To warm up for this weekend’s Notting Hill Carnival, we spoke to Italy-born, London-based Stefy Pocket, a photographer sharing the diversity of London through her lens.
It wasn’t until Pocket moved to the UK capital that she thought to pursue a career in photography, stating: “I began taking photos when I moved to London. Since then, I’ve spent the last seven years mostly living in the grittier neighbourhoods, which I love. London’s multicultural society and the people surrounding me are so inspiring.” The city’s charm took hold immediately, serving as a muse for the artist. “There was just too much going on for my eyes to take in, so I bought a camera and decided to start capturing defining moments and characters. I hope to create an intimate experience for the viewer, producing images that show different perceptions of cultures and lifestyles, always trying to keep my photos honest and real.”
In this photo series, Pocket documents her favourite hairstyles, the wildest dance moves as well as some beautifully intimate moments from last year’s Notting Hill Carnival.
“Carnival is a special time of the year; it’s like Christmas for my eyes. The celebration of Britain’s West Indian culture brings together all the city’s communities in a massive street party that promotes diversity. I always go to Carnival with my girl crew, we like to get right in the middle of the crowd – dancing, drinking rum and smoking ganja with the locals – all while I shoot my favourite characters from the bunch.”
“Carnival is like Christmas for my eyes” – Stefy Pocket
The photographer has been documenting the highlight of London’s summer for the last three years, and this year will be her fourth.
Scroll through the images below for a glimpse into last year’s festivities, and keep an eye out for the photographer’s Pocket Carnival Zine, which will capture the truly tropical vibe on paper, out in the near future.
To see more of Stefy Pocket’s work check out her website and follow her on Instagram