Proud London

An amazing day! I signed up for a two day course at The Portrait Gallery in London which is near Trafalgar Square, completely unaware of the huge event of Pride London taking place.  The day involved going out and taking street portraits when our subjects were unaware and then - completely out of my comfort zone - taking portraits when we asked people first.  I was really nervous about asking,  but after the first one it wasn't so bad.  In fact, there were so many interesting characters around who had clearly gone to a lot of trouble with their costumes that it was easy to stop someone and say...'Wow, you look amazing - please may I take your photo?'

Most of those attending this day were just being themselves, which was great. This sort of event would never have been possible 10 years ago, and is indicative of how tolerant we have become of each other.  We may not always agree but we maintain the right to be ourselves!

All the people I photographed were delightful and just there to have a great time. Luckily the weather was right for everyone to be on the streets.  What an atmosphere.

Day 2 of the course tomorrow when we look at the influence of painted portraits and have a studio model.  Great fun and inspirational.