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Through Our Lens: Black Women Photograph 60 Years of Notting Hill Carnival

The Uk Black Female Photographers Photograph 60 years of Notting Hill Carnival

/ Wednesday 16th September 2026

Notting Hill Carnival is more than a celebration. It is history, culture, resistance, creativity, identity and community — and for 60 years, photographers have helped document its story.

This year, 50 Black female photographers came together through UKBFTOG to document Carnival through their own eyes.

No two photographers saw the same day in quite the same way.

Some captured the colour. Some captured the movement. Some looked for quiet moments amongst the crowds. Others focused on portraits, details, characters and the people who make Carnival what it is.

Together, their photographs tell a much bigger story: there is power in who gets to hold the camera.

Check Out What They Captured:

Khadine Sinclair

I love making people feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. I capture profile photos for both personal and professional use, as well as events and product photography. Increasingly, I’m drawn to storytelling through photography, capturing natural moments, personalities and the details that help tell a bigger story.

Instagram:@wiredtoseephotography/https://www.instagram.com/wiredtoseephotography/

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

I really wanted my photographs to capture the spirit of Carnival, the people, the incredible costumes, the smiles and the energy. But also those smaller moments, strangers coming together and becoming friends, connected through culture, music and a shared experience. That sense of community is what made the day so special for me, and it’s what I wanted to tell through my photos

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

I used my Canon EOS R8 Mirrorless, with my Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

The camaraderie between the other female photographers, sharing stories, listening to their experiences and being able to walk alongside one another in the crowd meant a lot to me. To then have the opportunity to photograph the iconic Notting Hill Carnival as it celebrated its 60th year was the icing on the cake. So grateful to UKBFTOG for bringing us together.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

Nerves are completely normal, but you honestly don’t need to be nervous at Carnival. It’s one of those events where people genuinely want you to capture them. So much time, creativity and effort has gone into the costumes, the make-up and the overall look, and people are proud to be photographed.

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

It’s legacy. It’s memories. And it’s about remembering why Notting Hill Carnival was started in the first place. We MUST document it. We have to capture these moments, these people and these stories, and keep that history alive for the generations that come after us. Carnival brings people together in a way that very few events can.

Elina Abel-Opurum

I’m very much new to photography! I found my mothers old point and shoot camera earlier this year and have been having fun with it since. I’m still discovering my shooting style, but I realise that I like shooting moments that people can cherish.

Www.instagram.com/whirr.jpg

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

The masqueraders! There was so much joy in them all that I wanted to capture.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

My mothers old Fujifilm FinePix A202

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

So much! I’ve lived in London all my life and have never been to Carnival as I’m not a huge fan of crowds and it’s always been painted as a very overwhelming experience. Going to Carnival with UKBFTOG not only allowed me to experience it alongside a group of like-minded ladies, but also gave me the opportunity to finally experience the joy of Carnival that I’ve heard so many Carnival veterans speak about.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

I would share the words of a fellow Tog: “Feel the fear and do it anyway!” I was quite anxious at first, partly because of the crowds and partly because of the whole concept of approaching people and asking to take their photo. But being part of such a large group meant that, whenever I got separated from my mini group, it was always easy to spot a fellow Tog. I also found the confidence to approach individuals to ask for their photos simply by being inspired by my fellow Togs around me. Seeing them work encouraged and inspired me to step outside my comfort zone and do the same.

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

As I’ve only just experienced it, I now realise how important it is! I’m very late to the party (or should I say, di road?) and would love to continue experiencing Carnival, as I have a lot of missed years to catch up on. After visiting the Notting Hill Carnival exhibition at Somerset House, I now recognise and appreciate the importance of documenting these events. Through the work of earlier photographers, I was able to catch a glimpse of what Carnival was like in its formative years, so it’s important that we continue to document and preserve these moments for the next generation.

Kimberley Saddler

I like natural but creative styles when it comes to my photography. I started out mainly doing weddings and events but have loved venturing into portrait photography over the past few years.

