Youth Climate Group in Frome, Somerset
Documentary photography for a sustainability community project in Frome, Somerset
I adored working on this, because some projects ask you to document what happened and others ask you to capture why it mattered. And capturing the meaning behind stuff is my jam!
Commissioned by Green & Healthy Frome, I documented the Young People Climate Group as they transformed discarded plastic waste into a giant model of our gorgeous planet.
Created from recycled materials, many bits of which were recovered from the River Frome, the sculpture became a powerful symbol of environmental responsibility, creativity and some much needed hope.
Over several sessions, I photographed the young people as they designed, built and shaped the globe together. Rather than focusing solely on the finished artwork, my approach was to tell the wider story: the concentration, collaboration, curiosity and determination that brought the project to life.
What struck me most throughout the project was the passion these young people brought to every stage of the process. Getting to know them and hearing why they cared so deeply about protecting our planet was every bit as inspiring as watching the artwork take shape.
The final chapter saw the completed globe carried through the streets of Frome before being unveiled as part of a community event.
Watching the young people proudly carry the Earth on their shoulders created a moment that stopped people in their tracks. Also, it wasn’t lost on me that the weight their generation is carrying must feel like a lot.
The spectacle sparked conversations, invited reflection from people, and reminded everyone watching that climate action belongs to all generations.
“You have captured such beautiful images, which is so special for us.”
— Future Shed Frome
For community organisations, charities and purpose-led campaigns, photography has the power to do so much more than document activities. It can communicate values, celebrate participation and help people connect emotionally with a project's impact.
These images have become an enduring visual record of a remarkable community initiative, celebrating not only the finished artwork but the young people whose creativity, collaboration and determination made it possible.
For me, the most important story here isn't the artwork itself (although that was pretty cool) it's the lovely young people who created it.
Got a community project like this happening soon? I’d love to help you document the process and the magic you create. Book in today and let’s chat about how I can support your project.
