Sam Mellish Photography

2012-02-13T04:40:00.000-08:00

Early in January I had the pleasure to join Crisis on a photoshoot with Sir Ian McKellen during filming for a special Crisis mission, a journey to the Midlands narrated by Sir Ian himself. Follow this Crisis link to view the video.

15 days shooting for the Reason Mag:

2012-02-02T23:56:00.000-08:00

With the European Alps receiving abundant snow falls since december last year, I've been with a host of international snowboarders shooting for the Reason Magazine. Last week I was with the Dragon Lodge riders in Tignes, followed by 4 days shooting with the DC young guns in Meribel and looking forward to a week with the UK Ride team at the Chill Chalet early next week. Look out for editorials in the UK's most definitive and dedicated snowboard mag next season:

And into January:

2012-01-26T14:02:00.000-08:00

January has been exceptionally busy, shoots with Crisis, Vans, Eastern Enterprise and well as taking on work from commercial agency Haygarth. Yet it was with Crisis that my dream job came along - to shoot Sir Ian McKellen during promotional filming at an East London location. I've been a fan of Tolkien and Lord Of The Rings for quite some time, so naturally it was a magical moment. I'll leave you with two recent images, firstly a behind-the-scenes picture from a product shoot for Vans and secondly promotion imagery for e-touchdown - a new digital centre at Ipswich Eastern Enterprise The Hub:

Product Shoot at a north london Skate Park for Vans

Emma - a young entrepreneur during Wednesdays shoot at the Eastern Enterprise

Crisis at Christmas 2011

2012-01-06T08:29:00.000-08:00

During the festive period, i was with Crisis at a number of their homeless centres throughout London. Invited to capture the mood, environment and engage with those effected by homelessness - it was a massive effort by all those who gave their time, it's often hard to describe the results. I've just been sent this You-Tube clip from friends at Crisis, I think it sums up the whole atmosphere perfectly:

A Warm Welcome to 2012:

2011-12-30T05:07:00.000-08:00

I've just picked up the latest Reason Snowboard Magazine and seen a few images of my from this year - firstly a Soul Sports picture from the Brits in Laax Switzerland as well as an image of the Gonzilla Boys from the Halloween night shoot at Milton Keynes a few months ago. The mag is looking super slick, certainly the best i've seen this season. Nice work guys.

And moving on, over the past fortnight, i've been working closely with Age UK to help the charity present a new Care In Crisis Campaign. I'm going to leave out any recent imagery but felt this image sums up the whole campaign. Look out for more news.

Merry Christmas:

2011-12-24T04:49:00.001-08:00

And a Happy New Year! December has been hectic! Commissions from Red Bull, Crisis, Vans and a huge campaign for Age UK began just this month, and will continue into the new year - as soon as i can i'll update. For now, see some of the recent work with Crisis at their rough sleepers centre in a London location. As thousands of people will sleep rough this year, particularly over the festive period, Crisis have opened their doors at a number of shelters throughout the city. I'm back there with ITV and Text Santa tonight to carry on the campaign and talk and capture to some of those effected by homelessness.

Ed Sheeran plays his hit A Team to guests at The Crisis Skylight

Vans Spring Product Shoot:

2011-12-16T09:24:00.000-08:00

On a very wintery morning, I meet up with friends from Vans to shoot a few more of their spring footwear collection at a very wet Mile End Skate Park. Taking refuge under the railway arches, with tea takeouts, we set about creating a product shoot for next years adverts.

Art Work From The Eastern Enterprise:

2011-12-14T14:44:00.001-08:00

Some recent commissions:

2011-12-14T10:03:00.000-08:00

The Art Of Schoph With Red Bull

Walk to End Homelessness with Crisis

Homeless inspired A-team by Ed Sheeran plays an acoustic set at the Crisis Skylight Centre

Graduation celebration at the Eastern Hub

Fighting Fear film launch with O'Neill and Soul Sports

Route One Advert

2011-11-28T05:12:00.001-08:00

A huge thanks to the guys at Route One for this great advert featured in this months Whitelines (the mag alone is worth Checking out for Dan Milner's epic photos from Norway, Svalbard). The photo of Si Belson was taken in Mayrhofen, Austria during a blue bird park session. I always loved this shoot and was delighted when Andy Sherman called up to say he wanted to run it for a shop advert. Thanks guys.

Homelessness Ends Here - Petition Hand In

2011-11-25T05:39:00.001-08:00

Teaming up with Crisis and a crew of volunteers we knocked on Number 10 Downing Street to hand in Crisis's 40 page petition to End Homelessness. Below are a few pictures of the morning both at Number 10 as well as outside Westminster:

David Gray Joins Crisis Skylight Song Writing Group:

2011-11-24T11:09:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago I was invited along to the Crisis Skylight centre in Central london to capture imagery of David Gray as he tock part in a one-off song writing workshop. Read more on the link below:

- Crisis Skylight Song Writing Workshops -

1400 miles in 4 days..

2011-11-24T09:52:00.000-08:00

..to capture the remaining images for my Roadside Britain project. Edinburgh to John O'Groats, Iverness to Loch Ness, Fort William to Loch Lomand taking in the sights of the marvellous Scottish wilderness...

The Reason Snowboard Mag:

2011-11-18T10:14:00.000-08:00

Teaming up with The Reason and Board Syndication at a late night shoot at Milton Keynes Xscape last month, here is Will Radula-Scott's super smooth tailpress featured in the latest Reason Snowboard magazine! (sorry my i-phone hasn't done this justice)

Burton High 5

2011-11-15T03:49:00.000-08:00

On Firday night I was invited along to Milton Keynes Xscape to shoot the second leg of the Burton high 5 jam session. The park looked spot on, with a few added Burton features, the shaping team really pulled out all the stops. As the Gonzilla TV lads filmed, a strong contingent of Burton, Forum and the best UK dome riders threw down some superb tricks. Riders came from all areas of the South to shred, it was also a good chance to catch up with friends and meet the some new UK riders.

