Celebrating Women MPs in Parliament

Photographed by Catherine Smith

Katie Lam, Conservative MP for the newly created constituency The Weald of Kent since 2024, serving as Opposition Assistant Whip. Prior roles in the Home Office and Downing Street have equipped her with a deep understanding of government and public service.

We met in late August at Domaine Evremond Vineyard in Chilham, a fairly new addition to Kent’s landscape, full of late summer’s charm before the season turns. Chosen by Katie, it felt like an appropriate setting; traditional yet forward thinking, grounded in enduring values. That’s very much how I found Katie to be during our time together and what I wanted to feed into the portrait through symbolism and composition. Creating a timeless portrait that is both intimate and formal.

Through her direct gaze and expression I feel she exudes quiet confidence and professionalism, a good balance between approachability and respect for the role and challenges faced. The graduating backdrop suggesting her sense of pride and desire to protect and make a difference in her constituency.

www.cat8smithphotography.com / @cat8smithphotography

Photographed by Nicola Tree

Kim Leadbeater MBE has been the Labour MP for Spen Valley in West Yorkshire since 2024, having represented the previous constituency of Batley and Spen since 2021. Kim is the sister of Jo Cox who held the Batley and Spen seat for just over a year before her murder by a right wing extremist in June 2016. Kim has a background in education, health and sport, but since Jo’s death she has worked locally and nationally to create a positive legacy for her sister by bringing people and communities together, tackling loneliness and championing civility in public life, initially through her work at The Jo Cox Foundation, and now as the MP for the area where she has lived all her life.

Kim is a proud Yorkshire woman, and it became clear during our conversations that her portrait had to be taken in her constituency. She was very keen for her portrait to combine her work as a Parliamentarian with her sister’s memory. She felt that the perfect venue to do this was the Jo Cox Community Wood, a beautiful outdoor space at the heart of Spen Valley created by local volunteers. The portrait shows Kim standing on a large rock in the middle of the wood, with a stunning Yorkshire view behind her on a late August day. She chose to wear a formal dress and heels to reflect the contrast between her two worlds - the formality of Westminster and her down-to-earth Yorkshire roots and family upbringing.

www.nicolatree.com

Photographed by Louise Knaresborough LRPS

The Northeast of England has an amazing coastline, and the beaches of South Shields are no exception. I met Emma on the beach early in the morning the sun was slowly rising giving a lovely golden glow to the shoreline. Emma was born and raised in the seaside town where her links to the sea and sea faring community are strong, from the shipyards to being a descendant of William Wouldhave the inventor of the lifeboat, it’s obvious when talking with her that her heart is here in Shields.

Emma was warm, genuine, fierce, and passionate about her constituency and her constituents, one of her overriding goals is continually campaigning for the improvement of social care for both children and adults as well as tackling food poverty. Her professional background in social care has taught her about the tough realities of front-line social work. She is also currently the chair of the All-party Parliamentary group “Child of the North” whose purpose is to create a fairer future for children across the north of England. Emma has held the post as MP for South shields for over 12 years, which is a testament to her commitment and duty to the town.

The shot was composed on the steps of the RNLI lifeguard station just by Long Beach, throughout the shoot many of the constituents out on the beach that morning greeted her as a familiar face with a cheery hello. During our short time together, it became noticeably clear that she is a female MP who is not afraid to stand up for what she believes.

LVKstudios.com / @lvkstudiosphotography

Photographed by Allyson Klein

Carla Lockhart is the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) MP for Upper Bann. Carla Lockhart’s portrait session was shaped as much by the day itself as by the image we set out to make. The day I met her was bitterly cold and windy, and the portrait session changed shape almost as quickly as the weather. We had planned to meet outside her constituency office in Lurgan, but she had to make a last-minute trip to Belfast City Airport, so we found ourselves at IKEA instead. I had hoped to use the rooftop view, with Cave Hill and Harland & Wolff in the distance, the iconic yellow cranes in Belfast, but the freezing wind made that impossible. In the end, the bright blue exterior walls offered an unexpectedly strong backdrop.

