Automotive Content Creation, Photography & Film

Creative thinking. Exceptional content. One dedicated partner.

The 2nd Phase is an independent automotive creative studio specialising in photography, filmmaking, content creation and social media management.

Founded by Stephen Simmonds, a creative director with over 20 years of industry experience and a lifelong passion for cars, The 2nd Phase helps automotive brands tell their stories, showcase their craftsmanship and build meaningful connections with their audiences.

Based in Surrey, working with automotive brands across the UK and beyond.

Your Creative Partner in Automotive

Great automotive brands deserve more than great photographs.

They need compelling stories, considered creative thinking and consistent, high-quality content that reflects who they are and what makes them special.

The 2nd Phase brings photography, film, creative direction and social media content together under one roof.

Whether it's an ongoing creative partnership or a standalone project, I work directly with businesses to understand their brand, develop ideas and deliver distinctive content that makes an impact.

No unnecessary layers. No complicated handovers. Just one experienced creative partner who understands both the industry and the importance of getting things right.

What I Do

Content Creation & Social Media Management

Ongoing creative support for automotive businesses that want to develop a stronger, more consistent online presence.

From content strategy and planning to photography, video production, editing and social media management, I provide the creative skills needed to keep your brand looking its best.

Automotive Photography

Distinctive commercial and editorial automotive photography, capturing everything from the smallest craftsmanship details to the character and performance of the complete car.

Photography for specialist manufacturers, restoration businesses, automotive brands, motorsport teams and publications.

Film & Motion

Cinematic automotive filmmaking, social-first video content, drone cinematography and motion graphics.

From short-form social content to considered brand films, bringing stories to life through movement, sound and thoughtful visual storytelling.

Creative Direction & Brand Storytelling

Over 20 years of creative industry experience brought directly to your business.

From developing campaign concepts and visual identities to finding compelling ways to communicate your story, I help automotive brands stand out for the right reasons.

Agency Experience. Personal Approach.

Before launching The 2nd Phase, I spent two decades co-founding and leading a successful creative studio, delivering work for global brands including Microsoft, Coca-Cola, Swatch and the BBC.

Today, I've combined that experience with my passion for automotive culture to offer something different.

The strategic understanding and creative capabilities of an established agency, delivered through a direct, personal relationship.

From the first conversation to the finished content, you'll work with the person creating it.

Selected Work

A collection of photography, films and creative projects celebrating automotive design, performance, engineering and craftsmanship.

Including work with Lotus Cars, Analogue Automotive, Type Magazine and other specialist automotive businesses.

The brands I collaborate with…