Introducing Paul Grove – Capturing the Heart of Polo

Introducing Paul Grove – The Eye Behind the Game

Paul R. Grove is a distinguished photographer based in Hampshire, UK, whose lens has become synonymous with the elegance and intensity of polo. As an accredited photographer at the renowned Cowdray Park Polo Club, Paul blends technical expertise with an instinctual eye for sport and storytelling. With a rich portfolio spanning polo, equestrian events, and ceremonial displays by groups such as the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery, his work stands out for its vivid action shots and immersive atmosphere. Whether it's the thunder of hooves, the tension of a chukka, or the glimmer of summer sunlight on the field, Paul’s images bring each moment to life.

From high-goal tournaments to intimate behind-the-scenes glimpses, Paul Grove’s photography offers both fans and newcomers a compelling visual journey. His images do more than document—they connect viewers directly to the spirit and traditions of polo.

ENPOLO: What first sparked your interest in polo photography?

Paul: About four years ago, I was carrying out field telecommunications surveys, and I happened to drive past the Ambersham grounds belonging to Cowdray Park. I was already a keen photographer and decided that I would visit to see what polo was all about – the rest – as they say – is history!

ENPOLO: Have you ever played polo yourself, or has your connection to the sport always been through the lens?

Paul: I've never played polo, and to be honest I don't think I'd be terribly good at it, so I am happy just to take photos. That said, one of the friends at Cowdray invited me to get back on a pony for the first time in about 40 years – I got up to canter and it was a great thrill!

ENPOLO: What makes photographing polo different from other sports or equestrian disciplines?

Paul: You have to develop a very good sense of anticipation. The play and ball can quickly change direction and sometimes you lose track of where it is. It’s not like watching a fixed obstacle like a jump. It's a challenge – but fun!

ENPOLO: How would you describe the polo scene in the UK – is it growing, and how accessible is it for photographers?

Paul: I'm not sure whether it's growing, but there are certainly many people – including myself – trying to promote it. Polo is expensive, and the economic climate is tough. Still, Cowdray Polo Club continues to attract strong crowds. Spectators are allowed to photograph from designated areas – that’s actually how I started.

ENPOLO: What are your favorite venues or clubs to shoot at in England?

Paul: Cowdray Polo Club, definitely – it’s the closest to me. I'd also like to get to Guards before the end of the season. I've also photographed arena polo at Hickstead.

ENPOLO: Do you follow the international polo calendar or mainly work within the UK?

Paul: I currently work only in the UK, but I’d never say no to an international opportunity. I especially enjoy covering lower- to mid-goal games featuring emerging talent – the kind of games that usually don’t get professional photographic coverage.

ENPOLO: How much of your work involves traveling, and what are some of the most memorable places polo has taken you?

Paul: Right now, it’s just Cowdray – it’s only 25 minutes from home and I’m there around five days a week. That said, I’ve had some amazing shoots with teams like SafeRock in the South Downs and on nearby beaches.

ENPOLO: What's your approach to capturing the energy and intensity of a match?

Paul: This might sound odd, but I listen to David Bowie's 'Heroes' beforehand. My goal is to make the players look as heroic as possible. I want to capture that energy and provide players with something meaningful to look back on.

ENPOLO: Is there a particular game or moment you’ve photographed that stands out?

Paul: The 2023 Gold Cup Final at Cowdray – UAE Polo vs. Dubai. It was neck and neck. Most photographers were at the team tent to catch reactions. I chose the opposite end – and caught the winning goal in the last seconds. That photo’s now hanging on my wall.

ENPOLO: Who are some of the top players you’ve had the chance to photograph?

Paul: I’ve captured nearly all the top players during the Gold Cup at Cowdray. I especially enjoyed photographing Poroto Cambiaso Jr. and always appreciate when players like Matt Perry and Hazel Jackson interact with my work on social media.

ENPOLO: How has the sport and your work around it evolved over the years?

Paul: Polo itself may not have changed much, but photography certainly has. It's now all about speed – uploading live from the field and sharing instantly. Since 2023, I've been posting real-time updates straight from my camera, and the audience loves it.

ENPOLO: What’s the biggest challenge in polo photography?

Paul: Fast delivery. I shoot about 1,500 images per game, sometimes two to three games a day. Then it’s straight home to edit and upload that night – players move on quickly and want to see their shots as soon as possible.

ENPOLO: Do you prefer action shots, behind-the-scenes moments, or formal portraits – and why?

Paul: Definitely action shots – that’s where the drama is. But I do enjoy behind-the-scenes moments too. I’ve recently captured some great ones with SafeRock.

ENPOLO: What advice would you give to aspiring sports photographers, especially those interested in polo?

Paul: Start with sports you love – that passion shows in your work. You don’t need expensive gear; focus on technique. Shoot from public areas first, and respect club guidelines. Reach out to club photographers – they can be invaluable. And above all: be patient. It takes time, hard work, and persistence.

ENPOLO: What are your goals or dream projects for the next few seasons?

Paul: I’d love to shoot overseas during the UK winter. Other than that, I just want to keep photographing great polo and have fun doing it.

Thank you so much Paul! 

All picture rights belongs to Paul Grove