I’m incredibly proud (and still slightly shocked) to share that I’ve been awarded Photographer of the Year 2026 at the Rhythm & Poesy Awards. This is actually the second time I’ve received the award, having first won it in 2024, and the recognition means a lot because it comes from the very community I care so deeply about supporting.
For me, photography has never just been about taking pictures. It’s about telling the stories of people, businesses and creatives in Northampton and beyond.
And this award feels like recognition of that mission.
A Full Circle Moment
Interestingly, I was also shortlisted for Photographer of the Year in 2025, but I chose to step aside from the category at the time. After winning the previous year, I felt it was important to give space to other talented photographers in Northampton to receive recognition and visibility. Our local creative community is full of incredible artists, and awards like this can make a real difference to someone building their career. However, this year I was informed that I had received so many nominations again that I would remain in the category, which ultimately led to winning the award for a second time.
That level of support from the community honestly means everything.
Being Called “The Voice of Northampton”
During the awards evening, organisers surprised me with something I genuinely wasn’t expecting — a specially created newspaper-style tribute describing me as “The Voice of the Town.”
The piece recognised the work I do championing local creatives, independent businesses and community initiatives through my photography, podcast and speaking work. If you know me, you’ll know I’m passionate about shining a light on the people doing amazing things locally. Northampton has always been full of talent, and I believe photographers and creatives have a responsibility to document, support and amplify the communities they are part of.
Recognition During International Women’s Day
The same day as the Rhythm & Poesy Awards was also Northampton’s International Women’s Day celebrations, where I was incredibly honoured to be shortlisted for the Business Award. The nomination recognised not just my photography work, but the wider impact I try to create through my projects and community initiatives.
Over the years I’ve worked hard to ensure photography can be used as a tool for connection, education and advocacy, not just business.
Some of the work that contributed to the nomination includes:
- Running free and low-cost photography workshops for people with SEN requirements
- Creating accessible creative sessions for people living with dementia
- Organising community photo walks to combat loneliness and social isolation
- Using photography and videography to highlight the issue of fly-tipping and its impact on local communities
- Volunteering my photography skills with Remember My Baby, providing remembrance photography for families experiencing the loss of a baby
Being recognised during International Women’s Day for these efforts meant a huge amount to me, because it reflects something I’ve always believed: Creativity should be accessible, supportive and capable of making a real difference.
Photography Beyond the Studio
While many people know me as a portrait photographer in Northampton, my work spans a wide range of photography genres.
I regularly photograph:
- Branding photography for businesses
- Professional headshots
- Portrait photography
- Fashion photography
- Live events and festivals
My work has taken me to projects and festivals both across the UK and internationally, while my base and focus remain firmly rooted in Northampton.
Alongside my photography business, I’m also the author of two top-selling photography books, host of The Loud Lens podcast, and regularly speak at photography events and seminars across the UK and Europe. Through all of this work, my goal has always been the same: to support working creatives and highlight the power of photography as both an art and a business.
Why Supporting Local Creatives Matters
Northampton has a thriving creative scene that deserves recognition. From independent businesses and musicians to artists and entrepreneurs, the town is full of people doing incredible work. If my photography, podcast, books or workshops help shine a light on even a small part of that community, then I’m doing something worthwhile.
Winning Photographer of the Year 2026 feels less like a personal award and more like recognition of the creative ecosystem we’re building together.
And that’s something I’m incredibly proud to be part of.
Work With Me
If you’re looking for a portrait photographer, branding photographer or headshot photographer in Northampton, or you’re interested in photography workshops and creative community projects, lets chat.
