Mark Radcliffe for the Daily Telegraph

Portrait of Mark Radcliffe at Dunham Massey | Daily Telegraph Motoring Feature

While going through old hard drives recently I came across another set of photographs from an earlier editorial commission. The images feature broadcaster and writer Mark Radcliffe, photographed at Dunham Massey Country Park in Cheshire for a motoring feature in the Daily Telegraph.

Mark Radcliffe is exactly as you might expect from his radio persona: knowledgeable about music, quick-witted, a lifelong Manchester City supporter and generally an extremely good person to spend time with on a shoot. I have photographed him a couple of times over the years, and this particular session was for a feature pairing him with a beautifully restored vintage Volkswagen Beetle.

Mark Radcliffe: Broadcaster, Author and Music Journalist

Mark Radcliffe is well known in the UK for his long career in broadcasting, particularly on BBC Radio where he has presented a wide range of music programmes across several decades. Many listeners first encountered him through his partnership with Marc Riley on BBC Radio 1 in the 1990s, before Radcliffe went on to present programmes on BBC Radio 2 and BBC Radio 6 Music.

His work has always been characterised by a deep enthusiasm for music, ranging from alternative rock and indie through to folk and country. In addition to broadcasting, Radcliffe is also a writer and musician, contributing regularly to publications and performing with his folk group The Shirehorses.

Because of this long-standing role in British music broadcasting, he remains a familiar and well-liked figure to audiences across the UK. Photographing personalities like Radcliffe is often straightforward because their ease in conversation translates naturally into relaxed portraits.

Editorial Portrait Photography for Newspapers

This portrait session took place at Dunham Massey Country Park in Cheshire, a location that provided an appropriate rural backdrop for the Daily Telegraph’s motoring feature. Editorial portrait photography for newspapers often involves finding a setting that complements the theme of the article while still allowing the subject’s personality to come through.

The vintage Volkswagen Beetle featured in the piece added a strong visual element to the shoot, combining classic automotive design with a relaxed outdoor location. Working with well-known public figures in this kind of editorial context requires balancing documentary observation with informal portraiture, capturing both the person and the environment in which the story is set.

Photographing Personalities for Editorial Features

Portrait photography for editorial publications often moves quickly, with limited time to establish rapport and create images that work both visually and narratively. When the subject is comfortable and engaged, the process becomes much easier, allowing the photographer to focus on composition, light and atmosphere.

In this case, the combination of a distinctive car, an attractive location in Cheshire and an engaging subject made for an enjoyable shoot and a memorable commission for the Daily Telegraph.

Documentary Photography for Buzzfeed News

Words by Laura Silver, BuzzFeed News Reporter

Harassment Outside Abortion Clinics Is Still Happening, But Local Authorities Are Struggling To Stop It

The Home Office has rejected calls to put a national ban on abortion clinic protests, but councils are a long way off tackling the issue locally.

In a narrow side street outside a Marie Stopes clinic in Fallowfield, Manchester, it’s business as usual for the anti-abortion protesters who have been gathering here for the past decade.

On this particular Saturday, a small group is playing hymns from a sound system pitched up next to a wooden cross and posters showing the Virgin Mary. Their mission is simple: Dissuade women from going ahead with an abortion.

“We’re praying to save the babies, darling,” an elderly woman with an Irish accent tells BuzzFeed News, while offering a string of plastic rosary beads, a leaflet describing the gestational stages of a foetus, and phone numbers for the anti-abortion charities Life and the Good Counsel Network.

A chorus of the “Hail Mary” rings out behind us as she says with much pride that she stands outside the clinic most days, and believes she has “saved quite a few babies” over the years, including one today.

“Hail Mary, full of grace. Our Lord is with thee,” her companions chant over the hum of traffic from the nearby main road. “Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.”

Watching them from across the street are volunteers from Sister Supporter, an abortion rights group, who gather to deter the protesters from approaching women seeking abortion at the clinic.

Sister Supporter, founded in London in 2015, has also been lobbying authorities to introduce measures such as a buffer zone that effectively bans any group from gathering immediately outside an abortion clinic, to prevent women from feeling harassed.

This year there was a major breakthrough: The campaign led to the UK’s first public space protection order (PSPO) outside a Marie Stopes branch in Ealing, west London, where anti-abortion protesters have had a near-constant presence for over 20 years.

Staff at the clinic told BuzzFeed News that incidents of alleged harassment have virtually disappeared since the buffer zone was put in place.

The PSPO was achieved through the efforts of the local authority, Ealing council, but there had been optimism that a Home Office review of harassment outside abortion clinics — launched by the then home secretary, Amber Rudd — would result in national guidelines that councils could rely on.

Last week, however, Rudd’s successor Sajid Javid dashed those hopes, saying it would "not be a proportionate response" and that individual councils should instead follow Ealing’s lead and tackle the issue locally. The review had received more than 2,500 submissions and identified 36 sites nationwide as problem areas.

