Meet our Volunteers: Victoria Barrell:

By Charlotte Wells

Volunteer

Victoria Barrell is a fantastic photographer with experience in video editing. I caught up with her to ask about what inspired her to volunteer for the Trust.

Tell us a little bit about yourself

I am a photographer based in Brighton with a background in fashion and portraiture. While much of my early work centred around people and style, I have always had a deep appreciation for nature. Even when I first picked up a camera, I was drawn to capturing images of birds, flowers, and the natural world around me.

Alongside photography, I also enjoy painting, and I find endless inspiration in nature - the colours, textures, and intricate details of wildlife are fascinating to observe and interpret through art.

Tell us about volunteering role with us

At Sussex Wildlife Trust, my role focuses on photography and video content. I document seasonal events, conservation projects, and volunteer teams in action, helping to showcase the incredible work being done to protect and restore local wildlife habitats.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this role is meeting people who are truly passionate about nature. I love hearing their stories and learning from them about the diverse species and ecosystems in Sussex. Their knowledge and dedication are inspiring, and it motivates me to use my photography to help raise awareness about conservation efforts.

Why did you decide to get involved as a Sussex Wildlife Trust volunteer?

I became involved after moving from London to Sussex. Living in a big city made me more aware of the environmental challenges we face, from excessive waste to pollution. Working in the fashion industry also exposed me to its impact on the planet, prompting me to reassess my own direction.

I wanted to use my creative skills for something more meaningful - something that could contribute to positive change. Volunteering with Sussex Wildlife Trust felt like the perfect opportunity to do just that. It allows me to combine my passion for photography with my desire to protect and celebrate the natural world.

What’s your favourite Sussex wildlife species?

If I had to choose a favourite species, it would probably be birds—particularly Robins. There is something so charming about them: their bold personalities, their distinctive red breasts, and the way they seem to follow you around in the garden. Watching them flit between branches and listening to their different calls is a simple but joyful experience.

In many ways, they were my inspiration for applying for this role. Not long after moving to Sussex, I became captivated by the birds in my garden, and that curiosity soon grew into a desire to learn more, get involved, and help protect the wildlife that makes this area so special.

Keep an eye on our social media for Victoria’s work and check out some of her previous work here.