Approach
Alister begins by immersing himself in the designer's vision through drawings, mood boards and material specifications.
This ensures he's capturing the elements that matter most to the designer: the design thinking and the signature details that make the project distinctive.
Every garden will present unique challenges to a photographer. Alister addresses these systematically, assessing planting condition and timing, planning for early and late light, and identifying other variables, to create the foundation for a smooth and successful shoot.
By nature, a garden is in constant flow, the changing atmosphere part of its personality. Rather than compromise, Alister waits for optimal conditions, using composure and discernment to ensure gardens are photographed at their peak, and the designer's vision is fully realised.
"It’s all about atmosphere: the intangible feeling that brings a garden to life and ignites the senses. Great designers create it, weather and season influence it, plants enhance it, and I go out of my way to capture it."
Alister manages the process outlined below from start to finish, with clear communication and collaboration between the designer and their client.