His decision has angered clinic staff and local councillors who argue that cash-strapped councils will struggle to undertake the lengthy process of passing PSPOs, leaving women who face harassment outside clinics without protection in the meantime.

“I’m really mad about it,” Jackie Schofield, a clinical team lead at Marie Stopes Fallowfield, told BuzzFeed News. “Everybody has freedom of speech, fair enough, but not outside the place when there’s vulnerable people. I just think it’s wrong, I really do.”

During the years she has worked at the Manchester clinic, Schofield said, she has often had to spend significant time calming her patients who have found it upsetting to be greeted by protesters on what can already be a distressing day.

She said she has regularly witnessed the protesters calling patients and staff “murderers” or telling women they will “go to hell” if they enter the clinic, meaning they’re often too distressed for their appointments. “I’m going through a consent process but I have to calm them down a lot first because of what’s happened to them before they even got started ­— it really messes with them,” Schofield added.

Schofield, and several other staff, told us that recently a protester had stood breastfeeding a baby outside the clinic, and that last Christmas anti-abortion groups handed out wrapped packages containing knitted baby booties, wishing them “Happy Christmas, Mummy.”

She said these incidents can be especially upsetting for women who have travelled from Ireland. Although the country voted to legalise abortion earlier this year, the ongoing legislative process means that services will not be available until 2019 — and remain illegal in Northern Ireland — so Irish women will continue to travel to the UK to access abortion.

“Today is an Irish day,” Schofield said. “Tuesdays and Saturdays we have lots of Irish ladies because the flights are cheaper. Can you imagine having to go through all that anyway, and then coming here and getting this?”

Lynn Bradley, a healthcare support worker who has been at the clinic for nine years, said she was physically assaulted by a protester on one occasion — an account she submitted to the Home Office review.

“She chased after me and started slapping me on the back,” said Bradley, a chirpy, white-haired woman with a thick Manchester accent.

“Whenever she sees me she does this,” she added, making a throat-slitting gesture and sticking out her tongue. “She’s very crafty — she does it when she’s on her own.”

Bradley, whose job involves supporting women before and after they receive treatment, was also disappointed by Javid’s response. “When we arrive in the morning [protesters] make it as awkward as possible for you when you get out the car, calling us murderers, saying you’ll go to hell, and that’s before you start a day’s work,” she said.

“We can cope with it, but at the end of the day, these ladies shouldn’t be put through that.”

Manchester city council has passed a motion to explore the possibility of a PSPO outside the Fallowfield clinic, but even with resounding support across the board, progress will be slow.

“It’s a really long process and we still need to go through the evidence-gathering and mapping where the PSPO would cover,” Rebecca Moore, councillor for the neighbouring ward of Withington, told BuzzFeed News.

Ealing council is facing an ongoing legal challenge over its PSPO, and Moore said she had sensed a nervousness within her own council about the threat of a lengthy and costly court battle if a PSPO were to be introduced in Fallowfield.

“Local government finances are in a really bad state, so if there’s any big costs to implementation I think that’s going to cause concern to a council that’s had to go through such big austerity measures,” Moore continued.

“I don’t think that means that it shouldn’t be done or wouldn’t be done, but it is a concern.”

Grace Fletcher-Hackwood, a councillor for Fallowfield, questioned whether the Home Office would have made the same decision if protesters were gathered outside a local cancer hospital like the Christie, which is situated nearby.

“If they rocked up outside the Christie, people would realise how inappropriate that is,” she said. “You make medical decisions with yourself and your doctor based on what is good for your own health, not because of some ideologues who have posted themselves outside the clinic and decided they’re qualified to speak about what’s best for you and your body.”

Disappointment over Javid’s statement has been felt across the country, including in Portsmouth, where the local authority has agreed to look into ways to prevent protests at the clinic.

It, too, is in still in the early stages and is currently working out how best to proceed in light of the Home Office decision, according to a council spokesperson.

Chris Francis, a clinic manager at the Portsmouth branch of the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS), another of the UK’s major abortion providers, said: “If there’s national legislation in place, then as soon as women get harassed we can fall back on that.

“But getting a local decision, you have to get an agreement for a consultation process, and then you have to go through the consultation.”

In the meantime, Francis continued, anti-abortion protesters remain active outside the clinic, which is based within the sexual health centre at St Mary’s Hospital, where a mental health ward is situated above. “I know they caused some real upset for some vulnerable women in care there,” she added.

Francis told us that the protesters were especially aggressive during the biannual 40 Days for Life campaign, due to begin on Sept. 26, where anti-abortion protesters around the world increase the frequency of their gatherings outside clinics.

“We’ve had singing outside the hospital so we could hear them inside,” she said, referring to the previous 40 Days for Life campaign, which took place in February. “They were handing out knitted booties and rosaries in baby blue and pink, and generally harassing any woman entering the hospital who looked like she could be childbearing age.”

Francis said that protesters move from clinic to clinic, so it can be difficult to gather evidence of consistent harassment at the particular sites where each individual PSPO is needed.

