Politicians and Photographers

Introduction

For over a decade, I’ve been photographing politicians. Political photography makes up about 90% of my work, and I genuinely enjoy it—it’s engaging and often sells well. However, there's a growing trend among politicians: many dislike being photographed, with some actively avoiding news photographers.

Photographing Politicians

As a freelance photographer, I find opportunities to capture politicians at various events. Some of the most notable occasions include set-piece events at Downing Street, such as Cabinet meetings on Tuesdays when Parliament is in session, state visits (if I hear about them), and the Prime Minister's departure for Prime Minister's Questions. Additionally, I often photograph at Downing Street and outside the Cabinet Office at 70 Whitehall, where a steady stream of officials, from the Deputy Director of the CIA to cabinet ministers, passes through. Finally, College Green, across from the House of Lords, offers plenty of ad-hoc opportunities during media interviews.

The Challenge

One of the biggest challenges I face is the reluctance of many politicians to be photographed, regardless of their political affiliation. Some simply lower their heads to avoid clear shots, while others actively evade photographers. For example, a former minister in the last government would wait in his car outside the Cabinet Office until another minister distracted us, at which point he’d make a quick dash to the door. Sue Gray, the Prime Minister’s Chief of Staff, has been known to walk away or use alternative entrances to avoid being photographed. On one occasion, a former minister even had his personal protection officer block me from taking a photo—an inappropriate use of the officer's role.

Of course, not all politicians are camera-shy. Jacob Rees-Mogg, for instance, often stops to allow photos and even exchanges pleasantries with us. The current Chief of the Defence Staff is also accommodating, although keeping pace with him while navigating his armed escorts can be challenging. And then there’s Larry, the Downing Street cat, who loves the camera!

When the new Labour Government took office, there was a brief honeymoon period where they didn’t avoid photographers and even greeted us. But, soon enough, their behaviour mirrored that of the Conservatives. However, there are exceptions—Defence Secretary John Healy and cabinet fixer Pat McFadden are typically friendly, often offering us a smile.

What’s the Problem?

I’ve never quite understood why some politicians go out of their way to avoid being photographed. Firstly, one could argue that being in the public eye is part of a cabinet minister’s job. Secondly, given the low public opinion of politicians these days, one might think they’d welcome any positive media coverage.

I realize that constantly being on public display can be exhausting, but it comes with the territory. Ministers are reportedly given media training, so perhaps this avoidance stems from the advice they receive from their departmental media handlers. That said, the Downing Street press officers have always been excellent in my experience.

One concern among photographers is the growing influence of official government photographers and videographers. There have been instances where we’ve been excluded from events that are then covered by these official photographers, leading to the release of carefully staged and vetted images to the media.

The Freelance Photographer’s Struggles

It’s easy to fall into a sense of paranoia in this job. As a freelance photographer, I’m often the last to be informed of important events, meaning I frequently miss key moments. On top of that, Downing Street isn’t the most comfortable place to work—there are no toilets (except on special occasions), no shelter, and no refreshments. We can be standing outside for hours in bitterly cold conditions. As one news cameraman recently remarked to me, it sometimes feels like they don’t want us there at all.

Despite these challenges, news photographers remain respectful of politicians. There’s only one Downing Street photographer who behaves rudely. We do our best to stay out of the way, but occasionally, things go awry. For instance, after one photographer blocked a cabinet minister from entering Downing Street, new restrictions were introduced, limiting where we can stand and significantly reducing our photographic opportunities. Those of us who are regulars understand the security protocols and respect the role of protection officers. In fact, we often chat with them, knowing they have a job to do. Accredited photographers are vetted, and many of us are familiar to the security teams. When asked to do something by a protection officer, we comply—every photographer I know operates with this same respect.

What Do Photographers Want?

Our requests are simple: just a brief moment to take a photograph, and perhaps even a smile. We understand these are busy people, but it only takes a moment.

A Win-Win Situation

I believe there’s a way for both parties to benefit. We get a good photograph, and contrary to what some may think, we don’t seek out unflattering shots. Politicians, in turn, get positive media coverage through the publication of our photos.

Conclusion

A free and fair press is fundamental to British democracy, and press photographers are a crucial part of that. Attempts to avoid or obstruct us raise concerns—what are they trying to hide? Politicians should view us as either harmless or, at worst, a necessary part of the job. Can’t we try to be friends?