Pic ; Sandy Cecil-Oakes
I kicked off my career after graduating from Blackpool College as Student of the Year, and I’ve been creating ever since. I started out assisting photographers in the advertising and design industries, and by 1988, I’d launched my own studio in central Manchester—where I’m still based today.
What drives me is bringing something bold, unique, and memorable to every project. My style is known for being contemporary and visually striking—perfect for design and advertising—but I also enjoy exploring a quieter, more painterly approach. You’ll find both sides of my work throughout this site.
I work comfortably across both stills and motion, often combining the two in a single project. I’m hands-on throughout—from pre-production to post—and I love collaborating with other creative professionals when needed. Whether leading a full team or working solo, I’m flexible and focused on delivering great results.
There’s no such thing as a typical client. I work with clients from all over – the North-west, London and Europe. Great commissions can come from the most unlikely places.. I love the variety and the challenge each new commission brings.
In 2011, I was invited to present a solo retrospective exhibition titled SEE33, showcasing 33 images—both commissioned and personal—spanning my career. The Association of Photographers later hosted it online in 2012.
One of my portraits, of actress Maxine Peake, is part of the permanent collection at the National Portrait Gallery and was featured in their “Portraits by Contemporary Photographers” exhibition.
To me, a great image begins well before the shutter clicks. I often get involved in casting, styling, and set design to shape the creative vision. I also take a hands-on approach to post-production—editing, grading, and enhancing both still and motion pieces. These days, I work with a mix of digital and analogue, sometimes blending the two, and occasionally tapping into AI tools where it adds value.
With years of experience collaborating closely with art directors and designers, I bring a mix of creativity, technical expertise, and attention to detail. I’m curious, experimental, and driven by the challenge of turning ideas into compelling visuals—wherever the brief takes me.