Manchester is my home city. The city is renowned for its iconic football teams: United and City; Red and Blue. Manchester is equally known for its bad weather – mostly wet and covered by monochrome skies.
With overcast skies and poor light year round, street photography in Manchester can be challenging. Despite the terrible weather, Manchester’s blend of industrial heritage and modern developments provides a mix of interesting locations for street photography.
Here’s a breakdown of the best spots for capturing life in across the city.
The Northern Quarter
In many ways, the Northern Quarter is England’s version of ‘New York’. The Northern Quarter stands out for its bohemian vibe and vibrant street art. This area is a canvas for colorful murals and intricate stencils, offering a rich backdrop for street photography. The juxtaposition of Victorian buildings with modern street art reflects Manchester’s past and present, making it ideal for capturing diverse and interesting street scenes. Film crews often choose this area for scenes that require a ‘New York’ look. The district’s social activity provides opportunities to capture candid moments at any time of the day.
Stevenson Square is a large public square in the centre of the Northern Quarter. This large open space is known for its ever-changing street art and vibrant social scene. The square hosts various regular events and provides a good spot for capturing the city’s creative spirit.
Piccadilly Gardens
A central hub with modern fountains, green spaces, and busy walkways; Piccadilly Gardens has a dynamic atmosphere. Its mix of commuters, street performers, tourists, and occasional social issues provides a lively spot for capturing Manchester’s vibrancy.
Ancoats
The district of Ancoats with its blend of historical warehouses with trendy developments provides a mix of old and new. Ancoats has recently been transformed from an industrial area to a trendy neighbourhood.
Chinatown
With its colorful signage, ornate archways, and a lively atmosphere, this area has a mix of traditional Chinese elements and modern influences, which can provide interesting street scenes.
Here’s a few more frames captured on film:
