Phil Melia specialises in studio and environmental portraiture in Ashton-under-Lyne. He creates professional headshots and business portraits with a calm, documentary-led approach.
I’m an award‑winning portrait photographer based in Ashton‑under‑Lyne with more than twenty‑five years’ professional experience. My practice draws on editorial and documentary principles to create portraits that feel authentic, considered and useful for clients in marketing, PR, publishing and corporate communications. I specialise in studio portraiture and environmental portraits — bringing the same attention to story, detail and design whether I’m working in my studio gallery in Saddleworth or on location around Greater Manchester. My approach is rooted in documentary craft. I aim to make images that genuinely represent the person in front of the lens while delivering the clear visual assets businesses need: confident headshots for websites and LinkedIn, professional business portraits for annual reports or press, and environmental portraits that place people within their working context. That documentary-led sensibility gives my portraits an organic visual narrative and an empathic quality that resonates with viewers. Technically I’m comfortable with both available light and full studio lighting. My commercial background means I can work quickly and efficiently to meet tight schedules and specific layout requirements for designers and publishers. Equally important, I have a relaxed, easy‑going manner that helps people feel at ease in front of the camera — the best portraits come from trust and a natural conversation. Working with me begins with a short conversation about your objectives. We’ll discuss usage — whether the images are for LinkedIn, corporate bios, editorial features or brand communications — and plan a session that suits your needs. On the day I create a calm atmosphere, guiding expression and posture while allowing authentic moments to surface. For editorial or longer projects I can combine studio and environmental shoots to build a coherent narrative across a portfolio of images. My portrait work is informed by academic training in documentary photography and years of commissions for designers, publishers and corporate clients. If you’re looking for professional headshots, business portraits or a portrait-led campaign rooted in real human presence in Ashton‑under‑Lyne and across the North West, get in touch for a no‑obligation chat. I’ll be happy to discuss how we can create portraits that look great and tell the right story for your brand or personal profile.