Clayton completed a Bachelor of Design with Honours (Photography) at Massey University, Wellington, in 2016. Inspired by the New Topographic movement and painters like Gerhard Richter, Clayton’s work is heavily centred around the markers of human presence in nature; documenting various visual contrasts or temporary landscapes. Clayton’s projects have evolved towards exploring sites and themes of scientific research, technology and industry - particularly cosmology and astronomy. His characteristic use of bold colour and composition is influenced by his attraction to abstract painting and his time studying fine art. His aim; to combine documentary and fine art through large format photography.