Newsletter January 2023 Happy New Year! Have a quick look at what I got up to in 2022, please click to see the new newsletter…. I thought I’d quickly introduce the program Handmade, here’s a write up: Handmade with Mel Giedroyc: Celebrating Craftsmanship, Skill, and Creativity The TV series Handmade, hosted by the talented Mel Giedroyc, brings viewers into the world of artisan craftsmanship. With Mel’s trademark humor and warmth, each episode dives into various crafts—from woodwork to weaving to pottery – featuring skilled makers who pour passion and precision into their work. This show highlights a revival of interest in handmade, unique creations in an era of mass production, underscoring the value of creativity, dedication, and quality. I had the pleasure of photographing the promotional shots for Handmade series 2 and 3, capturing Mel and the incredible creations which the guests were working on. My work for the series involved creating striking promo shots for the series, but also to bring out the personalities of the guests and hosts alike, using lighting and composition to reflect the warm, inviting atmosphere that Handmade brings to TV screens. Mel’s genuine enthusiasm for crafting and curiosity about the lives and skills of the featured guests make her […]
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Handmade Series 2 with Mel Giedroyc, Tom Dyckhoff and Sophie Sellu – Channel 4 and Plimsoll Productions Behind the Scenes: Photographing for Channel 4’s New Show I had an absolute ball doing the photography for Channel 4’s latest show, which premieres tonight (Wednesday, 21st September 2022) at 8 pm! Being part of such an exciting project was very exciting, and I’m thrilled to finally be able to share my photos with you. The images I captured are being used by Channel 4 and Plimsoll Productions for the show’s marketing, and it feels great to see them out there! Working with a Great Team One of the highlights of this shoot was the incredible team I had the pleasure of working with. Alongside the fabulous Mel Giedroyc, the show’s judges are the brilliant woodworking expert Sophie Sellu and design academic Tom Dyckhoff. Both Sophie and Tom were fantastic to work with – so easygoing and down-to-earth, which made the whole process run smoothly. Of course, Mel was a joy, as always, bringing her infectious energy and humor to the set. I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to photograph. Showcasing My Photography I’m really pleased to be able […]
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Malory Towers by Enid Blyton at the Passenger Shed, Bristol. Capturing the Magic of Malory Towers for Studio Three Sixty I recently had the real pleasure of photographing the set and bar of the Enid Blyton-inspired play Malory Towers. The production was beautifully brought to life by the talented team at Wise Children, and it was showcased at The Passenger Shed, Bristol. This exciting project came through Studio Three Sixty, a company that specializes in audience experience design. The set itself was the creation of the incredible Lez Brotherston. Photographing the Set with a Creative Eye As a Bristol photographer, I’m often lucky enough to work on unique projects like this. Being on the set of a theatrical production, especially one as beloved as Malory Towers, allowed me to get creative with my approach. I wanted to make sure I did justice to the detailed and immersive design that Lez Brotherston brought to the stage. This was a fantastic opportunity to break out my wide-angle lenses, which really came in handy for capturing the full breadth and depth of the set. The play’s setting had so much intricate detail, from the nostalgic touches of the boarding school to the inviting atmosphere of the bar area. […]
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Something a bit different, my photography on a Japanese skirt. A Unique Collaboration I was both intrigued and delighted when I received an email from a Japanese clothing company called Keith requesting to use one of my photographs on a skirt. As a photographer, you never quite know where your work might end up, but this was certainly a first for me! It’s always exciting when your images take on a new life beyond their original context, and this collaboration was definitely a fun and unexpected twist. You can see the final product in Keith’s catalogue and on their website, where my photo beautifully complements their Autumn fashion line. The Story Behind the Photograph The image in question was originally taken during a shoot at the stunning Westonbirt Arboretum. I had been commissioned to capture the beauty of the arboretum for their Autumn collection, and the photos from that shoot were intended to highlight the vivid seasonal colors and natural beauty of the location. Westonbirt, known for its incredible array of trees and vibrant landscapes, is an iconic spot in the Cotswolds, especially during Autumn when the foliage is at its most stunning. When I heard that Keith wanted to feature one […]
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The Beauty of Westonbirt Arboretum Through Photography Last year, I had the incredible privilege of being the official photographer for Westonbirt Arboretum, one of the most breathtaking tree collections in the UK. This commission allowed me to immerse myself in the natural beauty of the arboretum, capturing its changing seasons and vibrant activities to support their marketing efforts. Each visit was an unforgettable experience, showcasing the arboretum’s magic through my lens. My name is Paul Groom, I’m a Bristol photographer, working around Bristol, the South West, the Midlands and the UK. Westonbirt Arboretum, located near Tetbury in Gloucestershire, is not just a haven for nature lovers; it’s a photographer’s dream. With over 15,000 trees from across the globe, the arboretum offers endless opportunities to explore the majesty and diversity of the natural world. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, the arboretum provides the perfect backdrop to experiment with light, texture, and composition. The Role of Trees in Enhancing Mental Health Spending time among trees is not only visually inspiring but also deeply restorative for the mind. Research has consistently shown that connecting with nature can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall mental health. At Westonbirt, walking […]
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