About Us
Smoking Barrel - About Us
Our Story
Founded by William, who brings over twenty years of photography experience and a lifetime immersed in field sports, Smoking Barrel was created to meet the growing demand for specialised field sports photography. With a background as a gamekeeper, a seasoned participant in shooting sports, and extensive experience with drones, William understands the subtleties and dynamics of the field like few others. This insider perspective has been crucial in our ability to deliver authentic, high-quality images that resonate with our clients.
Starting with assignments on commercial driven shoots and stalking estates, Smoking Barrel quickly established itself as more than just a photography service. We became a trusted partner for clients seeking to capture the rich traditions, camaraderie, and landscapes of field sports. Alongside William, team members Joanne and Bear contribute significantly, ensuring that our service remains personal, professional, and rooted in genuine field sports experience.
Our Passion
At the core of Smoking Barrel Media is a genuine passion for the outdoors and the rich traditions of field sports. This enthusiasm is not just about capturing images; it's about preserving the spirit and heritage of each discipline we cover. Our work is driven by the belief that photography should reflect the authenticity and beauty of field sports, connecting people with the moments that matter most.
William's personal journey through the realms of shooting and stalking, combined with his professional expertise, has shaped our unique approach to photography. It’s about more than just documenting; it’s about storytelling. Our goal is to create visual narratives that capture the essence of field sports, from the quiet anticipation of the stalk to the shared triumphs of the shoot.
This passion extends to every project we undertake, whether for individual enthusiasts, estates, or commercial clients. We’re dedicated to delivering images that not just meet, but exceed expectations, providing a window into the world of field sports that is both intimate and grand.
Our Expertise
William's extensive experience isn't just measured in years but in the depth of his engagement with the field sports community. From his early days of shooting as a child to his invaluable experience as a gamekeeper, and with 12 years of mastering drone photography, his journey has bestowed upon him an innate understanding of what makes a great shot — both with a camera and a shotgun.
Smoking Barrel Media stands out in the field sports photography landscape through our unwavering commitment to quality and our deep understanding of the sport and its environment. Our expertise is underpinned by the use of two flagship Canon R5 DSLR cameras, renowned for their outstanding image quality, speed, and reliability. Paired with Canon's leading L series lenses, we're equipped to capture stunning, detailed images across a range of conditions and settings. This high-end equipment allows us to freeze moments with precision, from the dynamic action of a shoot to the serene beauty of the countryside.