“With Portsmouth, by the time they were starting to consider the PSPO, the protesters moved to Bournemouth,” Francis told BuzzFeed News. “I know it was the same guys because I went there and saw the same faces. They move around the country. [There] has to be some kind of national legislation.”

The evidence-gathering process also requires women who have been harassed to relive the experience when providing accounts to clinic staff or, in some cases, the police.

Back in Manchester, Katy Kershaw, a clinical team lead at Marie Stopes in Fallowfield, said many women just don’t want to engage. “They just want to forget about it; they don’t want to come back and talk about how traumatic it was to have protesters pass them things, or be told they’re murdering their baby,” she said. “They just want it over and done with.”

For clinic staff, who have full lists of patients to work through every day, working with councils to build a compelling case for a PSPO means a significant increase to their workload.

“It’s a struggle because it’s time-consuming,” Kershaw continued. “We’re such a busy clinic that it’s difficult for us to get out to the council to say how much we need them.”

Manchester council, Kershaw said, has been proactive. “They’ve been coming to see us — we didn’t have to approach them,” she said, but worried that this wouldn’t necessarily be the case everywhere.

Beth Redmond, who leads Manchester’s Sister Supporter branch, was also sceptical that councils across the country would be as dedicated as Manchester. “The thought of having to do this for more than one council doesn’t really bear thinking about,” she added.

Both Birmingham and Leeds city councils have in the last year passed motions to explore measures to prevent harassment outside abortion clinics. They say the work is ongoing, but neither have begun a formal evidence-gathering or consultation period.

Redmond said she worried about what scale harassment outside abortion clinics would have to reach before the Home Office would deem it necessary to act nationally. “What does Sajid Javid want? Does he want someone to get hurt?” she continued. “It feels like waiting for something awful to happen when actually bad things are already going on.”

Despite an ongoing legal challenge to Ealing’s PSPO, protesters have adhered to its restrictions and clinic staff and local councillors consider it to be a success.

The Good Counsel Network’s Clare McCullough, who had organised the vigils in Ealing, told us that as her volunteers are distanced from the clinic, she is unable to “support” as many women. She continues to protest against abortion in the designated area in Ealing, as well as outside a BPAS clinic in Richmond, southwest London, and a Marie Stopes facility in the city centre.

But even Ealing’s PSPO is not without vulnerability. Alina Dulgheriu, who brought the initial legal challenge against the council, has crowdfunded more than £50,000 to launch an appeal. The order is only temporary, meaning Ealing council will have to undergo the same time-consuming process to get it renewed when it expires in three years’ time.

Binda Rai, the councillor for Ealing’s Walpole ward who led the council’s efforts to implement the current PSPO, said it was “outrageous” for Javid to expect other councils to duplicate this effort time and again.

“The current system means that councils have to go through a lengthy and complex process to allow women access to services that they are entitled to with privacy and dignity, free from the interference that causes them distress and harassment,” Rai said.

“It would appear that he has no understanding of what women go through at such a vulnerable and difficult period in their lives,” Rai continued. “It is a national issue: Women up and down the country are facing harassment from protestors outside abortion clinics and this activity is on the increase. To avoid a postcode lottery for women, a national solution is a must and would take this debate away from clinic doors and ensure a consistent approach across the country.”

Responding to Javid’s announcement last week, Labour MP Rupa Huq, who helped bring the issue to national attention, vowed to keep on fighting for a universal ban.

“Shoving the burden on to already cash-strapped local authorities is not addressing the problem, it’s just passing the buck,” Huq, who represents Ealing Central and Acton, told BuzzFeed News.

“I will not give up on this and have been promised a meeting with ministers so as to ensure vulnerable women cannot be sidelined and that they can access healthcare as is the case with any other procedure.”

Huq has received wide political support on the issue, including from Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who accused Javid of a “shocking failure to protect women from harassment and intimidation when exercising their right to choose”.

In the meantime, the protests outside abortion clinics are free to continue.

When the 40 Days for Life campaign starts again on Sept. 26, a spokesperson told BuzzFeed News, it will have volunteers stationed outside clinics nationwide, seven days a week, from 8am to 8pm.

Redmond said she was concerned that the Home Office’s decision could leave protesters feeling emboldened: “I do think they will be saying, ‘Why are you telling us we can’t be here when the most powerful people have told us that we can?’”

Vietnam

People relaxing on their Honda’s outside St. Joseph’s cathedral, Hanoi

Capturing Vietnam: Travel Photography of Vietnamese Culture and Streets

As an English freelance photographer, I’ve traveled extensively, but Vietnam presented a vibrant, dynamic environment unlike anywhere else. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the peaceful coastline of An Bang Beach, each location offered a striking window into Vietnamese life, culture, and daily routines. The intensity of the cities and the tranquility of rural landscapes provided a rich visual narrative that I was eager to capture.

Members of the Vietnamese Army gathered for a dinner at the Vietnamese Military History Museum in Hanoi. I found later that it’s eerily reminiscent of this http://bit.ly/2PFwOiI from my visit to Beijing a few years ago.

