Like many successful photographers, Rossman (or Ross), discovered his passion for photography at an early age. His journey began at 13 years when his cousin first introduced him to the art form. Each day, during his young school days, on his way to and from classes, Ross would pass a small shop in Zabbar, owned by Joseph Cassar. Primarily a bazaar for sweets and basic school supplies, the shop also showcased Cassar's passion for photography, offering monochrome printing services. Intrigued, Ross often observed as Cassar demonstrated the photographic process, generously sharing chemicals and paper to further fuel the boy's experimentation. These early experiences became the foundation of Ross' photographic journey, paving the way for the remarkable achievements that lay ahead.

Ross was born in Zabbar on 29 March 1963, to Emmanuel Magri and Carmen née Lia. He was one of five children, which included three sisters. Rossman's early education took place at St Augustine College and De La Salle College, where he quickly excelled and developed an early interest in computers and electronics. In fact, his passion led him to build his first computer, a Sinclair, from scratch. Together with his growing fascination of technology, Ross remained deeply connected to photography. Through Cassar, he was introduced to Tony Barbara, a full-time photographer who also ran a studio and retail shop in Zabbar. Recognising Ross' potential, Tony began assigning him small photographic tasks, which eventually expanded to even include wedding photography for the Zabbar studio.

Working at PPS in the photography process-control room

Eventually, Ross crossed paths with Benny Zaffarese, who operated a highly professional commercial photography laboratory and studio in Valletta. At the age of 21, Ross attended an interview with Zaffarese's Professional Photographic Services Limited (PPS). He was immediately hired and began his career performing a variety of tasks, gradually transitioning into more specialised roles. Under the guidance of experienced professionals, Ross honed his skills in still photography, film and print processing. His responsibilities expanded to include covering significant events such as conferences, further broadening his expertise and solidifying his reputation in the industry. In addition, he did aerial photography, still photography for films, numerous hotels and studio work. As a stills photographer on film sets, his most memorable experience was Final Justice, which, most probably, was Malta's first attempt in developing its own film industry, rather than only catering for foreign productions. With Zaffarese, Ross soon became proficient in handling all types of high-end photography equipment and printing machines.

After six years of intense work with Zaffarese, Ross was encouraged by his then girlfriend to pursue further studies in the United Kingdom. Taking her advice, he decided to enrol in a full-time BA programme in photographic studies at Napier University in Edinburgh. Their BA programme comprised photography, film, sound, studio, multi-media applications and audio-visual production. In 1989, he graduated with distinction, likely becoming one of the first Maltese students to earn such an academic certificate related to photography.

Copying slides with high-end equipment while at PPS

While still pursuing his A Levels at De la Salle College, Ross crossed paths with Ron Bewley, who was in Malta photographing the Zabbar museum paintings. Ross was captivated by the knowledge and expertise of Bewley, sparking an enduring connection. At that time, Bewley was also setting up The Malta Experience audio-visual project. As Zaffarese had been commissioned to maintain and update its imagery, Ross found himself involved in high-end multi-media productions.

During his degree years, Ross chose to highlight Malta's touristic features as part of his coursework. He produced an audio-visual presentation on the subject, creating a series of slide photographs in the process. At Edinburgh University, Ross had the chance to interact with a diverse group of students, each contributing unique perspectives and a wide range of skills. Despite enjoying the friendly atmosphere of the Scottish capital, doing business as a photographer proved challenging. Ross also struggled with homesickness, as travel and communication with Malta were prohibitively expensive at the time. He was not particularly inclined to settle in London either, finding the city less welcoming compared to Edinburgh. In due course, for a very short period, he began working for London-based company Carabiner. He was later engaged by London's Moorfield Hospital to film and create training videos for surgeons and staff, before moving on to Sarner International Ltd for two years. The opportunity to join Sarner arose through a contact from a small group of London-based Maltese enthusiasts who connected via amateur radio, an interest Ross had pursued since his days in Malta. Eventually, Ross transitioned to working in the high-end photographic department of British Gas. During his two-year tenure, he travelled extensively, contributing to the company's presentations, including training videos and promotional materials. His work often took him to construction sites, oil rigs, offshore installations, massive industrial structures and oil storage facilities. Unfortunately, when British Gas was privatised, Ross was made redundant. Following the closure of British Gas's AV department, Ross, along with two former colleagues, co-founded Provisual Ltd. The latter was mainly involved in producing business corporate audio-visual installations. During his three years with the company, Ross worked on various projects, including contracted assignments for British Gas, where his prior experience made him an ideal fit. In 1995, Ross transitioned back to Sarner, a globally-renowned experiential design and production company based in London, recognised for creating world-class visitor attractions. At Sarner, Ross thrived, gaining invaluable experience, mastering advanced techniques and deepening his expertise.

Preparing for some aerial photography with the AFM helicopter

In 1998, when owner Peter Sarner died, the business was inherited by his wife. Matters did not go well, and two years later, the company was not sustainable. As is often the case, opportunities arise for those bold enough to seize them, and Ross, along with Bennet, (one of the top creative directors in immersive production), purchased the business. The partnership proved successful, and the company thrived, taking on numerous high-end projects. The move also proved an ideal opportunity for Ross to make one of his dreams come true: he had long been yearning to do projects in his beloved home country, Malta. He was eventually assigned to work on major multi-media productions at the St Elmo visitor centre, at Farsons Group and the Gozo Cittadella Visitors' centre.

In time, through a friend of his, Ross was introduced to Gozitan entrepreneur Joseph Portelli, who eventually met him in London to discuss a production for Portelli's huge Mercury Towers project. Ross convinced Portelli to create something exceptional for visitors to the Towers. He plunged wholeheartedly into this project that saw the birth of Odyssey Malta, a type of historical walkthrough and flying theatre utilising a special screen. The visitor experience is similar to flying on a hydraulic platform. An extensive amount of filming, still photography and effects were needed. Ross was totally involved from concept to realisation, embedding himself in Malta for the duration of the project. It was Ross' realisation of doing something significant for Malta.

Ross has embraced a life of independence, dedicating himself wholeheartedly to his passions and creative pursuits. A frequent traveller, he works across the globe on still photography, film, audio, special effects, and all the elements essential to crafting cutting-edge multimedia attractions. His career has led him to destinations like Singapore, Malaysia and Norway, where he has played a pivotal role in exceptional productions with multi-million-dollar budgets. To this day, Ross remains deeply involved with Sarner, serving as its managing director. Ross' journey is a powerful testament to how a boy from a small island can ascend to extraordinary heights of achievement and success.