Kindred Tales | Samantha and Bill Murray | Light Project Photography
Tell us about Bill and how he came into your life.
Four-and-a half years ago, I made the huge decision to leap into the unsecured world of freelance styling. It was the usual story of not being particularly happy in my role and craving a little more creative freedom, however Bill Murray was also a vital part of my decision.
Since moving to London from a small town in Yorkshire, I thought a lot about having a dog to care for and give me that much needed companionship only an animal is capable of. And so, the morning of my first freelance day was dedicated to finding my little pal. All of the research had been done and I knew that a miniature dachshund was the only dog for me. I came across an advertisement for some dappled puppies and after a VERY thorough vetting from the breeder, my choice was made. Home came the tiny Bill Murray that has rarely been a metre away from my feet ever since.
How does Bill fit into your general working day?
We spend our days at my Creative Still Life Photography Studio, Light Project Photography in London where I am a Stylist and Art Director. Here we shoot everything from fashion accessories to food, unsurprisingly the food shoots are Bill’s favourite!
Bill Murray gets love from everywhere – my business partner, clients, delivery drivers (he is especially a huge fan of the UPS lady who has a constant supply of treats in her pocket) and anyone else he encounters in the corridors.
Photography studios are the only working environment that Bill has known, and thus he spends most of his days napping or running around inspecting everything is in order. His curiosity and search for attention means he has popped up in many shots over the years, and he is always on hand to snuggle down on a blanket I am prepping to shoot – mid-fold, of course.
When you’re not working, where do you and Bill like to hang out?
Outside of work, we can generally be found in either Clissold Park or by the sea – actually, mostly by the sea. Although not at all a fan of water, Bill Murray is at his happiest when running along a damp sandy beach or munching on a sneaky chip from my boyfriend.
We also have a strong list of local, dog-friendly pubs and restaurants where Bill can be found curled up like a cat and sleeping the time away. Some of our favourites are The Shakespeare, Stoke Newington; Dark Arts, Homerton, Climpson & Sons on Broadway Market and Dusty Knuckle in Dalston.
What essentials do you always have on you when heading out for a dog walk, and what do you carry them in?
Since getting Bill Murray, I have become a big fan of the humble pocket. Due to his sausage nature, we discourage him from jumping onto things and walking up and down stairs, so have had to learn to always have a free pair of hands for lifting. This only ever becomes a problem after his routine fox poo rolling in the park.
Mine and Bill’s dog essentials are – most importantly – poo bags, fresh refillable water bottle, flannel for belly and paw cleaning, camera (which incidentally Bill has learnt to run away from), and plenty of TREATS!
What adventures do you and Bill have planned for the rest of the year?
We plan for this to be the year of Kent / Sussex coast adventures. So far, we have visited Margate, Whitstable and Hastings, and intend on doing plenty of walks along the cliffs between towns as many of the beaches are declared dog-free between May and September.
Bill loves a fish and chip lunch stop, but am sure all of the walking means the odd chip he manages to steal will not increase his waist size too much.
