Explore Manchester’s fascinating Ancoats and New Islington, where huge industrial mills meet independent businesses, canals and a rapidly ch

Once one of the world’s first industrial suburbs, Ancoats and New Islington have undergone a remarkable transformation.

Today, enormous Victorian mills sit alongside converted apartments, independent restaurants and bars, modern architecture, canals and pockets of the old industrial neighbourhood that haven't quite disappeared.

That mix makes it a brilliant place to photograph.

This is a relaxed, hands-on urban photography photowalk exploring the contrasts, details and character of an area in transition.

We’ll look at how to photograph a changing city and how to find interesting images in the everyday things around us.

What we’ll explore

Along the way we’ll look at:

Industrial architecture and the enormous mills that define Ancoats

Old and new architecture sitting side by side

Lines, shapes, textures and patterns

The contrast between weathered industrial details and contemporary design

Canals, bridges and reflections

Street scenes, signs, shopfronts and those little details that give a place its personality

How to photograph change and contrast

Finding interesting compositions without needing an extraordinary subject

You’ll also get a series of fun photographic challenges designed to make you slow down, look more closely and see the area differently.

Who is it for?

This photowalk is suitable for women photographers of all levels, from beginners wanting to build confidence to more experienced photographers looking for fresh ideas and a different way of approaching urban photography.

Bring whatever camera you enjoy using. DSLR, mirrorless, compact or phone are all welcome.

You don't need to be a street photographer either. If you enjoy architecture, documentary photography, urban details or simply exploring with a camera, there should be plenty here to get your photographic brain fizzing.

What to bring

Your camera or phone

Spare battery and memory card

Comfortable shoes

Weather-appropriate clothing

The exact meeting point will be confirmed before the event.

Description supplied by the event organiser.