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Andrew’s Photography Substack · Jan 11, 2026

Through the Lens - Photographers Journal (Week 14)

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A visual diary of my week behind the lens – moments captured between October 26th and November 1st.

This week was a busy one, which started off with a Halloween shoot in Battersea Park with the London Photography Group. Next up was the amazing Wayne McGregor - Infinite Bodies at Somerset House. Then on Saturday was the London Fashion Day, always great to shoot with lots of variety of fashion designers from around the world, and good to see some Ukrainian designers still creating despite the war ravaging their country.

The final event was back in the Battersea area, well, Vauxhall Bridge to shoot the fireworks with the backdrop of the Battersea Power Station. The good thing with the Battersea fireworks is that you have two days to shoot, as it is on Saturday and Sunday. Below are more details about the events I shot; the numbers in brackets are the number of photos taken.

Andrew’s Photography Substack is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Halloween Model shoot with Luda & Julia - 26th October (160)

This event almost got cancelled, but I'm glad it went ahead. There was a brief dry spell, though it was very cold. Thanks to Luda and Julia for enduring the cold, and the rain only began at the very end. The London events I organise with my friend Jose have been happening for seven years, and everyone seems to enjoy them. While not identical, they are held at different locations around London and Watford. This Halloween shoot was held in Battersea Park, London.

I organise events on the Meetup app, but I might switch to another platform in 2026 because of the high monthly fees. It's a helpful way to earn money from photography, but the earnings are modest since organising takes time.

More Photos - Flickr

Wayne McGregor - Infinite Bodies at Somerset House - 29th October (229)

Wayne McGregor - Infinite Bodies opened at Somerset House on the 30th October 2025. The exhibition invites visitors to experience the intersections of dance, art, and technology. The company Wayne McGregor dancers will take over the exhibition in rare live appearances. A programme of talks, workshops, and music events will offer deeper insight into McGregor’s collaborative world. The exhibition runs until 22nd February 2026. It was an early start for the press preview, but I like events where some breakfast is provided for the media. The exhibition is excellent and worth seeing, with lots of technology amalgamating with dance and visuals.

More Photos - Flickr | Alamy

London Fashion Day at St John’s Hyde Park - 1st November (2876)

I've always enjoyed photographing their shows and have been doing so for the past three years. The event (6th edition) features a diverse range of designers, including some from Ukraine, where the main organiser, Kostiantyn Lieontiev, comes from. London Fashion Day is a global fashion event organised by the AK PR & Consulting Agency in London, which has over 15 years of experience and more than 600 successful fashion shows across Europe.

The event was held at St John’s Hyde Park, a venue frequently used for fashion shows. It's easily accessible from central London via the Marble Arch or Paddington tube stations.

Twelve fashion designers from around the world participated. Below, I have listed them along with a selection of photos from the runway shows. The first set of photos features portraits of audience members.

More Photos - Flickr | Alamy

London Fashion Day Portraits

Here are some portraits of the people who attended the show.

London College of Contemporary Arts (LCCA)

Five designers, each with a unique vision, come together through bold imagination and fearless creativity. Their collections showcase new aesthetics, full of emotion, identity, and sharp perspectives.

Designers: Casa Sandoval, Galya Nedeva, Chinkz / Dstarz Design Ltd, Orosa Studio and Khaos Revolution Studio.

More Photos - Flickr | Alamy

Relique London

Relique reimagines forgotten fabrics, preloved garments, and textile scraps into meaningful, personal designs, with each piece telling a story and every detail mattering.

This collection blurred the boundaries between accessory and artwork, streetwear and statement pieces, demonstrating that style originates from meaning rather than factories.

More Photos - Flickr | Alamy

VELGUD

VELGUD was created out of a love for fashion, quality materials and timeless style. Every piece we create carries a thoughtful design, attention to detail and respect for sustainability. This journey has not always been easy; it has brought challenges and endless hours of work, but also the joy of bringing beauty to your wardrobe.

More Photos - Flickr | Alamy

TIDE CHEN

“Sengwa: A Woven Realities Tale” presents a daring reinterpretation of Nigeria’s traditional weaving, transforming it into contemporary designs that celebrate femininity, cultural heritage, and craftsmanship.

