THE cold concrete floor is probably Mr Geoff Letchford's most vivid memory of Heathrow Airport in London.

After all, the Australian photographer once spent a night on it when a thunderstorm flooded the runways and caused massive flight delays. He stayed in queue overnight to ensure that he could get on the first flight to Italy to keep an appointment with a client.

It is a reflection of how serious Mr Letchford, 47, is about his work. After a career in fashion photography with Vogue, Harper's Bazaar and Elle, he ventured into a unique brand of photography where he works with his interior designer wife Rebecca, 29, to create custom-made art photography pieces tailored to individual clients and their homes.

Despite the frequency of his travels, the Brisbane-based Mr Letchford remains enthusiastic about spending time in a plane because it gives him time to think about his work, and enjoy some quality time with his wife.

PICTURE PERFECT: Mr Letchford creates custom-made art photography pieces for clients. He works and travels with his wife Rebecca (top right).

Which is your favourite airport?

Changi Airport is great - it's so efficient. Once, due to illness and a massive traffic jam, Rebecca reached the airport after the final boarding call had been made. But she still managed to board the plane because the security checks were so fast and efficient. The small private airports, such as those we've been to in Africa, are pretty efficient too because they are so small.

Ever had an airline or airport lose your luggage?

Five years ago, we landed at Heathrow Airport and our luggage was missing. To top it off, Rebecca got mugged on the same day in Kensington, so it wasn't a good day. A few days later, someone from the airport called to say that they had found our luggage and were sending it to our house in Spain, which was really great, since we don't have a house in Spain. Anyway, we got our luggage back only three months later.

Which airline has the best uniform?

I think the fabric of the Singapore Airlines uniform is soft and feminine. The colours are very vibrant as well. Emirates has a pretty cool uniform too.

Which airline do you think has the best service and food?

Qantas. We travel 11 months a year so we've actually got a lifetime platinum membership with it and we get upgraded to first class pretty often. But Rebecca thinks the food on Singapore Airlines is pretty awesome.

Ever had an interesting experience on a flight or at an airport?

In 2006, a storm flooded Heathrow's runways and all flights either got delayed or cancelled. We desperately wanted tickets for the next available flight, which were on a first-come-first-serve basis, so we ended up sleeping overnight at the airport. There were a lot of angry people at the airport that night.

How do you handle jetlag?

The funny thing is, I can't even remember the last time I had jetlag. But I do have a few tricks though. One is to set my watch to the time zone of my destination the moment I board the plane to get my body clock in sync. The other is to stay well hydrated.

What do you always carry with you on flights?

A notebook to sketch out my ideas for photographs because, the moment I step on a plane, I get all these ideas. I think it's because there aren't any external influences and no one can call, e-mail or text me while I'm on a flight.

Sometimes, I can fill up half a notebook with ideas and sketches by the end of the flight. And three or four years ago, I discovered Fess Frequent Flyer Nasal Spray. It's actually a saline solution that helps to lubricate the mucus membranes and makes you less susceptible to flu and cold. It's especially good for when you travel to countries with different temperatures. I think you can get it at the pharmacies in Changi Airport.

What drink do you always order onboard?

Mostly gin and tonic but I enjoy my red wine too. And of course, a whole lot of water.


melhong@sph.com.sg