Photography Project: This Is Us - A Portrait of Modern Britain
Could you represent open water swimming in a national photography project?
Open water swimming is about far more than getting from one side of a lake to another.
It brings together people of different ages, backgrounds and experiences, each with their own reasons for getting into the water and their own story to tell.
Now, documentary and portrait photographer James Warman is looking for open water swimmers to feature in This Is Us, a long-term photography project exploring the people and communities that make up contemporary Britain.
And we’d love to see members of the NOWCA community represented.
What is This Is Us?
This Is Us is a nationwide environmental portrait project documenting people from communities and backgrounds across Britain.
Rather than traditional studio portraits, environmental photography captures people in places that have meaning to them – helping to tell a story about who they are, what they do and the experiences that shape their lives.
James is building a collection of portraits that together explore contemporary British identity through the people, passions, places and communities that make up our society.
Open water swimming is one of the communities he would particularly like to document.
James is looking for open water swimmers
You don’t need to be an elite swimmer, have an extraordinary swimming achievement or look a certain way to take part.
In fact, part of what makes the open water community so special is the huge variety of people within it.
Perhaps swimming has become an important part of your life. Perhaps you discovered open water later in life, swim throughout the year, have formed friendships through your local swimming community or simply feel most at home when you’re beside the water.
Whatever your story, if open water swimming is part of who you are, James would be interested in hearing from you.
James is based in Shropshire, but This Is Us is a nationwide project, and enquiries from swimmers anywhere in Britain are welcome. Travel will naturally be a consideration, but he is happy to consider travelling where the person, story or location feels right for the project.
Interested in taking part?
There is absolutely no obligation to participate by getting in touch.
James is happy to explain more about the project, what taking part would involve and answer any questions before you decide whether it is something you would like to do.
You can find out more about James and see his photography at www.jameswarmanphotography.com
To express an interest in being photographed for This Is Us, contact James directly:
Email: James.warman@sky.com
Mobile: 07875 223999
We know just how diverse, interesting and passionate the open water swimming community is, so we’re excited to see some of its people and stories potentially become part of This Is Us.
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