An observational documentary that delves into the vibrant world of Scottish skateboarding through the lens of Kerr Melville, a local skateboard photographer. Set against the backdrop of gritty urban environments, this documentary weaves together the artistry of photography, the spirit of skateboarding, and the power of community.
Valley Boy is a celebration of resilience and determination, shining a spotlight on the unique individuals who make up the Scottish skateboarding community. Through their stories, we discover how skateboarding is more than just a sport; it's a catalyst for friendship, self-expression, and positive change.
Kerr, alongside a diverse cast of skateboarders including Tom Shimmin, Dean Mackie, Danny Aubrey, Ben Leyden, Lara Janiurek, Lynsay Holmes, Romany Rae, Rudi & Mac, and Charlie Myatt, takes us on a journey that transcends the world of tricks and grinds.
This documentary is an ode to inclusiveness, showcasing how the Scottish skate scene welcomes and embraces individuals from all walks of life.
Whether you're an avid skateboarder, a photography enthusiast, or someone interested in the broader themes of community, Valley Boy promises an informative and heart warming experience. Join us as we uncover the untold stories of the people who make the Scottish skate scene truly exceptional.
I met Sarah Eve whilst she was modelling for the Edinburgh based photographer Mairi Wilson.
We were creating a film to promote Mairi’s photography and as Sarah loved the resulting film, we agreed to collaborate on our own project to showcase her modelling.
We ended up shooting on a gloomy summers day in and around Edinburgh which suited the aesthetic I had in mind quite well. We found ourselves hiding in alleys to avoid the drizzle in the morning, but as the day brightened up we ventured out to the Hermitage of Braid and then Portobello Beach to vary our scenes.
The original concept was high fashion which I combined with a tonne of filtration and a Helios lens to create an ethereal dreamy look on my FX6.
Paying respects to Ian Curtis, the late singer of the 1970's post-punk group Joy Division.
Macclesfield Cemetery & 77 Barton Street, Macclesfield England.
Trailer for Guy Thomson’s upcoming debut feature documentary for release in 2024.
"Valley Boy" is an observational documentary that delves into the vibrant world of Scottish skateboarding through the lens of Kerr Melville, a local skateboard photographer. Set against the backdrop of gritty urban environments, this documentary weaves together the artistry of photography, the spirit of skateboarding, and the power of community.
"Valley Boy" is a celebration of resilience and determination, shining a spotlight on the unique individuals who make up the Scottish skateboarding community. Through their stories, we discover how skateboarding is more than just a sport; it's a catalyst for friendship, self-expression, and positive change.
Kerr, alongside a diverse cast of skateboarders including Dean Mackie, Danny Aubrey, Ben Leyden, Romany Rae, Rudi & Mac, Charlie Myatt, and Tom Shimmin, takes us on a journey that transcends the world of tricks and grinds.
This documentary is an ode to inclusiveness, showcasing how the Scottish skate scene welcomes and embraces individuals from all walks of life.
Whether you're an avid skateboarder, a photography enthusiast, or someone interested in the broader themes of community, "Valley Boy" promises an informative and heartwarming experience. Join us as we uncover the untold stories of the people who make the Scottish skate scene truly exceptional.
The wedding of Matthew & Eleni Sweeney, shot on location in Kouklia Cyprus, June 2023.
Extended Highlights cut.
New York.
The city where creatives flock seeking, inspiration, expression, entertainment, reflection, or to simply to be amongst like-minded souls.
Iconic in its appearance and timeless aesthetic, the ultimate bucket list location for photographers, filmmakers, designers, models, architects, foodies… I could go on.
This would be my third visit to New York City but my first creative endeavour.
I approached Finnish singer-songwriter Iris Koko to collaborate on what I hoped would be mutually beneficial concept.
To my delight I was met with great enthusiasm.
I first met Iris in 2012 when she was a student studying in Glasgow. Now based in NYC, she has fashioned a successful career through her music and art.
To reconnect 10 years on, share our experiences, and produce a piece this work together was a rewarding experience for us both.
- Guy
An insight into the work of Finnish singer-songwriter and artist Iris Koko.
Shot on location in New York City, March 2023.
The wedding of Jehad & Nicole Hatu, shot at 10 Hotel in Glasgow Scotland, September 2022.
Extended Highlights cut.
A collaboration with Scottish photographer Mairi Wilson at The Hermitage of Braid in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Models - Sophie Sanders & Sarah Eve
Stylist - Kathalena Styling
An insight into the work of Edinburgh based artist, designer & yoga instructor Hazel Watson.
Mesart Hair Salon in Glasgow held a festive Christmas market welcoming independent retailers and small businesses from the local area.
Filmed over two days in Glasgow, Scotland during the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference.
Footage includes The Friday's For Future demonstration on November 5th, The Global Day Of Action For Climate Justice protest on November 6th, The For Cop's Sake charity auction & art exhibition at Route One and The New York Times Climate Hub at SWG3.
Excerpt taken from Greta Thunberg's speech to activists at George Square on November 5th 2021.
the83juice paints a mural at the Kingston DIY skatepark in Glasgow Scotland, October 2021.
Skateboarders at Riverside Museum in Glasgow Scotland, April 2021.
Glaswegians enjoying the snow brought by Storm Darcy February 2021.
A collaboration between The Gannet Restaurant in Glasgow, Scotland and Superb - the Danish POS company.
Experimental promo for ViVi’s Deli in Glasgow Scotland.
A promotional film for ViVi's Deli in Glasgow Scotland.
An observational view of the streets and parks in Glasgow, Scotland during the winter lockdown of 2021.
A Graffiti and street art festival held at SWG3 in Glasgow, Scotland May 2019
The Glasgow Guild converted part of their workshop into a showroom.
Guests were invited to come along and learn about furniture restoration, upholstery and curtain making working with the latest fabrics, wallpapers and rugs from Paris, Venice and Milan.
Protest against US President Donald Trump visiting the UK at George Square in Glasgow, Scotland July 2018.
The story behind the Beer Makes Glasgow craft beer Festival
The event came about with the collapse of the Great Scottish Beer Celebration run by Hippo Beers Ltd. They fell into liquidation taking with them a number of tickets already sold to the public.
The brewers and various people involved in the scene decided to take it upon themselves to attempt to rebrand and save the doomed festival under a new guise.
The new festival took place on the 25th & 26th of July 2017 at the Glasgow Art School and donated their ticket profits to the Drumchapel Foodbank with all previously sold tickets for the old festival remaining valid.
A tale of teamwork, determination, and passion, the story is told through the eyes of the people involved including:
Jake Griffin - Upfront Brewing
Conor McGeady - West End Beer Festival
Sam Corden - Drygate Brewing
Liz McGeady - Drumchapel Foodbank Manager
Ryan McGeady - Drumchapel Foodbank Coordinator
Jehad Hatu - Grunting Growler
Darren 'Loki' McGarvey - Author
Filmed, Directed & Edited by Guy Thomson