Meet Christopher Sweet and his intimate animal photography art

Christopher Sweet is a wildlife and nature photographer and one of a small group of artists regularly working with BobCat Gallery, a small scale gallery specialising in original art at affordable prices.

Here we chat with him about his journey so far…

Tell us more about your journey into the art world.

I married into it! Although I have loved photography for as long as I can remember, and I even have some brilliant shots from when I was barely a teenager, I hadn’t really considered an artistic career until I met my other half, who is also an artist. We also took a life-changing trip through the Canadian Rockies in 2018 that really sparked my imagination.

My first focus was urban photography, particularly brutalist architecture, travel shots and quiet, candid moments in big, hustling cities. I sell regularly through stock photography sites, as well as selling limited edition prints of some of my work. My work has been featured on several news sites, as well as in New Scientist last year, which was fab to see.

During our various lockdowns, I began to properly invest in the equipment that could take me to the next level. We were very lucky to be living next to some of the biggest parks in London, so my daily walks were accompanied by my camera to see what I could see. I really found my groove during this time – slowing down to give nature a space to play out in front of the camera, and highlighting the things that most people will miss as they hurry by.

How would you describe your signature style and technique?

I’m now known for my quirky, intimate animal portraits – owls are a particular favourite feature – as well as dramatic storm scenes. I love capturing lightning and can quite often be found outside with my camera in a torrential downpour just to get the right shot.

Can you tell us about your latest work? Where did you find inspiration and what is the story behind it?

I’ve been diversifying into videography, including recently getting my enhanced drone licence, which is an interesting compliment to my regular photography style, and gives me more scope to take on dynamic projects for a variety of clients.

Wildlife photography will always have my heart though, getting out of the way of people and immersing myself in the natural world. I love showcasing the birds and beasts that live alongside us every day, but most people never notice.

Are there any exhibitions or events you are planning in near future?

I regularly exhibit with BobCat Gallery, both online and at pop-up exhibitions across London.

What is the best advice you’ve been given as an artist?

Always remember to take the lens cap off before you begin!

For more information please visit Christopher Sweet’s website: cjsweet.co.uk

Follow Christopher on Instagram: @c.j.sweet

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