Portraits that reveal the changing face of Britain
- Text by Ashley Manning
- Photography by Mei Ying Chang

Defining the idea of ‘Home’ in post-Brexit Britain is no easy feat. Immigration and its angry counter-reaction have shifted how many people see where they call home. The myriad of cultures and identities that make up Britain often go unnoticed and undervalued by many, even as they continue to shape the country’s evolution.
The British Journal of Photography (BJP)’s Portrait of Britain project was motivated by a desire to remain inclusive and open-minded to Britain’s multicultural heritage. Established back in 1854, the longest running photography magazine has curated an exhibition that aims to celebrate the diversity of today.
Over 4000 entries were received, and the BJP selected 100 portraits that represent the people of Britain both old and young – with each photograph reflecting the abundance of styles and approaches used in contemporary portraiture.
“These are pictures that we all take in everyday life,” says Simon Bainbridge, the BJP’s Editorial Director, “but raised to a higher level by selecting, editing and presenting them in such a wide-ranging public exhibition.”

Beth Costerton photographed for ‘This Is Me’ an exhibition of 50 portraits of children who have down syndrome © Andrew Shaylor
BJP has teamed up with outdoor advertising company JCDecaux to exhibit the portraits across the country throughout September.
The subjects of the photographs are an eclectic mix between normal people and famous personalities. Grime artist Stormzy, photographed by Dan Wilton, and Great British Bake-Off winner Nadiya Hussein, photographed by Mark Harrison, are among the big names.
This blend of images of people from all walks of life will give an intimate insight into the many faces who call Britain home.
Enjoyed this article? Like Huck on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
You might like

Largest-Ever Display of UK AIDS Memorial Quilt Opens at Tate Modern
Grief Made Visible — Comprising hundreds of panels made by lovers, friends and chosen family, the UK AIDS Memorial Quilt returns in full for the first time since 1994 – a testament to grief, friendship and the ongoing fight against HIV stigma.
Written by: Ella Glossop

In Medellín’s alleys and side streets, football’s founding spirit shines
Street Spirit — Granted two weeks of unfettered access, photographer Tom Ringsby captures the warmth and DIY essence of the Colombian city’s grassroots street football scene.
Written by: Isaac Muk

Remembering New York’s ’90s gay scene via its vibrant nightclub flyers
Getting In — After coming out in his 20s, David Kennerley became a fixture on the city’s queer scene, while pocketing invites that he picked up along the way. His latest book dives into his rich archive.
Written by: Miss Rosen

On Alexander Skarsgård’s trousers, The Rehearsal, and the importance of weirdos
Freaks and Finances — In the May edition of our monthly culture newsletter, columnist Emma Garland reflects on the Swedish actor’s Cannes look, Nathan Fielder’s wild ambition, and Jafaican.
Written by: Emma Garland

Why Katy Perry’s space flight was one giant flop for mankind
Galactic girlbossing — In a widely-panned, 11-minute trip to the edge of the earth’s atmosphere, the ‘Women’s World’ singer joined an all-female space crew in an expensive vanity advert for Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin. Newsletter columnist Emma Garland explains its apocalypse indicating signs.
Written by: Emma Garland

We are all Mia Khalifa
How humour, therapy and community help Huck's latest cover star control her narrative.
Written by: Alya Mooro