In the eighth of a series of articles featuring images by Woodford and Wanstead Photographic Society members, Anuraj Theivendram looks at Alan Simpson’s monochromatic work
For more than four decades, Alan Simpson LRPS has been quietly documenting the character of London and the landscapes beyond it, producing images that blend technical craft with a deep affection for place. Born and raised in Clayhall and educated in Wanstead, Alan’s connection to the local area runs through both his life and his photography.
After many years living in Leytonstone, Alan has now returned to Clayhall, still within walking distance of the streets and green spaces that first shaped his creative eye. He joined the Woodford and Wanstead Photographic Society (WWPS) in 1999, continuing a journey that began at the long‑defunct Leytonstone and Wanstead Camera Club, once based at Wanstead House. This is the very venue WWPS now calls home.
Alan’s photographic roots stretch back to his teenage years, when he learned the craft using his parents’ cameras and, occasionally, his brother’s. University life introduced him to the darkroom, where he developed and printed his own black‑and‑white work, later expanding into colour slide film. In 1996, Alan joined the Royal Photographic Society (RPS), achieving his Licentiateship (LRPS) soon after. His commitment to photographic heritage led him to contribute to two major national projects: the Images of England initiative, a collaboration between the RPS and English Heritage documenting listed buildings across the country, and the ambitious Bleeding London project, which set out to photograph every street in the capital.
Although he now works primarily in digital, Alan maintains a cherished collection of vintage film cameras, occasionally running a roll of monochrome film “for old times’ sake.” His photographic interests are broad and include landscapes, historic transport, re‑enactment events, abstracts and off‑beat subjects, which all find their way into his portfolio. His atmospheric images of steam rallies and industrial heritage reflect his instinct for storytelling through texture, light and nostalgia.
A long‑standing and active WWPS member, Alan has contributed to the society’s history and supported its evolution. Now newly retired, he is turning his attention to a long‑held ambition: working towards his Associateship (ARPS), a natural next step for a photographer whose work continues to evolve with curiosity and quiet dedication.
For more information on the Woodford and Wanstead Photographic Society, visit wnstd.com/wwps
