MPC - A New Look

The first week of January brought excitement to the Manchester Photography Collective, in November of last year, we’d set the wheels in motion for a rebrand—an ambitious refresh for the new year. A new logo, digital assets, and, perhaps most importantly, a sharper sense of purpose: this was more than a facelift. It was a reclamation of what we want the community to be.

The beauty of this project lay in its organic evolution, its serendipity. Darya Dickinson, a brilliant graphic designer who has been coming along to our walks all year, was a natural fit. Hers was not just a skill set but a shared sensibility. When we turned to her, it was with the trust that she’d craft something authentic.

At first glance, it might seem like just another logo. But logos, like photographs, often conceal stories beneath the surface. As Darya explained, the imperfect, uneven lettering is intentional—a visual metaphor for the inclusivity we champion. This is a community where anyone, regardless of race, gender, sexuality, or class, can feel not just welcome but integral. Our love of photography is our common denominator.

And there’s more in the pipeline, too, as the community grows. Big names from the industry, icons even, are lined up to speak for us. The WhatsApp group, already a hive of connections and ideas, buzzes with plans. Our bi-monthly meetups at the Village Hall on Deansgate Mews have become a touchstone for our group—familiar faces, new voices, shared enthusiasms. This Saturday at 12:30, we’ll gather again, this time to explore “renewal,” a theme as timely as it is symbolic of our own evolution.

For those curious—or better yet, compelled—follow along on Instagram @mpcollective24. There’s room here for anyone whose passion for photography burns bright.

To those who made our first year a success: thank you. And to the months ahead—here’s to framing them with the same intention, energy, and creativity that have brought us this far.