Simon Songhurst is a London-based photographer and filmmaker specialising in health and beauty, travel and destination, and luxury brand imagery. Known for his lighting expertise, he creates visuals for brands like Dove, Lancôme, L’Oréal, Wella, and Peroni. His work includes advertising, editorials, and films, shot in studios and on location globally, from the Caribbean to Dubai.

Initially torn between fashion design and photography, Simon was guided by his father, a prominent photographer of his generation. Working for him confirmed photography as his path. He then spent over five years assisting internationally recognized photographers, building his technical and creative skills. Today, he works across health and beauty, travel and destination, and luxury brands, serving clients like tourism boards and luxury clients.

Simon also directs films for brands like 111SKIN and FaceGym. He shares photography tips and gear reviews on his YouTube channel. When not shooting, he’s traveling or exploring new camera tech. Simon is available for commissions worldwide.

FAQs

Where are you based, and how far will you travel?

I’m a London-based photographer and videographer, but I’ll go wherever your project takes me.

I’ve done commercial, lifestyle, and property shoots—stills and motion—across the globe, from a quick 24-hour hop to New York to jobs all over Europe. Most of my work happens in or around London, but I love the travel that comes with this gig. New places, new vibes—it’s why I do what I do.

What kind of work do you do—stills, video, or both?

I shoot both stills photography and motion/video projects.

Whether it’s commercial campaigns, lifestyle content, or property and interiors, I’m set up to deliver striking images or polished video—whatever your brief calls for. If your project needs a bigger crew, I’ve got a network of trusted freelancers and London agencies I can tap into. Tell me what you’re after, and I’ll sort it out.

What’s your gear situation?

I own the essentials—cameras, lenses, and video kit—for about 80% of my jobs.

For the bigger stuff—like lighting rigs, stabilizers, or specialty cameras—I rent from top suppliers to make sure your stills and video hit the mark. No compromises on quality.

How do I receive my final photos and videos?

I’ll share the shoot edit with all required team members via my platform, MOODCASE—a simple tool where you can review, select, download files in various resolutions, and request retouching. Images stay digitally watermarked until the job’s signed off. Once the invoice is fully paid—50% upfront before the shoot and the balance on delivery—I’ll provide watermark-free files.

- Photos: High-res JPEGs at 300dpi are standard, but TIFFs are available if needed.

- Videos: MP4s in your chosen resolution (e.g., 4K or 1080p)—just specify your preference.

Need a physical copy? I can send a hard drive for an extra fee.

How much notice do you need?

My schedule’s usually 75% booked a month ahead, but I leave some wiggle room for last-minute projects—because that’s how this industry works.

The sooner you get in touch, the better our chances of locking in a date for your stills or video shoot. Don’t wait if you want to collaborate!

What do you charge?

It depends on the gig:

- Commercial Stills & Video: A day rate, sometimes a usage fee, plus production costs if I’m running the show.

- Headshots: A session fee, then a small charge per retouched image you pick. More headshot info? Click here.

- Property & Interiors: Day or half-day rates for photos or video—think hotels or offices.

Payment Terms: I need 50% of the invoice upfront before we start, with the balance due on delivery. Images and videos stay watermarked until everything’s settled. Travel costs are extra.

Since every job’s unique, I don’t list prices online. Reach out for a custom quote.

Can you run the whole production?

Absolutely, when it’s needed—I handle all shoot production myself as required.

From scouting locations and booking talent to sorting wardrobe, catering, gear rentals, assistants, travel, or hotels, I can take it all on. No agents or middlemen here—I’m your point of contact. It’s an extra charge, but clients find it saves them time and hassle since I’ve got the know-how and connections.

Who owns the work?

I, Simon Songhurst, keep the copyright to all my photos and videos—standard for the industry.

You’ll get a licence to use them based on what we agree—media, regions, time frame—and that’s sorted upfront in your invoice. Everything stays watermarked until the full payment (50% upfront, 50% on delivery) clears and the job’s signed off.

I might showcase the work on my site or socials unless you say otherwise—we’ll nail that down in the terms.

Can I buy the copyright?

I don’t usually sell it, but if you need full ownership, we can work out a “copyright buy-out” fee. It’s based on usage, duration, and revenue potential. Once it’s yours, it’s all yours.

What about RAW files or unedited footage?

I rarely hand those over—only in special cases, and it costs extra. Most folks don’t need them, but let me know if you do.

Do you have a studio?

I don’t own one—90% of my work is on location.

For shoots needing a controlled space, I rent studios or venues in London or beyond, tailored to your brief. It’s a flexible, cost-effective setup, and we’ll choose the right spot together if your stills or video need it.

What if I have to cancel?

If you cancel or postpone for reasons I can’t control (like weather), here’s the deal:

- More than 6 working days’ notice: 50% of fee + expenses

- 3–6 working days: 75% of fee + expenses

- 2 days or less: 100% of fee + expenses

The 50% upfront deposit is non-refundable if you back out, but I’ll try to reschedule first to avoid extra charges.

How do I pay you?

Bank transfer or BACS—full details will be in the invoice. I take 50% upfront before we shoot, and the rest when I deliver, with files watermarked until paid in full and signed off.

Are you represented?

No agents here—I’m not represented and handle everything myself, including shoot production when required.

For international jobs, I still coordinate directly with you—no third parties needed. Keeps things simple and personal.

Got a blog?

Yep—find it via the menu or click here to dive in.