Essence of Exmoor is a visual exploration through Exmoor, one of the United Kingdom’s (UK) most unique but often overlooked landscapes, presented as both a photographic portfolio and a book.

Moorlands are often portrayed in visual culture as barren, eerie spaces, frequently associated with isolation and lifelessness. This project first introduces imagery depicting Exmoor’s moorlands as vast, lifeless expanses, eluding to the misconception that the moors are both bleak and boundless. The series then continues to challenge this stereotypical portrayal of moorlands, instead unveiling a more complex and vibrant reality within these landscapes.

Exmoor’s landscape is characterised by open moorlands and rich woodlands, each with their own ecological value. Traditional land management, including the grazing of Exmoor ponies, sheep, and cattle, helps maintain the moorlands and prevents them from naturally returning to woodland. While woodlands are essential habitats, moorlands support unique species, such as heather, that cannot be found elsewhere. This project emphasises that these two ecosystems are not in conflict but instead complement one another. Together, these habitats coexist in a delicate balance, working to create a varied and biodiverse landscape.

Exmoor's moorlands are a crucial habitat for diverse wildlife, including the UK’s largest land mammal, the Red Deer. With their acute hearing and shy nature, these cautious animals may quickly run from potential danger, their rusty red-brown coats providing perfect camouflage and making them some of Exmoor’s most elusive wildlife. These moorlands also support a variety of bird species, from small birds such as Stonechats and Skylarks, to larger birds of prey such as Buzzards and Barn Owls. Their presence can be seen throughout the moors, evidenced by the beautiful feathers which come to rest amongst the shrubs, as well as interesting pellets containing bones and hair from the prey they have successfully caught. The project deliberately excludes human presence, allowing the natural landscape and the richness of wildlife to come to the forefront of this creative series.

The project also addresses the increasing threat of wildfires and explores how swaling (the controlled burning of vegetation), is used to manage its growth, further reduce fire risk, and support the vast biodiversity this environments offers. By raising awareness of these practices and the vulnerability of the habitat, this work aims to encourages a deeper sense of care and urgency, to protect Exmoor’s wonderful landscape and wildlife.