Street Life and Urban Chaos in Hanoi

Hanoi’s streets are alive with energy, from the honking motorbikes weaving through crowded intersections to the street vendors selling local delicacies. Capturing urban life in Vietnam required a careful balance of timing, perspective, and attention to detail. Photography in this environment revealed not only the chaos but also the rhythms, relationships, and traditions that define Hanoi’s unique character.

A man photographs the now famous MiG-21 at the Vietnamese Military History Museum in Hanoi.

Cultural Heritage and Daily Life

Beyond the streets, Vietnam’s culture is visible in its architecture, markets, temples, and homes. Each neighborhood tells a story of community, history, and resilience. Through photography, I was able to document artisans at work, families engaged in daily routines, and cultural ceremonies, illustrating both tradition and the modern vibrancy of Vietnamese society.

The elegantly decaying cockpit of a captured United States Huey helicopter

Coastal Serenity and Rural Landscapes

Traveling from the city to the coast, locations such as An Bang Beach offered a contrast to the urban intensity. The calm beaches, fishing villages, and rural landscapes allowed for reflective, scenic photography that captures the slower pace of life. These settings provide a complementary perspective to the energetic streets of Hanoi, highlighting Vietnam’s diversity and natural beauty.

The Hanoi skyline

Photography as Storytelling in Vietnam

Vietnam is a photographer’s dream: the contrasts between urban chaos and coastal calm, modern life and traditional practices, provide endless opportunities for storytelling. Documenting the country required a mix of environmental portraits, street photography, and landscape work, creating a cohesive visual journey that communicates the spirit of Vietnam.

A woman sells clothes in a night market at Hàng Bè in central Hanoi.

The Allure of Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital city, was my first stop. Stepping off the plane, I was immediately hit by the warm, humid air and the symphony of honking scooters and chatter that filled the streets. The city buzzed with life, and I knew I was in for an adventure. As I wandered through the Old Quarter, my camera was glued to my face, capturing the narrow alleyways, the chaotic mix of colonial architecture, and the street vendors who seemed to emerge from every corner.

One of my favorite memories from Hanoi was capturing the street food culture. I watched as locals prepared dishes in makeshift kitchens on the sidewalks. The aroma of grilled meats and fresh herbs wafted through the air, drawing me closer. I couldn't resist trying pho from a small stall run by an elderly woman who smiled warmly as she ladled broth into a bowl. The experience was transformative; I felt as if I had tasted the heart of Vietnamese cuisine.

A woman washes in the river in Tam Cốc-Bích Động

Despite the city's charm, navigating the streets was a daunting experience. The sheer number of motorbikes zipping past made crossing the road feel like a high-stakes game. I watched in awe as locals seemed to glide through the traffic, their movements fluid and confident. Meanwhile, I hesitated, clutching my camera as I waited for a gap in the chaos.

This guy appeared to be chopping up a monster in Tam Cốc-Bích Động. I later discovered it was a goat and realised were the Baphomet mythology comes from. I like the matching under bites of man and beast.

The Scary Bus Rides

After a few days, it was time to venture beyond Hanoi. I boarded a sleeper bus heading to Tam Coc, and the adventure took a turn I hadn’t anticipated. The bus driver, a seemingly fearless man in his 30s, sped down the winding roads with a reckless abandon that left my heart racing. With each sharp turn, I clutched my seat, whispering silent prayers. I managed to snap a few photos of the breathtaking landscapes outside the window, but the sheer terror of the ride overshadowed my artistic intentions.

A scene familiar the world over that always seems worth a photograph. Note the still very popular in Vietnam pith helmet and the ubiquitous scooters.

When we finally arrived in Tam Coc, I was greeted by stunning limestone karsts rising majestically from the rice paddies. The landscape felt like a painting come to life, and I quickly set out to capture its beauty. A boat ride along the river revealed views that were straight out of a dream. I photographed local rowers navigating the tranquil waters, their movements graceful against the backdrop of towering cliffs.

Tam Cốc-Bích Động is a backpackers haven at some times of the year. Here one of the two bus bars opposite the lake.

A Culinary Detour in Hue

From Tam Coc, we made a brief stop in Hue. While my time there was short, it was not without its highlights. After changing buses, I took the opportunity to seek out the famed Bun Bo Hue—a spicy beef noodle soup that is a local specialty. I found a bustling little eatery filled with locals, the air thick with the scent of herbs and spices.

And in the lake the local kids who swim here every night another picture that reminded me of a shot from China http://bit.ly/38T4rW0

As I savoured each spoonful, I captured the vibrant colours and textures of the dish, the glistening broth swirling with greens and tender beef. It was a simple meal that resonated deeply, embodying the essence of Vietnamese culinary culture.

Young Vietnamese man playing pool in one of the nearly empty backpacker bars of Tam Cốc. Vietnam is a country completely enamoured by counterfeit designer wear and these boys didn’t disappoint.