Carla was a real trooper throughout, even taking off her warm coat so I could photograph her more clearly for the series. What came across most strongly was her willingness to adapt and make the session work despite the cold and the last-minute changes. In that sense, the portrait reflects a side of political life that is often unseen: the patience, practicality and stamina needed to keep going, even when circumstances are far from ideal. The image holds something of that resilience, as well as the layered, ordinary setting in which political life so often unfolds.image holds something of that resilience, as well as the layered, ordinary setting in which political life so often unfolds.

www.storiesandlightphotography.com / @storiesandlightphotography 

Photographed by Alice Armstrong

Rebecca Long-Bailey is the Labour MP for Salford, whose life and work remain deeply rooted in Greater Manchester and in the experience of working-class communities. Before entering politics, she worked in a range of jobs, from a pawn shop and call centre to a solicitor’s office, experiences that shaped her understanding of economic struggle. Elected to Parliament in 2015, she is a strong advocate for workers’ rights, public services, and environmental sustainability and has consistently drawn inspiration from Salford’s traditions of solidarity and social justice.

Rebecca chose to have her portrait taken outside Salford Lads and Girls Club, a landmark of community pride and resilience that has stood at the heart of the city for over a century. The setting reflects both her deep connection to Salford and the enduring spirit of collective strength that defines the area.

instagram.com/alicelarmstrong

Photographed by Maria Akore

Julia Lopze, Conservative MP for Hornchurch and Upminster. The shoot with Julia was a real pleasure to shoot, we had fun and she stated we helped her feel comfortable about being photographed! She brought honesty, warmth, and a willingness to be open in front of the camera.

I’m grateful to her for trusting me with such a personal moment of reflection. It’s been an intense few years for her, navigating political upheaval, a pandemic, two new babies while serving as a Minister, and then facing another General Election. Through all of that, she’s changed and this shoot became a space to look at how those experiences have shaped her.

Julia was involved in a similar project, which paired female photographers with female MPs. Back then, she was newly elected and still finding her place, anxious about fitting the role, something she said came through in her beautiful portrait at the time.

What we captured together now is a very confident woman. There’s a resilience there, and a real sense of purpose. The understanding that she can take the knocks of political life while holding on to the privilege of representing others and serving the country she loves. Her words, "I now know I can withstand the negatives of the role in order to fulfil the incredible privilege of being other people's voice and getting to serve the country I love".

@mariaakorephotography

Photographed by Annie Green-Armytage

Alice Macdonald has a clear vision for her time as Labour MP for Norwich North: to advocate for the Norwich and Norfolk region; to be accessible to her constituents and restore trust in the integrity of politicians; and to help shape ‘transformational policies’ which address inequality.

With strong female inspiration from the start - her mother led West Norfolk Council for a time - attending state school was her first wake-up call to inequality of opportunity. ‘I realised you don’t just make your own luck, ‘she says. ‘It's about how the state tackles barriers and enables people to fulfil their potential.’ This was reinforced when she worked for a year in Senegal, and then working for (now) Baroness Harriet Harman as an international policy advisor. ‘She was one of a handful of women MPs in the ’80s, and she made such a difference against difficult odds. She had the determination and the passion to see her vision through.’ Currently Alice is campaigning for better health, better homes and more opportunity, particularly addressing the challenges in SEND.

She encourages everyone to consider getting involved in politics, suggesting following their passion to get a broader life perspective, alongside volunteering for their local party. As a former member of the Jo Cox Women in Leadership programme she also values women’s networks: ‘The more we stick together and support each other, the better.’ It was fascinating to talk with Alice and to make a portrait together that reflects her determination and strength of purpose.

www.anniegaphotography.co.uk / @anniegaphoto

Photographed by Livvi Grant

Helen Maguire is the Member of Parliament for Epsom and Ewell, and a former Army captain in the Royal Military Police. I photographed her during the Liberal Democrat Party Conference, in front of the Bournemouth War Memorial — a First World War monument built in 1921. Set in the town’s central gardens, it offered a moment of reflection amid the busyness of party conference. Wearing her beret and medals, she stood with the quiet strength of someone who’s known both conflict and community.

Commissioned from Sandhurst in 2000, Helen served in Bosnia and Iraq, supporting front-line infantry, and helping to rebuild the Iraqi police.

Those experiences — shaped by resilience, leadership, and service — continue to inform the way she approaches public life. Though now in Parliament, her focus remains practical and grounded. In front of the memorial, still and composed, she carried her story not through words, but through presence.

www.livvigrant.co.uk

Photographed by Soundarya Thandapani

Seema Malhotra MP is a senior UK Labour Party politician and has served as Minister for Race Equality since September 2024 and as Minister for the Indo-Pacific since September 2025, having previously held ministerial responsibility for Migration and Citizenship. Alongside her parliamentary roles, she remains deeply rooted in her constituency, having represented Feltham and Heston since 2011.

