Nottinghill Carnival 2022

After two years of The Lockdown, The Nottinghill Carnival 2022 is back with a bang.

Oh my goodness; I was in two minds about venturing down to Portobello Road and Ladbroke Grove. I was greatly encouraged by my friend Richard from Saturday’s walk about.

It was stunning to be back in thick of the action.

The event has become somewhat controlled; deep sections of roads have been cordoned off to control the flow of people. This puts me off from attending because I get fearful and claustrophobic.

Today was different, the time I left was early enough that the streets were busy but I could get right into the mix of the action to create some images - get real close and document the energy, expression, the colour and the whole shebang.

The food was being cooked on Meanwhile Gardens. The colourful parade was just warming up. The Nottinghill Carnival is a celebration of everything that is glorious about the culture of Black People. This event is now about the whole multi-cultural community of west London.

I felt energised; today I felt my Nikon D700 would be the perfect choice and I knew from a documentary stand point, I needed to get close - my favourite Lens is the Nikkor 28-70mm F3.5-4.5. This Lens covers my visual frame perfectly.

This cultural event is a celebration of life and community. The Lockdown dampened our community spirit but it didn’t kill us. We have come back with a fully expressive and powerful energy.

The Carnivals around the world from Venice to Rio are a visual treat. Full of colour, imagination, design and the beautiful women who showcase the wonderful costumes.

Today has been great fun.

I learnt something about my photographic expression; I love a good story, worthy of documenting.

My favourite Lens for documenting without question is the 28mm - for getting in close.

I want you, the viewer, to join me right into the thick of the action.

Thanks for reading

“If your pictures aren’t good enough, you’re not close enough.”

Robert Capa