An exhibition of photography by the RPS London Cafe Art Photography Mentoring Group
This exhibition took place at the Brixton Tate Library in January 2025. It was the group's annual exhibition, featuring images from 15 members, all of whom have experienced homelessness.
Established in 2015, the group originated as an expansion of the annual MYLONDON contest, (utilizing single-use film cameras) to instruct participants in digital photography. The initial group was given six Fujifilm X1 mirrorless cameras.
Managed by volunteer mentors from The Royal Photographic Society (The RPS), the group's goal is to engage and empower participants through their photography.
Julian Rouse, who organises the volunteers, says that participants might have been part of the group for several years or just a few months. Each one "has their own story of being homeless, and we hope this exhibition not only showcases some of the photographic techniques learned throughout the year but also highlights the personalities of the individuals."
Julian said that in 2024 they held a fundraiser raising £5,000 to buy new Fujifilm XT30ii cameras from Fujifilm (who gave a discount) for the group to use during the fortnightly workshops.







































RPS mentors: Julian Rouse, Judy Hicks, Fred Barrington, Pat Simmons
With thanks to: RPS members, Cafe Art supporters and Fujifilm House of Photography, Rossella Black and her team from Brixton Tate Library for hosting the exhibition and David and Judy Hicks from London RPS for their work in organising it.
"Being part of the photography group has been invaluable to me. I've learned so many new skills and tips from the wonderful mentors and other members, while also having fun and enjoying the company of the group. The group has motivated me to experiment and play with the camera settings. I feel like my photos have improved as a result. Thank you so much." Emane
"Learning photography with the group, hands on and in real time, has been very beneficial to me as it suits my way of learning." Emane
"I have always loved taking photographs but the experience of being part of the RPS Cafe Art Photography Mentoring Group has enabled me to be bolder and more creative in the types of images I capture - as can be seen in this exhibition. I appreciate the feedback I get at the review sessions and apply the learning gained to future photo shoots. I would also like to thank you Julian, Judy, Pay, Fred and Vince for sharing their time and knowledge with us and of course David and Paul for enabling resources to make the group a viable entity." Shenan Chandler
"The group of photographers I belong to is incredibly meaningful to me. It's a space where I can express my creativity and everyone encourages each other to grow which helps me push the boundaries of my skills and confidence. Zakia Chowdhury
"In my journey through homelessness I have seen the world from different angles. Being part of this group has enabled me to express myself through photography." Wayne Chin
"The RPS course has enabled me to take part in life's little adventures once again and I'm very grateful." Kevin
"Since I joined 18 months ago my perception of life has changed. I have focus, confidence and creative flow. Happier days indeed." Carol
"We are united by sharing the same passion. It provides a huge comfort to know people who understand how we feel." Patrizia Rossi
"It is uplifting to be with the group and to meet with them every two weeks as well as having our online review, which is not only instructive but also very interesting." Viviane
"The photography group is a social lifeline." Jackie
"The companionship and the group encourage us to meet and share. The bi-weekly critic and advice makes a huge difference on how to view our photos." Dee Allison
"I find the group supportive and progressive. The diversity means advice offered is progressive and watching others gain confidence is sublime." Maurice Woolger
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