@theplyguys
Scotland
November 2024
(A guest blog by @charleslambexplores)
Meet Charles Lamb
How Getting a Camper Changed My Life
Hi, I’m Charles—a freelance photographer and videographer from South Wales. My work takes me all over the UK, capturing everything from stunning wedding moments to polished corporate visuals and striking real estate images. Pair that with my deep love of the outdoors, and it’s easy to see why owning a camper van has always been a dream of mine. Let me share a little about my journey and how this dream turned into reality with The Ply Guys.
Mixing Work with Pleasure
Being a freelance photographer means that no two days are ever the same. One week I might be shooting a romantic cliffside wedding, and the next, I’m crafting promotional imagery for a corporate campaign in the city. While the variety keeps my job exciting, it also comes with its fair share of challenges—chief among them, constant travel.
I’ve always loved hiking and camping, so the idea of combining work with my passion for the outdoors felt like the perfect solution. I wanted the freedom to set up camp wherever I found myself after a long day’s shoot—whether that’s a remote beach, a tranquil forest, or somewhere deep in the mountains. Plus, let’s be honest, the savings on hotel bills are a game changer! With a camper, I could create my own mobile basecamp, blending work and pleasure seamlessly.
Living the Van Life
The dream of owning a camper isn’t a new one for me. Growing up in South Wales, I spent much of my childhood surfing and exploring the breathtaking Pembrokeshire National Park. I’d watch, wide-eyed, as people parked up their converted vans by the coast, setting off for adventures with everything they needed tucked inside their mobile homes.
I promised myself that one day, I’d join them. The idea of waking up to ocean views, starting the day with a hike, and having the freedom to travel wherever I wanted filled my young mind with inspiration. It wasn’t just about the travel—it was about living life on my own terms.
Making It Happen
Fast forward to 2024, and I finally made the leap. Through my business, I was able to get my first van, and I wasted no time in making plans for its conversion. I’d been following The Ply Guys for a while and was drawn to their craftsmanship and innovative designs. Their ethos of creating functional yet beautiful camper interiors resonated with me—it was exactly what I needed to bring my vision to life.
The process was exciting from start to finish. After chatting with the team and sharing my ideas, they took care of everything, transforming my blank canvas of a van into a multifunctional space. They helped me create a van that’s as much a workspace as it is a sanctuary. The fit-out includes thoughtful storage solutions, a comfortable sleeping area, and even space to edit my photos on the go.
The Finished Product
The van isn’t just a vehicle for me—it’s a lifestyle upgrade. It’s a space where I can edit my work with a view, unwind after a busy day, or simply escape from the noise of daily life. Living the van life has taught me to slow down and appreciate the little things, like waking up to a sunrise over the hills or enjoying a coffee in the middle of nowhere.
Now, I’m gearing up for some incredible trips. First up is the Lake District over the New Year, where I’ll be hiking the fells around Derwentwater and Buttermere. Later in the year, I’ve got my sights set on a bucket-list adventure to the Dolomites in Italy—a destination that’s been calling my name for years.
My camper isn’t just a vehicle—it’s a gateway to new adventures, creative inspiration, and a healthier work-life balance.
Final Thoughts
For anyone considering the leap into van life, I can’t recommend it enough. Whether you’re looking for a way to balance work and travel, escape the everyday, or simply experience the joy of the open road, a camper can truly change your life.
A huge thanks to The Ply Guys for helping me bring my dream to life. Their attention to detail and passion for creating incredible camper solutions have made all the difference. If you’re thinking about making the leap, they’re the team to call!
Charles Lamb Freelance Photographer & Videographer
Lamore Wedding Photography | @thephotovideoguy
Contact: 07923035447
Instagram: @thephotovideoguy | @lamoreweddingphotography
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