We recently caught up with Hannah Cassidy, a photographer based in New Brighton on the Wirral.
With her Leica Q2, Hannah specialises in documentary and street photography, she is dedicated to capturing the essence, beauty and complexity of daily life.
How would you describe your style and approach to photography?
I’m a photographer who primarily specialises in documentary photography, with a keen focus on street and social documentary. My style is quite simple: I like to capture life as it’s happening in front of me. I believe it’s important to document and record daily life – both privately and publicly.
Can you highlight one of your favourite projects or photo series? What makes it special to you?
My work documenting the area where I live is probably my favourite body of work. It’s a long-term and ongoing project, which is something that I don’t ever see ending. It’s a true labour of love to capture the area that I’ve lived in all my life. It’s a small suburban town along the river which has a stretch of beach, so I especially enjoy photographing during spring and summer. No day out with my camera is the same and I love that.
What do you find the most rewarding about your area of photography?
I think the most rewarding thing about documentary photography, in particular street and social documentary, is hearing and seeing people’s reactions when they see the work. Some find it nostalgic, particularly some of my beach/seaside work during the summer – even though it may have been shot recently. Street photography is such a pure art form. Capturing life at a fraction of a second is a magical way to spend your time so when people enjoy the work that you’ve photographed, then it really is rewarding.
What drew you to the Leica Q2?
I had been wanting a Leica camera for a while and when the Q2 was released, it just felt right. My go-to focal length is always 28mm, so it was perfect. It’s fast and suits my style of shooting. It’s been an extension of my arm since the day I bought it. I also have the Leica Q2 Monochrom which I mostly use for photographing family and personal work.
What does it mean to you to be a female photographer?
Everything. We need more female photographers and artists to be celebrated in the world.
Do you have any exciting projects coming up?
I have recently just won the ‘best photographer’ prize at the Williamson Art Gallery on the Wirral. My work is going on display there and I have some upcoming collaborations happening following on from that. I have also just purchased a Leica M11 (it’s so beautiful!), so I’m excited to get using that alongside my trusty Q2. I’ll also be continuing documenting everyday life of course. I’m excited for the opportunities and journeys that my camera and photography takes me on!
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