Seasons: A Taste Of Cowdray

Every now and then a project comes along that feels special from the very start. Seasons: A Taste of Cowdray was one of those. Shot on the Cowdray Estate in West Sussex, the cookbook is a celebration of the land, the kitchens and the people who bring seasonal food to life.

Cowdray is known for its history, rolling countryside and a commitment to sustainability. The estate has long been a hub for farming, foraging and good food, so it makes perfect sense that it now has a book dedicated to showcasing its seasonal produce and recipes.

I was fortunate enough to be commissioned to photograph the dishes for the book. It was a collaborative effort with an excellent team: food styling by Mandy Thompson, props styling by Tamsin Weston, and published by Vantage Media. Together we set out to create images that reflected the beauty and richness of Cowdray’s kitchens; rustic yet refined, grounded in the English countryside yet timeless in appeal.

From hearty autumnal pies to delicate spring greens, the shoot highlighted the rhythm of the seasons. We worked with natural light where possible, letting the food take centre stage, while the carefully chosen props and backgrounds echoed Cowdray’s heritage and landscape.

For me, this was more than just another cookbook commission. It was an opportunity to capture the story of a place through its food and to show how seasonality isn’t just about what’s on the plate, but about a way of living.

You can see a selection of the images I shot for Seasons: A Taste of Cowdray below

Green herb risotto with seared fish, garnished with herbs, on teal tablecloth.

Cheese frittata on rustic board with yellow napkin, ready to serve.

Rich beef and onion stew simmering in a pot, exuding warmth and comfort.

Homemade beef stew with vegetables in rustic enamel pot - comforting and flavourful.

Rustic kitchen scene with homemade pasta, meat filling, eggs, wine, on flour-dusted surface.

Freshly baked rustic apple cake on wooden table, ready to be served and enjoyed.

Golden-brown venison meat pie with savory filling on rustic kitchen counter.

Tempting homemade apple tart with vanilla ice cream on rustic plate.

Golden crust quiche with herb custard, knife, and salad on wooden board.

Homemade chicken pot pie assembly with creamy filling and green vegetables.

Hearty meat pie with golden crust, bones peeking out, served on wooden board.

Delicious homemade shepherds pie on rustic wood, inviting comfort and satisfaction.

Nutritious winter salad with sweet potatoes, kale, kidney beans, red onions, and pink dressing.

Rustic copper soup pot with ladle, filled with hearty ingredients, on textured cloth.

Delicious Indian curry with flatbread and salad on rustic black bowl.

Delicious caramel pudding desserts on plates with honey dipper and spoons in rustic setting.

Indulgent chocolate lava cake on rustic plate with molten centre and silver spoon.

Delicious Toad in the Hole: Sausages in Yorkshire Pudding, served in black skillet.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto with Parmesan, Herbs, and Seared Mushrooms.

Golden brown roasted sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and leeks on a rustic baking sheet.

Creamy bacon soup with crispy bacon bits on rustic wooden tabletop.

Antique spoons with vibrant relish and herb sauce, contrasting colours and textures.

Fresh and vibrant cherry tomatoes on rustic wooden background, evoking abundance and health.

Smoked Salmon with Dill, Lemon on Dark Plate - Fresh and Vibrant.

Spinach ricotta ravioli with creamy sauce, cheese, and red pepper flakes on wooden tray.

Fig, Cheese, Walnut Salad with Dressing - Elegant and Delicious Gourmet Dish.

Hearty meatball pasta with tomato sauce, cheese, and basil on rustic plate.

Fresh bruschetta with tomato, basil, and cheese on wooden board for appetizers.