A Stockport-based professional photographer has raised funds for the NHS by taking photos of neighbours on his street with a pop up studio in his front garden.
38 year old father of two, Jordan Gurry, owns Venture Photography studio in the town and has closed his business due to the Covid-19 pandemic and in line with Government guidance.
He thought of a way to put his skills to good use by setting up a portable studio in his front garden in Heaton Moor and inviting neighbouring families to participate in a socially distanced photoshoot with photos provided free of charge in return for a donation to the NHS.
Jordan, who has 20 years of experience in photography and won accolades at this year’s British Institute of Professional Photography Awards, says that although he has been enjoying his role as full time dad during lockdown, he has also missed his other job.
He said: “I specialise in family photography and I wanted to do my bit to fundraise for the amazing NHS workers putting their lives at risk during this pandemic, so I set up a garden studio, complete with professional lighting and background.
“Many of us have been spending more time with our families at home over the last few weeks, so it was great to celebrate these special relationships with photos my neighbours can look back on and keep forever.
“We also managed to inject some fun into lockdown, while maintaining a safe social distance, and build some community spirit in the process. One of the biggest positives I see coming from these strange times will be the community bonds and friendships that have been developed through the struggles we’re all facing.”
One of the neighbours participating were the Thorn family. Mum Clare said “Our kids particularly enjoyed our photoshoot and it was a welcome distraction from the lockdown Goundhog Day feeling. The images we received were great and a lovely record of this period in our family history.”
Another neighbouring family, The Mellers, added: “We really enjoyed the photoshoot with Jordan, it was a great opportunity to have a bit of fun as a family, connect with our neighbours and raise money for the NHS. We loved the images and can share them with loved ones who we have not been able to see for so long”.