Sussex Photography Gathering: Friends, Horses, Dogs, and Light
This spring, I joined fellow photographers Regine, Lucy, and Victoria for a few packed, laughter-filled days hosted by the incredibly generous Bruce (and his equally welcoming partner Liz) in Sussex. It was part creative recharge, part collaboration, and part joyful chaos — and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.
We started in Bruce’s DIY equine studio, working with their horses Tommy and Rossi, and Ludo, a statuesque guest star owned by a friend. From backdrops to painterly side lighting, it was a journey in positioning, timing, and adapting for horses with personality (and opinions!). For anyone who doesn’t know me, I find horses kind of scary, so this definitely pushed me outside of my comfort zone!
From the studio we ventured out — cameras slung, dogs wrangled, boots already muddy. The afternoon was spent at an ancient abbey ruins and a hidden bluebell wood, where we photographed Collies, Weimaraners, Clumber spaniels, flat-coated retrievers, and a striking wire-haired Vizsla.
The mix of texture across the afternoon — soft florals, historic stone, glossy coats — gave us all something different to lean into. With plenty of dog models to work with, we were all using our brains throughout.
Next, we visited a stunning viaduct — its grand arched brickwork stretching above like something out of a dream. Seven spaniels (yes, seven!) and one incredibly patient border terrier posed beneath those towering shapes.
We followed with two woodland sessions, full of dappled light and hidden elements to work with. There we met a collie, a pack of shepherds, chihuahuas, a pomeranian (hello, Custard!) and a sweet spaniel. From teacup-sized attitude to herding instincts, it was a shooting rollercoaster — in the best way.
Our final two stops brought a sense of scale and serenity. At a local country house, we photographed a group of gentle mastiffs and elegant Great Danes, working with symmetry, golden evening tones, and the quiet dignity these dogs carried.
Then it was on to the beach — a cliff-backed beauty overlooked by the iconic Seven Sisters. There, with a mix of beautiful dogs, we wrapped up the trip with salty air in our lungs, and memory cards full.
Why We Gather
These sessions weren’t about content for content’s sake. They were about creative friendship. About sharing knowledge, hyping each other up, offering feedback, and photographing what we love — without pressure, but with purpose.
Being hosted by Bruce was the heart of it all. His hospitality (and Liz’s brilliant coordination) gave us the space and freedom to explore, try new ideas, and shoot our hearts out. Every location was thoughtfully chosen, every animal lovingly prepared — and every laugh shared felt like fuel.
Whether you’re a professional or just starting your photography journey, never underestimate the power of community. Make space to shoot for fun. Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you. And when someone invites you to Sussex with a full itinerary and a fridge full of snacks — say yes.
📍Based across the UK, creating with dogs, horses, and the people who love them.