It's What's Underneath That Counts 02: Tommy Clarke

Introducing the second of our interview series: It’s What’s Underneath that Counts. Getting under the skin of some of our customers and friends to find out what they do, what makes them tick and how they got to where they are today.

First up, photographer Mr Tommy Clarke – who spends his time hanging out of helicopters in the name of art. He had his first solo exhibition back in 2014 and now has a permanent gallery in London. We sat down with him to find out more.

Talk us through exactly what you do?

Well, I hang out of planes and helicopters around the world photographing the most incredible landscapes, which I then exhibit at my gallery in London and sell as fine art.

How did you get here? Did you study photography or are you self-taught?

I am self-taught, and am really pleased I am. I've made so many technical mistakes along the way but I think that's helped me to carve out a signature style, which sets me apart from other photographers.

Image credits: Tommyclarke.co.uk / Instagram: tommy.clarke

What's been your most challenging series to date?

In both Iceland and Shark Bay I was hammered by strong winds. I was grounded for days on end, which proved pretty costly! But my patience paid off and when I did get to fly over those areas it was magical.

You've just launched the Tulip Series, which felt quite different to some of your other projects - what's next in the pipeline?

Next, I am going to colder climates and looking to shoot ski slopes around the world, more similar to my beach work than my abstract salt ponds. There's is also a big series being shot on Polaroid too, but that's a secret currently!

Your job is pretty physical - what do you do to relax after you're back from a shoot?

I love cooking, so most likely I'll get in the kitchen and do my best to cook up a feast for me and my friends. Aside from that I'm a huge movie geek so will happily spend the evenings watching some classics

What does downtime look like for you?

As a photographer, I've found you don't really get to fully relax. So, for me, down time doesn't come on weekend specifically, but if I get the chance I'm straight out of London and to the coast for some surfing and fishing.

Tommy Wears:

You must spend a lot of time travelling to shoot locations - what does your travel wardrobe look like? Have you got it down to a fine art? 

Usually I have to be prepared for all weather, especially in places like Iceland, so there's always a Belstaff jacket on hand, some Acne Studios jeans and, if it's cold, a North Face jacket too!

Talk us through your Hamilton and Hare favourites?

The travel suit what I go for. I travel a lot so comfort is key, but also travelling in style is always a bonus :)

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