David Gray and Jonathan Yeo:

2011-11-10T03:21:00.000-08:00

It's been a inspirational week of meeting some fine UK artists. From Schophs Brighton studios to the skylight centre in London with Crisis. This week I was invited to two separate workshops where quest speckers include David Gray and Jonathan Yeo. It was a pleasure to meet both artists, to hear their stories, while capturing them engaging with members of the Crisis participants. Monday saw David Gray perform 3 acoustic songs, while yesterday Jonathan Yeo described the routes of contemporary and classical art. Above is one of Yeo's most iconic pieces, the official portrait of Tony Blair. See more on the Telegraph.co.uk

- Audley Harrison MBE showing a move or two during his workshop last week -

Art Of Flight Meets Art of Schoph!

2011-11-09T02:30:00.001-08:00

Creating art work for new spaces is always a battle faced by artists, especially when you land a space at the premier of the worlds best snowboard movie ever to be made. You want the work to be your best! I've known Schoph for years, one of my long term snowboard and Guinness drinking buddies, and when he asked me to come along to his Brighton Studio to shoot some images for Red Bull I was delighted. Over the past year or so he has pushed his work to new levels, gaining exhibitions in LA, France as well as countless UK shows. The work I saw on Sunday is certainly among some of the best i've seen, leaving me excited to see his finished works at the Art Of Flight premier next week.

Check out his work via the Red Bull website

Audley Harrison visits the Crisis Skyline Centre!

2011-11-03T09:52:00.000-07:00

It was an absolute honor to meet Audley Harrison and his friends on Tuesday evening at the Skyline centre with Crisis. Super-heavy weight boxing gold medalist, the first in British History, Audley left the 2000 Sydney Olympics a national hero! More recently, he has been showing off his dancing skills on Strictly Come Dancing. I was asked by the Crisis team to come along and capture images of Audley interacting during one of the centers regular workshops.

Gonzilla TV get spooky at Milton Keynes:

2011-10-31T09:10:00.000-07:00

Last month, organised by the Rich Jonas and the Board Syndicate, I was asked to shoot their UK team riders at halloween snow dome special rail session. With a top UK team of rail slayers, we shot well into the twilight hours, witnessing a mixture of epic tricks and Halloween radness! Keep an eye-out for this in future magazines, but here is the film the talented lads at Gonzillia TV recently released!

- Watch this link here -

LG Freeze at Battersea:

2011-10-30T12:22:00.000-07:00

Returning for my 3rd consecutive year to the freestyle ski and snowboard event in the heart of London - The Relentless Freeze Festival. An international team of athletes battled it out with a backdrop of the magnificent Battersea Power Station, while I was on commission for WGSN to report the latest fashion trends on and off the slopes and meet up with some good friends during the spectacular show!

The Final Day of Workshops

2011-10-27T15:13:00.000-07:00

Back with friends at ADeC and Bargroves Youth Centre to connect with young people in St Neots. I was asked to attend a workshop during the day as well as round up the BMX and Skate workshops from the previous week. Despite heavy rain we loaded the Bargroves Van with bikes and ventured back to Corby's Adrenaline Alley to capture the action and encourage photographic practice.

Hereford today, St Neots Tomorrow!

2011-10-26T12:55:00.000-07:00

Arriving in Hereford this afternoon was like a breath of fresh air; rolling hills, beautiful blue skies and a freshness in the air that only the countryside can deliver. The small city of Hereford is the gateway to Wales and some breathtaking terrain. I headed to Andy's Kitchen to set up a series of images as part of the Herefords Annual photography festival fringe. It was a delight to meet both Kate and David, use tools which i forgot and get my work back on wall space! Here are some rather shaky images i took this afternoon:

A day of two halfs indeed!

2011-10-25T15:15:00.000-07:00

This morning, way before the rooster calls, I ventured to Downing street to capture Breast Cancer Campaign illuminate Number 10 for Wear it Pink day this coming Friday. Featured in the Evening standard this evening the Prime Minister is quoted to be "delighted". Below is one of the images captured this morning.

Moving on, next stop was to the University of Westminster to drop of more 120 film and Scan the remaining negatives on file which will top up my Roadside Britain project. Then as the evening drew to a close, it was off to the Magnum Offices to attend a book signing with one of the UKs most legendary and iconic photographers, Martin Parr. Below is a picture take during his talk about his new endeavor "The Protest Books"

Workshops at Corby Skate Park:

2011-10-24T10:50:00.001-07:00

Organised by ADeC and St Neots Youth Team, last week I was at the second of 3 workshops helping young people develop their photography skills. Next session will be held at St Neots Skate park....

Workshop organisers Daryl and Emma with the Skate and BMX crew from St Neots

Workshops with St Neots Youth Team:

2011-10-19T06:46:00.000-07:00

Thanks to friends at AdeC and St Neots Youth team, on Monday evening i was back at Bargroves Youth Centre to begin a second photography workshop session. Aimed at young people with a key interest in skate and bmx photography, these workshops are spread over 3 days and incorporate introductory photography sessions at St Neots and Corby skate park as well as the youth centre. Look out for imagery from tomorrows session at Corby Skate Park.

12 page feature in The Reason Snowboard Mag:

2011-10-15T07:20:00.000-07:00

It's with great pleasure that i add this blog post - friends at The Reason Magazine have given me 12 pages for a feature shoot earlier in the year. Uk pro snow-boarders Ross Neadham, Ollie Plumley and Chris Kightly joined me to shoot at one of France's most under rated resorts - La Plagne. Pick up a copy or head to The Reason site.

