One of the most exciting photography experiences I’ve had so far was working behind the scenes on a film set with FilmBuddy and Lee D Barnes.
The project was called Gandr, and it gave me the chance to capture something completely different from my usual work. Instead of cars, portraits, or everyday scenes, I was photographing vikings acting out an epic sword battle.
Photographing the action
Being on set was a proper learning experience. There was movement everywhere: actors clashing swords, dramatic costumes, intense expressions, and the challenge of catching moments that looked powerful without interrupting the filming.
One funny part was that even though the battle looked intense, nobody was actually getting wounded. That made it even more interesting from a photography point of view, because I had to capture the energy, danger and drama of the scene while knowing it was all carefully performed and controlled.
Working behind the scenes
Behind the scenes photography is different from a normal shoot. You’re not directing everything yourself. You’re watching, waiting, and reacting. The goal is to document the atmosphere of the production while staying out of the way of the cast and crew.
I really enjoyed that side of it. It made me think more about timing, storytelling, and how a single image can show what it felt like to be there.
Watch Gandr
If you want to watch it, Gandr is out now. You can find it on Lee D Barnes’ website here:
Watch Gandr on Lee D Barnes’ website
Thinking about what comes next
This shoot made me think more seriously about where I want to take my photography next. I still love capturing still images, but being around a film set opened my eyes to how much storytelling happens through movement, sound, and atmosphere.
That has made me interested in exploring videography as well. I’m not saying I’m moving away from photography, but I’m definitely curious about learning how to capture scenes in a more cinematic way.
For now, this experience has pushed me to keep experimenting, keep learning, and look for more projects where photography and film cross over.