Pioneers: Taran Wilkhu

What does your work involve? 

I am a lifestyle photographer specialising in interiors, architecture and portraits.

My work often explores the interaction between people and space in the built environment. I have been fortunate enough to have exhibited my work globally, as well as having been featured in world-leading publications, including Architectural Digest, Vogue Living, ELLE Decoration and Architects’ Journal.

In addition, I have launched three books to date: Walters Way and Segal Close, An Opinionated Guide to London Architecture and The Sustainable City.

This year has been great so far. A couple of highlights include being commissioned by The British Council to document the UK curatorial team at the Venice Architecture Biennale, as well as being asked to join the esteemed panel of judges at the Dezeen Awards 2023.

What inspires you?

It’s difficult for me to name a single inspiration, as my path to photography has been unconventional to say the least, having made several career pivots in a wide range of industries. What I would say is that I have met a myriad of key people who have helped me achieve my pivots and that includes my family, who have always supported me along the way.

I love to stay motivated and inspired, I love to find new ways to navigate how and who I work with. What is clear right now is that I get to be the person I want to be, both personally and creatively.

What message would you give to the next generation? 

Stay positive, be brave, find your tribe and surround yourself with good people. Learn to listen, connect and collaborate, but most importantly don’t be afraid to make mistakes, as failure is not what defines us. It is how we respond to it that shapes us as individuals, so learning how to fail is actually learning how to succeed better.