Sir Don McCullin

Don McCullin (born 9 October 1935), is one of the world’s most well-known photojournalists, particularly recognized for his war photography and images of urban strife. His career, which began in 1959, has specialised in examining the underside of society, and his photographs have depicted the unemployed, downtrodden and the impoverished.

Don McCullin grew up in poverty and left art college to support his family when his father died. After national service with the RAF he came back to London, where a chance picture of a gang of Teddy Boys opened the way to a brilliant career as a war photographer. Now settled in rural Somerset, his latest book is about Africa. Photograph: Monica Fritz