Let’s take a trip down memory lane to my first experience at the Notting Hill carnival, which happened in 1990. Interestingly, my mother attended the carnival when she was pregnant with me, so you could say that my connection to this vibrant event started before I was even born. However, it wasn’t until I was around seven or eight years old that I began attending the carnival on a regular basis. The year 2014 marked my first attempt at photographing the carnival, but unfortunately, I failed to capture any shots. Determined to make up for it, I wholeheartedly immersed myself in the festivities the following year.
As I found myself in the midst of the action, the atmosphere was electric. The sheer energy of the crowd was akin to being in a mosh pit, and I was instantly propelled into the heart of the celebration. Emerging from a confined space, I noticed a group of young individuals ascending a bus stop. Sensing that something exciting was about to unfold, I hastily prepared my camera, albeit not in the most ideal circumstances. With the trio on the left side commencing their movements, I swiftly crouched down, swapped lenses, and began capturing the moment.
Everything happened in a blur, and to this day, I remain unfamiliar with the identities of those three individuals. They were simply ordinary people reveling in the joy of the carnival. Their intricate dance moves, known as daggering, originated from Caribbean culture and specifically Jamaican dancehall. On this occasion, they took it to extreme heights by performing atop a bus stop. Subsequently, due to mounting safety concerns, the authorities replaced these bus stops with glass ones to prevent such accidents during future carnivals.
Undoubtedly, the carnival holds a special place in my heart. As a Black Londoner, it feels like a gathering of kindred spirits who share a similar cultural background. The sensory experience is truly remarkable, from the tantalizing aromas and flavors of diverse cuisines to the captivating sounds and the kaleidoscope of cultures showcased through clothing and traditions. It’s an environment where I naturally thrive and find solace.
Although the carnival initially revolved around Caribbean and Jamaican influence due to the influx of the Windrush generation into that particular area of London, it has evolved over time to become more inclusive. We now witness a fusion of African, South American, and various other cultures, which is a testament to the beautiful diversity that permeates the event. The carnival will continue to evolve as long as it is permitted to carry on.
Now, let’s dive into my personal journey of documenting the carnival, a pursuit that has consumed almost a decade of my life. The crowds are undeniably overwhelming, but I thrive in this vibrant environment. Having photographed various locations across London, where you typically wander, observe, and patiently wait for the perfect shot, the carnival presents an entirely different dynamic. It’s an exhilarating whirlwind of constant activity and a melting pot of unique moments waiting to be captured. Taking ownership of these situations is vital, and my passion lies in capturing those one-of-a-kind instances. I become a hyper-focused version of myself, attuned to every detail and ready to seize fleeting opportunities.
My journey into photography began in 2010 when I received my first camera as a birthday gift. The spark ignited during a chance encounter with a passionate photographer while riding a bus after a night out. Captivated by his camera and the stories behind his images, I felt an overwhelming sense of inspiration as I disembarked the bus. Photography had entered my life, and several months later, when asked what I desired for my birthday, I knew exactly what I wanted – a camera of my own.
Being a naturally observant individual with a penchant for soaking up the nuances of life, my upbringing by my grandmother played a significant role in nurturing this visual inclination. As my mother worked multiple jobs, my grandmother would guide me through bustling high streets and vibrant markets, exposing me to the chaotic beauty of a multitude of events occurring simultaneously.
Embarking on a journey through central London, I explored the depths of underground tunnels and immortalized iconic landmarks, such as Big Ben. However, it wasn’t until my travels across Europe and Asia in 2015, with Hong Kong serving as a pivotal location, that my street photography truly flourished. Returning to London, I experienced a renewed sense of purpose, leaving behind the emptiness of tunnels and landmarks and redirecting my focus towards the people who define the city. Peckham, with its strong Nigerian presence, became a place of personal resonance and connection.
As a tall Black individual, blending into the urban landscape is no easy feat. Nonetheless, my ability to form connections with people enables me to both candidly capture sincere moments and actively engage with the diverse characters that inhabit this city. Sometimes, I halt individuals in their tracks, capturing their essence through intimate portraits. In showcasing my portraits, I strive to offer viewers a glimpse into the souls of true Londoners, while my street photography endeavors to illuminate the lesser-seen facets of this grand metropolis. London, with its multifaceted nature, has truly opened my eyes to the limitless potential residing within every corner.
On that note, let’s delve into the story of Emmanuel Cole, a London-born photographer whose journey has been shaped by a series of defining moments and influences.
📷 Emmanuel Cole. Photograph: John Coster
🎂 Born: Hammersmith, London, 1990.
🎓 Training: Self-taught.
🌟 Influences: Shane Vincent, Bruce Davidson, Jeff Mermelstein, Trent Parke.
⛰️ High point: Conquering the arduous trek to the summit of Lantau Peak in Hong Kong. The weather miraculously granted me an unobstructed view of the city, shrouded only partially by clouds and mist. It remains a profoundly beautiful memory.
🔻 Low point: The heart-wrenching theft of my Canon EOS 5D Mark III camera in 2016. This incident dealt a heavy blow to my confidence, but I persevered, brushed off the setback, and continued pursuing my passion.
💡 Top tip: Warm up your photographic senses by capturing the beauty in the mundane. By doing so, you heighten your ability to recognize and seize the perfect moment when it crosses your frame.
Emmanuel Cole’s captivating photo book, “Bearing Witness,” is now available for purchase. Immerse yourself in Emmanuel’s mesmerizing work by visiting his website at emmanuelcole.co.uk or following him on Instagram @ecolephoto.
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