Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance

There are some assignments that go beyond the brief. This was one of them.

Recently, I had the privilege of visiting the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance to support their team with a bank of new promotional photography. 

From the moment I arrived at the airbase, it was clear just how much professionalism, precision, and care underpin everything they do. I was kindly hosted by Jemma Gillard (Social Media and Digital Engagement Officer) and Laura Hector (Digital Communications), who provided a brilliant insight into the charity’s work, its challenges, and the importance of strong visual storytelling in helping them connect with their audience.

With operational costs of around £10 million per year and no direct government support, the charity relies almost entirely on public support and fundraising to keep the service running. In that context, imagery isn’t just a “nice to have”—it’s a critical tool. The right photograph can communicate urgency, trust, and impact in a way that words alone often can’t.

From fewer than 1,000 callouts a decade ago to nearly 3,000 today, demand for the service has grown dramatically. Days are unpredictable; when I visited, there had been just one call out, yet the team can have days where they’re visiting 8 incidents during their 0700-0200 operating hours (365 days per year). 

For 19 hours every day, the team are effectively bringing the hospital to the patient—wherever that patient may be in Dorset or Somerset (and beyond if required). 

Behind every deployment is a rotating team of over 50 highly skilled clinicians and aviation specialists, capable of reaching any location across the two counties in under 20 minutes, with each mission costing around £3,500. 

My objective throughout the day was clear: to capture the team in a way that reflects not just what they do, but how they make people feel. Professionalism, warmth, reassurance, and expertise were the guiding principles behind every frame. 

Whether photographing pilots preparing for their next deployment, or capturing the calm focus of critical care practitioners and doctors, I wanted each image to tell a story of confidence and compassion under pressure.

Spending time with the crew was a humbling experience. These are individuals operating at the

very highest level, often in high-stakes, time-critical situations—yet there’s a grounded, human side to the team that’s just as important to convey. 

That balance became a key theme in the work: showcasing world-class capability alongside genuine care. If I achieved this through my work, it’s thanks to their warm characters and highly personable team ethic that was constantly evident. 

The resulting images will be used across the charity’s website, social media channels, and print materials—helping them to continue raising awareness, engaging supporters, and ultimately generating the funding needed to keep their lifesaving service operational.

For me, this project was a powerful reminder of the role photography can play beyond commercial outcomes. At its best, it can support causes that matter, amplify important messages, and help organisations like Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance continue doing extraordinary work.

Providing my services free of charge is part of my ongoing commitment to charity and community projects. I enjoy giving back to good causes and this shoot is one I’m proud to have been invited to support. Reading Patient Stoires puts in perspective how precious life is and the importance of supporting charities like DSAA. 

“Ollie was incredibly professional and easy to work with, going above and beyond to capture the right images for us. For a charity like ours, strong imagery is essential in communicating the impact of our life-saving work and helping us connect with our supporters.”

Jemma Gillard, Social Media and Communications Manager