Insider Guides
The Insider Guides series, featured in the Compendia Guide to Norwich and Norfolk, connects readers and viewers with local creators and their favorite independent businesses. The first series was illustrated by Zoë Barker and aims to expand globally, with a focus on combining storytelling, visual content, and local recommendations.
-
With so many cities overflowing with hidden gems and local businesses, newcomers and visitors often miss out on experiencing the authentic culture of a place. The challenge was to create a guide that offered both a personal and trusted way to discover the best spots in the city, through the eyes of local influencers and creators. The aim was to spotlight these businesses while creating opportunities for future brand collaborations.
-
I conceptualised the Insider Guides series and identified an opportunity to work with relevant brands to highlight emerging local businesses and creators. I led the project from start to finish, shooting the photography and videos, while also partnering with Handsome Frank Illustrator Zoë Barker, who illustrated the images I captured of the chosen insiders. My role included the creative direction, content creation, and developing a strategy for future brand collaborations.
-
The first edition of the Insider Guides was featured in the Compendia Guide to Norwich and Norfolk, and we collaborated with influential locals to provide recommendations for their favorite spots. To elevate the experience, I worked with Zoë Barker, who illustrated the photos, giving the guide a distinct, artful touch.
As part of expanding the concept globally, we recently kicked off our series in Margate by featuring Studio Lenca, a rising artist, who offered a behind-the-scenes look at his studio and shared his go-to spots in the town. The content was presented through video, creating an immersive, multi-platform experience that’s perfect for brand collaborations.
-
The Insider Guides series was well-received, helping to showcase emerging artists and highlight small independent businesses in a way that felt authentic and personal. The success of the Margate feature demonstrated that there is significant potential for the series to expand into other cities globally, allowing us to spotlight unique creators and offer viewers curated experiences through engaging storytelling.
The series has opened up opportunities for brand collaborations, with companies looking to connect with culturally relevant local businesses and audiences through our platform. This concept not only brings value to emerging artists and small businesses but also offers strategic partnerships with brands looking for genuine, impactful engagement.
-
Client: Compendia
Project: Insider Guides (Norwich and Norfolk)
Collaborators: Illustrator Zoë Barker
Photography & Video: Sam Harrons
Featured Artists: Studio Lenca (Margate)
As part of expanding the concept globally, we recently kicked off our series in Margate by featuring Studio Lenca, a rising artist, who offered a behind-the-scenes look at his studio and shared his go-to spots in the city.
Studio Lenca: Margate