I met Seema on a cold but sunny afternoon in her constituency of Feltham and Heston, and we chose to photograph her in locations closely tied to her everyday work and rhythms. Before we began shooting, Seema warmly offered chai, a small but telling gesture that immediately set the tone for the day. We began at Feltham Pond, a place that struck me for its contrast: a calm stretch of water in the foreground, while just behind it, the high street carried on at its usual pace. This felt like a fitting place to begin. As we walked through the area, Seema spoke with pride about the community she represents, sharing stories of its cultural and historical richness, from local landmarks to figures such as Freddie Mercury and Mo Farah who have shaped the area’s identity. Between locations, I asked her about the pace of her days, which shifts between Parliament, constituency meetings and public engagements, with no two days quite the same. She also spoke about the importance of movement, whether through running or walking, and time with family as ways to stay grounded and recharged.

Our next stop was Humble Thali restaurant on the high street, where chai became part of the portrait itself, capturing a quieter, more conversational moment.

We concluded the shoot at the Heart of Hounslow, ending with portraits that felt direct and assured. Although I began the shoot feeling apprehensive, as it was my first time photographing an MP, I left feeling inspired by Seema’s calm presence and clarity of purpose. Photographing women in leadership like Seema reinforces the importance of representation and visibility, and the value of showing leadership as both grounded and deeply human.

www.soundaryathandapani.com  / @soundarya_photography

Photographed by Veronika Tóth

Photographing Amanda Martin. Labour MP for Portsmouth North, was such a lovely experience. She’s one of those people who instantly puts you at ease — easy to chat with, funny, and full of genuine warmth. You can tell straight away why she’s so well liked locally.

Amanda has that rare ability to make everyone she meets feel seen and valued, whether she’s talking about community projects or just sharing a laugh. We shot this portrait at Hilsea Lido, surrounded by bright murals and colour, which couldn’t have been a better match for her personality. She turned up wearing her Portsmouth FC shirt — completely herself, no pretense — and just radiated positivity. I wanted to capture that relaxed, real side of her that people in Portsmouth know so well: approachable, grounded, and full of heart. Throughout the session, we chatted about the city, the people, and what makes Portsmouth special. It was clear how deeply she cares about the community and how proud she is to represent it.

There’s a spark about Amanda — a mix of kindness, humour, and strength — that really comes through in this photo. This portrait isn’t just about her role as an MP, but about the person behind it, someone who genuinely loves her city and the people in it.

www.shotbyvera.co.uk / @shotbyveraa

Photographed by Kate Abbey

First elected in 2015, Rachael campaigns tirelessly for her constituents in York Central. With a career in the NHS, working as a senior physiotherapist in ITU and acute medicine and as the Head of Health at Unite, Rachael continues to use her expertise in Westminster to progress healthcare and protect the NHS and is Vice Chair of the Health and Social Care Health Select Committee.

With the challenges people experience in York, Rachael has recently advanced legislation to regulate Short Term Holiday Lets, and speaks regularly on issues from housing and development, the economy, health and social care and the environment and climate. As a trade unionist, she also makes the case for advancing workers’ rights, not least through her Bill to tackle Bullying at Work. Central to Rachael’s work, is listening to the issues that constituents raise and bringing their voice to Parliament, especially the inequality and injustices that so many have faced under the Tories. Not only does she work across agencies in York to enhance services and support businesses, but takes up the issues residents need addressing. I first photographed Rachael for the #209 exhibition in 2018 and her integrity and hard work stood out.

We were constantly stopped in the street and she tirelessly listened and engaged with anyone approaching her. It was a pleasure to meet her again.

www.kateabbey.co.uk  / @kateabbey

Photographed by Lisa Whiting

Kerry has represented Bristol East since 2005 and has served as the UK’s Climate Minister (Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State) at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. She previously held frontbench roles including Labour Shadow Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs and Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Net Zero, reflecting a long-standing commitment to climate action, sustainable food systems and animal welfare. A long-time vegan, she has championed greener diets and stronger animal welfare standards.

Photographed at Troopers Hill, a cherished nature reserve within her constituency, Kerry sits among the grasses of this reclaimed industrial landscape, with the landmark chimney rising above the Bristol Landscape behind her. Once a site of industry and now a haven for wildlife, Troopers Hill mirrors the themes of renewal and stewardship that have defined Kerry’s political career.

