Lucy Ridges Portrait Photography

Lucy Ridges is a portrait and printmaker who puts analogue practice at the heart of every portrait she makes. Based in Bredbury and working across Manchester and the UK, Lucy specialises in fine art portraiture and studio-based headshots that feel honest, atmospheric and unmistakably personal. Why choose Lucy? She blends a deep love of analogue processes with a sensitive, people-centred approach. As she writes on her practice, "I’m in love with the aesthetic and allure of analogue photography." That affinity shows in work that uses film, hand-colouring, cyanotype and experimental darkroom techniques to create portraits that are tactile, layered and full of character. Her fine art projects and exhibitions demonstrate a commitment to craft and a willingness to embrace chance and unpredictability — qualities that bring fresh life to commissioned portrait work. What makes her approach special is the balance between technical skill and a relaxed, collaborative atmosphere. Lucy’s sessions are unhurried: she takes time to get to know each sitter, to understand their goals and to plan a brief that suits the project. Whether you’re after a professional headshot for LinkedIn or an expressive creative portrait, the session is guided gently to allow genuine expression to emerge. "Working with people has always been the most important element to my practice," she says — the body is her anchor and the starting point for images that feel lived-in and true. How she works: clients can expect a friendly pre-shoot conversation, thoughtful planning of mood and styling, and a calm studio environment where lighting and analogue processes are used deliberately to shape tone and texture. Lucy offers tailored sessions focused on producing a select set of strong portraits, often printed or finished using alternative processes for clients who want something beyond a digital file. Rooted in an artistic practice with exhibitions, residencies and teaching experience, Lucy Ridges brings an assured, creative eye to every portrait commission. If you want portraits that prioritise authenticity, atmosphere and the craft of analogue photography — made in a reassuring, collaborative way from her Bredbury base — Lucy offers a distinctive studio experience that puts people first.