6 galleries
DOCUMENTARY
Norfolk Contemporary Portrait Photographer, Debby Besford, showcases a rich and magical portfolio of images specialising in, Contemporary portraiture, Documentary Style Weddings and Editorial.
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71 imagesAN INTIMATE STUDY IN PHOTOGRAPHY. This project celebrates the idea of play between the photographer and the performer's private space. The images juxtapose fantasy and reality, combining a sense of empowerment and mystique of each woman’s identity and her private space. The domestic interiors are in themselves a theatre, where the lives of the performers take on a different persona. There is quite often a wonderful array of storytelling in the performances blending comedy, politics, activism, poetry, dancing, to trapeze acts and fire eating. This diversity of styles, costumes and influences, include vaudeville to punk rock and drag, which are dazzling, saucy and humorous. Collaborating with these women was a journey of immense trust and respect. These images offer subtle visual clues around the performer’s private worlds, stimulating our imagination. IT'S A BOOK! Publishers, @blurringbooksnyc 2024. UK\EU, The Photographers' Gallery, @tpgbookshop. @antennebooks. @waterstones. USA, @blurringbooksnyc @printedmatterinc Part of Brighton Photo Fringe Festival 2024. @photofringe.org. Exhibition touring in 2025.
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50 imagesFROM THE ARCHIVES: From the mid 80s to early 2000 - a selection of B&W and Colour film photographs of personal work. More to come shortly....
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46 imagesForgotten Places is an ongoing visual diary that delves into the nostalgic relics and hidden gems of seaside culture in and around Great Yarmouth, Norfolk. This project is deeply personal for Debby, as she frequently revisits her hometown, reflecting on its enduring charm and history. "I was fortunate to spend my childhood and teenage years in this small seaside town. While Great Yarmouth often receives bad press, it holds a wealth of history and a sense of magic. The town’s architecture, rich heritage, and deep ties to the North Sea, fishing traditions, and tourism make it truly special. Many are drawn to its unique character, whether they stay or return over time." As a documentary photographer, Debby works on projects that not only capture the town’s essence, but also engage with its community and individuals, celebrating their stories and connection to this remarkable place.
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38 imagesThis series of images captures personal moments and celebrates the lives of the photographer's late parents. It offers a thoughtful observation of their everyday domestic experiences following her father’s retirement. After leaving home for university in the mid-1980s, Debby began to notice and appreciate the smaller details of life during her visits back for the holidays. Over the years, this growing awareness developed into a profound interest in photographing her parents at home, documenting moments in the house where she grew up. The result is a poignant, two-decade-long body of work that provides a glimpse into their lives, their love for one another, and the beauty of simple, everyday moments—a lasting legacy Debby will always cherish.
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29 imagesThis project explores the world of model boat enthusiasts in the seaside resort of Great Yarmouth. Debby first encountered these passionate hobbyists at the venetian waterways and was captivated by their camaraderie and dedication. They welcomed her into their world of weekly gatherings. Meeting twice a week, the group comprises fifty members, ranging from juniors to seniors, with a long waiting list of aspiring participants. Their shared passion for building model boats and exchanging knowledge is at the heart of their success. This has been an ongoing project and is set to culminate in a touring exhibition in 2025 Published: The Telegraph Magazine. Exhibitions: CRASSH, University of Cambridge (Alison Richard Building), Shutterhub, Cambridge, PRIMEYARC, and Utter Studios, Great Yarmouth.
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130 imagesAs a teenager, Debby was a competitive artistic roller skater, an experience that inspired her long-term photography project celebrating female champion artistic roller skaters. This deeply personal connection to the sport shaped her vision, drawing on memories of her parents proudly photographing her in skates, clutching trophies—a reflection of a defining chapter in her youth. The project shines a light on this often-overlooked sport, which is frequently overshadowed by ice skating. Debby chose to portray the skaters in a unique way, capturing them in their home environments instead of the rink, echoing her own childhood experiences. Over four years, she documented their evolution both physically and as confident British Champions. Publications: Featured online, Glorious Sport and Creative Boom. Exhibitions: PRIMEYARC, Art Space, Original Projects, Great Yarmouth. Museum of Youth Culture, Coal Drops Yard, King's Cross, London. Time & Tide Museum 2025.