The portrait situates Kerry within the landscape she serves, presenting her as both leader and local representative, deeply connected to the people and environment of Bristol East: a parliamentarian whose work bridges people and planet, policy and place and whose career in Bristol and Westminster continues to inspire others to lead with compassion, evidence and conviction.

Through this photograph, I aim to contribute to the 40% Project’s mission of highlighting women’s visibility and influence in public life. Kerry’s portrait embodies resilience and purpose: a reminder that leadership can be both strong and compassionate, rooted in care for community and the natural world.

lisawhiting.myportfolio.com

Photographed by Wendy Carrig

I arranged to meet Dame Siobhain McDonagh on the modest street where she grew up, and which sits within the South London constituency of Mitcham and Morden where she has continued to serve as their Member of Parliament since 1997.

As we walked by her old family home Siobhain talked about her parents; her mother was a psychiatric nurse and her father a builder, both working within the local community. This makes it easy to understand why Siobhain is a passionate and tireless campaigner to protect health services and secure decent housing. She still lives nearby, only a few streets away from where she grew up.

On a weekend she can be seen knocking on doors and getting valuable feedback from the community she serves. Easily recognisable with her distinct style. Community, family, are hugely important for Siobhain. In 2023 she lost her only sister, Margaret, a member of the House of Lords and a former General Secretary of the Labour Party. Margaret died from glioblastoma brain cancer. The treatment available on the NHS was woefully inadequate.

After leading fund-raising efforts and taking on pharmaceutical companies, and the health establishment, Siobhain has forced change, and made Clinical trials a reality.

www.wendycarrig.co.uk / @wendycarrigphotography

Photographed by Jo Browne

Portrait of Lola McEvoy, Labour MP, Darlington. Taken as part of the Royal Photographic Society’s 40% Project, a national portrait series celebrating the 40% of MP’s who are women.

Captured at Hopetown, a place rooted in Darlington’s industrial and cultural heritage, chosen for its resonance with Lola’s values and commitment to the community she represents. Growing up just off North Road, near this landmark, the setting reflects both her personal connection to the town and her dedication to protecting and celebrating its cultural identity. What stayed with me wasn’t just Lola’s politics, but her belief in people and her determination to make sure Darlington’s story is one of resilience and renewal.

The portrait also marks a moment of congratulations for Lola on her recent appointment as Parliamentary Private Secretary in the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, where she continues to champion opportunities that enrich local and national life.

www.instagram.com/jobrownephotography

Photographed by Ruth Toda-Nation

I photographed Alison in Hamilton Square, Birkenhead — a place that carries both personal and political meaning. Alison and I are both former pupils of Wirral Grammar School, though years apart, both of us grew up shaped by this part of the world.

I took her portrait sitting on the balcony of Birkenhead Town Hall, a stunning grade II listed building designed by local architect Charles Ellison in 1882. Now serving as Minister of State for Employment, Alison is responsible for national employment strategy, tackling economic inactivity, reforming Jobcentres, improving access to childcare and supporting people into secure work — particularly young people, parents, and those with disabilities. Her work reflects a long-standing commitment to dignity in work, opportunity for all, and support for those left behind — values rooted in her own working-class upbringing on the Wirral. Alison brings compassion and clarity to her politics, combining a strong belief in social justice with a clear-eyed understanding of how policy impacts real lives. Hamilton Square felt like the right place for this portrait. It’s at the heart of Birkenhead’s civic life and history, dignified, a little weathered, and full of quiet strength.

Photographing her here on film with my Hasselblad, felt like capturing the essence of a politician who remains deeply connected to the people and place she represents.

@ruthtodanation

Photographed by Michaela Simpson

Catherine McKinnell, born and brought up in Newcastle, has been the Labour MP for Newcastle upon Tyne North since 2010. She became Minister of State for School Standards in July 2024, previous roles include Shadow Attorney General back in 2015. She studied politics and history at the University of Edinburgh, then went on to do a law degree at Northumbria University. Since being elected, Catherine’s been a passionate voice for Newcastle and the North East, working on issues like the cost of living, child poverty, the NHS, public services, and transport.

Life as a Minister of State is hectic, to say the least, but Catherine still made time to be part of the project. A Zoom call beforehand gave us a chance to share ideas, and she quickly chose a lesser-known spot—the Armstrong Bridge. It's a fitting choice for someone representing Newcastle, a city world-famous for its iconic bridges.

I’d visited the location in advance to find the best shooting angles and see how the light was falling. Catherine arrived relaxed and open to ideas for our shoot together, even taking a moment to help a young mother who asked her to take a photo with her daughter. She happily helped out.