Www.instagram.com/ksaddlerphotography

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

I love capturing candid, joyful moments at Carnival. The community feel and all-around joy and happiness drew me the most and was reflected in the photos I took at Carnival this year.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

Canon 5D Mk IV. I used a Canon 35mm, 1.4 lens.

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

Being with other UKBFTOGs felt really comfortable for me, I really appreciated being around my own people. Everyone is at different stages in their photography which made me feel more comfortable in knowing that there was no hierarchy or uppityness about it.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

Go anyway! There are so many of us that are nervous about photographing an event like this but trust me, 99% of people that go to carnival are so up to having their photo taken. I had so many people in my DMs afterwards asking for their photo to be taken as well as so many at carnival that wanted their photo taken! Such a great vibe and a really good opportunity to practice so many elements of photography – portraits, groups, couples, candid, posed, whilst being able to practice being versatile!

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

I love being Black British Caribbean – we are such a beautiful, joyful and diverse set of people. I grew up going to Carnival and it always feels like home to me. It is important we keep documenting it as Notting Hill Carnival holds so much history in protest, togetherness, community and celebration of our culture for everyone to witness. It is so great to be a part of monumental historic events such as this as a photographer where you know that your photos will stand the test of time – people well in the future will see your photographs and say wow, what history!

Laura Rose

I love all things people, culture and music and someone how merged all those things and made it a part of my world of photography, capturing everything from Portraits, Events to the entertainment world. Ive never been an in the box type of person and happy to try my hand at most things, but Im most happy meeting new people, trying new things and being in nature with the important people in my life.

https://www.instagram.com/thepinkrosephoto

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

I love capturing the joy, freedom and energy of carnival. I feel its the one time we get to come together as a community and celebrate eachother and that gives me an enormous amount of pride.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

Nikon Z6iii paired with Telephoto lens.

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

Everything getting to walk with other women, share our passion and learn about eachother whilst taking in such a beautiful event is just priceless.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

Come with UKBFTOG or find friends or a community that maybe want to experience it too. You wont regret it!

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

Notting Hill Carnival started out of Resistance and Protest and we must not forget the history and why we come together. We brought pain and purpose and made it into something beautiful and powerful and despite what the media try to portray it as it couldn’t be farther from it, which its why its so important we document our own stories and narratives to make sure our voices and experiences are not lost.

Mona

My favourite thing to shoot are candid moments. I like to capture raw emotions. I mostly do event, sports and street photography.

https://www.instagram.com/picsbymonacb

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

There is sooooo much happening!!! It definitely trains your eyes to catch the right moments. It was my second year doing the photowalk so I already knew what I wanted to capture for my upcoming posts. Spontaneous moments, pure joy and positive vibes, I also wanted to focus a bit more on the people behind the feathers, the one working behind the scenes to make carnival safe for everyone.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

I went with my 1st kit, a Nikon D5600 + 18-105mm lens. Last year I was a bit self-conscious about my camera because it’s not a professional camera but the group quickly made me realise that the most important thing is the person behind the camera, as long as you have a good eye and know how to work with your kit, you are as good as a pro.

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

Community! Coming from Paris, France, I’ve always admired the sense of community that I’ve witnessed each time I’m in London, it’s not something we really have here so to have a group that looks like you and supports you without judgement, it’s really uplifting.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

Don’t be, the girls will be there to support you. There were 50 of us this year, some I had seen the year before some I had met for the first time, and though you won’t be able to talk to everyone, you will be wrapped up in a bubble of support and kindness to help you navigate whatever comes your way.

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

Legacy, Unity in Diversity, Pride. It was my 3rd Carnival overall and each time when I arrive on Carnival Sunday and see everyone with their flag and representing their island, my heart is overflowing with pride. Proud to be from Guadeloupe, to be Caribbean and to be Black. We need to write our own narrative about Carnival especially with some bitter people wanting to shut it down. If we, the community, stop documenting our event, we give the opportunity to those people to propagate a false narrative to fit their agenda and we will loose a part of our identity in the long run. After all Carnival is Resistance.

