Darren and Martyn arrived at the Barbican an hour before their model for the day, so they could recce the brutalist complex for suitable locations. “I love it here,” said Darren, his breath condensing in the chill air. “You’ve got leading lines, beautiful pockets of light and that utilitarian urban architecture; it contrasts beautifully with flamboyant outfits.”
Martyn added: “Perhaps the images would look good in black and white?”
Darren nodded: “They really would, but let’s try shooting in colour today. I rarely shoot in mono – that’s just my style. When I work with a model, they hire me for my style and by showing you how I work, I’m hoping I can help you develop your style.”
THE APPRENTICE
NAME: Martyn Hayes
CAMERA: Nikon D90
Civil servant Martyn has been interested in photography since 1999, but he reignited his passion in 2018 and decided to really take things seriously. Rather than purchase a single, new camera and a kit lens, he decided to buy two secondhand D90s and 10 lenses, so he could turn his hand to anything. His favourite genres are still life and portraiture and he’s London based, so Darren’s expertise in urban environmental portraits is the perfect fit.
THE PRO
NAME: Darren Boyd
CAMERA: Nikon Z 9
Darren (@boydvisuals) picked up a serious camera for the first time at university. A career in graphic design ensued, but photography was never far from his mind. He worked as a semi-pro alongside his day job until one day he decided to go all in. Today, he creates portraits for models, influencers and celebrities – largely within London – and is a Nikon Europe Creator. Urban environmental portraits are his speciality. Find his
