ABOUT

About

Patricia-Niland-Food-Lifestyle-Photographer-UK
World Food Photography Awards - Shortlisted 2025

It all started…

From an early age, I was captivated by the magic of photography. Probably due to my dad’s darkroom and the stacks of Amateur Photographer magazines that were always lying around our house. We would take photos on his camera, process the roll of film and then watch as the images slowly emerged in the developer tray. It felt like wizardry and to this day, I’m still in awe of the camera’s ability to freeze a moment in time. How incredible is that?

After studying graphic graphic design, I spent two decades in London creating the branding for blue chip brands such as Toyota, Seat, The Post Office and numerous banks and airlines. Crafting brand guidelines, commissioning photographers and art-directing shoots, I honed my eye, refined my storytelling skills and learned from some of the best in the industry.

Eventually I left the Big Smoke, for a move back north, which gave me opportunity to turn my passion into my profession. My years in branding have given me a deep understanding of how photography can elevate a business – how imagery can define a brand, tell a compelling story and connect with an audience. To me, a great photograph isn’t just visually striking, it has to be effective, convey a message, exude personality and help a brand stand out with confidence. 

I love helping businesses shape their reputation, build credibility and carve out their own distinct space through great photography.
 

Awards

  • 2025 World Food Photography Awards – ‘Commended’, in two categories, Marks & Spencer Food Portraiture and Tip Tree Cake Award.
  • 2023 Pink Lady Food Photographer of the Year – ‘Highly Commended’ in Marks & Spencer Food Portraiture.

Exhibited

  • 2025 (August) The Glasgow Gallery Of Photography
  • 2023 The Royal Photographic Society – Bristol

What happens on your photo-shoot

I really value and put an emphasis on the pre-shoot preparation to get to know your brand personality, the phase of your business and what your objectives are. I love to collaborate, adding insight and recognising opportunities in your brief. I use my brand experience to bring a different perspective and shape your story.

I naturally have an efficient, but relaxed style, working independently and taking the lead so you can get on with being at ease on the day. I’m pretty good at flexing to whatever comes up and solving problems should they arise.

I believe every brand should have the opportunity to showcase its personality and build trust with its audience in a way that feels authentic and confident. Having a brand and marketing minded approach, I can help you to share your brand message and bring it to life across any platform with compelling and strategic imagery.

Copying of images is not allowed. All photographs are © PATRICIA NILAND