A selfie with the pope

The atmosphere on the plane was one of real excitement. Everyone was happy to have the privilege to shake the pope’s hand or talk to him.

Comments from my colleagues about this selfie were all pleasant, although some of them regretted not having asked him the same question.

The contact between Pope Francis and the press is very friendly, he shakes hands and talks with all of us. It seems to me that the pope understands how challenging our job can be. He always thanks the press and is very gracious.

I have also travelled with Pope Benedict and John Paul II before him. They have all been great in their own way: three popes with very different attitudes and personalities but each one of them an incredible person.

This trip has been particularly demanding as we usually wake up around 4 o'clock in the morning to catch planes and only get back to our hotel about 9 in the evening. Then it’s a quick dinner, a shower and 4 hours’ sleep.

An assignment such as this is really hard for photographers, not least because we carry a lot of gear all day long. Even so it's very exciting and all the effort is worth it. You know that the pictures you take are important.

There is a sense of occasion and excitement everywhere around you too - that gives you energy.

The people here in Mexico are very excited about the pope’s visit. This is a very Catholic country and you can feel their devotion.

Everyone has been trying to get a selfie with him or at least a photo to commemorate his visit.

Mexican clergy have even got in on the photography act, taking pictures of the pontiff as he prayed in front of the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe while celebrating mass in Mexico City.

(Editing by Brian McGee)