A chat with photographer Stephen Garnett

In 2019, Bradford-based photographer Stephen Garnett offered to volunteer his services to Age UK Bradford District hoping that he could “bring something different to the fore and grab people’s attention in a positive way” with a series of photo shoots of the people that we support.

Since then, we are delighted that many of his photographs have been used in our marketing materials in print and online to great effect.

Having quality shots of the people that Age UK Bradford District work with and support is so valuable, and much more real than opting to use stock images. We hugely appreciate having a selection of great photographs that we have used on posters, leaflets and our website, to highlight the work we do in the community.

Stephen describes the types of photography he does: “I seem to be doing it all at the moment. From landscapes to portraiture; product photography to corporate shoots, from weddings to numerous charity causes. I shoot on 35mm film as well as digital and even use a drone from time to time. I like to push myself, creatively and technically, with each shoot. But I also like using old fashioned techniques, even down to developing my film in my kitchen! I'm always learning though!”

We wondered what did he learn while working with older people on the shoots for Age UK Bradford District?

“I learnt that no matter what someone’s age, they are worth listening to, and engaging with. Through my photography, I wanted to show that people of this age group had 'attitude' as much as any generation, and a sense of fun to boot.”

A Canadian citizen, Stephen is drawn to Bradford because of its industrial heritage and, being a film buff, The Science and Media Museum is one of his favourite places.

“I've been lucky enough to have been given a tour of the Pictureville projection room and I'd love to see, and possibly even document, more of the place. I'm a huge fan of old fashioned film technology, both with regards cinema and photography.”

A few years ago, he hosted an 'analog night' at the Telegraph & Argus Camera Club.  Here are the shots from the evening in Bradford city centre. He photographed the destruction of Jacobs Well in 2019 and he also took some amazing ‘light painting’ shots of City Park.

“Bradford is an interesting city to photograph, there's always something interesting going on. I've been known to wander around, even with an old film camera, and take a few shots.”

During lockdown, Stephen has done less photography work but has been moving into videography. “This has involved a LOT of research, and testing. I'm amassing some nice video and audio recording gear as I don't like to present anything less than a very polished result.”

Age UK Bradford District would like to thank Stephen for volunteering his skills and for the brilliant photos he has given us, and we look forward to working with him again as soon as is possible.