I Love Photographing People at Work

When I was studying photography for my A Level, I chose to focus one of my assignments on people at work. Looking back it wasn't the most obvious subject, but I was drawn to the authenticity of it — hands in motion, expressions of concentration, the quiet pride in a job well done. Those early images sparked something that has stayed with me ever since.

Now, years later and working as a commercial photographer, I’ve found myself returning to that theme. Whether I’m photographing chefs for my Shooting Chefs book project or documenting craftspeople in their element, there’s something deeply satisfying about capturing real people doing what they do best.

Recently, I had the chance to photograph a skilled wood turner — someone who shapes raw timber into beautiful bowls, vases and functional objects. Watching him work was mesmerising. The rhythm, the precision, the respect for the material — all of it reminded me why I picked up a camera in the first place.

These moments — honest, unposed, and rooted in craft — are the ones I’m most proud to capture.