I have just got back from visiting my friend in Paris. I had kept in touch with Gemma since first meeting her at a conference three years ago; I was presenting some of my research and she was an undergraduate showing delegates round and answering questions. Gemma was extremely helpful at the conference and took a surprising interest in my work. She even lent me her umbrella, as I recall, when it poured down on the last day!

Gemma’s degree involved marketing and languages, spending a year in Germany and then teaching English in France. When she invited me to Paris I welcomed the opportunity to visit the city, which I had only been to once before – very briefly, over 10 years ago. I was keen to explore it again as it had always struck me as a pretty amazing place.

So, with a French-speaking guide who knew the city well, I was eager to see the sights. Luckily, shaming the weather I left behind, there was glorious sunshine.

As I walked under the Eiffel Tower I became interested in the close-up perspective of structure, as opposed to the iconic images that everyone knows of the tower from a distance.

I wanted to take some pictures and decided that Paris from an unusual angle would be interesting. I like the idea of students back at school trying to identify famous landmarks from surprising angles and close-ups (see above). It will hopefully engage them in thinking about things differently.

I like to see things differently. Gemma provided clarity by knowing the city well and being able to speak the language. This allowed me time to think deeply, reflect and to consider the different angles.

A brilliant few days, a place of great inspiration. One I was sad to leave behind, as I returned to preparing for the new academic year…where has that holiday gone?