Xscape with Nitro, 686 and Arbor Snowboard Team

2011-10-14T15:03:00.000-07:00

After a last minute photo call with the cast of Legally Blonde at the Savoy Theatre capturing imagery for Breast Cancer Campaign and Wear it Pink month, i headed up the M1 for a midnight photo-shoot with the UK Nitro, 686 and Arbor snowboard team at Xscape in Milton Keynes. Smoke bombs, loads of lighting, Gonzilia TV filming and lots of tricks on the donky rail kindly provided by the Park shapers at X-Scape. Teaming up with Nitro Team manager, Rich Jonas, the riders donned some funky halloween gear and face paint and displayed a wide range of tricks way past all our bed times!

Getting into character at Milton Keynes Snow Dome

The Legally Blonde Cast between showings at the Savoy Theatre

Purple Turtle with Desert Scene:

2011-10-13T04:53:00.000-07:00

Another fine evening with the Desert Scene crew and an all American line up at Camden's Purple Turtle:

Some of my favourite images

2011-10-12T09:11:00.001-07:00

I have been asked to pick some of my favourite images for a meeting next week, after booting up various hard drives, this selection mainly from Ghana and India captured on my Woca 120A camera are certainly going in..

News From Age UK:

2011-10-10T11:08:00.000-07:00

Below is a a tear sheet taken from the 'Little Book Of Age UK' recently sent from the charities marketing team, this particular page illustrates Age UK's care in crisis campaign which I worked on during 2010.

While see how my imagery arrived at Number 10, when On 12th September a delegation of six campaigners delivered a giant postcard to Prime Minister, David Cameron, urging him not to increase the women’s state pension age beyond 65 until 2020.

Milton Keynes for the TSA Big Bang:

2011-10-09T13:03:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to the guys at TSA for inviting me along for a second time to present a snowboard photography seminar during the Big Bang Snowboard Show yesterday. Introducing a broad spectrum of experiences merged with photography technics, the talk highlighted my career in snowsports photography which began in 2006.

Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon:

2011-10-09T12:37:00.000-07:00

Joining forces with Breast Cancer Campaign to capture participants running in support of the Breast Cancer research charity. 1000's took to the streets and ran through the beautiful Hyde Park this morning to raise money for various charities. On the side line where the dedicated team of volunteers as well as B.C.C staff to cheer on those participating and raising much needed funds.....

New art work from the Eastern Hub...

2011-10-06T08:23:00.000-07:00

Over the past 12 months i've taken on many commissions from friends at the Suffolk Eastern Enterprise. I've been delighted to attend many of their launch days and meet the many talented entrepreneurs both experienced and budding new students. The following designs highlights how Brigit has used some of my imagery in their new brochure:

Recent Photo-shoots for Breast Cancer Campaign:

2011-10-05T09:22:00.000-07:00

Collaborating with Breast Cancer Campaign and their push to promote 'Wear It Pink', recent photo-shoots have captured Scottish celebrity Master Chef and Entrepreneur Michelle Mone as well as the charming Tara Palmer Tomkinson....

Film and Digi go hand in hand!

2011-10-04T14:38:00.000-07:00

Pink Aerobics in Hyde Park:

2011-10-03T15:28:00.001-07:00

After a glorious weekend throughout much of England, looking back over images shoot on Sunday afternoon's annual Pink Aerobics event in Hyde Park, I can't help but laugh at our unpredictable weather - for last year we were greeted with mud, plenty of rain and the occasional sunny spell. Such a contrast as well over 300 participants, all 'shock a leg' to raise awareness for Breast Cancer. I was asked by event organiser and proprietor, Selaine Saxby, from Less Bounce to come along and shoot the action and enjoy the dance routines from all 5 acts.

Desert Scene and 120 Scans:

2011-10-01T04:59:00.000-07:00

Last night I was asked by Desert Scene Rock to shoot another epic night with European Stoner Rock bands at the Purple Turtle in Camden. Joining friends and shooting the headlining band 'My Sleeping Karma'. While during the day, i was at University of Westminster scanning imagery stocked up from the summer. Imagery from my Roadside Britain project, some from Nick and Becky's wedding and a few random films thrown in. Here are two very conflicting images. I hope you like them...

- A lovely image taken during one of my many road-trips this summer - Kodak Portra 160VC -

- My Sleeping Karma at the Purple Turle -

Editing imagery from a perfect wedding earlier this month.

2011-09-28T07:19:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month I shoot a wedding for a good friend, who has helped support my photography since my early snowboarding days. Here is one observation from the day - once i give Nick and Becky all their images i'll add a few more. For all who were in attendance i think everyone would agree it was a perfect day! Congratulations guys.

Crisis at Christmas event at Koko Club:

2011-09-27T11:03:00.000-07:00

Crisis kicked off its 40th anniversary celebrations with The Big Thank You - a free event to give something back to the volunteers that have made Crisis at Christmas happen over the past four decades. I was asked by the marketing team to come along and shoot some the celebrity and volunteer fun throughout an action packed evening.

"Hundreds of volunteers gathered in Koko in London for the event hosted by comedian and author Ben Elton. Music came courtesy of Rockaoke, a live karaoke band with singers picked from homeless and vulnerably housed members of Crisis, as well as actors Graham Cole and Ben Richards from the Bill. Finally the volunteers themselves were given the opportunity to take to the stage".

- Ben Elton performs during the evening at the Koko Club in Camden -

- Graham Cole from The Bill sings with Rockaoke -

Catalogue photo-shoots, Celeb portraits and Snowboard Talks

2011-09-26T05:20:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week, and rather than add imagery now, i'll wait for the finished artwork to become available. Collaborating with Vans UK to shoot an advert for one of their distributors, celebrity photo-shoots with Michelle Mone and Breast Cancer Campaign as well as being asked to talk about my career in snowboard photography at the TSA's Big Bang snowboard tour this weekend. Please keep an eye open for more imagery:

During the Tamworth Big Bang I was asked to shoot a few images highlighting the Nike 6.0 stand, heres one image showing there new Vapen boot.

