Lucy Flatman is a UK based photographer and video producer focusing on NGO, travel and conservation imagery. Utilizing visual storytelling, she produces content in varying formats for organizations. Her clients have included WWF, National Trust, Devon Wildlife Trust and Wembury Marine Centre.

I grew up in rural Devon – that encouraged a strong connection with the surrounding natural environment and was something that, for me, only grew with travel. Since I began taking photographs I was always interested in the power of imagery; to educate, inspire, produce emotion and understanding. Now I aim to use photography and film to raise awareness of problems affecting our global environment, its wildlife and people, and to promote organizations that work to find solutions.

Have you travelled anywhere recently that you have particularly enjoyed?

I recently interned in Fiji, for a conservation organization. I was there for four months, based in the capital Suva and had the opportunity to travel a little. There is a lot more to Fiji than beaches and beautiful islands – although those are great too! There is a real cultural mix, especially in Suva.

I had the chance to stay in traditional villages, where they have a village elder and you bring a Sevusevu (greeting gift) that is used for a Kava ceremony. Fijian culture revolves around church and family, with food, singing and dancing in abundance. I'd advise anyone going there to step away from the resorts and spend some time with Fijian people and learn about the real Fiji.  

Top: Nature's classroom - children in Nepal. Above and below: Fiji. All © Lucy Flatman

What's your most challenging travel experience?

The most challenging recently was being locked out of a Riad in Marrakech from the inside out – somehow – in 43°C heat! Travel is always a little challenging, though, and I've definitely fallen victim to some of the least glamorous sides; from bed bugs to stomach bugs, to malaria and anti-malarials that gave me heart palpitations! But, I keep doing it so there must be something good out there!

Tell us about a place that is special to you.

A few years ago I travelled to Nepal and it's one of my favourite trips. The people are so welcoming, the scenery is stunning and it has really interesting wildlife. From the mountains of the Langtang Valley, to bustling Kathmandu and the national parks, Nepal has something for everyone and needs travellers to visit more than ever now. Nepal is also a great example of the generosity of people who have very little, something you see time and time again when travelling.

Which destination is top of your travel wish list?

There are so many! I'd love to go to Japan, see more of Italy and visit Bhutan. South America is probably top of my list currently though, in particular Argentina.

If you could go anywhere in the world, what would you buy to bring back home with you?

I'd love a way to transport the food back that you eat while abroad, but it's not really that practical to pack a fresh coconut or some Pad Thai – and things don't taste the same at home anyway! So probably, I'd bring home something locally made – and ethical if possible. I'm trying to be more selective and conscientious with what I buy, so something by a fair-trade initiative where you know people have good working conditions and are paid appropriately.

What's the most inspiring thing you have seen or experienced on your travels?

Whilst in Fiji I was lucky enough to have the chance to accompany a voyage that was raising awareness of climate change and that sailed across the Pacific. I joined the voyage for a leg of the journey, from Fiji to Vanuatu. I was onboard to document the journey, the crew and their hopes for change.

Pacific islands are some of the lowest lying in the world and on the frontline of climate change. The hope for the Mua Voyage was to raise awareness of issues facing Pacific islands and their communities. I've never sailed before and was part of the crew on a traditional Vaka (a sort of Catamaran). Some of the crew were young and quite shy and there were concerns that they wouldn't speak to me, let alone on film. Once onboard, friendships formed and they began to open up and discuss their concerns, resulting in some emotive and powerful interviews.

One woman in particular was amazing. Aunofo had left her young children in Tonga for months on end to venture on a potentially dangerous journey. She was so passionate about raising awareness of climate change that she was willing to make this personal sacrifice. She felt that she had to do something, which I found very inspiring. The trip was unforgettable, I was welcomed with open arms by the crew and missed them dearly after I left. At night we sang under the stars on the open ocean. It's a trip I will never forget.

Above: Nepal © Lucy Flatman

Besides clothes and a passport, if you could only take three items on your travels, what would they be?

Camera, insect repellant and a good book.

Do you have any tips for travelling responsibly?

Travel locally. I've been talking about very far flung places here, but one of my favourite recent trips was to Fowey near Cornwall. We stayed in a yurt, got really lucky with the weather and visited beaches that could have been on the Mediterranean. Cornwall is beautiful, as is lots of the UK – or places in your home country. We often overlook amazing local locations for something more tropical. Travel on public transport, eat local produce and buy local handicrafts are all good tips too.

See examples of Lucy's film and photography at www.lucyflatman.com.

Connect with her on facebook at www.facebook.com/LucyFlatmanPhotographyAndFilm and Instagram at www.instagram.com/lucyflatman