Lens on Camden
A Photography Walk with Catriona Gray
“And if you want we can get seriously geeky about the art of black and white photography” Catriona
Join photographer* Catriona Gray and discover Camden with your camera. We walk it, talk it, size it up and take pictures encapsulating London’s most vibrant and eclectic neighbourhood. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer, a curious beginner, shooting film or digital, this walk will inspire you to capture Camden’s unique blend of alternative culture, street art and rough and ready vibe.
*Catriona Gray is the real deal. As well as being the Camden photographer she’s an artist and a teacher. Almost goes without saying she’s a Camden local.
And you’re going to like this. Timing is everything. Decisive moment(s) and all that. And Catriona’s timed the shoot – the tour – to perfection. Camden Market on a weekday morning is still yawning, the traders are finishing their first or second coffee of the day and the streets are just trickling with visitors. Moving towards lunchtime the crowds build a little and the food begins to sizzle, but Camden on a weekday is not the heaving mass it is at the weekend, giving space for your pictures to breathe a little.
Catriona chose to move to Camden 24 years ago. Living next door to Koko, one of London’s liveliest venues certainly gave her an uncompromising introduction to Camden living and she never looked back. Seeing Amy Winehouse tottering down Inverness Street or Parkway back then was just a regular weekend.
Keep your camera ready for everything from quirky shop fronts, street art, vintage clothes and the diverse, bold personalities you’ll find – from punks, metallers, preachers or buskers, all embracing Camden’s buzz, its unmistakable spirit.
We’ll also sample the urban charm of the canal, where the contrast of graffiti, boats, and the industrial landscape creates a stunning backdrop. As we explore, Catriona shares tips on capturing the perfect shot, from light and composition to telling a story through your images.
You’ll discover that Camden is so much more than just a tourist hotspot! A discovery your camera will also make!
**You will always be in a small group so that Catriona has time to answer everyone’s photography questions along the way. If you’re shooting film – so much the better – Catriona has lots of advice on that, and if it’s black and white film she can develop and scan it for you (just ask her).
“Gets my vote. I’ll be going on it. And I’m local as well. Which, if you think about it, speaks volumes.” London Walks capo David
Francois –
I recently joined the London walk tour around Camden Market with Catriona, and it was an unforgettable experience. From the very start, Catriona’s passion for both photography and Camden’s vibrant culture was infectious. She expertly guided us to the best spots for capturing stunning photos, from the iconic street art and quirky shopfronts to the lively canal scenes and hidden corners that truly showcase Camden’s unique spirit.
What set this tour apart was Catriona’s deep knowledge of the area’s history. As we wandered through the market and surrounding streets, she shared fascinating stories about the buildings and the evolution of Camden, bringing the neighborhood’s rich past to life. Her anecdotes about local legends and music venues added a special touch, making every stop meaningful and memorable.
Catriona’s approach was hands-on – she offered practical photography tips tailored to my skill levels, I was shooting using a digital camera. She made sure everyone got attention, answering questions and suggesting creative ways to frame each shot.
Walking through Camden Market with Catriona felt like exploring with a knowledgeable friend who knows all the best angles and stories. I left the tour not only with fantastic photos but also with a deeper appreciation for Camden’s eclectic charm and history. I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to experience Camden through a new lens—whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll come away inspired and with a camera roll full of memories.
Thank you Catriona!