Working patiently at his desk, scattered with tools, wood and paint, Lee Smithson brings entire worlds to life in miniature.
The 45-year-old from Sheffield carefully crafts scenes inspired by everyday life, long-forgotten buildings and treasured childhood memories.
“As long as I’ve got a photo to work from I can usually recreate it,” he says.
Lee’s passion for miniatures began in childhood, sparked by hours spent building Airfix kits.
His knack for detail later led to a career as a clinical engineer for the NHS, but in 2016 he took the plunge and set up his business, Sheffield Miniatures.
In 2024, he expanded further when fellow miniature maker John Gittens retired and Lee incorporated JG Miniatures into his business.