Alice Okunowo

I only started my photography journey back in March of this year, but have always had a fascination with it for years. My main focus is street photography either through travelling on my own to places or joining group photo walks, but I also enjoy taking portraits whenever I can as well.

https://www.instagram.com/alices_photographs_

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

My favourite part photographing Carnival was the masqueraders in their amazing costumes – bright colours and great attention to detail.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

Fujifilm Finepix S4500 30x optical zoom Super EBC Fujinon lens

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

Photographing Notting Hill Carnival with UKBFTOG made me feel like I really belonged to a community, and it gave me confidence to photograph different things happening around me because I felt safe with a group of people.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

Just go for it. As soon as I saw the opportunity, I immediately went for it and I was happy I did. You meet so many cool people – everyone is at different levels of photography experience, and we’re all just there to have a good time and come together and socialise and enjoy Carnival. Being neurodivergent, I took it as an opportunity that I didn’t want to miss, regret and be kicking myself for not going. You have to go out of your comfort zone, even if it means doing things you wouldn’t normally do. If I can do it, anyone else who is neurodivergent can come along too. I had a great time!

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

Notting Hill Carnival is a celebratory event. People from all over the world come to have a good time, and recognise that it was intially a response to racism towards Caribbean people – and a way of saying that we are here to celebrate and we belong. I wanted to photograph and capture the freedom of expression, culture, community and celebrate 60 years of resilience and joy that this event has continued to bring, and I’m grateful and honoured to have joined the UKBFTOG community in documenting such a poignant event in Black History.

Nompsy Chigaru

I’m a documentary photographer, most interested in photographing people, the connections between them and the spaces they inhabit.

https://www.instagram.com/chiganalogue

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

With the current geopolitical landscape in the UK and around the world feeling increasingly heavy and divided, it was so beautiful to see people of all ages and backgrounds coming together to celebrate 60 years of Notting Hill Carnival. Whilst I’ve been to Carnival before, this was my first time photographing it, and this feeling of togetherness felt more palpable than ever before. I loved watching people living their best lives – families, friends and complete strangers sharing space, letting loose and being present in the moment. It was the spontaneous, organic connections that drew me in most, particularly those quieter, in-between moments. From surveying the chaos perched up on a wall, to impromptu costume alterations and much needed food breaks, these little vignettes of human connection felt like they embodied the real magic of Carnival.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

Nikon F100 w/ Nikkor 50mm lens

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

It was incredible to be part of a 50 Black women-strong group of photographers, all with their unique photography and storytelling vision. It’s been amazing seeing these different perspectives come to life in the WhatsApp group and on Instagram. Being with UKBFTOG and surrounded by other photographers felt like having a safety blanket – being together really boosted my confidence and emboldened me to step out of my comfort zone, particularly when approaching people to take their portraits. It’s definitely something I’ll take forward in my street photography.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

Bring the camera you’re most comfortable with and leave the nerves at home! Carnival is fast paced and it’s busy, but the connections to be made between you, your lens and the people in front of it, all make the whirlwind so worth it. There’s so much going on that I’d say don’t put any pressure on yourself to capture everything and try not to overthink it – see what your eye responds to on the day and enjoy yourself at the same time.

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

Notting Hill Carnival is a powerful expression of Black British resilience, resistance, and most importantly, joy. Carnival Monday was a beautiful reminder that there is so much humanity, love and togetherness to be found on our streets. It’s so important that we continue documenting Carnival, adding to the archive of the people, moments and energy that have defined it through its lifetime. Looking back at archival images from the past 60 years is fascinating and knowing that the photographs we collectively made are now part of that visual history feels incredibly special. Documenting Carnival gives us a way to honour its past, celebrate its present and preserve it for the future, which I hope will extend through the next 60 years and far beyond.