Da Nang: A City of Contrasts

Next on my journey was Da Nang, a city that struck me as a blend of modernity and tradition. Here, I explored the Dragon Bridge and the stunning beaches that lined the coastline. The juxtaposition of skyscrapers against the natural beauty of the sea was captivating.

Forgive me for the sunset shot. The limestone karsts emerging from an otherwise billiard flat plateau define the geology of much of Vietnam most famously at Halong Bay. The area around Tam Cốc is an inland version with rice paddys covering the water for much of the year.

While in Da Nang, I discovered a thriving street food scene. I encountered vendors selling banh mi, the beloved Vietnamese sandwich that is as varied as it is delicious. I snapped photos of the colorful ingredients piled high—crunchy pickled vegetables, savory meats, and fresh herbs. Each bite was an explosion of flavor, and I felt a rush of excitement as I documented the culinary artistry before me.

A woman cleans part of the absolutely vast Bái Đính Buddhist Temple in Ninh Bình Province

Hoi An: A Photographer’s Paradise

Just a short journey from Da Nang is Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved ancient town. The moment I arrived, I knew I had stumbled into a photographer’s paradise. The streets were lined with yellow-hued buildings, their facades adorned with vibrant lanterns that seemed to glow in the soft evening light.

Vietnam is the home of the face mask and the spiritual home of Chanel.

I spent hours wandering the narrow alleyways, capturing the intimate moments of daily life—vendors preparing their goods, children playing in the streets, and couples sharing quiet moments along the riverside. Hoi An’s charm was intoxicating, and I found myself lost in the magic of it all.

Book keeping at the market in Hoi An

I also made my way to An Bang Beach, just a short bike ride from the town center. The beach was a breathtaking escape, with soft sand and azure waters. Here, I captured the juxtaposition of relaxation and the vibrant energy of beachgoers enjoying their day. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the scene, and I felt a sense of fulfillment as I clicked away, the light perfectly framing my subjects.

Shoppers in Hoi An market

Quy Nhon and Bai Xep: Hidden Gems

Continuing my journey, I ventured to Quy Nhon and Bai Xep, two coastal towns that felt like hidden gems. In Quy Nhon, I found a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the bustling cities. The beaches were less crowded, allowing me to connect with the local culture on a deeper level. I photographed fishermen mending their nets, their weathered faces telling stories of hard work and dedication.

Motorcycling wear in Vietnam is the best I’ve seen anywhere.

At Bai Xep, I discovered a tranquil setting that felt worlds away from the frenetic energy of Hanoi. The beach was dotted with traditional fishing boats, their bright colors contrasting beautifully with the sandy shore. I spent my days capturing the idyllic scenery and the simple joys of life along the coast.

Probably the final journey before this guy becomes Pho Ga

One evening, as I watched the sun set over the horizon, I reflected on the journey thus far. My experiences had deepened my appreciation for Vietnamese culture, particularly its resilience and warmth.

Relaxing in Hoi An

The Return Journey

As I prepared to leave Vietnam, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me. The bus rides, though often harrowing, had become part of the adventure, a reminder of the unpredictability of travel. The street food, with its incredible flavors and colors, had fueled my passion for photography and storytelling.

The outdoor fan is an absolute necessity for any restaurant hoping to attract custom.

I returned home with a treasure trove of images, each one a testament to the beauty and complexity of Vietnam. My camera had captured not just landscapes and meals, but the spirit of the people I met along the way.

A typical traffic jam in Da Nang. Everyone rides.

In sharing my journey, I hope to convey the essence of Vietnam: a land of contrasts, where chaos meets tranquility, and tradition dances with modernity. My adventure was more than just a trip; it was a deeply transformative experience that will continue to inspire my work as a photographer.

Even though the machines are incredibly reliable, Vietnamese Honda mechanics are rarely out of work due to the vast numbers on the roads. Here are young man waits for a street corner mechanic to mend his bike in Da Nang.

Vietnam, with its captivating streets and tantalizing food, has etched itself into my memory—a destination I will cherish and revisit through my lens for years to come.

Street food vendors in Da Nang. Everything you’ve heard is true, this is how to eat the best food in Vietnam. My highlight was a bowl of Bun Cha eaten knees round ears in a garage entrance with motorbikes whizzing by. Unimprovable.

One of the most stylish people I’ve seen this year. In Qui Nhon in the centre of the country.

At night in Qui Nhon

A very typical view down an alley in Hoi An.

Seamstresses work late in the night in Da Nang.

Another great Hanoi Bun Cha spot. The people get bigger the chairs don’t.

A man and his dog in Hanoi.

A typical side street motorcycle mechanic/valet service in Hanoi

The street food essentials, outdoor fan, low plastic tables, beautiful sunlight.

Aaron Heinzelmann of Assa Abloy for Off the Wall, Stockholm

Aaron Heinzelmann Hero Award Photography for Assa Abloy

I recently photographed Aaron Heinzelmann of Assa Abloy for Swedish agency Off the Wall, Stockholm, documenting his recognition as a workplace hero for a feature in the company magazine. Aaron was awarded a hero accolade after coming to the aid of a mother and her seriously ill daughter while at work, demonstrating quick thinking, compassion, and professionalism.

