Hawthorn & Kent, a UK-based distributor for the events and attractions industry, has entered into a major partnership to bring GoPhoto, a provider of innovative photography services that allow visitors to capture lasting memories of their experience, to ZSL London Zoo.
This will deliver a reimagined, technology-led visitor photography experience at one of the UK’s best-loved attractions.
Sophie Adams, managing director, Hawthorn & Kent, says: "We are delighted to be bringing GoPhoto to London Zoo!
"The opportunity to craft a unique and exceptional photography experience is something we at Hawthorn & Kent are truly passionate about, and we are looking forward to watching London Zoo, one of the foremost visitor attractions in the country, discover everything that GoPhoto has to offer."
This partnership with London Zoo has marked a highlight of a busy and exciting summer for the company, which has been building and growing collaborations across the UK.
Combining live photography and intuitive digital tools
Developed to enhance how guests capture, enjoy and share their memories, the partnership introduces advanced technology, immersive environments and a renewed creative approach to souvenir photography at one of the country’s leading tourist attractions.
The project launched with the return of London Zoo Nights on 20 June, followed by the opening of a full photography concession located in the zoo's main courtyard.
Tailor-made and built by the team at Cutting Edge, it offers guests a space to explore the user-friendly, interactive self-service order kiosks that GoPhoto are renowned for with the company's fun, interactive AI-driven Creation Station.
Now, visitors can capture a selfie and turn themselves into a zookeeper. Additionally, GoPhoto's team of trained DSLR photographers capture natural, high-quality moments across the Zoo.
The dynamic, updated experience blends the spontaneity of live photography with intuitive digital tools.
Designed to enhance engagement during both daytime and premium visits, the experience delivers an environmentally conscious, low-waste workflow and a seamless guest journey from capture to purchase.
The photography experience features:
- A newly constructed visitor photography hub, located in Barclay Court at the very heart of the zoo. Its custom design aims to integrate with the London Zoo site
- A cutting-edge AI Creation Station, which turns visitors' selfies into 'Zoo Keeper' portraits
- Branded, white-label website enabling the digital purchase of images for up to 12 months post-visit
- Roaming photographers capturing high-quality, organic and engaging moments across the zoo
- Self-service order kiosks for a truly seamless customer journey through digital access and purchase
The collaboration also includes high-profile events throughout the year, including Santa’s Grotto, VIP encounters, corporate events, and seasonal activations, further enhancing the zoo’s already rich visitor experience.
The Zoo’s popular Santa’s Grotto is now open for the festive season, with GoPhoto fully integrated within the grotto and the team helping visitors to capture memories of their visit.
Lee Duffy, head of commercial, London Zoo, says: "We are thrilled to be partnering with Hawthorn & Kent to bring GoPhoto to ZSL London Zoo.
"This collaboration marks an exciting step forward in our mission to create memorable experiences for every visitor.
"By combining cutting-edge technology with Hawthorn & Kent’s expertise in photography, we are reimagining how our visitors capture and share their special moments at the Zoo.
"From family days out to unique evening events, this new approach will help visitors take home lasting memories that reflect the spirit of London Zoo. We’re excited to see our relationship grow and evolve in the years ahead."
The GoPhoto system offers a fully integrated, digital-first approach to visitor photography.
Created with an intuitive, coherent journey in mind, it enables instant previews, versatile purchasing options, and environmentally conscious workflows - all while presenting new opportunities for creativity, engagement, and income generation.
"We’re proud to partner with Hawthorn & Kent on the launch of the GoPhoto system at London Zoo," says Daniel Duivestein, founder of GoPhoto.
"With their team capturing visitors' special moments, combined with their operational expertise and deep knowledge of our platform, the Zoo is positioned for long-term success.
"Together, we’re ensuring every visitor leaves with lasting memories to share and treasure."
UK-based distributor for the events and attractions industry, Hawthorn & Kent offers software, technology, and consultancy to help attractions increase revenue beyond ticket sales.
With more than 30 years’ combined experience, it helps clients streamline operations, generate new revenue streams, and enhance visitor engagement. Its offering includes GoPhoto (as the exclusive UK distributor), OrderBoard, and in-house strategic consultancy.
