Perspectives: Tom Oldham’s London
From Shoreditch to São Paulo, from backstage green rooms to a studio washed in soft daylight, portrait photographer Tom Oldham has built a career on capturing people as they are. The laugh before the pose, the calm after it. A Sony Ambassador and award-winning portrait photographer, he’s travelled the world, but London remains both his base and his balance.
“Work is hectic,” Tom says. “And sure, a little bit of luxury helps, in whatever form it takes. Relaxation, inspiration, a fresh environment, or just time spent looking at other stuff.”
Here, he shares the places that bring him back to centre, a mix of small pleasures, old favourites, and dependable resets in the city he calls home.
The Palm Tree, Bow
A proper East End institution that’s barely changed in decades. “On a Wednesday night the Jazz Physicians might play Angela, the theme from Taxi. It’s magic. Real London.” Lowkey lighting, red velvet, pints that taste all the better for the space you’re in, a reminder of why tradition still matters.
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The National Gallery
When he needs to clear his head, Tom goes to the source. “When I need a reminder about light, I go to the National Gallery,” he says. “Chiaroscuro treasure everywhere — every visit’s a masterclass.” Caravaggio, Rembrandt, and that eternal lesson in contrast that shapes every good photograph.
nationalgallery.org.uk
Dishoom
Some things don’t need overthinking. “I took my PR team out for lunch at Dishoom and rolled a six — easily my food highlight of the year,” he laughs. Warm, generous, loud in the best way — proof that comfort and consistency beat fine dining most days.
dishoom.com
Photo London at Somerset House
Each spring, when Photo London returns to Somerset House, the city fills with the people who make it tick. “It comes straight after the Sony World Photography Awards — both are unmissable,” says Tom. “That’s when the industry really feels alive.” It’s his reset button before another year of shoots and travel.
somersethouse.org.uk/whats-on/photo-london-2025
worldphoto.org/sony-world-photography-awards
Lahore Kebab House, Umberston Street
When deadlines stack up, it’s straight to Lahore for a fish curry. “Perfect for years — consistent, no fuss, just proper food.” No reservations, no drama. Just heat, spice and the comfort of something that never lets you down.
instagram.com/originallahorekebabhouse
London on a Lime
Despite the travel, Tom still finds the best of the city on two wheels. “London’s ever-expanding, constantly flexing its vibrancy,” he says. “I love it best from the river or aboard a Lime — the fastest way from East to West - Embankment, Big Ben, Horse Guards, Birdcage Walk, Hyde Park. Utter magic.” Sometimes the simplest route gives you the clearest view.
instagram.com/lime
West Reservoir
And when all else fails: “A swim at West Reservoir will definitely sort you out,” he grins. Cold water, open air, the sky above — a quick shock that resets everything before the next shoot.
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Tom Oldham - Sony Ambassador and London-based portrait photographer capturing the faces that shape culture — from musicians to athletes, artists to dreamers.
Tom’s photo - George Bailey