Back at the Hub

2011-09-15T15:05:00.000-07:00

Overlooking the stunning Ipswich Marina, on a fine Septembers day, I ventured back to the 5th Floor of the James Hehir Building to join friends at the Eastern Enterprise and meet the latest recruits of Adult Entrepreneurs, capture the events as well as individual portraits. Here is just one of the vibrant personalities enrolled on this years entrepreneurship course....

Eastern Enterprise:

2011-09-14T10:37:00.001-07:00

A fun day at the Eastern Enterprise joined by a host of young entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs superstars. I caught up with the team to document their new recruits:

- Image I shoot earlier in the year, Jo Douglas, one of the Enterprise Superstars -

Adidas 5km Challenge with Breast Cancer Campaign:

2011-09-14T10:24:00.000-07:00

Joining the events team at Breast Cancer Campaign to capture imagery from this years Adidas 5-km challenge in Hyde Park. After a blustery weekend, the winds dropped and the sun drenched the 5-km circuit, making ideal conditions for runners and spectators. As the athletes past in their droves, the B.C.C support team and celebrity ambassadors cheered on all competitors. Rugby stars Chris Cracknell and Ollie Phillips as well as Sarah-Jane Mee and Sarah Maxwell all helped celebrate the day.

(Campaign ambassadors Chris Cracknell, Sarah Maxwell, Sarah-Jane Mee and Ollie Phillips)

36 hours in Biarritz

2011-08-27T02:48:00.001-07:00

A flying visit to the south west of France to capture fashion trends at Biarritz's Rip Curl Music festival, commissioned by WGSN. A celebration of music and surf right on the Bay of Biscay, with the Klaxons headlining, there was plenty of fun for all whom attended.

Photography Workshops in St Neots

2011-08-26T14:18:00.000-07:00

It's been a somewhat disjointed week of workshops in St Neots this week. Working with friends at ADEC combined with the dedicated youth workers at St Neots Bargroves Youth Centre, photography workshops were set up to engage young people who frequently use St Neots skatepark with photography sessions and live music planned, although it's with regret I write, particularly those whom attended Wednesdays session, the summer rain damped plans, certainly with regards to todays scheduled event at the skatepark. Rather than give up, Social workers moved the live music sessions to Bargroves were impromptu music and photo workshops were set up. Frustrating, yet hopefully engaging:

(Thanks to Zoe Davidson from ADEC for this image)

Dragon Alliance Photoshoot

2011-08-19T02:15:00.001-07:00

Last week whilst on commission for Vans and Reef at Boardmasters 2011, i hocked up with good friends at Dragon Alliance. I've undertaken a few spontaneous photo-shoots for these guys over the years, and between shooting the highlights at the Newquay festival I captured imagery for the leading street eyewear company. Pro surf poster signings, collaborations with Volkswagen Transporters and also producing iconic imagery of there top UK athletes. I'll leave the best for Craig and his team, but here is a taste of the photoshoot at Fristal beach.

Workshops with Ipswich Art School:

2011-08-18T10:04:00.001-07:00

Back to the Art School for a second day and two new groups. Morning and afternoon sessions flew by and we missed the rain by moments. After talking the young people through my Roadside Britain exhibition and celebrating the work from First Exposure and Darren Johnston, we headed to Christchurch Park to document 'Park Life' in the widest sense. With a short motivational talk about composition and 'Park Life' interpretations, we headed out to capture the mood. Here are some of my favourite images i took from the past two days.

Workshops at Ipswich Art School:

2011-08-17T10:23:00.001-07:00

Back in Suffolk for two days to run young peoples workshops at Ipswich Art School. Taking the lead to inspire young people through documentary photography, the workshops have been kindly set up by Ipswich and Colchester Museum services. Today I worked with two groups, talking about modern photographic practices and putting these practices into use at Christchurch Park documenting 'Park Life'. I have to say, I did feel rather old when not one of the students knew Blurs classic hit single Park Life! I'll upload some of my imagery after tomorrows session:

5 days in Cornwall shooting for Vans and Reef footwear

2011-08-16T15:15:00.000-07:00

Last week and well into the weekend I was commissioned by friends at Vans and Reef footwear to capture imagery of the events at Boardmasters 2011 in Newquay. Music, Skateboarding, BMX and surf were among the spectacles during the 5 day festival. Newton Faulkner was representing Reef, while an international cartel of pro skaters; riders and Surfers hit the waves and ramps for the orignal skate company - Vans. And if that wasn't enough, to top it off the latest 'Off The Wall' musicians thrashed it out well into the twilight hours mixing it up with plenty of great live performances. Heres just a taste of some of the imagery whilst shooting for the two leading lifestyle footwear companies.

Dragon And Hurley Pro Surf Signing

2011-08-12T03:57:00.000-07:00

Teaming up with friends at Dragon Alliance at Boardmasters 2011, I popped along to their pro surf give away and poster signing at Northshore to capture the mood and shoot the product throw outs.....

Art In The Reason

2011-08-10T08:24:00.000-07:00

Good friend and artist Schoph Schophfield was featured in The Reason Mag not so long ago. Last winter, after a set up paint session i captured some imagery of Schoph at work putting acrylic to canvas. Here is the feature which appeared in The Reason this year.

On Tour with Desert Scene:

2011-08-09T08:02:00.001-07:00

After a flyby trip through Wales last Thursday i parked my car in Bristol to join forces with Dersertscene to tour with kings of stoner rock Karma to Burn, Black Spiders and Gentleman's Pistols. Four venues including Bristol, London, Leeds and Birmingham.

Black Spiders - The Fleece - Bristol

Karma To Burn - The Underworld - London

The Gentleman's Pistols - The Cockpit - Leeds

A fine Irish Wedding!

