Through the lens of Nick Bailey, whose cinematic, story-driven images bring out the emotion and beauty of every experience. Words by Hannah Tapping
Nick Bailey, born in Guildford, had a childhood shaped by constant movement: “Thanks to my dad’s job, we soon relocated to Hamburg and then to various cities across Europe. By the time I was ten, I had attended so many different schools that my parents decided it was best for my brother and me to have a more stable education. That’s when we were sent to a boarding school in Cornwall – a huge culture shock for any ten-year-old.”
“Academically, I always struggled. It wasn’t until my third year of studying Photography at Anglia University that they decided to test for dyslexia. The diagnosis was a revelation – giving me a deeper understanding of myself and my abilities, ultimately boosting my confidence. After graduating, I couldn’t wait to return to the South West; Cornwall had always been where my heart was. Its rugged landscape and unique light became an underlying source of inspiration, and, in many ways, Cornwall is the reason I picked up a camera in the first place.”
“Starting out as a freelance photographer was daunting. For the first time, I felt a sense of self-worth, which had eluded me during my school years. In those early days, I never turned down a job. Every assignment was a chance to learn, grow, and develop my skills. The fact that I was able to pay my bills while doing what I loved felt like a dream come true. However, I believe we make our own luck and so without the unwavering support of my wife and family, none of this would have been possible.”
TOP LEFT - Nick Bailey | TOP RIGHT - Beth and John at St Agnes Beacon CENTRE LEFT - Megan and Ed at Whitsand Bay | CENTRE RIGHT - Megan and Jake at Roscarrock Manor Farm Wedding BOTTOM - Beth and John
Nick never imagined that wedding photography would become such a central part of his career: “The genre used to carry a certain stigma, but over the years, the field has evolved dramatically. Today, it’s about capturing natural, fleeting moments and I’m proud to be part of a movement that has transformed wedding photography into an art form.”
Like many, Nick’s business was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. With weddings on hold, he turned to his experience in commercial photography to stay afloat: “For the past four years, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with one of the region’s top agents, Jonathan Cunliffe, and the esteemed Terry Harris & Sons based in Rock, capturing stunning properties in the area. While this pivot has been incredibly rewarding, my heart still leans towards capturing one of the most meaningful moments of people’s lives.”
photobailey
LEFT & RIGHT - Helford Passage
LEFT - Superyacht ‘A’, shot off the coast of Ibiza for Jotun
RIGHT - Small sailing boat at Coverack
LEFT & CENTRE - North coast at dusk RIGHT - Trewoon Manor
LEFT, CENTRE, RIGHT - Stratton Terrace, Falmouth
