“Photography is about sharing stories — not just mine, but those that unfold in front of the lens.”
UK-based photographer and creative, Mike Chudley, has carved out a career rooted in curiosity and community. What began as a passion quickly grew into a multifaceted practice: from documenting people and places, to building a thriving online audience of more than 100,000 YouTube subscribers who follow his creative process.
Mike’s portfolio spans collaborations with brands and personal projects that blur the line between documentary and fine art. He has published a photo book and a zine, each one an extension of his drive to turn everyday moments into enduring narratives. His work is never static — new projects are constantly in motion, expanding his practice while reinforcing a single, guiding thread: a deep love for photography.
“I’ve been lucky enough to transform this passion into a career,” Mike reflects. “But at the core, it’s always about connection — with the subject, with the audience, with the story.”
Through workshops, films, and publications, Mike continues to share not just his images, but his way of seeing. Whether working with global brands or experimenting in personal projects, he invites others to join the conversation, to learn, and to see photography as more than a craft — but as a way of life.
Cigar in Mayfair - I noticed this dapper gentleman in mayfair light up his cigar. Effortless style, timeless photograph. I approached him to ask for his portrait which is something I don't usually do. As most my photographs are candid but I knew in order to get the most effective photograph here I would need to be up close and personal. He nodded when I asked and I took this photograph as quickly as possible before continuing my walk.
Bank of England - I love the timeless look in and around the streets of bank of england. I caught this city worker on his way to the office with a slight expression, eye contact with me & movement expressing he has somewhere to be. The black & white finish completes the style.
Blossom - Taken in April as New York City's central park comes alive in spring, people surround the blossom trees in the park as I noticed two girls in pink and white matching the environment, specifically the white hair bow styled as a flower being framed by the blossom trees.
Bad weather in Brighton - On a not so sunny day at the british seaside we got caught in a wind tunnel between an alley way. With people fighting with their umbrellas & running for shelter these two people express actually what it was like in that moment. The gentlemans sleeve being blown in the wind as he clutches the inside of his jacket is a fun effect to make the scene even more dramatic.
Dogs - I love playing with subjects and their environment. Catching a dog walking in front of this billboard was just about being at the right place at the right time. Cutting the dog's head from the frame combined with the dog's head on the wall was a joy to catch.
Hands in Lisbon - The poster covered in hands was an interesting find to begin with. Even the small smiley faced someone added to the poster was a funny touch. All I needed to do was patiently wait for people to bring it alive. After about 15 minutes of waiting, a group of lost tourists walked around the corner pointing and gesturing. I was really pleased to catch them all together like this.
Partyhat - One of my favourite photographs to date, the contrast of the green partyhat and the person's expression works wonderfully to tell a rather confusing story. To add more context this was about 8am on the morning of the King's Coronation. Was this related? Who knows.
Soho Coincidence - another example of being in the right place at the right time. I stopped for 10 seconds to look at the poster, the red colours caught my eye and just before I was to continue walking a couple in red and beige walked in front of the poster to perfectly match the scene. It's a joy to watch things like this unfold in front of you.
Links:
https://www.youtube.com/c/mikechudley