2011-08-08T02:36:00.001-07:00

Last week I was in Ireland to shoot a good friends sisters wedding, an Irish-Spanish affair in the 17th century grounds of a beautiful country manor in the outskirts of the Northern Walled city of Derry. A huge congratulations to Niav and Rafa on their special day! Have fun on your Honeymoon guys!

Belfast to Dublin

2011-08-03T12:52:00.000-07:00

Arriving in Belfast last night I found myself parked within meters of one of the cheapest Youth Hostels I’ve ever come across. Since undertaking this project, I’ve steered clear of hostels unless I can camp, in a city B&B's are expensive while camping often is not an option. Yet, having stumbled so close to Linen Hostel, i felt it’d be a good place to rest my head. So, car safely in the lock up, after satisfying my soul with a few pints of black goodness i settled in at Linen to drink tea and read Annie Leibovitz At Work. Having just put down Patti Smith i'm absorbing books like fresh air. Early this morning, I awoke to head south to Dublin and after a few stops at rather familiar truck stops, i came across Moore's Catering where Jordan was passing the time reading his paper waiting for his next order. I asked Jordan to pose for a few pictures, making use of film, digital and all my flashed I’d brought with me. As I was packing my car I inadvertently laid my gear next to my wagon just to create a neat loading system. I'd wanted to take a self-portrait, with my gear, for some time so just then, as traffic hurtled past seemed like the optimum time. I'll leave Jordon to the drawing room when i make my final edit in 2012, so please enjoy this self-portrait from the road.

Hillsborough - Lisburn - A1 - Northern Ireland

Dorset, Wales and overland through Ireland

2011-08-02T13:41:00.000-07:00

July hardly stood still, making the long days all the more enjoyable and productive, transcending from one commission to the next, rallying me from one side of the county to the other in consecutive runs. After Tunbridge Wells I briefly visited Suffolk and the family only to flutter off to Dorset for a private commission, then darting back to the road through Wales across the Irish Sea into Ireland to celebrate and capture a good friends family wedding. On all accounts a great day indeed and images will follow. With a substantial amount of milage clocking up, i amalgamated the wedding with a fly by visit to capture the roadside essence of the Irish highways, looking for those traditional and quintessential business i've come so familiar with. With my Irish trip near complete, i've seen a lot of pubs, strawberry stalls and Guinness signs, yet hardly a trace of what can be seen on homeland turf. Yet, there has been a small brigade of diners and burger vans holding fort. I came to capture just a few of these traders, and now wait to see what my 120film greets me with. For now, here are a few captured on the eos1MK3. My saviour yet not my guiding star.

A fine wedding in Royal Tumbridge Wells

2011-07-16T08:38:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again, summer spells weddings and i've got 3 to undertake spread wide across the UK. My first one was straight after Nass last weekend, leaving Somerset and heading into Kent for a Royal Tumbridge Wells wedding with a intimate twist. Dan and Annie Key held their beautiful reception in a bohemian farm dedicated to low key weddings with a festival vibe. Bonfires, sparklers, ice cream vans and a huge array of food thrown on the BBQ, I was there to capture it all and help the Dan and Annoe always remember their day.

East Anglian Daily Times Feature

2011-07-15T08:50:00.000-07:00

It gave me great pleasure to head back to Ipswich Art School yesterday morning to lead a tour and talk to Suffolk One, one of the 5 schools who contributed imagery for First Exposure exhibition. You can read more about the exhibition, with comments from Rachel Macfariane, Galleries Learning Officer as well as Caroline Shouksmith, Northgate High School's head of photography, in a recent feature published in the Arts section of the East Anglian Daily Times, written by Andrew Clarke. Enjoy the read , and apologies in advance for the rather poor scan!

Care In Crisis Campaign with Age Uk

2011-07-14T10:15:00.000-07:00

Age UK held it's parliamentary reception at the House Of Commons yesterday to call for urgent action to reform our care system. Andrew Dilnot, who chiefed the Dilnot Commission, was in attendance to rally up support and pledge MP's to act now for a better future for our elderly. I was there to document the occasion and capture MP's signing the 'Care in Crisis Campaign' board.

For more information on this and many more of Age UK's campaigns, follow this link

London Caff's

2011-07-12T06:55:00.000-07:00

Between recent trips to Somerset, Suffolk and Kent for various work commissions, I've managed to spend a few days shooting in the heart of London, capturing everyday moments at Cafes which sit on the cities main arterial roads. 'Hope for Workers Cafe' on the A1, the beautiful 'The Shepherdess' , near Angle, with staff with hearts of gold, and a quirky Moroccan burger Van adjacent to the A5. Yesterday I went out with only my Mamiya, cheating the traffic using my pushbike for wheels, and witnessed some great little spots. I'll wait for late sun, early snow, good moods or miserable ran and head back so i can capture these iconic trunk road cafes in a magical light, taking my project deeper into a social observation of these challenged trades.

Watch this space and my sister blog for more details......

Relentless NASS with WGSN

2011-07-09T04:52:00.000-07:00

A big thankyou to Sports Vision for providing press passes right at the last minute for this years Nass Festival. Heading deep into the somerset valleys with dark skies lingering i set about shooting for WGSN - analising fashion trends. With a number of the worlds best skaterboarders, BMX riders mixed with a host of music to suit many tastes...

Workshops at The Art School

2011-07-09T04:43:00.000-07:00

It gave me great pleasure on Thursday to begin a number of workshops and talks kindly organised by the Arts Department at Ipswich and Colchester Museums. On the day, I hosted two workshops for six form pupils at Northgate High School. After discussions about both our work, currently on display at Ipswich Art School, we ventured to Christchurch Park to capture the parks dynamic street life energy. Over the next few months talks with other schools as well as adults feature as a part of the huge range of workshops which the Museum cater.

