At UP, we believe every voice matters. We work with our members to build the skills, confidence and opportunities they need to #SpeakUP, and sometimes the most powerful way to be heard isn’t with words at all.
On 3 October, we brought our community together for a creative advocacy workshop on photography as a tool for storytelling. It was led by photographer Mike Stone, who showed how a small series of images can carry a powerful message or a personal experience. The challenge was to tell a story in just five photographs.
How pictures speak
Mike began with a short history of photography and its role in telling stories. The group then explored how an image can capture experiences, emotions and ideas that might otherwise be difficult to express, and started building their own visual stories from a selection of photographs.
Putting it into practice
In the afternoon, it was time to get hands-on. Mike shared practical tips on composition, perspective and making the most of a smartphone camera, then led a session outdoors. Participants photographed their own stories, experimenting with different angles and creative approaches along the way.
More than a photography workshop
We asked participants to complete short surveys before and after the day, and the results were encouraging. The biggest change was in confidence in using photography to tell a story. Participants told us what they took away:
- “The power of storytelling with pictures.”
- “Different ways to tell a story.”
- “That five pictures can tell a story.”
But the skills were only part of it. For many people, the highlight was each other. Participants spoke of “companionship and friendship”, of “meeting, listening and sharing experiences and stories”, and of a day where “everyone was lovely and so welcoming”. They told us they felt welcomed, included and connected, and described themselves as inspired, excited, happy, energised and accepted.
They also want more. Participants were keen to take part in future activities, and to use photography to share their stories.
What happens next
The photographs created on the day are now part of our #SpeakUP campaign, helping to amplify the voices and experiences of people with cerebral palsy. We’ll be sharing the results over the coming months, so follow us on Instagram to see them.
Be part of what comes next
Feeling inspired? Join our #SpeakUP Campaign : https://upmovement.org.uk/speak-up-your-voice-changes-everything/
Here are some examples of photographs taken in the workshop:
