Food, Drink & Hospitality Photography Stories from Sequoia Studios

The Fifth Element

Behind the Lens of Food and Drink Photography

Welcome to The Fifth Element, our blog celebrating professional food, drink and hospitality photography throughout Surrey, Hampshire, West Sussex, across the UK and abroad.

Here we explore the essential elements of cooking — fire, water, air and earth — and the fifth element that brings them all together: love.

Expect behind-the-scenes stories, client features, creative insights and the passion that turns every image into a story worth sharing

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Rise of AI Imagery
food, venue, drink Marlon Bunday food, venue, drink Marlon Bunday

Rise of AI Imagery

…vs Genuine Food Photography
There can be no substitute
Despite the rise of AI-generated imagery, nothing compares to the authenticity, atmosphere and tactile appeal of professional stills photography

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Powered by Steam, Heart and History
event, venue Marlon Bunday event, venue Marlon Bunday

Powered by Steam, Heart and History

Heritage Steam & Community Atmosphere
Two unique projects at Hollycombe Steam in the Country.
From the energy of the Mega Model Weekend to the craftsmanship inside the restored Liphook Signal Box, this commission brings together event photography, heritage storytelling and the charm of a much-loved local attraction.

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The Dilli – Restaurant Photography in Haslemere
food, venue, restaurant, hospitality Marlon Bunday food, venue, restaurant, hospitality Marlon Bunday

The Dilli – Restaurant Photography in Haslemere

Fine Indian Cuisine and Warm Hospitality
From a chance encounter in Haslemere to a beautifully crafted visual story.
We helped The Dilli launch with interior and exterior photography, documented their opening celebration and returned to capture a refined collection of Indian desserts. A warm, community-focused story told through imagery from day one.

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Ibis Hotels, Belfast
venue, food, drink Marlon Bunday venue, food, drink Marlon Bunday

Ibis Hotels, Belfast

Inside the Ibis Hotels Belfast Photography Commission
A behind-the-scenes look at our three-day photo shoot across two Ibis Hotels in Belfast, captured the weekend before the Covid lockdown. This narrative explores the challenges, atmosphere and imagery created to showcase interiors, guest rooms and social spaces.

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