Coffee, Cameras & Conversation: London Photography Socials

Welcome to Coffee, Cameras & Conversation: London Photography Socials
(formerly known as We Shoot People)
We’re a friendly photography community for people who want to explore London, experiment creatively and meet others who share an interest in images.
The group began with a strong focus on street photography. Street photography will remain an important part of what we do, but our events will now explore a much broader range of subjects, artists, styles and creative ideas.
Our format is simple:
Coffee. Cameras. Conversation.
Meet. Shoot. Share.
We normally begin in a café, giving everyone time to get a drink, meet the other participants and hear about the day’s location, theme or creative challenge.
We’ll then spend around 60–90 minutes photographing before regrouping in a café or pub. At the end, anyone who wants to can share a few images and talk about what they noticed, tried or discovered.
The social element is central to the group. If you attend alone, you won’t simply be left to follow a crowd of strangers. We’ll make introductions and help people connect, while still allowing everyone the freedom to photograph independently when they want to.
What will we explore?
Events could be based around a location, a photographic style, the work of a particular artist or one simple visual idea.
Themes might include:

• Street photography and everyday life
• Architecture, geometry and urban spaces
• People within their environments
• Light, colour, shadows and reflections
• Hidden details and overlooked objects
• Black-and-white photography
• Abstract and minimalist images
• Documentary photography and visual storytelling
• Portraits using natural light
• Photographing movement
• Working with one focal length
• Creating a story in three or six images
• Reinterpreting the approach of an influential photographer
• Visiting an exhibition and then responding photographically
• Finding interesting photographs in apparently ordinary places

One event might explore candid moments on the South Bank. Another could use the Barbican to investigate concrete, shape and repetition. We might visit a photography exhibition, discuss an artist’s approach over coffee and then create our own response to their work.
The themes are intended to provide inspiration rather than strict rules. You can follow the challenge closely, interpret it in your own way or simply enjoy photographing the location.
Who can join?
Everyone is welcome, from complete beginners to experienced photographers.
You don’t need an expensive camera or specialist equipment. Digital cameras, film cameras and smartphones are equally welcome. What matters is curiosity, an interest in photography and a willingness to be considerate towards other members and the people around us.
Technical guidance may be available, but these are primarily creative and social events rather than formal lessons. The emphasis is on noticing more, trying something different and learning through experience and conversation.
Sharing photographs
At the end of each activity, you’ll be invited to choose one or two photographs to share informally. You can show them directly on your camera or phone—there is no expectation that they will be edited or technically perfect.
This isn’t a competition or a formal critique. The conversation is about choices, ideas and different ways of seeing. Members may also post a small selection afterwards on our Meetup or Facebook group.
Photography and respect
Photography in public places is generally permitted in the UK, although different rules may apply on private property and at individual venues.
We expect members to photograph responsibly and use good judgement. Be courteous if someone asks what you are doing, avoid obstructing people and respect anyone who clearly does not wish to be photographed.
Please take particular care when photographing children or people who may be vulnerable. We do not support photography that humiliates, exploits or treats another person’s circumstances as a spectacle.
Practical information
Each event description will include the meeting point, approximate timings, walking distance, accessibility information and any participation fee.
Unless stated otherwise, everyone purchases their own refreshments. Please look after your own health, safety, equipment and belongings during the event.
Routes and arrangements may occasionally need to change because of weather, transport disruption, venue availability or other circumstances. If an event carries a fee, its cancellation and refund arrangements will be stated clearly when booking.
About the organiser

I’m Ian, a professional photographer, former post-production sound engineer and current media lecturer. I’ve worked across photography, television, audio and creative education.
I’m taking the group into its next chapter while preserving what made the original We Shoot People community appealing: exploring London, stretching our creativity and enjoying photography with other people.
Come with a smartphone, a film camera, a digital camera or simply a desire to see things differently.

Come for the photographs. Stay for the coffee & conversation!