Drawing from Nigerian textile heritage, TIDE CHEN reinterprets traditional weaving methods such as Seghosen and Aso-oke, creating contemporary silhouettes that blend history with future trends.

More Photos - Flickr | Alamy

Sara K Couture

Sara K Couture introduced a refined vision of modern elegance through a limited couture collection that speaks in hushed tones but leaves a lasting impact. Her silhouettes embody power without noise, softness without fragility. This is couture for women who don’t just enter the room; they become the moment.

More Photos - Flickr | Alamy

LENIE BOYA & MALUSHA

Intelligent style that exudes quality, individuality, and innovation in both design and fabrics. Reflecting the quintessential essence of an independent British lifestyle, each piece by Lenie Boya embodies modern luxury and timeless elegance. Through unique design, refined craftsmanship, and premium, sustainable fabrics, the brand creates now-and-forever investment pieces for a woman’s wardrobe, designed to be worn, loved, and remembered. Showcases a presentation by Lenie BOYA, complemented by artistic accessories from MALUSHA. Together, they created a dialogue between avant-garde form and bold functionality.

More Photos - Flickr | Alamy

Maison Sophy G

Maison Sophy G's runway show, Eternal Grace, was a stunning showcase of timeless elegance. It presented aristocratic poise through a modern lens, combining couture with quiet strength to create a look that is both refined and powerful.

From silk and lace to hand embroidery and precious details, the materials showcased craftsmanship. The palette of noble green, soft ivory, dramatic black, and gold expressed depth and emotion. All were designed by Ukrainian Maison Sophy G.

More Photos - Flickr | Alamy

KochHouse

KochHouse also launched its inaugural womenswear collection at London Fashion Day. The collection seamlessly blends traditional silhouettes like Agbada, Danshiki, and Etibo, reimagined with elegance and style, into contemporary statement pieces and accessories. It highlights the fusion of heritage and modern sophistication. The use of sustainable, biodegradable textiles such as Asooke, Akwaocha, wool, and cotton reflects the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship, identity, and excellence.

More Photos - Flickr | Alamy

Mogardi

Ukrainian clothing and accessories brand MOGARDI reimagines classic styles, crafting fashionable modern classics with no boundaries. Renowned for its sculptural silhouettes and meticulous tailoring, the brand continues this season in a palette of black, white, and subdued neutrals. Each look became a visual exploration of balance, movement, and architectural design.

More Photos - Flickr | Alamy

CHARS

CHARS is a Ukrainian men’s clothing brand established in Kyiv in August 2023. Founded amidst the war and uncertain times, we stayed true to our dreams. CHARS creates for men who don’t need to shout to be noticed, understated, precise, and genuinely authentic. This is contemporary Ukrainian fashion with vibrancy.

More Photos - Flickr | Alamy

FrenchEye

Frencheye aims to redefine rather than imitate. With origins in English menswear heritage, it has become a symbol of timeless craftsmanship and personal style. FRENCHEYE now caters to those who cherish individuality and distinction. From tailored suits and modern smartwear to the signature Made to Measure service, each piece is crafted to make a statement silently.

More Photos - Flickr | Alamy

The Moodi Studio

“Moodi” is not just about self-expression; it’s a commitment to sustainability. By choosing our modular designs, you’re making a conscious step toward a greener future. With limited production of only 10 pieces of each design, you’re guaranteed not only a distinctive style but also a deep connection to craftsmanship and responsibility toward the planet.

More Photos - Flickr | Alamy

Battersea Park Fireworks - 1st November (141)

It was the weekend before November 5th, Guy Fawkes Day. On Saturday, there was one of the biggest fireworks displays in Battersea Park. These photos are from near Vauxhall Bridge and show the fireworks over Battersea Power Station, with reflections on the Thames.

More Photos - Flickr | Alamy

That’s it for this week, a much busier week. Look out for the next ones in a few days. The Substack membership is now open and includes a calendar of 2026 events; more guides will be added each month. These resources, coming soon, include a standard model release form for you to copy, a guide to my process for exporting and editing photos for News Agencies, and more. You can see a list of upcoming articles here.

Andrew’s Photography Substack is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

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