The Lead Photographer
Originally from Cambridge, Claire has proudly called Sunderland home since 2022. She founded Claire Louise Photography in 2009, driven by a love of capturing the people, places and moments that tell authentic stories.
Specialising in environmental portraiture and documentary photography, Claire creates honest, meaningful images that celebrate real people and genuine connections. Her work spans local creatives, community projects, businesses, live events and the moments that often go unnoticed, documenting them with a natural, thoughtful approach.
In 2022, Claire expanded her business by launching Claire Louise Event Photography, allowing her to combine her love of storytelling with the energy of live performance. From theatre productions and concerts to backstage moments unseen by audiences, she enjoys capturing the atmosphere, emotion and dedication that bring every performance to life.
Creating a relaxed experience is at the heart of Claire's photography. She believes the best images happen when people feel comfortable enough to simply be themselves, resulting in photographs that feel authentic, timeless and full of personality.
Claire's work has been exhibited across the UK. Her debut solo exhibition, Behind the Art (2025), celebrated emerging working-class artists in collaboration with Pink Collar Gallery. Her theatre and event photography is permanently exhibited at The Fire Station and the University of Sunderland. In 2026, her documentary project Between Shouts was exhibited as part of the University of Sunderland Degree Show, and she was selected for the Photo Portrait Now exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery in London.
In July 2026, Claire graduated from the University of Sunderland with a First Class BA (Hons) in Photography, Video and Digital Imaging (with Integrated Foundation Year). Her studies further developed her documentary approach and strengthened her passion for using photography to tell stories that matter.
As her business has grown, so has the team. Since 2025, Claire has worked alongside an assistant to support larger events and productions, ensuring every client receives the same relaxed, professional experience from start to finish.
Away from photography, Claire volunteers as the Lifeboat Press Officer for Sunderland RNLI. Working alongside dedicated volunteers has deepened her appreciation for documentary storytelling and continues to influence much of her personal work.
When she's not behind the camera, you'll usually find her exploring the North East coastline, walking on the beach or discovering somewhere new, with her camera never far from reach, ready for whatever story unfolds next.
Lead Videographer &
Assistant to the Photographer
Mark has been working alongside Claire since January 2025 and has become an integral part of Claire Louise Photography. As Claire's partner in both business and life, he brings a calm, supportive presence to every shoot and plays a key role in helping the business continue to grow.
With a background in hospitality and a natural ability to put people at ease, Mark thrives behind the scenes, ensuring every shoot runs smoothly. From assisting at live events and larger productions to managing equipment and supporting clients throughout the day, he's always on hand wherever an extra pair of hands is needed.
Mark is also the business's videographer, creating cinematic films that perfectly complement Claire's photography. Whether capturing the atmosphere of a live performance, documenting an event or producing promotional video content for businesses, he works alongside Claire to tell each story through both stills and motion.
Together, Claire and Mark offer a relaxed, friendly and professional experience, combining photography and videography to create authentic, meaningful content. Their shared passion for storytelling, creativity and supporting local people and businesses is at the heart of everything they do.