I’m always very conscious of time when photographing busy people. We worked quickly—it’s a busy spot—timing our shots during brief moments when the bridge cleared of people out enjoying the beautiful Jesmond Dene.

simpson-studios.com / @simpsonstudios35mm

Photographed by Maisie Lopez

I met with Anna McMorrin and her pup, Cadi, on a rainy day in Wales. Anna has been the Labour MP for Cardiff North since 2017 and was appointed Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Wales Office in September 2025.

We photographed her at the Iron Bridge, beside the remains of the old tramroad’s toll house, from which you can see Castell Coch perched at the top of the hill. Anna wanted to embrace the area’s rich local history and reflect the environment of the constituency she represents. After the shoot had finished, she had to shoot off as she was holding one of the regular advice surgeries for the local community.

A former environmental campaigner and climate change adviser, Anna chose to wear her RSS Sir David Attenborough puffer jacket, giving a subtle nod to the parliamentary mission she undertook to study the melting ice caps. Hearing her speak with a real passion about climate change was refreshing, and it gave me hope knowing we have someone in Parliament who is outspoken and committed to net zero.

Despite the rain, it was a delightful day. Anna has a warm, welcoming presence, and we had a lot of fun. It was a lovely reminder that we have a caring, grounded, and strong woman among the 40% of women who are currently in Parliament.

Photographed by Sally Anderson LRPS

Kirsty McNeill is Scottish Labour and Co-operative MP for Midlothian and Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Scotland. She has been enthusiastic about the 40% project from the start. As Midlothian has a significant mining history and is home to Scotland’s National Mining Museum, it was fitting to make this the location for our shoot. We are indebted to the Museum's marketing team for their time and permission to use locations at the museum. Kirsty is a regular visitor there and a keen supporter of local groups and charities, particularly miners’ welfare and social clubs.

As the arranged date was some time ahead, I took the opportunity to visit to pinpoint suitable locations within a vast site. It was not easy to find locations that would allow a close-up portrait in good light (the main focus) and which would make the context clear, as many objects are huge pieces of machinery. Some disused coal trucks, a brick-built building with NCB (National Coal Board) lettering, a disused digging machine and a striking massive red wheel provided opportunities. This proved to be an effective way to plan things as the taking of photos was relatively quick.

The chosen day was one of the many hot bright sunny days that Scotland has experienced this Summer, making outdoor locations a challenge. Luckily, Kirsty’s assistant helped by holding up a diffuser to block the worst of the brightness. Kirsty has also been very helpful trying to interest other Scottish women MPs in the project.

www.sallyanderson.co.uk / @sallyandersonphotos

Photographed by Nicola Pass ARPS

I had the most amazing opportunity to create a portrait of Esther McVey Conserative MP for Tatton for the RPS 40% Project. Its aim is to build a national portrait series that celebrates the rise of female MPs, and highlights the diverse and influential presence of women in UK politics. At its core, it’s about women supporting women and recognising the importance of visibility and representation.

We chose Tatton Park as the setting for Esther’s portrait. It’s a place we both feel connected to and enjoy spending time in.

Being a part of this project is meaningful to me both as a photographer and as a woman. It’s a reminder of how powerful visibility can be, and how important it is to celebrate the women shaping public life today.

www.nicolapassphotography.co.uk 

Photographed by Rae Seaman

My time with Llinos Medi offered a warm and unexpectedly personal insight into the woman behind the public role. She arrived suffering from acute laryngitis, barely able to speak, and admitted she was terrified of having more photos taken, something she usually dislikes. Even so, she put on a brave face, approached the session with openness, and throughout, her sweet-naturedness came through so strongly that we finished with a hug.

As we talked, she shared stories from her childhood on a farm above Llanddona beach. Her father was a first‑generation farmer, and she and her siblings grew up helping with the sheep and cows. That early connection to the land still shapes her. If she ever stepped away from politics, she said she would love to return to farming, and her daughter already shares that passion. Her son, meanwhile, is thriving in a dance school and loves everything from jazz to tap. She spoke proudly about encouraging him to follow what he loves, even when it falls outside stereotypical expectations. That belief in letting people pursue their own path felt like a thread running through everything she said.

