PHD Student, writer, photographer and documentary producer, Marie Gardner joins me this week. After completing a degree in Film and Media at Sunderland University, Marie worked in the media industry before co-founding Lonely Tower Film & Media with her partner.

Marie is the author of three history books—Sunderland Industrial Giant (2017), Secret Sunderland (2019), and Celebrating Sunderland (2023)—and has also written widely on the visual practices of photography and video. Her creative journey has always been grounded in storytelling, whether through the written word, film, or still images.

In this conversation, Marie reflects on her lifelong fascination with photography, tracing its roots back to her first cameras and the pivotal role of the Nikon D90 in refining her craft. She discusses how landscapes such as the North Pennines and the rugged Sunderland coast have shaped her visual style, while also emphasizing the importance of respecting and conserving these natural environments. Beyond the artistic side, Marie speaks candidly about the realities of running a creative business, balancing commercial demands with personal projects.

At the heart of her work lies a desire to connect—whether with history, people, or the land itself—through imagery that informs, inspires, and preserves memory.

I hope you enjoy the show!

You can find Marie’s work here:

Website: https://www.mariegardiner.co.uk/

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/mariegardiner.bsky.social

Instagram: https://bsky.app/profile/mariegardiner.bsky.social

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mariegardinerwriter/

Listen to this and other episodes wherever you find your podcasts or on https://grantswinbournephotography.com/lpw-podcast

Or subscribe to my YouTube channel https://youtube.com/@grantswinbournephotography

Theme music: Liturgy Of The Street by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com

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