Capturing a Workplace Hero

The shoot aimed to capture Aaron Heinzelmann both as an employee of Assa Abloy and as an individual recognised for his bravery. Photography included portraits, environmental shots, and a behind-the-scenes image used for the rear cover of the magazine. The shoot was collaborative, with Aaron’s uncle Dave assisting as second camera, providing additional perspectives to tell the story.

Working with Off the Wall, Stockholm

The commission was managed by the creative team at Off the Wall in Stockholm, who ensured the photography aligned with Assa Abloy’s corporate communications and magazine style. Collaborating with the agency allowed for a smooth workflow and a visually engaging representation of Aaron’s achievement, highlighting both personal narrative and professional context.

Employee recognition photography of Aaron Heinzelmann at Assa Abloy

Portrait of Aaron Heinzelmann during Assa Abloy feature shoot

Workplace photography documenting heroic actions of Aaron Heinzelmann

Assa Abloy employee feature photography in Kenn, North Somerset

Aaron Heinzelmann featured in corporate storytelling for Assa Abloy

Photography capturing heroic employee recognition at Assa Abloy

Environmental portrait of Aaron Heinzelmann for company magazine

Corporate feature photography highlighting heroic actions of staff

Aaron Heinzelmann photographed for Assa Abloy hero award feature

Behind-the-scenes photography with second camera support

On Location in North Somerset

The shoot took place in Kenn, North Somerset. Preparation included an overnight stay in a holiday cottage and a stop for tea on the seafront at Clevedon before the drive north. Capturing environmental context adds depth to the story, connecting the heroic actions of Aaron Heinzelmann to the locations where they occurred.

About Assa Abloy and Employee Recognition

Assa Abloy is a global leader in door opening solutions and security technology. The company regularly features staff achievements in its magazine, showcasing examples of initiative, care, and dedication. Photography plays an important role in this, highlighting individuals like Aaron Heinzelmann and reinforcing the company’s culture of recognition, safety, and service excellence.

Francis Lung for Scandinavian Airlines

Francis Lung Portrait Photography in Manchester

I recently photographed Francis Lung, solo musician and former member of the Manchester band Wu Lyf, for Scandinavian Airlines. The shoot focused on capturing Francis’ personality and musical presence in locations he recommends around Manchester.

Portraits at Yes and Other Manchester Locations

The portraits were taken at the venue and club Yes, one of Francis’ preferred spots in the city. The shoot combined casual and posed portraits to reflect Francis’ style, energy, and connection to the Manchester music and cultural scene.

Additional locations included the arts centre Home, the Japanese restaurant Yuzu, the Whitworth Art Gallery, and This & That, a personal favourite of mine.

Showcasing Manchester’s Music and Cultural Scene

Francis Lung’s recommendations highlight some of Manchester’s most vibrant cultural locations. By photographing him in these spaces, the shoot documents both the musician and the city, capturing the interplay between artistic identity and the urban environment. Locations like Yes and Home are central to Manchester’s creative and music culture, while restaurants and galleries like Yuzu, This & That, and the Whitworth provide context to the lifestyle and local engagement of artists.

Collaborating with Scandinavian Airlines

Scandinavian Airlines commissioned the shoot to showcase Francis Lung’s insights into Manchester and to highlight the city’s music, art, and culinary offerings. Photography plays a key role in storytelling, presenting both the artist and the locations in a way that connects audiences to the experience of visiting Manchester.

Nick Freeman

It’s not everyday you get to cruise around Cheshire in a Jaguar XK120, let alone when its 28 degrees outside. Happily, they were the conditions when I photographed motoring lawyer to the stars Nick Freeman for the Sunday Times ‘Me and My Motor’ section.

We found out that classic cars don’t really enjoy idling in the baking heat, but after a bit of cooling off in the shade, we got the job done.

Ian & Andrew McMillan

A few months ago I had the real pleasure of photographing poets Andrew McMillan and his father Ian McMillan for the Relative Values feature in The Sunday Times. Spending time with the two of them was both humbling and enjoyable, and the resulting portraits reflect not just their connection as father and son but also their remarkable contributions to British poetry and culture.

I’ve known of Ian’s work from radio appearances throughout my youth and of course from his long‑standing role as the official poet of Barnsley Football Club. Born in Darfield, South Yorkshire in 1956, Ian McMillan is an English poet, journalist, playwright and broadcaster known for his warm Northern voice and distinctive Yorkshire accent. He has presented BBC Radio 3’s The Verb, written extensively for national publications, and remains deeply rooted in the cultural life of his home region.

His son Andrew McMillan is a leading voice in contemporary British poetry in his own right. Born near Barnsley in 1988, Andrew’s debut poetry collection Physical was published by Jonathan Cape and made history as the first poetry collection to win the Guardian First Book Award. Since then he has published multiple acclaimed works and serves as Professor of Contemporary Writing at Manchester Metropolitan University.