Dee Adelakun

I enjoy taking candid lifestyle shots and expressive portraits of people which captures their emotions, style and special moments using flash photography.

https://www.instagram.com/dnasiyah_images

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

I enjoyed seeing the vibrant colours, styles and different people of all nationality, shapes, size, and dance steps. The energy was high and stepping into the carnival alongside other black female photographers gave me so much confidence.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

I used my canon R6 EOS Mark II, paired with a Tamron 24-70mm lens

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

It meant a lot shooting with the group. The ladies are so talented and inspirational. I was able to feel and tap into their quiet, creative confidence.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

Come out of your comfort zone and just do it. You will be surprised at how response people are to having their photos taken when they see you working along side other photographers.

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

It’s a time of celebration, a time of reunion and of cultural education. A time when creativity on full display.

Cheyenne Hall

Hello, my name is Cheyenne Hall. My Instagram handle is timelessphotos.uk, but it will soon be changing to timelessphotos.ch.
I am a multi-genre photographer, guided by curiosity and a desire to experiment with different techniques and media. I play with colour, composition and texture, and much of my recent work has been fashion and portrait-focused.

https://www.instagram.com/timelessphotos.ch

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

What drew me most was people enjoying the event and connecting with others. Whether that was friends and family they were meeting there or strangers passing by.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

I used a small point-and-shoot toy camera with a fixed lens and a thermal printer to print the images. I mainly focused on the textures the prints made and thought they matched the fleetingness of this fast-paced, energetic environment.

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

It felt like capturing another moment in history, but also another beginning to how I tell and show those stories to others.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

Just go for it! With it being the largest street festival in Europe to have far more to capture.

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

I think it is important to document how people carry parts of their cultures with them and share them for others to experience.

Kaptured by KaGe

One of London’s top portrait photographers. I don’t have a particular style. I guess I take images and pride myself in taking images that evoke emotion.

https://www.instagram.com/KapturedbyKaGe

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

It’s a day full of content. It’s like content heaven from the beautiful costumes, to the teenagers getting excited to meet with their friends. It’s all content and a chance to tell a story.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

Canon 7D, 24-70 lens

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

Girl power!

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

Being nervous is normal. I would be worried if you weren’t however once you start shooting the nerves go away.

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

NottingHill is culture, family and home. It’s not for everyone and those that get it get it.

Rebecca M Orleans

Self-portraits, and events to tell stories.

https://www.instagram.com/rebeccamorleans

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

Being in community, observing groups of friends and family living their best lives, feeling comfortable in their skin.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

Fujifilm xt3 and 35mm fixed lens

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

Safety, and confidence. Being small in stature I can get lost. UKBFTOG makes me taller.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

Just give it a try. It is good vibes and you can experiment without any pressure.

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

Growing up in London Carnival is part of my history. Being able to capture our stories and moments is very important.

Ria Marsh

My name is Ria Marsh, and you can find me on Instagram at @riamarsh_photography.
I mainly photograph people, portraits and events. I’m always looking for the natural expressions, movement and little candid moments that tell the real story of what is happening. I love colour, personality and photographs that feel alive. Even when I’m photographing a big event, it’s usually the people and the moments between everything else that catch my attention.

https://www.instagram.com/riamarsh_photography

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

My favourite part was seeing so much personality everywhere I looked. There was colour, movement, music and energy coming from every direction, but I kept being drawn to people’s expressions and the smaller moments happening within all the excitement.
I loved capturing people enjoying themselves, dancing freely, showing off their costumes or simply having their own little moment in the middle of the crowd. I wanted the photographs to show not only what Carnival looked like, but what it actually felt like to be there.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

I photographed Carnival using my Canon 700D and Canon 24–105mm f/4 lens. The lens gave me the flexibility to capture the wider atmosphere as well as move in closer for portraits and candid moments.

