Case Study – Marshfield Primary School, Cardiff

Photography that supports communication, perception and trust

Marshfield Primary School worked with Owen Mathias to create a tailored collection of images that reflect the reality of school life — engaged learning, strong relationships, welcoming spaces and a clear sense of purpose.

Rather than relying on generic or outdated imagery, the brief was to produce professional photography that could be used consistently across the school’s website, prospectus, governors' reports and wider communications.

Why this matters

For schools, photography is often the first point of contact for parents, staff and stakeholders. With a background in education marketing, Owen understands how schools need to present themselves — clearly, confidently and authentically. Strong, purposeful imagery helps to:

• Create a positive and reassuring first impression

• Communicate values, ethos and professionalism

• Build trust with parents, governors and the wider community

• Reflect the quality of teaching, leadership and learning

The approach

Working sensitively within the school day, and informed by his experience in education marketing, Owen captured a broad range of imagery, including:

• The school buildings, facilities and surrounding environment

• Teaching and learning across year groups

• Classroom interaction and pupil engagement

• The culture and ethos that underpins daily life at Marshfield

• Professional headshots of staff, supporting a consistent and approachable visual identity

All pupil photography was taken with safeguarding as a priority, no identifiable faces (where required), minimal disruption to learning, while still conveying energy, curiosity and connection.

The result

Marshfield Primary School now has a cohesive library of high-quality images that can be used repeatedly across digital and print channels. Staff headshots support clearer communication and a more personal connection, while the wider photography helps the school present itself with confidence and clarity.

I’m absolutely delighted with the photos; they’ve really captured the spirit of the school and that buzz for learning.” Mrs Victoria Evans, Head of Marshfield Primary School

The impact

• A stronger, more professional visual presence

• Improved consistency across school communications

• Imagery that supports admissions, governance and reputation

• A clearer sense of the people, culture and values behind the school

This project shows how thoughtful, education-focused photography guided by an understanding of education marketing can strengthen perception, support strategic communication and give schools the visual tools they need to tell their story well.

Get in touch

If you’d like to see how professional photography can help showcase your school’s learning, staff and community, or create a versatile image library for your communications, visit Owen Mathias Education Photography or email hello@owenmathias.com to discuss your school’s needs.