Photographing them together was an opportunity to explore both shared legacy and individual achievement. The session was unhurried and conversational, enabling us to create portraits that communicate personality, mutual respect, and the unique dynamic between two generations of writers. Much of our conversation, inevitably, turned to football — not surprising given Ian’s poetic celebration of sport and his unofficial title as Barnsley’s “Bard” — and it was fascinating to see how the everyday passions of life in Yorkshire inform both of their creative worlds.

The portraits were commissioned to accompany The Sunday Times feature, which invited readers inside the personal and professional lives of these two poets. Editorial portraiture like this goes beyond capturing a likeness; the aim is to reflect character and context, helping readers connect with the subjects on a deeper level. In this case, the images complement the written piece by conveying warmth, humour and the richness of a life spent in language.

Ian’s body of work spans poetry collections, plays, journalism and broadcasting, and he has long been celebrated for promoting poetry to wider audiences. Whether performing live, writing columns or bringing regional voices into national conversation, his career has been rooted in community and accessibility. Andrew’s work is both deeply personal and widely resonant, addressing themes of identity, belonging and emotion while winning recognition on major literary stages. The time spent photographing them offered a glimpse into how these creative lives intersect and diverge, making for a compelling visual story.

In the portraits, you’ll see expressions and gestures that hint at their personalities — Ian’s ease and characteristic humour, Andrew’s quiet intensity and reflective presence — and a sense of connection that only time spent in conversation can reveal. These images do more than illustrate a feature; they document a moment in the lives of two major voices in contemporary poetry.

It was a pleasure to be part of this project, and I’m grateful to The Sunday Times for the opportunity to shoot such thoughtful subjects.

Nadia Nadim for Scandinavian Airlines

Nadia Nadim Photography for Scandinavian Airlines | Editorial Portraits

I recently photographed Nadia Nadim, the Danish international footballer and Manchester City midfielder, for a commission with Scandinavian Airlines. Nadim’s story is extraordinary: born in Afghanistan, she fled the country as a child after her father was executed, resettled in Denmark, and went on to become a professional footballer, a medical student training to be a surgeon, and a polyglot fluent in nine languages. Meeting and photographing her was genuinely inspiring.

This commission was a collaboration with sports journalist Claire Bloomfield and Swedish design agency Off The Wall. The photographs accompany a feature in Scandinavian Traveler magazine, capturing Nadim’s achievements, resilience, and extraordinary personal journey.

Capturing Nadia Nadim: Editorial and Portrait Photography

The photography focused on portraiture and environmental shots rather than on-pitch action. The aim was to convey Nadim’s character, determination, and life story, highlighting her journey from refugee to professional athlete, her academic pursuits in medicine, and her advocacy for social issues including refugee support and gender equality in sport. Professional editorial photography in this context brings her story to life, showing her as a role model, a global citizen, and an inspirational figure beyond football. The images were designed to engage audiences, complement the written profile, and be used across social media, print, and digital publications.

Nadia Nadim: An Inspirational Life Story

Nadim’s achievements extend far beyond football. She has represented Denmark in multiple UEFA European Championships and FIFA World Cups while balancing her studies in medicine, reflecting a remarkable dedication to both sport and education. Fluent in nine languages, she uses her platform to advocate for refugees, gender equality, and social responsibility. Her experiences as a refugee, professional athlete, student, and humanitarian make her an inspirational figure whose story resonates across sports, education, and social advocacy. Capturing her in portraits allowed the photography to reflect both her achievements and her personal strength, portraying the resilience and leadership that define her career.

Collaboration with Claire Bloomfield and Off The Wall

Working alongside Claire Bloomfield and Swedish design agency Off The Wall ensured that the images complemented the editorial narrative for Scandinavian Traveler magazine. The session was carefully directed to highlight Nadim’s personality, presence, and inspirational journey, creating photographs that communicate both her character and the story behind her achievements. In editorial projects like this, professional photography supports storytelling, engages audiences, and conveys the context, personality, and impact of the subject.

Conclusion

Photographing Nadia Nadim for Scandinavian Airlines and Scandinavian Traveler magazine was a unique opportunity to highlight her achievements, resilience, and global influence. By focusing on editorial portraiture, the photography captured her inspirational story and personality rather than football action, providing a lasting visual record of her remarkable journey.

Read the full feature in Scandinavian Traveler magazine here.

Jimmy Banks for Royal Bank of Scotland

Portrait photographs of Jimmy Banks for the Royal Bank of Scotland magazine. Jimmy transformed his life through healthy eating and exercise. We shot these pictures at Worthington Lakes in Wigan, Jimmy's usual running route.

Sortimo for WirtschaftWoche

Documentary Photography: Sortimo and German Businesses Post-Brexit | WirtschaftWoche

I recently photographed a feature for the German business magazine WirtschaftWoche (Business Week), focusing on the effects of Brexit on German companies operating facilities in the UK. The assignment explored how businesses have adapted to regulatory changes, supply chain shifts, and operational challenges following the UK’s departure from the EU.

