Tom Hart Dyke at Lullingstone Castle
Every now and then a shoot comes along that reminds you why being a photographer is such a brilliant job. This was definitely one of them.
I recently spent the morning with Tom Hart Dyke at Lullingstone Castle in Kent while he worked in his incredible World Garden. There’s something special about photographing someone who’s completely in their element. Nothing feels forced because you’re simply documenting them doing what they love.
Tom is the heir to the Lullingstone Castle estate, but he’s also one of the most passionate horticulturists I’ve ever met. His love for plants has taken him all over the world in search of rare and unusual species, many of which now thrive in the World Garden.
Many people will remember Tom from 2000, when a plant-hunting expedition in the Colombian jungle took an extraordinary turn and he was kidnapped. Thankfully, his passion for horticulture never faded, and today he’s still sharing that same enthusiasm with visitors to one of Britain’s most fascinating gardens.
The morning itself was a warm one, with plenty of sunshine and not much shade, but it made for a brilliant setting. As Tom wandered through the garden, chatting about the plants he’d collected over the years, it was easy to see why this place means so much to him.
Environmental portraits like these are always some of my favourite assignments. They tell a much richer story than a standard headshot because the surroundings become just as important as the person. In Tom’s case, the garden isn’t just a backdrop. It’s a reflection of his life’s work.
I’m really pleased with how these photographs turned out. They feel natural, honest and full of character, which is exactly what I was hoping for. Here are a few of my favourite images from a thoroughly enjoyable morning at Lullingstone Castle.
If you’re looking for an editorial or environmental portrait photographer who can tell your story naturally, I’d love to hear what you’ve got in mind. Get in touch and let’s create something that’s unmistakably you.