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

Photographing Carnival with my fellow ‘Sista-Togs’ gave me the chance to experience it differently. I wasn’t just there enjoying the day. I had a purpose and a story to capture.
It also pushed me outside my comfort zone. Event photography can make me nervous because everything moves so quickly and you only get one chance to catch some moments. But being part of the team encouraged me to trust my eye, react to what was happening and grow in confidence as a photographer.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

I would say the nerves are completely normal because I definitely felt them too! Carnival is busy, fast and unpredictable, and it can feel like there is pressure to capture everything.
But you don’t have to photograph everything. Focus on what naturally catches your eye and tell the story from your perspective. Know your basic camera settings, take a breath and start shooting. Your confidence will build as you go. Some moments will be missed, but there will always be another expression, movement or story unfolding in front of you.

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

Notting Hill Carnival represents Caribbean culture, creativity, joy and community. It is a space where music, dance, food, costume and generations of history all come together. There is nothing else quite like seeing the streets filled with that much colour, freedom and energy.
It is important that we keep documenting Carnival because the photographs become part of its history. They preserve the big, spectacular moments, but also the people, families and small interactions that give Carnival its heart. Years from now, people should be able to look back and see not only what happened, but how it felt to be there.

Marian Quartey

My name is Marian Quartey, my Instagram handle is @marianq.captures
I’m still relatively early in my photography journey, so I’m enjoying exploring different ways of seeing and interpreting the world around me. I photograph people, places and moments that catch my eye. My work encompasses street, portrait and documentary photography, with a particular interest in urban culture — from street art and graffiti to the people, characters and everyday moments that bring a place to life.
I’d describe my style as observational and documentary. I’m drawn to images that feel honest and unforced, but I also love strong composition, colour, texture and light. Whether I’m photographing a person, a piece of graffiti or a moment happening in the street, I’m looking for something that tells a story or gives you a sense of the place.

https://www.instagram.com/marianq.captures

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

My favourite part was the unpredictability of it. Carnival is so full of colour and spectacle, but I found myself more iinterested in what was happening around the flamboyance and costumes — the expressions, the interactions, the movement and those fleeting moments that could easily be missed.
I was increasingly drawn to moments that felt natural rather than staged. Sometimes it was a gesture, a look between two people, or the way someone moved through the crowd. I wanted to capture moments that felt real and that, together, gave a sense of what it actually felt like to be there.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

I carried with me a FujiFilm X-T5 camera along with the Fujiflm 16-55mm 2.8 lens. I also had on me the Fujifilm 33mm 1.4 lens but I didn’t use thi.

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

It was so empowering and encouraging to be surrounded by other Black women who shared the same passion for photography. Funnily enough, it made the experience feel less intimidating and gave me the freedom to concentrate on my own eye without feeling that I had to compete with anyone else’s.
I could experiment, take risks and move through the crowd knowing there was a supportive group around me. It was also a reminder that photography can be quite solitary, so having that shared experience was really valuable — and I came away with a bunch of new friends, which was an added bonus!

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

Don’t wait until you feel completely confident — you probably never will so just go for it!
Carnival can be overwhelming because there’s so much competing for your attention. Instead of trying to capture everything, find something that interests you and stay with it. Watch what’s happening. Anticipate the moment. Be curious.
And don’t put too much pressure on yourself to come away with the perfect photograph. Some of the best images can come from simply being present and responding to what’s happening in front of you. Your perspective is what makes the photograph yours.
Sometimes I come away from a shoot thinking the images were just so-so, but when I get home and look through them on the laptop, I discover hidden gems — photographs with unexpected layers or moments that I hadn’t even noticed at the time. So don’t dismiss what you’ve captured too quickly. Give your images time to reveal themselves.

