PROCESS:

Photography Course Exploring Bristol’s Culture

A fully funded Bristol photography course focused on documentary storytelling, street photography and cultural photography.

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Applications are currently closed - Contact us for further information.

What Is PROCESS?

 

PROCESS is a free eight-week photography course produced by Noods Levels. Each year, it is supported by a range of industry partners and collaborators. Previous cohorts have been backed by organisations including the Martin Parr Foundation and WeTransfer.

Six emerging photographers are selected to develop their technical skills, refine their artistic identity, and produce a cohesive body of work exploring contemporary British culture.

Across eight weeks, participants work closely with expert mentors and fellow students to explore their chosen subject, shoot on location across Bristol, and prepare their images for public exhibition. The journey finishes with a gallery showcase and citywide poster campaign, giving photographers real visibility in the creative world.

If you’re an emerging photographer struggling to access mentorship, industry knowledge, or exhibition opportunities, PROCESS is designed for you.

Khourie Allen – Irie Centred on St Paul’s Carnival, Khourie’s work explores African-Caribbean identity and heritage through music and celebration.
Anushka Holding-Savič – When the Dust Settles Anushka photographed Bristol hip-hop pioneers in intimate domestic settings, reflecting on legacy and the city’s musical history.
Jack Oliver – Motion Jack explored the relationship between performers and audiences at small live events, focusing on the movement and atmosphere of grassroots gigs.
Bethan Long – Through The Noise Bethan’s series documents Bristol’s punk scene, capturing intimate gigs and the energy of the city’s grassroots music community.
Abril Sigle – To Be Seen Abril documented the UK ballroom scene, capturing queer communities, performance, and identity within this vibrant cultural space.
Annie Jankos – One More Round Annie’s series follows Bristol’s breaking and dance-battle scene, highlighting the energy and creativity of the community.
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What Makes PROCESS Different?

  • Previous partnerships have included organisations such as the Martin Parr Foundation and WeTransfer, giving participants access to professional spaces, platforms, and networks.

  • Each cohort responds to a live creative brief exploring music scenes, youth culture, and community identity across the UK.

  • Participants showcase their work through real-world exhibitions and installations across Bristol.

  • Learn from practising photographers working across editorial, documentary, and cultural sectors.

Supporting Emerging Photographers

PROCESS is designed for photographers at the start of their journey who want genuine support finding their creative voice.

  • Emerging photographers developing artistic identity and technical skills

  • Creatives interested in documenting music, youth culture, and communities

  • Photographers seeking mentorship from working professionals

  • Portfolio builders wanting to develop a cohesive photography series

  • Artists looking for opportunities to exhibit work publicly

How the 8-Week Journey Works

Getting results doesn’t require years of study. PROCESS delivers focused, intensive development across eight weeks of in-person sessions.

 

Research and Concept Development

 

In weeks 1-2 participants receive the creative brief and begin developing their project ideas with mentor guidance. Sessions explore research techniques, visual references, and approaches to documentary storytelling.

The cohort is introduced to the programme’s cultural theme, providing context for their projects.

 

Shooting Sessions and Location Work

 

Throughout the middle of the course participants shoot at live events, community spaces, and documentary locations. Whether capturing gigs, portraits, or street scenes, students apply their skills in real environments.

 

Editing and Exhibition Preparation

 

In the final weeks participants learn editing and sequencing techniques to shape their images into a cohesive series.

Focus is on preparing work for public exhibition, including selecting images, producing prints, and installing work in gallery and public spaces.

FAQs

  • Applications are currently closed. Contact us for information about upcoming courses and application timelines.

  • Participants should have access to a digital camera capable of shooting in manual mode. A DSLR or mirrorless camera is recommended. You’ll also need a laptop for editing sessions.

  • Selection is based on portfolio samples, artist statements, and commitment to the full eight-week programme. The team looks for emerging photographers with creative potential and genuine passion for documentary work.

  • Yes. PROCESS is fully funded for eligible participants through support from WeTransfer and partner organisations. There are no course fees for participants.

  • No. PROCESS is designed for early-career photographers. Prior exhibition experience is not required, though some photography background is helpful.

  • Graduates have previously had their work exhibited at ICV Lab, installed at the Martin Parr Foundation, and displayed across Bristol through large-format poster campaigns. Many participants continue developing their practice with increased confidence and industry connections.