- More information on the Art School and it's workshops can be found via this link -

A flying visit to the South of France with WGSN

2011-07-01T03:29:00.001-07:00

On a flying visit to France with WGSN, straight after opening my exhibition at Ipswich Art School last Saturday, I ventured to Millau 100Km north of Montpelier. Heading to capture fashion trends at the nature friendly Natural Games, the events boosts a 'Love Green Life' attitude and hosts a elective mix of outdoor adventure activities.

Exhibition Opens Today!

2011-06-25T00:17:00.000-07:00

Come along and celebrate my photography reportage of traditional roadside services throughout the South of England - homage to the quintessential and transient trade! The exhibitions opens today, although the official launch together with First Exposure, a Schools exhibition which I've helped to curate, opens on the 2nd of July.

Ipswich Arts School - Upper High Street

25th September - 2nd October 2011

10am - 5pm Tuesday to Sunday

- directions -

A fantastic write up by Steve Russell!

2011-06-23T15:09:00.000-07:00

Steve Russell, features writter for the East Anglian Daily Times, has written a few articles on some of the projects i've worked on, his style is always a pleasure to read and thats why it gives me great pleasure to show off these flat-plans of his recent feature - Steve actually sent me the PDF's today which i was extremely pleased with.

Over the past 6-7 months i've been working with a young lad from Suffolk, Matt Lucas, helping him to define his photography and ultimately put on his own exhibition - through trails and tribulations Matt got there and maintained a 5 week solo exhibition - not bad for a 18 year old! If you fancy reading the whole story do get in touch - heres a sample for now:

Back on board with Desert Scene and Valient Thorr!

2011-06-21T15:51:00.000-07:00

Teaming up with UK's premier 'downtuned and fuzzed out' rock contingent Desert Scene and good friends to shoot a night of bellowing rock, as 48hours pass, ears which still ring, i look over the nights imagery with content. Over for their UK tour, Valient Thorr were on fine form performing to a hungry crowd! Look out for imagery from the Karma to burn UK tour scheduled for this August.

Vans Store with The Devil Wears Prada:

2011-06-10T15:49:00.000-07:00

After chatting with good friends at Vans, they asked if I would be free to pop by there flagship store in Carnaby Street to shoot a product signing with The Devil Wears Prada - a metelcore band fresh from American shore to play this years download festival...

- Read more -

Peter Jones Enterprise Academy Launch Night

2011-06-07T15:28:00.000-07:00

Joining friends of the Eastern Enterprise, I was asked back to attend their Peter Jones Enterprise Academy launch night with a host of young and established entrepreneurs. The evening saw inspirational talks as well as live art by Rich Simmons, banked as the next big thing to hit the street art scene after famously transforming the punk icon Sid Vicious into Prince William, an art display inspired by the recent royal wedding.

Roadside Britain exhibition heads to Ipswich:

2011-06-06T04:52:00.000-07:00

"Roadside Britain is an exploration of livelihood at the edge of society. Consciously boycotting the mainstream to celebrate the uncelebrated, eschewing modernization in order to embrace a timeless yet challenged trade. Floating between the observational and the voyeuristic, documenting the mundane, the eccentric and a unique much loved Britishness, the work challenges the icons of the highway and brings home a real taste of Roadside Britain"

Ipswich Art School - High Street - Ipswich
25th June - 18th September 2011
Tuesday - Sunday 10am - 5pm
Directions

Art Work From Age UK:

2011-06-03T00:26:00.000-07:00

Earlier in the week i received an image request from Age UK for a postcard design they'll use to campaign the pension bill, I was also kindly sent the art work used at Westminster's London Underground during the actual houses of commons lobby last month. Scroll down on my blog to see pictures in action:

For more imagery from Age UK campaigns click here

Nocturne returns to Smithfields Market

2011-06-01T12:29:00.000-07:00

A night shoot in London's busy smithfields market saw pro biker Yanto Barker team up with Nocturne to represent London's premier all day biking event held on the 11th June.

May Sessions:

2011-05-31T04:42:00.000-07:00

Another busy week has passed, setting up and opening exhibitions in Suffolk, planning photo-shoots in London, scanning recently developed film and working closely with good friend James Bryant to bring you a life in pictures. I also popped into the see friends at the Eastern Enterprise's Hub to document another action packed event day with local MP's and business angles:

A conversation with James Bryant 'life in pictures':

2011-05-23T03:53:00.000-07:00

“Immersive storytelling in a digital age – because the death of print needn’t be the death of cool shit.”

Snowboard Digital is a classic WordPress blog bringing you the finest cuts of sideways action from streets and the mountains around the world. Our mission is to bring you the rawest footage, the liveliest debate and the most stunning images. So sit back, relax and enjoy what you see, and whatever you do, do not rush.......

- Click here to watch the video -

Campaign lobbyist are greeted with Underground campaign posters!

2011-05-18T09:36:00.000-07:00

A progressive day with the friendly staff at Age UK to help document their campaign and parliament lobby with regards to the shifting of retirement age. Together with a touring digivan and huge campaign posters in Westminster Underground, campaigners had the opportunity to lobby at the Houses of Commons and speak with both MPs and their constituents.

- Age UK -

More dates for the diary:

2011-05-17T04:09:00.000-07:00

I'm delighted to write that i'll be bringing my Roadside Britain to this years Ip-Art festival, Ipswich. My work sits alongside imagery from local Ipswich High Schools titled First Exposure. Over the past few months i've been liaising with the arts team at Ipswich borough Council to curate and invite local schools to include digital based media in this fantastic opportunity for young people throughout Ipswich. In-conjunction to this i'll be holding a number of workshops and talks during my 3 month exhibition - more details below:

Designed by Sam Mellish

From 35 mm to digital prints and film, First Exposure explores the possibilities of lens-based media and it crossovers into other creative practices. It demonstrates approaches that consider formal technique, as well as contemporary responses to cultural ideas, as investigated and interpreted by young people.