The shoot took me to Sortimo, a van racking company based in Warrington. My role was to capture documentary-style images that illustrate the day-to-day operations of the facility, the workforce in action, and the broader context of a German firm navigating the post-Brexit landscape. The photographs accompany Sacha’s editorial piece, providing a visual narrative that complements the magazine’s analysis.

Employees installing van racking systems at Sortimo facility

Sortimo van racking assembly line in Warrington UK

German company Sortimo UK operations post-Brexit

Documentary photography of Sortimo warehouse interior

Sortimo production workflow in Warrington factory

Workers preparing vehicles for commercial van racking at Sortimo

Editorial photography of German business operations in UK

Sortimo UK employees at work during Brexit adaptation feature

Van racking systems being installed at Sortimo UK facility

Business documentary photography for WirtschaftWoche magazine

Operational processes at Sortimo warehouse UK post-Brexit

German firm Sortimo staff assembling storage solutions for vans

Industrial and corporate photography of Sortimo UK production

Capturing Business and Operational Context

Documentary photography for business features requires balancing authenticity, clarity, and editorial storytelling. At Sortimo, I photographed employees assembling and installing van racking systems, operational workflows, and the facility’s production environment. These images help readers visualise the human and operational side of corporate adaptation to Brexit, showing how German companies continue to maintain high standards and efficiency in a changing business climate.

Professional photography adds value to editorial coverage by highlighting both context and narrative. By capturing the people, processes, and infrastructure of Sortimo, the photographs provide a tangible sense of the challenges and innovations described in the article.

The Impact of Brexit on German Firms

The assignment illustrates how Brexit has influenced German companies with UK operations, from logistics adjustments to regulatory compliance. Sortimo exemplifies firms that have invested in continuity and operational resilience, ensuring that their UK facilities remain productive and competitive. Through photography, these adjustments are made visible, helping readers understand the human, operational, and strategic dimensions of the story.

Conclusion

Photographing Sortimo for WirtschaftWoche allowed me to create a visual record of a German firm operating in the UK post-Brexit. The documentary images support the editorial narrative, conveying both operational detail and the broader challenges faced by businesses in a changing European and UK economic environment.

Victoria Jordan

Victoria Jordan photographed in Greater Manchester for Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust and Manchester Metropolitan University

Research Matters Magazine

Manchester Metropolitan University Research Matters Photography | Academic and Research Editorial

Seeing your work published in print never loses its appeal. I was delighted to see my photography featured in the latest edition of Manchester Metropolitan University’s Research Matters magazine, highlighting the university’s research initiatives in health and social care. Working on this ongoing editorial project allows me to capture staff, students, and research activities in a professional, visually engaging way for an academic audience.

I have collaborated with Stu Wilkin of THMedia since the first edition of the magazine, and it was rewarding to see my work continue to feature prominently following the magazine’s recent redesign. The new layout showcases the photography effectively, complementing the written content and helping communicate the impact of MMU’s research to readers.

I would like to thank Jackie Rees and the staff at Manchester Metropolitan University’s Department of Health and Social Care for their cooperation during the shoots. The sessions focused on documentary and portrait photography, illustrating the university’s innovative research projects, student engagement, and professional academic environment.

Academic and Research Photography for Manchester Metropolitan University

Professional photography for university publications like Research Matters serves multiple purposes. It documents research activity, highlights staff and student achievements, and provides compelling visual content for marketing, social media, and institutional outreach. By capturing authentic moments of collaboration, experimentation, and presentation, editorial photography reinforces the university’s reputation as a leading centre for research in health and social care.

Using documentary and portraiture techniques, the photographs convey professionalism, engagement, and the human side of academic research. Each image is composed to resonate with prospective students, researchers, and institutional partners, enhancing both the magazine’s editorial value and Manchester Metropolitan University’s wider communication goals.

Conclusion

Photography for Manchester Metropolitan University’s Research Matters magazine demonstrates the importance of professional visual storytelling in academic publications. The latest edition highlights staff, students, and research projects while providing marketing and social media assets for the university. Capturing research initiatives and academic collaboration ensures that the magazine not only informs but also engages readers, reinforcing MMU’s role as a hub of innovation and expertise in health and social care.

Many thanks to Jackie Rees and the staff at Manchester Metropolitan University's Department of Heaslth and Social Care for their co-operation with the shoots.

The Right Honourable Jeremy Corbyn

Jeremy Corbyn was in Manchester yesterday for the launch of the Labour election campaign. I caught up with the campaign bus in my home town of Wythenshawe.

David Cameron came here and someone waved an imaginary gun at him, cue a frenzy of demonising 'chavs' and hoodies all over the papers. Corbyn turns up, gets treated like a returning hero and guess what? No one's bothered.

If only everywhere was like Wythenshawe, the people of Wythenshawe might stand half a chance...