A beautiful city. My trip to Leeds with a visit to the Corn Exchange and Kirkgate 1904 Market I spent a very enjoyable day walking around Leeds. I was fortunate enough to be able to access the balcony of the famous Kirkgate Market and also allowed to photograph inside the Corn Exchange. Interestingly, I discovered that Marks and Spencer started trading at Kirkgate Market. A friendly man over at Leeds Markets sent me this information: Michael Marks started trading in his Penny Bazaar on the outdoor market in 1884 selling haberdashery, socks and stockings. Every item on his stall cost a penny. His slogan was ‘Don’t ask the price, it’s a penny’. His business prospered and he soon moved to the covered market. In 1894 he went into partnership with Tom Spencer and thus Marks & Spencer was born. If you’d like to find out more information about Kirkgate Market, you can also find out more information about the Leeds Corn Exchange. All images © Paul Groom Photography The Corn Market Westminster Buildings Kirkgate 1904 Market Of course, I’m not only interested in the beautiful landmarks which a location has, I’m also intrigued by other moments. I love the CAFE sign above this shop, […]

Clevedon – Photographing the beach and pier A very enjoyable evening was spent (with fellow photographer friend Aaron Weight) in Clevedon near Bristol this week. The pier there is a superb bit of architecture, so beautiful, and extremely photogenic. First of all I concentrated on the jetty, beach and pebbles surrounding the pier, trying to get in so close that they reveal their own patterns and textures… I was really waiting for the sun to go down….. whilst waiting I enjoyed the photo opportunities the low sun made with shadows upon the walls. Of course, the sun set shot isn’t the only shot to be had of the pier. I tried a black and white one here with the seaweed looking nicely dramatic. Eventually, though, the sun did indeed set. I got into position in order to put the sun behind the pier structure (almost standing on somebody’s barbecue in the process) and got this shot… Once I’d ruined their barbecue I decided to get the sun to the side of the pier, this seagull thankfully chose that moment to fly, which I like to think gives extra interest. Finally the sun entirely set, and I was left with a peaceful scene in which the sea suddenly takes on […]