Notting Hill Carnival: A Photographic Exhibition Showcasing Cultural Vibrancy at The Camera Club

Notting Hill Carnival

In the heart of London's vibrant Notting Hill, where the spirit of community and cultural celebration thrives, lies a spectacle that transcends time and place. My name is Chanelle Joseph, and I invite you to embark on a visual journey through the lens of my 1958 Exa Ihagee 35mm camera. As a visual storyteller specializing in street portraiture and documentary-style photography, I aim to capture the essence of Notting Hill Carnival—a celebration that echoes the resilience and creativity of its participants.

I was invited to take part in a small exhibition at The Camera Club in Kennington. I knew immediately I wanted to showcase my collection of images captivating Notting Hill 2023. This exhibition is a reflection of my personal connection to Notting Hill Carnival—a celebration that transcends its festive exterior to embody the resilience and creativity of its participants. Using my trusted 1958 Exa Ihagee 35mm camera and Fomapan 200 film, I've sought to capture the essence of Carnival, where every image tells a story of community, identity, and joy.

Photography Journey

My journey into photography began just a year ago. My inspiration for capturing images of people predominantly stems from my deep admiration for the Black Diaspora. Through my photographs, I aspire to delve into the diverse aspects of Black culture and illuminate the beauty of our shared heritage to a wider audience.

Choosing Black and White:

Opting to shoot in black and white is a deliberate choice, meaning it’s cheap. With the price of the film going sky high in recent years as a complete beginner to shooting film, using the most economical film on the market was the sensible choice. Also a great toe-dipping exercise into the work of film stock without completely breaking the bank. 

One clear advantage of making images with black and white film is that it forces you to look at composition and patterns as you can’t lean on colour to make your image pop. The absence of colour brings a timeless quality to the images, inviting viewers to see beyond the immediate spectacle to the deeper essence of the celebration.

What is Project 4?

When you visit the Camera Club and take a short journey up the stairs you will presented with a collection of images. Each quadrant of images is a nano collection from a member based at the club and this week my entrants will be gracing the wall. Visitors are transported into the heart of Notting Hill Carnival. Each photograph on display invites exploration—a testament to the vibrancy and unity found within London's multicultural communities.

This exhibition isn't just about showcasing images; it's about fostering connections and conversations about identity, belonging, and cultural pride. Through visual storytelling, I invite viewers to experience Carnival through my lens—a lens that values authenticity, empathy, and the power of community.

Experience the exhibition, visit the exhibition at The Camera Club. Get directions here