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

I used to go to Notting Hill Carnival very regularly back in the day. It was a family and friends affair. We would sit by the judging area with our food and drinks, absorbing the atmosphere — the culture, creativity, music, identity and community all around us.
I attended for quite a few years and then stopped. I didn’t return until recently, and I couldn’t help thinking about all those memories that I hadn’t captured. My passion for photography hadn’t been realised back then, and I found myself wishing I had photographs to look back on now.
There’s something powerful about seeing generations of people come together in the streets of London to celebrate, express themselves and simply enjoy being who they are. As a photographer, I’m drawn to the people and the stories within that celebration. I want to capture more than the costumes and the spectacle — the expressions, the relationships, the movement, the atmosphere and those fleeting moments that might otherwise be forgotten.
I think it’s important that we continue documenting Carnival because these photographs become part of its history. It’s about creating a visual record of the people, culture and community that make it what it is. And I think it’s particularly important that Black photographers continue to tell those stories from our own perspective.

JoAnn Onofre

I’m an Afro Indigenous Honduran American documentary photographer. I’m drawn to documenting Black and Brown communities across the Diaspora, particularly the everyday moments and live events.

https://www.instagram.com/JayOnoFoto

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

Since this was the 60th anniversary of Notting Hill Carnival, I loved the excitement and energy that everyone had. Many attendees posed alone or with a group which made it even easier for me to photograph them in such a fast paced event.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

FujiFilm X100VI and Canon EOS 500/Sigma 22mm lens

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

It was an incredible opportunity to be surrounded by 50 amazing photographers to document Carnival; I felt very inspired and grateful to be apart of this community of women.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

I would say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing, is to try to find a location in Carnival that they feel most comfortable capturing. It could be photographing from the judging zone, their favorite sound systems or even the food vendors.

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

I previously lived in London as an international college student and our campus was located in Notting Hill by Lambroke Grove. During that time the neighborhood felt like home to me. Decades later, I’m now able to photograph the Carnival for the last 3 years. I believe it’s important to have a visual archive for future black female photographers to see the historical impact, beauty and richness of the Carnival culture. Hopefully, others will be inspired by our photographs and to continue to document the legacy of Carnival.

Camille

Hi, I’m Camille, you can find me on IG & Tiktok @captures.by.camille. I photograph a wide variety – I started out covering art & design products and events as part of my day job, while moving onto landscape, architectural and documentary photography in my spare time.

https://www.instagram.com/captures.by.camille

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

Simply being there! More often than not, people are very receptive to having their photos taken and so it becomes a genuine exchange. I was drawn to the regality of the people playing mas as the waves of trucks passed, and the ambience created by feters (not in costume) representing their flags as bandanas, or worn across their bodies through fashion.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

A very simple set up! A Canon 77D, with the standard kit lens (18-55mm) and a wide angle lens (10-18mm).

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

As someone who use to attend NHC religiously since childhood, this was my first one in at least 10 years. The photo walk was an amazing way to return to Carnival and to meet other Black women who have a love for photography. Seeing and capturing the positive impact of Caribbean communities existing in London was beautiful; it gave me the opportunity to experience Carnival from a different perspective.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

There are photographers everywhere, so you won’t be the only one. It makes for great experience capturing in a fast-paced environment where moments are happening spontaneously.

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

Notting Hill Carnival is a reminder of the home that I have today because of the efforts of those who came before me. It’s the surviving spirit of Afro-Caribbean ancestry from centuries of resistance against colonial and oppressive forces. And as mainstream Western media continues to uphold colonial ideology, it’s incredibly important that we tell our stories and document our human experiences in a way that only we can.

Rachel Blake

Portraits and Events are my love. I love colour, rich, moody and the abstract.

https://www.instagram.com/rachelblake.photography

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

I love to see people having a good time. People were free. Free to express, move and sing for hours.
The fashion is always a highlight too. Beautifully curated outfits for the floats and bands and the individual styling of those came to live it up was everything.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

Canon R6 Mark ii, Lens 70-200mm

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

I have been photographing for many years but never thought to walk with my camera and capture elements of carnival. Photographing with the ladies was a real moment. It was great to walk, talk and shoot and I will definitely do it again.
Carnival was childhood. I grew up watching it pass my door every year for two days. I was young but it was incredible to watch.
I would do my little two step and enjoyed watching the floats go by. The colours were vibrant and everyone had a time.
Photographing such an iconic event, an event that I grew up watching for so many years was really something.
I had no idea of the roots and the true meaning of carnival as a child and since it was my first time going on the photo walk, I was fortunate to just stop and look. I had visions of what I used to see as a child and it was incredible back then. Now, the creativity, beauty and the sound. It exceeded my expectations.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

