Guest Blog: A Day in the Life of a Photographer

Featuring ‘The Galion’ by Le Chameau

Long live the humble deck shoe, a true staple in every good country wardrobe. These shoes are built to be workhorses- to see you not just through every voyage, but every day.

The key is finding the right shoe for you. Many different companies have their own interpretation. Brands such as Timberland, Fairfax and Favor and Chatham are high up in the boat shoe stake, but enter Le Chameau with their take, The Galion.

For most, Le Chameau is synonymous with exceptionally good Wellington boots. Favoured by not just a large section of the country set, but also the Princes and Princess of Wales, they are known for making a welly that lasts whatever is thrown at it.

I decided to put them to the test and see how well they fared on a road trip photoshoot. With at least 10 hours of driving to complete and then a seaside photoshoot, this would surely put the Galions through their paces.

First up, the drive. As far as driving shoes go, they were very comfortable. Unlike some other shoes, there was no concern about them being ruined with the motions of driving, and my feet didn’t feel tired in any way either.

The fit was such that they didn’t move around on the foot or feel insecure. All in all, that’s the first box ticked from me.

When I finally arrived in Eastbourne, it was then time for the shoot. Bearing in mind, I’d only worn the shoes for driving at this point, I then went for a fairly long walk in the shoes, on multiple terrains. They were comfortable straight away, and believe it or not, I had no blisters and there was no need to wear them in properly. They handled the pebbly beach with no problems, and again, my feet felt supported and not in the least bit tired.

Now put me in front of the sea, and I just have to be in it. Although I didn’t go for a full-on swim this time, I did test out how the Galions coped with salt water. The good news is that my feet didn’t get wet, and again, the shoes weren’t the worse for wear from their brush with the sea.

Now from a fashion point of view, I was in trousers for the shoot but later changed into a dress. Their versatility knows no bounds, and worked exceptionally well with both outfits, making them a true wardrobe staple. The colour that I went for is such a classic shade, and again, goes with simply everything. However, I’m also looking forward to seeing them age, and develop the patina that comes with well-loved leather.

Since, taking these shoes with me for a day in the life of a photographer, I’ve worn them countless times and intend to take them on many other shoots, not to mention my holiday too. The quality and comfort match that of the Wellington boots, which makes them a truly useful pair of shoes to have in your arsenal.

They saw me back home on a very long 7hr trip ending with a much-needed pub dinner! I’m sure these shoes will take you everywhere too.