First Exposure and Roadside Britain: On The Road Opens on 25th June - 18th September at Ipswich Arts School Gallery - 10am - 5pm Tue - Sun: Info 01473 433681

Exhibition Of Photography:

2011-05-15T01:49:00.001-07:00

You may have read previous posts regarding working with Lapwing Suffolk who provide individual learning programmes for young people who have complex barriers to learning. Over the past 6 month or so, I have been meeting up with Matt Lucas, a young Suffolk based amateur photographer to facilitate him with his photography learning path and help him curate his very own exhibition. Next week, to celebrate finishing his Lapwing program, Matt opens his first solo exhibition in central Ipswich. Helped along the way by local designers and other photographers, his show will be opening from Friday 26th May in Ancient house, Ipswich.

If you live in Suffolk, or near by, do pop in and see some of Matts work.

New Material On My Roadside Britain Blog:

2011-05-15T01:40:00.001-07:00

Having spent two weeks during the Easter break, back 'On The Road' shooting new material for my Roadside Britain project, I managed to fit in 6 days this month to retrace Paul Grahams steps along the Great North Road. You can see new material from Aprils trip, with imagery from the A1 to follow:

- Imagery from a sun-drenched Wales -

Working with UK Charity Crisis:

2011-05-14T03:17:00.001-07:00

It gave me great pleasure to receive a call from Crisis last week asking me to attend their London office to capture moments with Timothy West and Prunella Scales. Together the UK actors lead a dynamic 'Shakespeares Workshop' for the UK homeless charity.

Inky Little Sunbeams interview Schoph

2011-05-13T11:10:00.001-07:00

I've been really lucky to work with some extremely creative people and friends whilst building up my photography career. Snowboarders, Skaters, Surfers, film makers, writers and editors other amazing photographers, musicians, event organisers and designers - the list is seemingly endless. And obviously artists, one particular long time drinking buddy and partner in crime is Schoph, and his just featured on the Inky Little Sunbeams site - here you can see some of Schophs 'sell-out' art together with a quirky image taken on my Woca 120G a few years back in the unglamorous Letchfield. Check out their site here:

Sony Photography Festival:

2011-05-02T10:11:00.001-07:00

Once again, many thanks to Rachel Stanley (Blurb UK) and Harry Hardie for inviting me along to The Photographers Lounge to present my work during the Sony World Photography Festival at Somerset House. A wonderful evening with friends and watching some of the latest carousel projects shown by Harry.

A Inspiring Place To Be

2011-04-27T23:55:00.000-07:00

A new booklet from the Eastern Enterprise Hub shows a place of inspiration and creativity. Office space to really relax in and gain maximum creativity. With a 180 degree panoramic of the wonderful Ipswich Marina from the 5th floor of the Eastern Enterprise Hub its certainly the place to think new ideas. I was asked to capture images of the Hub during business events whilst highlighting the creative space.

More info can be found at the Hubs website

Class of 53/54

2011-04-27T00:52:00.001-07:00

Over the past few weeks I've began receiving art work from Age UK to help promote their new campaign. "The Class of 53/54 booklet is informed by the views and experiences of women who are affected by the new proposal in the Pensions Bill to speed up the equalisation of men's and women's State Pension Ages." Many contacted Age UK either by Telephone or e-mail, after ten women were interviewed in greater depth, i was asked to capture images to be included in their campaign booklet.

"Age Uk is asking the government to rethink their proposal to speed up the equalisation of Women's and Men's state Pension Ages (SPA) to 65 by 2018 and then increase SPA to 66 for both men and women. The measures are included in the pension Bill now being debated in Parliament." Age Uk - Class of 53/54 - 2011

AGE UK Class of 53/54 booklet 2011

Back On The Road:

2011-04-19T13:10:00.001-07:00

With the ongoing interest from photography circles nationwide, I've set about capturing new material from my ongoing Roadside Britain theme. So far the work has covered the Great South West Road - London to Lands End and, with support from the Arts Council of England, an in-depth observation from around East Anglia. Over the past ten days I've ventured to the lush valleys of Wales, exploring the breathtaking coastal vistas as well as the area of outstanding natural beauty - Anglesey. Currently camped up in Betws-Y-Coed, I'm now using the A5, a former Roman Road and also known as Watling Street, to slowly traverse back to London.

For more info on the project please take a look at my dedicated blog:

http://sammellish-ontheroad.blogspot.com/

A dynamic day for young social entrepreneurs

2011-04-01T10:04:00.000-07:00

Since shooting for the friendly team at Suffolk's School Social Of Entrepreneurs in January, I was asked back for a second day to capture the days events, as-well as produce portraits of the young team. With plenty of dynamism flowing through the hub, the day was a great success and much was learnt by all:

The Brits on Onboard

2011-03-30T11:03:00.000-07:00

A great write up by Harry Thompson from all the action at this years Brits! Onboard Link

Battersea:

2011-03-28T07:52:00.000-07:00

After two weeks shooting in the Alps, its back to the UK for more commissions and workshops with Lapwing Suffolk. Although with a few days off to recuperate from work and play, and having been asked by a good friend to shoot some images of Battersea Power Station earlier in the year, i strolled the streets of Wandsworth Borough, shooting images of the now decommissioned coal power station. Stepping back and using a wide angle, i created some rather nice industrial images of the site:

The Brits 2011: Laax, Switzerland

2011-03-25T01:17:00.000-07:00

With a final pipe run and a huge Japan Air in tribute of recent events, Ben Kilner's on top form, flying high during the 2011's Ski and Snowboard festival: The Brits

Seb Kurn, James Foster and Dan Wakeham during this years Brits Freestyle events

Sam Turnball killing the slope-style

Laax For The Brits Competition - Switzerland

2011-03-20T11:50:00.000-07:00

Leaving the European Winter X Games in Tignes, France to head East to Laax, Switzerland to shoot my third consecutive Brits Freestyle ski and snowboard competition. This time teaming up with Soul Sports to capture the snowboard action during the week long event.