There’s a great mix at carnival. It’s a great opportunity to get right into the middle of everything that you would maybe miss as a participant in the crowd.
The people that attend put you at ease too because they genuinely want to be photographed – that’s music to a photographers ear.
Carnival really takes your breath away and as a photographer you get to stand still, really take it all in and capture what you want to. It really is the best.

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

Carnival is so much more than a street party. There is so much history which has led to the continuation of this amazing event. Like most things, carnival lives on through photos. It’s not just history. It is black history. A protest against racism. Music and dance that has and will forever unite us.

Carmen

I’m a digital and film photographer.

https://www.instagram.com/filmedbyafia

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

My favourite part of photographing Carnival was being able to capture the community connection and celebrate culture. What drew me to capture the moments were the vibrant vibes and colours.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

Minolta Riva Zoom

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

It meant a lot to me because it gave me the opportunity to experience Notting Hill Carnival through my own perspective as a photographer, whilst being part of a wider creative community.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

I’d say get out of your comfort zone and don’t overthink it. It is an enjoyable the experience and you’ll meet an amazing community!

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

Notting Hill Carnival represents culture, identity, community and freedom. I think it’s important that we continue documenting NHC because photographs become part of its history.

Tia

My work aims to preserve and honour the histories that mainstream media so often tends to overlook, particularly Black, queer, disabled and diasporic stories. I’d say my work straddles documentary and abstract styles, highlighting colours and textures as well as capturing events with little to no editing.

https://www.instagram.com/t.i.a_jpgs

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

The amazing colours and textures of all of the costumes. Also the energy people were bringing, you’d often be able to volley energy back which was such a great experience.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

Nikon Z7 with a 24-70mm f/4 S + Mount Adapter & 70-300mm

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

It felt like an entirely different experience to the first time I attended NHC several years ago. It felt so overwhelming with all the sounds, the people, the vibrations. This time around I felt like my camera anchoring me in a way, truly grounding my purpose on the streets. Also looking around and knowing there were so many other Black women getting to tell the story of carnival through their own perspective, it made me feel even prouder attending.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

Take it slow, don’t feel like you have to rush through the photography such a big event, there will be so many more moments you’ll have the opportunity to witness with your camera.

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

There’s something about photographing Carnival that feels less like documentation and more like inheritance-keeping. As if I’m not just capturing a scene but trying to hold onto something that institutional archives have never taken seriously enough to preserve properly. It’s important for us to be able to create and maintain our own archives, preserving the histories and legacies for those coming after us to understand what came before them.

Ufuoma

My name is Ufuoma and my Instagram is @onfilmwithufuo. I’m a London-based photographer shooting both film and digital. My photography is quite observational. I’m drawn to people, everyday life and the small moments that can easily go unnoticed, whether that’s someone watching from the side, people interacting with their surroundings or moments of movement and connection. I’m currently exploring street, documentary and event photography.

https://www.instagram.com/onfilmwithufuo

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

My favourite part was how much was happening at once. There were the obvious things to photograph, like the costumes, dancers, colour and movement, but I found myself equally drawn to what was happening around all of that.
Some of my favourite photographs ended up being of people watching Carnival. I photographed a girl sitting above the crowd watching everything below, and a young girl watching from her doorstep on her birthday. Those quieter moments amongst all the energy really stood out to me. I enjoyed trying to capture both the spectacle of Carnival and the smaller human moments happening around it.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

I photographed Carnival digitally with my Canon EOS 200D and 35mm lens. I also brought my Canon A-1 35mm film camera and shot the final frames of a roll I already had loaded.

