Cameras, and photographs, were just around the place - they were ambient. There were family albums, and my dad had an Ensign folder that took 120 film. He sent films off to Will R Rose in Chester for developing and prints - mono, then eventually colour.
Cameras, as mechanical / optical devices, had a certain allure - to want one came naturally. Mind you, I also hankered after an Austin Healey 3000, but that was completely out of range financially and neither was I old enough for a driving licence.
Eventually, aged about 15, I was allowed my own camera. The engagement has fluctuated ever since, but the learning never stops.