two: My phone and my camera. Never leave the house without either of them.

Do you have a catchphrase?

What goes around comes around. I believe in karma.

What’s your tipple?

It has to be a glass – or bottle – of white wine.

Who would play you in a film of your life?

It would have to be Toni Collette. I’ve always admired her, and she’s a brilliant actress.

What has been your greatest achievement?

It has to be everything associated with photography. From selling a few pictures, to making new friends, and getting into a photography course in South West College, Omagh, with a great group of people.

What is your favourite quote?

It’s ‘treat others how you would want to be treated’.

What song would you like played at your funeral?

I love ‘Lady of Knock, Queen of Ireland’. It has great meaning to me.