North Laine Portraits

I thought my Journal would be a great place to write in more depth about my long-term photography project based in the vibrant North Laine area of Brighton.

I started creating portraits of people I met on the street in Brighton several years ago. I wanted to record the characters that visit, live or work in the North Laine. I suppose, because I’m drawn to this particular area of the city, I wanted to better understand these folk and what draws them here. Now, after a break, I’m returning to my project and I can’t wait to meet and photograph more personalities.

North Laine

The North Laine in Brighton is a relatively compact network of streets which has some beautiful and colourful homes, lively independent businesses and a special vibe. People are laid back and the fashion sense is incredible. It’s a place often described as boho (sometimes eccentric!) but always full of life and colour.

I was born in Brighton and although work initially took me to Birmingham and London, I soon returned to my home town. Of course it wouldn’t be long before I used my camera to photograph the lovely people of Brighton.

Roughly speaking, the North Laine extends from Trafalgar Street/Brighton Station in the north and then is bordered by Queens Road, North Street and then Old Steine/Grand Parade to the east. Within the scope of this project, I include what’s known as the Cultural Quarter, which is where the famous Royal Pavilion is located.

Why Film?

I use a vintage camera which is usually a talking point. It’s not the lightest camera in the world to carry around, which means I deserve plenty of coffee breaks! I love using the camera though, because I can’t rush the process. I have to work intentionally and slow down. The camera takes 35mm film, so there’s no way of knowing what the photographs will look like until the roll has been developed. Whilst it may sound alien to digital devotees, I really like the discipline of getting the shots right in camera and then having to wait. Most analogue photographers will agree that the delayed satisfaction involved in finishing the roll of film, developing it and only then being able to see what you’ve got, is all part of the joy of film photography.

For me though, it’s the look of film that’s incredible. It’s a chemical miracle!

The Project

This is a long-term project and I want to do it justice by taking my time. At some point it would be great to have an exhibition at a space in Brighton where I can share the work with both visitors and the subjects I have photographed. That’s the aim. The North Laine is a community within the city and it would be great to bring people together through the power of photography.