Brand-Focused Lifestyle Photography at the UWS Ayr Campus by Simpson Commercial Photography

Capturing Authentic Student Life at UWS Ayr

A behind-the-scenes look at my prospectus photoshoot

As Simpson Commercial Photography, I’m often trusted with projects that require more than just technical skill—they require storytelling. My recent shoot for the University of the West of Scotland’s Ayr campus prospectus was exactly that kind of assignment. The goal wasn’t simply to document the campus but to capture the authentic student experience in a way that feels warm, real, and relatable.

To achieve this, I spent the day moving through various locations across the Ayr campus with a brilliant group of students who were generous with their time and energy. From modern study areas to scenic outdoor spots, the campus offered a range of vibrant backdrops that helped bring each moment to life.

Building Comfort for Natural, Genuine Images

My approach for this project centred around connection. Before picking up the camera, I made sure to spend time getting to know the students—chatting about their courses, their routines, and what they enjoy most about studying at UWS. This helped everyone relax, and it allowed me to capture them in a way that felt unforced and true to their experience.

Rather than staging rigid poses, I encouraged the students to engage with the spaces as they normally would: collaborating on projects, grabbing a coffee, studying, or simply hanging out. This organic method allowed me to document natural interactions and authentic expressions, resulting in images that feel inviting and deeply human.

Showcasing the Real Spirit of UWS

By the end of the shoot, I had created a collection of images that reflect not only the modern facilities of the Ayr campus but also the energy, diversity, and personality of its student community. These are the kinds of visuals that resonate with prospective students—pictures that help them imagine themselves as part of the UWS experience.

Working on this project was a pleasure, and I’m proud that Simpson Commercial Photography could help contribute to a prospectus that genuinely reflects the heart of the university.