IT'S THE WEEK OF THE PHOTOGRAPHER: May we introduce SOURCE Database Member GREEN LENS STUDIOS

[Ethical Fashion Forum]

Through a Green Lens, sustainably...

by Ben Verghese, Patron of Green Lens Studios 

  How do you build a dynamic creative business that makes minimal negative impact on the environment? It’s not easy. However, Green Lens Studios (CLICK HERE to see their SOURCE Database Profile) have been finding ways to do so since its conception, leading the way for others as the UK’s first sustainable photography studios. Situated near Green Lanes, in Haringey, North London, Green Lens Studios (GLS), now a thriving ‘green’ photography hub, was previously a derelict garage, having begun its life in the late 19^th century as a stable. It had seen better days. That is, until Marianne Berglund and Evgeniy Kazannik (GLS’ founders and Directors) shared the vision, expertise and perseverance to transform the neglected but interesting building into an unusual creative hub, offering services that maximise energy efficiency alongside artistic ambition. 

The environmental mantra of reduce, reuse, recycle has had a practical application throughout the development and ongoing existence of GLS. From the conversion process to its day-to-day running as a photographic studio, rigorous attention has been given to insulation, choice of materials, waste management, and the monitoring of energy and water usage. 

A broad scope of commercial photography services are available, with Green Lens producing portfolios, lookbooks, editorials, portraits, product shots, and catalogues for a range of clients.

  Actively addressing the issues of studio lighting and printing - those core areas of photography with the greatest environmental impact - GLS have developed ways of making conventional methods greener.  This practice is also shared with clients, allowing them the opportunity to further explore energy-efficient and sustainable methods in their own daily routine.  

  Since its official public opening in Spring 2010, GLS has hosted numerous exhibitions, providing gallery space to animators, illustrators, photographers, sculptors, and writers who regularly showcase their work in this versatile venue. 

  In addition to functioning as a studio and gallery, Green Lens has served as a base for expert-led practical workshops that further promote its directors’ environmental ethos. The site has hosted guest workshops on building your own bike, generating electricity using pedal power, and ‘greening’ your home. 

  Recognising the need to reach and collaborate with peers who share their principles, GLS have forged strong links with an ever-widening array of artists, activists, and media professionals, and organisations such as Ethical Fashion Forum, Sustainable Haringey and Transition Towns, not to mention the leading sustainable designers and brands, including ChiChia Made4Africa, Caipora, Izzy Lane and Lu Flux.

  Taking their vision to wider communities, GLS have a staunch belief in “public engagement”. This has led Marianne and Evgeniy to organise sculpture and wildlife photography workshops with Art in the Park, giving technical expertise and experience to assist children in honing their creativity. They have also curated a programme of short films for the East End Film Festival and regularly organise bike rides to draw attention to London’s parks and areas of natural beauty. 

  In a city with scores of photographic studios, GLS are pioneering a change within the industry; presenting an alternative option for creatives who want to embed sustainable environmental practices within their daily work routine. 

 

If you'd like to learn more about Green Lens Studios and the fantastic work they do, visit them HERE.

To check out Green Lens Studio's listing on our SOURCE Brand Directory, CLICK HERE. 

 

If you would like to learn more about how to get listed on one of our Databases, for example the Brand Directory, please CLICK HERE. We can offer you and your business promotional support and exclusive access to our resources and knowledge of the sustainable fashion industry. The SOURCE & SOURCE Plus are personal services, tailored to your business and needs. 

 

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