LOCAL AREA AND URBAN LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY
FOR STOCKPORT PROPERTY DEVELOPERS

As a Manchester-based photographer specialising in architecture, interiors and capturing the essence of urban life, I recently had the pleasure of collaborating with a leading commercial property branding and marketing agency. The project required local area and urban lifestyle photography to highlight the vibrancy and potential of the area around a new property development in Stockport.

The brief asked me to focus on Stockport's Underbanks. This iconic area, designated as a conservation area, is undergoing a remarkable transformation. As the Manchester Evening News aptly describes it, "The Underbanks has become known as Stockport's coolest district..." (https://www.stockport.gov.uk/market-place-and-underbanks).

WEAVING PLACEMAKING AND LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY TO CREATE A NARRATIVE

The brief challenged me to capture the essence of Stockport's Underbanks through a blend of placemaking and lifestyle photography.

My role as a placemaking photographer was to translate this philosophy into engaging imagery. Through my lens, I aimed to showcase how the new development would seamlessly integrate with the existing character of the Underbanks and appeal to the growing population of young professionals.

CAPTURING THE ESSENCE OF A NEIGHBOURHOOD

To achieve authentic and distinctive results, I employed a strategic approach. Here's how I brought the vision to life:

- Multiple Visits, Varied Light: I visited the location on several occasions, capturing the architectural details and surrounding spaces throughout the day. This allowed me to showcase the dynamic nature of the area: the warm glow of the morning sun, the bustling energy of midday, and the alluring atmosphere of the evening. I also made sure to visit and shoot with during the week and at the weekend, to capture all audiences.

- Diversity in Focus: My aim wasn't just to present beautiful buildings. I strived to capture the essence of the local area photography. This meant including the local people who make the area vibrant – from local business owners to families enjoying a day out.

- Beyond Demographics: It's not just about who lives in an area, but how they live. My lifestyle imagery showcased the activities that Stockport offers. This could be anything from enjoying a coffee at a local cafe to browsing at an independent record shop.

THE POWER OF PLACEMAKING PHOTOGRAPHY

Hopefully the resulting images are more than just photographs; they are storytelling tools. Brand and marketing photography like this plays a crucial role in creating a distinct and memorable identity for a new development.

Potential residents and businesses should be able to imagine themselves in this dynamic location. They'll see the architecture complemented by a vibrant community, a place that caters to a diverse range of needs and desires. This is the power of creative placemaking photography.

As a property marketing photographer, I understand the importance of showcasing the unique value proposition of a development. My expertise lies in capturing not just the aesthetics of a space but also its potential to enrich lives.