Award-winning photographer David Eustace hopes his appointment as a university chancellor can inspire people from under-privileged backgrounds.
The former Royal Navy officer and prison guard turned to photography in his late 20s, going on to work with some of the biggest magazines and celebrities in the world.
The 53-year-old left school with few qualifications but has gone on to establish an international reputation, with his work displayed in the National Portrait Gallery.
He has now been appointed chancellor of Edinburgh Napier University, where he enrolled to study photography at the age of 28.
After completing his course he was quickly working for GQ, ES and Vogue magazines picturing the likes of Sir Paul McCartney and Sophia Loren.
Speaking ahead of his inauguration as chancellor, Dr Eustace - who has also received an honorary doctorate of arts degree from the university - stressed a less-privileged background should not be a barrier to success.
He said: "I hope my appointment inspires others, especially those from less-privileged social backgrounds who perhaps feel where they come from may hinder any dreams they have for their future.
"Edinburgh Napier University played a major role in my life when, many years ago, I returned to full-time education as a mature student. Now it's my turn to give back.
"There are incredible people involved with this university and I wish to lend my support to them in any way I can. The principal's hopes and visions are very much the ones I share.
"This honour is incredibly humbling and exciting, but the role brings many responsibilities, the greatest of which are the hopes of those who have given the university their trust and some of the most important and valuable years of their lives.
"I am a fleeting moment in this institution's history but for the short time I am privileged to be its titular head I will embrace the challenge in the only way I know how, with respect, complete commitment, hard work and enthusiasm."
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