Exploring Natural Light Portraiture with Roj Whitelock

Introduction

“Earlier this week, Mill Tye Gallery hosted an inspiring portrait photography workshop led by photographer Roj Whitelock. Photographer Jacqueline Mellor documented the day and shares her reflections below.”

By Jacqueline Mellor

There is something incredibly special about documenting a room full of people learning, experimenting and growing in confidence together through creativity.

On Tuesday 26 May, Mill Tye Gallery welcomed photographer Roj Whitelock for an inspiring People & Portraitsworkshop focused on exploring natural light portraiture. I had the pleasure of photographing the day as it unfolded, capturing not only the technical learning taking place, but also the creative energy and sense of community that developed throughout the session.

Fresh from having his portrait Phil selected for the prestigious Taylor Wessing Portrait Prize 2025 at the National Portrait Gallery, Roj brought an impressive depth of knowledge to the workshop. More importantly, he brought a calm, generous and encouraging teaching style that immediately put participants at ease.

Throughout the day, attendees explored the principles of working with natural light, learning how to shape and observe light more intuitively, better understand exposure, and build confidence when directing and photographing a live model.

What stood out most from behind the camera was the atmosphere within the gallery itself. Participants shared ideas openly, experimented creatively, supported one another and became more confident with every frame they made. It was a wonderful reminder of how powerful creative learning environments can be when people are encouraged to explore and develop their own visual voice.

A huge thank you goes to our wonderful model, Maisie Lane, whose patience, professionalism and presence brought so much to the session, and of course to Roj for sharing both his expertise and enthusiasm so generously throughout the day.

Set against the inspiring backdrop of Mill Tye Gallery overlooking the mill pond, the workshop perfectly reflected the gallery’s commitment to creativity, learning and artistic community.

Experiences like this are an important reminder that photography is not simply about technical skill, but also about observation, connection and confidence. It was a privilege to witness so much creative growth in a single day.

Thank you to Roj Whitelock, Peter Rumsey, Maisie Lane and everyone who took part in making the workshop such a memorable and inspiring experience.

Photographs by Jacqueline Mellor.

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