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

It was my first time photographing Notting Hill Carnival, so being able to experience it alongside other Black women photographers made it much less intimidating and much more enjoyable.
Photography can sometimes feel quite solitary, especially while I’m still developing my practice, so being surrounded by women with different levels of experience, styles and approaches was really encouraging. I could learn from other people while still finding my own way of photographing the day. It reminded me how valuable having a creative community can be.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

Go and experience it as well as photograph it.
Look around, watch people and pay attention to what catches your eye. Some of my favourite photographs came from noticing something away from the main action.

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

For me, Carnival is a celebration of culture, community, music and creativity, but what struck me while photographing it was how many different stories are happening within that larger celebration.
Documenting Carnival preserves more than the costumes and performances. It also records the people who attend, the families watching from their homes, the streets, the small interactions and the way each generation experiences it. Those ordinary moments become part of the history too.
I think it is especially meaningful for Black photographers to contribute to that visual record. We are not only documenting what Carnival looks like, but also the community, culture and everyday experiences surrounding it.

Lize Okoh

I’m Lize Okoh. I’m an author and portrait photographer. People have always been at the heart of my work. I’m interested in identity, expression, connection and the little moments that reveal something about who someone is. My style moves between cinematic, editorial portraiture and more observational, documentary photography. Even when I’m photographing something as energetic as Carnival, I’m always looking for the person within the wider scene — an expression, a gesture, a moment of stillness or something about their presence that draws me in.

https://www.instagram.com/LizeOkoh

What was your favourite part photographing Carnival, and what drew you to the moments captured?

My favourite part was simply observing people. Carnival is incredibly loud, colourful and energetic, but within all of that there are so many smaller moments happening at once. I found myself drawn not only to the costumes and dancing, but to faces, expressions, movement, placards and even unexpected moments of stillness. Sometimes it was someone’s outfit that caught my attention; other times it was simply their energy. There were people I never spoke to who were already moving away from me, and I had seconds to decide that there was something about that moment I wanted to preserve. I really enjoyed that instinctive way of photographing.

What camera and lens did you photograph Carnival with?

I photographed Carnival on my Nikon Z8 with my trusty Nikon 2.8, 24-70mm lens.

What did photographing Carnival with UKBFTOG mean to you?

There was something really special about experiencing Carnival alongside a community of other female photographers. Photography can sometimes be quite solitary, so being surrounded by women who were all documenting the same event through completely different eyes was beautiful. We could stand in the same place and come away with entirely different photographs. For me, that is part of the magic of photography — what we notice is shaped by who we are. Being able to document Carnival collectively while still having the freedom to follow my own curiosity made the experience particularly meaningful.

What would you say to another photographer who is nervous about photographing an event like Carnival?

Don’t put pressure on yourself to photograph everything. Find the things that naturally draw your eye and follow them. Carnival moves quickly, so sometimes you have only a few seconds to take a picture. Trust your instincts, experiment and allow yourself to miss things too. Some of my favourite images came from simply noticing someone, reacting quickly and seeing what happened. And once you stop trying to capture what you think Carnival should look like and start photographing the individual moments that interest you, it becomes much less overwhelming.

What does Notting Hill Carnival mean to you, and why is it important that we continue documenting it?

Notting Hill Carnival is so much more than a colourful weekend in London. It carries history, culture, resistance, creativity, community and joy. And because it is constantly evolving, I think documenting it matters. Photographs become part of the visual record of what a place, a community and a moment in time actually felt like. This year marked Carnival’s 60th celebration, and while photographing it I kept thinking about the generations of photographers who have documented it before us, and the people who may look at our photographs decades from now. We aren’t just making beautiful images. Collectively, we’re helping to preserve a living piece of London’s cultural history.

More Moments Capture by our Community:

The photographers featured in this story represent just a small part of the incredible creative talent within UKBFTOG.

From documentary and event photography to fashion, portraiture, commercial, lifestyle and editorial work, our community is home to photographers with a wide range of skills, perspectives and experiences and levels.

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