Frequently Asked Questions

What Does Cairn Visuals do?

Cairn Visuals Limited is a a not for profit company registered in Scotland. It provides commercial photography services to corporate clients to help them tell their brand story. Profits are re invested to provide the same type of storytelling photography to charities, social enterprises and community groups at reduced or even no cost. Criteria for zero cost options are open to discussion so please contact us for more information.

Why is Cairn Visuals not for profit?

There is a clear message from many corporate clients and local councils that they have a desire to purchase both locally and socially. It can be frustrating that social budgets often do not provide a tangible return for the company. It is not uncommon to purchase goods or services simply for the sake of hitting a performance indicator. While the spend undoubtedly benefits the vendor and the causes they support, there is often little value for the purchaser.

Our aim is to provide real value for all concerned through quality images and activities that promote shareable content for everyone.

How does the community benefit?

Experience has shown that charities and community based services can sometimes struggle to reach their target audience. Similarly people are often unaware of what is literally on their doorstep that may be of interest and real benefit to them. This is nothing new, many businesses struggle with marketing and reaching their ideal customers.

Advertising budgets are always tight. Sometimes campaigns can be a little too slick to the point that people don’t relate to what is on offer. At Cairn Visuals the emphasis for charities and community groups is on participation to produce images that are relevant and relatable. Through workshops and courses we help participants improve their confidence, photography skills and storytelling abilities.

How can funders and recipients of grants compile better reports?

Fund administrators have a responsibility to show how the money has been allocated and spent. This is true for major providers such as government bodies and the National Lottery as much as it is for small, private trusts.

Likewise groups or individuals who receive grant money have a responsibility to show that they have spent it well and that people have actually benefitted. One set of photographs, especially if they span the life of the project, can satisfy both. It is often both possible and desirable to include photography services as part of the budget. Choosing Cairn Visuals means that as the funds remain in the community rather than going to private profit. We have the knowledge and experience to show stakeholders and potential beneficiaries the whole story. There are important parts of the story that are frequently missed, usually because reporting is an afterthought and groups are fully engaged in providing a service rather than capturing the story as it unfolds.

It is clearly impossible for any single photographer to be there all of the time. Our approach is to encourage in the moment, mindful capture of important moments as they unfold by the people who are there. This may sound contradictory but combining two approaches provides a much more complete story.

Completeness means a stronger story and deeper impact, let’s talk about what you need.