Trend analysis at the European X Games

2011-03-18T13:44:00.000-07:00

Back to the Tarentaise Valley to shoot at the second European X Games and catch up with some good friends. Shooting for WGSN capturing the latest trends and fashions on the slopes . And what an epic week, James Woods clutched a podium place during the ski slope style while Louie Vetto claiming gold in the pipe final this evening.

Waterstones Book Signing - 14th March 7:30 - 8:30

2011-03-10T00:47:00.001-08:00

After a wonderful response from the kind staff at Waterstones, Bury St Edmonds, they have arranged for a book signing to run in-conjunction with their regular book evening. Please come along for an evening with light nibbles and drinks and have a look at my debut photography book. See the details below for how you can book onto this event:

Waterstones: 14th March 2011

For More Info:

Waterstones - Arc Shopping Centre

Bury St Edmunds

IP33 3FB

Festival Photos from Blurb:

2011-03-07T05:21:00.000-08:00

Below are a few images from my recent talk and book signing at this years Format International Photography Festival from Derby. A huge thanks must be passed on to Rachel Stanley for choosing my On The Road: London to Lands End book as one of the 20 winning street photography books produced by Blurb and featured during the show.

Lapwing Suffolk:

2011-03-04T14:49:00.000-08:00

Lapwing Suffolk provides individual learning programmes for young people who have complex barriers to learning. Over the past 3 to 4 months, I've had great pleasure in working with Matt Lucas, a budding Suffolk photographer based in Shotley, Suffolk. Together Matt and I have been out and about organising an exhibition to showcase his work whilst studying with Lapwing over the past two years. With the help of Anna McCarthy, local photographer, and Graphic Designer, Simon Green, we've facilitated Matt to reach his potential and push both personal and educational barriers. This week, as the clouds cleared and the sea wiped by, Matt and I trudged the Felixstowe shores, camera at the ready. Whilst inspiring Matt to shoot more and more, i rolled off some iconic coastal images on a blustery cum bright morning...

Matt's Exhibition will open on the week beginning the 23rd May 2011 until 24th June

Top Floor - Ancient House - Ipswich

On The Road with Age UK:

2011-03-04T09:56:00.000-08:00

Over the past two weeks i've been on the road with Age Uk working on a new campaign 'Too Much Too Soon' to help women lobby the proposed second retirement age increase. More soon........

Format International Photography Festival:

2011-03-04T09:51:00.001-08:00

It gives me great pleasure to attend the 2011 Format International Photography Festival after an invitation from BLURB to talk about and sign my debut book On The Road London to Lands End. In attendance during the weekend will be legends of street photography Brian Griffin and Joel Meyerowitz.

Saturday 5th March at the Quad in central Derby will be the Blurb bookmaking discusion, while at 4pm i'll be talking about my work as well as signing books. It's a great honour to be involved and many thanks to the team at UK Blurb for inviting me along.

Blurb book signing with Sam Mellish.

Format Festival, Derby

Saturday March 5th

4.15-5.15pm

QUAD Cinema2

School Of Social Entrepreneurs Suffolk

2011-03-01T13:19:00.000-08:00

After popping into the Suffolk based School Of Social Entrepreneurs I was delighted to see the guys produced two six foot banners of images taken during their student open day last month. Taken from my i-phone this picture shows how two of the images have been used:

Desert Scene at London Underworld

2011-02-06T12:58:00.000-08:00

A night a down-tuned and all fuzzed out Stoner Rock with friends and some of the most progressive touring bands currently doing the European circuit. Asked by Desert Scene to shoot both at the Underworld and Camden Rock.

Book Signing In Bury St Edmunds:

2011-02-03T05:49:00.000-08:00

Waterstones: 14th March 2011

For More Info:

Waterstones - Arc Shopping Centre

Bury St Edmunds

IP33 3FB

Another fine edition of The Reason out now:

2011-01-31T04:31:00.000-08:00

Another fine edition of The Reason out now - pick up a copy and enjoy plenty of independent travel yarn. Plus a few pictures from last season. Thanks again guys!

The Reason Magazine: Independent Travel

Mike Austin features in the SP catalogue:

2011-01-28T05:16:00.000-08:00

With thanks to Noble Custom and SP Unite, British snowboard champion Mike Austin is featured in the 2011/2012 SP catalogue. A portrait taken during the spring Kaunertal sessions in Austria last year. Nice work guys.

La Plagne with The Reason:

2011-01-26T12:51:00.000-08:00

Many thanks to La Plagne and the Reason Mag for a great time shredding at one of Frances most under rated free ride mountains. Joining forces with Ollie Plumley, Chris Kightley and Ross Needham for a short blast in the Northern French resort. Check out this months The Reason mag for more stories and notably a great feature on the powder haven, Japan.

While back in the UK with thanks to The School of Social Entrepreneurs today was an opportunity for Suffolk entrepreneuers to pitch their ideas to a panel of experts. I was there to capture the days events:

Head on down to Host Gallery -

2011-01-20T10:10:00.000-08:00

This coming Monday, 24th January, I'm proud to announce Host Gallery will present my Roadside Britain project during it's monthly Carousel Slide Slam. With thanks to Harry Hardie from foto8, who invited me to produce and introduce a presentation of my latest work for the prestigious London galleries Carousel night. Please pop in and enjoy an evening of photo-projects, slide shows and other digital art forms.

HOST Gallery

1-5 Honduras Street

London EC1Y 0TH

United Kingdom

Tel: 020 7253 2770

Monday 24th Jan - 7:30 until 9:30