Hamish ROots

Best known for my rowing photography, I have spent over 20 years capturing life on and around the water — from the calm to the chaos. As a rower, I bring a unique understanding and perspective that help shape the images I create.

I’m passionate about creating images that feel true to each subject and moment. I don’t rely on heavy editing, preferring to use in-camera techniques to achieve the look I want — focusing on strong composition, atmosphere, and detail to create images that resonate. I love exploring different approaches to capture something in an original way.

While rowing is a big part of what I do, my work often takes me well beyond the tranquility of rivers and lakes, shooting everything from landscapes and travel to commercial and portrait work.

I welcome the challenge of working in unfamiliar, and occasionally hazardous, situations — shooting from the top of 60-foot yacht masts, hanging from open helicopter doors, even navigating hippo-infested waters in Africa to get the shots. I am committed to creating memorable photographs while maintaining my attention to detail.

Commercially, I’ve been lucky to work with a diverse range of amazing clients — from global brands to small independents — all looking for standout photography to tell their story. I’m always excited by the opportunity to take on new creative challenges. To see more of my commercial work please visit hamishroots.co.uk

When I’m not working with clients, I spend as much time as I can outdoors, exploring and photographing natural landscapes as long-term personal projects. My work has been displayed in numerous galleries and is available as fine art prints in a variety of finishes.

I’m rarely without my camera unless I’m out rowing, mountain biking, sailing, or chasing after the dog who won’t sit still long enough for me to set up my tripod…!

Photographer Hamish Roots hanging out of a helicopter creating aerial photographs for a commission by Henley Royal Regatta
Photographer Hamish Roots using a specialist telephoto lens to capture his subjects in detail.
Photographer and rower, Hamish Roots rows down the trecherous Zambezi River, Zambia.