FRIENDS OF MAGEE 1866
Introducing Friends of Magee, where we showcase friends of the brand who have worked with us on projects over the years. Like most relationships the best ones are those nurtured over time and we are delighted to work with photographer Alex Hutchinson for almost a decade for our seasonal campaigns. We talked to him about friendship, Donegal, working with Magee 1866 and his favourite coat from AW25.
What does friendship mean to you?
Friendship, to me, is everything! Trust, ease, and shared understanding — the kind of connection where you can be completely yourself. It’s those people who lift you up, who make the everyday moments meaningful, and who stay constant no matter what life throws your way. Through my line of work I meet so many people on a daily basis and I try to treat everyone like a friend I've known for a long time.
Thoughts on the piece you are wearing?
The Corrib is such a timeless piece — incredibly well made, with that classic Magee attention to detail. I absolutely love how it feels and since putting it on, the Corrib has become my most-worn piece. It goes with almost everything and also acts as an incredible statement piece. It’s the kind of garment that tells a story, and it allows me to feel connected to home, when wearing it around London and when shooting on locations around the world.
“I absolutely love how it feels and since putting it on, the Corrib has become my most-worn piece.”
Where did you learn your craft?
I learned photography through a mix of formal study and a lot of self-taught exploration. But honestly, the biggest lessons came from practice — understanding what I'm looking for, chasing light, watching people, and learning to capture a sense of place. That’s where my eye really developed. Telling stories has always been an important part of my work.
What’s the best thing about working with Magee 1866?
Working with Magee 1866 has always felt authentic and genuine; everything from the people to the product reflects a real sense of care, craft and heritage. There’s a shared respect for storytelling through each garment, every landscape, and all the friendships made along the way. It’s refreshing to collaborate with a brand that values tradition but keeps pushing it forward.
Who inspires your work?
I’m inspired by people who see beauty in the ordinary — photographers, directors, and artists who capture emotion and atmosphere rather than perfection. The works of director Terrance Malick has always spoken to me, his incredible eye for capturing the relationship people have with nature and with each other.
“I’m inspired by people who see beauty in the ordinary.”
Tell us about the best bits of shooting with us this year - location,fun, etc?
This year’s shoot was such a joy — the location was breathtaking, and the team energy was incredible. There’s something special about shooting in Donegal: the mix of wild coastline, soft light, and that sense of calm. This year's shoot, everything just clicked — the weather, the styling, the laughter between shots — those are the moments that make it memorable and helped create the story we envisioned.
“There’s something special about shooting in Donegal: the mix of wild coastline, soft light, and that sense of calm.”
Why does Donegal appeal as a photographer?
Donegal has this raw, unfiltered beauty. The light is constantly changing, the landscapes are rugged yet serene, and there’s a sense of timelessness that makes every frame feel grounded and poetic. It’s a place that invites you to slow down and really look — and that’s where the best images come from, slowing down and allowing yourself to experience what the best of what Ireland has to offer.
Photo credits: Andrew Rankin.