Be Celebrated. Be Seen. Be Part of History.
Are you one of the 264 women now representing 40% of Parliament? Then this is for you. The Royal Photographic Society’s Women in Photography group is proud to launch the 40% Project—a nationwide photographic celebration of women's powerful and historic presence in Westminster.
We want to honour your achievement—and those of your colleagues—by capturing portraits of every woman MP, taken by women and female-identifying photographers across the UK.
This is a chance to be part of something truly inspiring: a visual archive of women’s leadership in Parliament today.
What’s the Project About?
Following the 2024 General Election, a record 264 women MPs now sit in the House of Commons. This marks a landmark moment: 40% of seats are now held by women.
We believe this deserves to be seen—and celebrated—through the lens of creativity, collaboration, and national pride.
The 40% Project will result in a public exhibition of portraits, taken by volunteer photographers and displayed in outdoor, accessible locations across the UK, including Central London.
How Do I Take Part?
If you're a woman MP and would like your portrait to be included in this landmark project, we’d love to hear from you.
You’ll be paired with a photographer from one of our partner organisations (including the RPS Women in Photography group, Hundred Heroines, and photography students from UK universities) who will work with you to create an image that reflects your values, passions, and personality.
It’s a collaboration—there’s no set style or format. You choose how you’d like to be represented.
What Will Happen With My Portrait?
- You’ll approve the final image.
- Your portrait will be part of an online gallery and submitted for selection in the 2026 nationwide outdoor exhibition.
- You’re welcome to share your portrait on social media and your website.
- The image will also contribute to a visual archive of this historic milestone in UK politics.
What’s the Timeline?
- Portraits must be completed by 31 October 2025.
- Selected portraits will be exhibited in Summer 2026 (subject to funding).
- We’ll keep you informed every step of the way.
How Can I Get Involved?
To express interest or learn more, please contact:
📧 Sue Wright – Chair, RPS Women in Photography
wipchair@rps.org
We’ll connect you with your assigned photographer and guide you through the process.
Why It Matters
This project builds on the legacy of pioneers like Nancy Astor, the first woman to take her seat in Parliament in 1919. More than a century later, you are part of the most representative Parliament in British history. The 40% Project exists to acknowledge that—and to make it visible for generations to come.
Let’s celebrate what it means to lead, to represent, and to inspire.
We’d be honoured to photograph you.
