Our Story

A photography studio built on curiosity, craft, and genuine connection with our subjects.

How We Began

The studio opened its doors in 2014, initially focusing on editorial work for regional publications. What started as a small operation in a converted warehouse space has grown into a full-service photography practice serving clients across the United Kingdom and beyond.

Our growth has been deliberate rather than rapid. We've expanded our capabilities year by year, adding new services only when we could maintain the quality standards that define our work. This approach means turning down projects occasionally, but it ensures that every client receives our full attention and expertise.

The move to our current Clerkenwell studio in 2019 marked an important milestone. The space allows us to handle larger productions while maintaining the intimate atmosphere that helps portrait subjects feel at ease.

People Behind the Lens

James Hartwell

Founder & Lead Photographer

With over twenty years behind the camera, James specialises in portrait and editorial work. His background in fine art informs an approach that prioritises composition and emotional resonance. He leads our most complex projects and oversees creative direction across the studio.

Eleanor Webb

Senior Photographer

Eleanor joined in 2017 after a decade working with commercial clients in Manchester. Her technical precision and ability to work efficiently under pressure makes her invaluable for corporate and event work. She has a particular talent for architectural photography.

Marcus Chen

Photographer & Retoucher

Marcus handles much of our post-production work alongside his photography duties. His eye for detail ensures consistent quality across every image we deliver. He specialises in product photography and has developed several of our studio lighting techniques.

Sophie Reynolds

Studio Manager

Sophie keeps the studio running smoothly. From scheduling to client communication to equipment maintenance, she ensures every project has the support it needs. Her background in event production means complex shoots run without complications.

Our Values

Precision

Technical excellence isn't optional. Proper exposure, sharp focus, and thoughtful composition form the foundation of every image we create. We invest continuously in equipment and training to maintain the highest standards.

Vision

We approach each project with fresh eyes, avoiding formulaic solutions. Understanding the unique requirements of your project allows us to create images that serve your specific goals rather than generic templates.

Communication

Clear, responsive communication throughout the project ensures alignment between your expectations and our creative process. We believe successful collaboration requires transparency at every stage.

Integrity

We quote honestly, deliver what we promise, and acknowledge when a project isn't the right fit for our capabilities. This straightforward approach has built lasting relationships with our clients.

Key Milestones

2014

Studio Founded

Opened our first studio space in East London, focusing on editorial and portrait photography for regional clients.

2016

Commercial Expansion

Added commercial photography services and hired our first full-time staff member to meet growing demand.

2018

Industry Recognition

Received our first major industry award and began working with national publications and brands.

2019

Clerkenwell Studio

Relocated to our current purpose-built studio in Clerkenwell, tripling our production capacity.

2021

Digital Innovation

Invested in advanced digital workflow systems, reducing delivery times and enhancing client experience.

2024

Team Growth

Expanded to our current four-person team, allowing us to handle multiple simultaneous projects.

Why Clients Choose Us

Consultation-First Process

Every project begins with understanding. Before discussing logistics or pricing, we want to know what you're trying to achieve and why. This deeper understanding shapes creative decisions that generic briefings cannot inform.

Consistent Quality

Whether you're booking a two-hour portrait session or a week-long commercial campaign, you'll receive the same attention to detail. Our quality control processes ensure every delivered image meets our standards.

Long-Term Relationships

Many of our clients have worked with us for years. We understand their brands, their preferences, and their audiences. This continuity produces better results than starting fresh with each project.

Adaptive Expertise

Our team's diverse backgrounds mean we can approach your project from multiple angles. Need a fashion sensibility for corporate headshots? An editorial eye for product photography? We adapt our style to serve your goals.

Our Equipment

We invest in professional-grade equipment because image quality matters. Our studio maintains both medium format and full-frame systems to match the requirements of each project.

Camera Systems

Medium format digital bodies for maximum resolution and dynamic range. Full-frame systems for versatility and low-light performance. Backup bodies for every shoot.

Lighting

Professional strobe systems with a comprehensive modifier collection. Continuous lighting for video work and mixed-media projects. Portable kits for location shoots.

Studio Space

180 square metres of controlled shooting space with high ceilings. Multiple backdrop options and a client lounge area. Natural light available through north-facing windows.

Post-Production

Colour-calibrated monitors for accurate editing. Professional software suite for retouching and colour grading. Secure backup systems protecting every project.

Let's Discuss Your Project

We'd welcome the opportunity to learn about your photography needs and explore how we might help.

Contact Us