Working as an industrial photographer is about far more than just turning up with a camera. From large-scale manufacturing plants to construction sites and refineries, every shoot requires rigorous planning, technical skill, and a keen awareness of how to operate safely within live environments.

With experience photographing for major contractors like Heidelberg Materials and Clark Contracts, I’ve developed a workflow that ensures each client receives imagery that is not only striking and purposeful - but delivered safely, efficiently, and professionally.

Here’s what it’s like working as an industrial photographer in Scotland, and how I help businesses across construction, manufacturing, and logistics tell their story through powerful, well-composed visuals.

Initial Consultation and Project Briefing

Every industrial photography project begins with a detailed conversation. Whether you’re capturing a new facility, documenting a project milestone, or updating brand visuals, understanding the “why” behind the shoot is essential.

What We Discuss

Your business goals: marketing, documentation, investor relations, safety training, or internal communications
The type of images you need: wide-scale facility shots, close-ups of manufacturing processes, drone views, or staff portraits
Access, timelines, and any restrictions on the site
Key visual elements you want highlighted

This stage allows me to prepare a precise shot list and visual brief tailored to your site, timeline, and audience.

Pre-Shoot Planning and Safety Protocols

Unlike studio shoots, industrial environments demand serious preparation. Every site is different, and my approach reflects that.

What This Includes

Liaising with your site manager to understand operational hours and safety procedures, this generally involves a RAMs and permit to work.
Reviewing site maps, lighting conditions, and weather forecasts if drone photography is involved
Preparing safety gear (PPE, high-vis, steel-toe boots, helmet, etc.)
Arranging permits or pre-shoot site visits where required

By the time I arrive on-site, I’ve planned for every detail. That means no surprises, no unnecessary disruption to your team—and no corners cut.

Working On-Site: Capturing Industry in Action

Industrial photography is fast-paced. The environment is constantly moving, and light is rarely perfect. This is where experience and timing matter.

My Focus On-Site

Observing operations before photographing, ensuring I’m non-disruptive
Using available light to shape the scene, while deploying artificial lighting where necessary
Shooting from ground level and elevated positions to show context and scale
Capturing the human side of the story - your team in action, tools in hand, processes in motion
Drone photography for aerial overviews, subject to weather and flight permissions

All of this is done with respect for the flow of work on-site. My goal is to add value to your business, not interrupt it.

Post-Production and Delivery

Once the shoot is complete, the editing process begins. I work to a defined editing style that preserves realism while enhancing clarity, structure, and texture.

What You Receive

A curated and retouched set of high-resolution images, ready for web, print, and presentations
Variants for landscape and portrait format to suit different uses
Optional short-form video clips if requested for social or internal training
Secure cloud delivery and archived backup for peace of mind

Clients regularly use these images for case studies, press features, social campaigns, tender bids, and investor decks.

Why Choose a Specialist Industrial Photographer?

As an industrial photographer in the UK, I bring not just technical skill, but an understanding of how to operate safely and professionally across active sites. I’m fully insured, drone licensed, and experienced working with construction firms, engineering companies, and manufacturers across Scotland.

From day one, you’ll know what to expect. There’s no guesswork, just clear communication, strong visuals, and reliable service.

About me

I’m Alexander Thomas, an industrial photographer based in the UK. My work combines technical expertise with a clear understanding of how to operate safely and professionally on active sites. Fully insured and drone licensed, I have experience working with construction firms, engineering companies, and manufacturers across Scotland.

From the outset, you can expect straightforward communication, strong imagery, and a dependable service that delivers. Get in touch today to discuss your project and see how I can support your business.

Working as an Industrial Photographer in Scotland