She lives in central Anglesey now but admitted she would love to move back to the coast one day. And in the middle of all the seriousness of her work, she has one small act of rebellion: wearing her Dr. Martens, even though the chamber is notoriously fussy about footwear.

www.searaephotography.com / @sea_rae_photography

Photographed by Solenna Argow

Anneliese Midgley is the Labour MP for Knowsley. I met Anneliese on a cold, drizzly January morning at Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot, just outside of Liverpool. The wind was bitter and you could feel your bones rattling against one and other. It was certainly a day that was meant to be spent indoors and I can’t think of a more beautiful setting to shield away from the grey day.

If you’ve never visited Shakespeare North you are truly missing out. The space itself feels like you’ve been transported back in time, including only the best parts of a true Shakespearean experience. It was a joy to roam around the stunning timber framed theatre with Anneliese, imagining what characters we would play if we called the stage our home. We discussed Shakespearean characters and those much more modern and further afield. We chatted about Prospero and of course I couldn’t not mention my favourite, Hallie Jackson from The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, the memory taking me all the way back to my drama society days.

It felt so natural working with Anneliese to create this portrait. This was an unforgettable session full of joy and laughter. It has been a true highlight of my year so far and I am so proud that I have been able to play a part in this monumental project. Thank you Anneliese for your kindness and generosity.

www.solennaargow.com  / @solennaargow

Photographed by Tracey Ann Ainsley

I had the pleasure of meeting Julie Minns, November 2025, Labour MP for Carlisle. Myself not from the area, didn’t know anything about Julie so I watched her maiden speech to parliament on YouTube. What a passionate woman standing up for Carlisle not only the future of her constituents but also saving it’s heritage for future generations, our venue Carlisle Turkish Baths, for the photoshoot one of those passions.

Whilst waiting for our shoot, a gentleman approached who I thought might be who was opening the baths for us. No, he was Ian Young, a constituent, who when I told him who I was meeting said Julie was Carlisle through and through and that’s why he voted for her! Definitely a fan. Julie has politics in her bones having a distant cousin, Ernest Lowthian, first Labour politician to stand for Carlisle, whilst her great grandfather, John Hodgson-Minns, was a councillor for the Carlisle Conservative party.

We met with Lucy, Julie’s assistant, who helped me organise the shoot, and Andrew who was our contact to get inside. As we walked around inside you could tell Julie is very enthusiastic about the baths so much so, she is Chair of the Friends campaigning to save them for the future.

Julie was very easy to talk to and was very photogenic making our time together easier. She was delighted to be part of the project.

@wpcthunderbird

Photographed by Anneleen Lindsay

Abtisam Mohamed, Labour MP for Sheffield Central since 2024. Prior to being an MP, Abtisam spent her whole career in Sheffield supporting communities to achieve change; working in community development, she then qualified first as a teacher then as a lawyer. She set up a practice providing legal advice and representation for disadvantaged people. She was also a senior councillor for Education, and set up Sheffield's Race Equality Commission.  

Abtisam is the first British-Yemeni MP; a member of the Foreign Affairs Committee and has roles as Chair, Vice-chair and Officer of several All-Party Parliamentary Groups, including those for International Students, University and for Palestine.   

In April 2025 Abtisam was denied entry by Israel when travelling as part of a Parliamentary delegation to the West Bank. She advocates for the recognition of a Palestinian state and for the UK to place sanctions on Israeli Ministers.

We met on an extremely hot, sunny morning in the city centre, an area where the architecture of Sheffield’s industrial heritage blends with creative business start-ups, galleries, vintage shops and cafes. We discussed how formative the city was for both of us growing up, discovering we were actually born only weeks apart. Also ‘Made In Sheffield’, the city’s politics, creativity and sense of community have strongly impacted my own identity and worldview.  

Abtisam’s hand on hip pose references an iconic Sheffield painting, ‘Buffer Girls’ by William Rothenstein, which depicts the working class craftswomen who were essential to Sheffield’s world-famous cutlery industry, wearing red headscarves and determined expressions.

www.anneleenphotography.com / www.instagram.com/anneleenphoto

Photographed by Fran Monks

Layla Moran, Liberal Democrats MP for Oxford West and Abingdon. Layla suggested we make her portrait in the cafeteria of a leisure centre in her Oxfordshire constituency. This was the place where she first heard she had been elected in 2017. We met there on 1st May 2025, the day after the local elections. The count was happening in the gym and there was quite a buzz with supporters of all parties gathering to hear the latest results. Layla was dressed in a bright dress, with yellow shoes (a nod to the Lib Dem’s colours) and was warm and enthusiastic. I had practiced a few different locations with her case-worker before she arrived, and so we started on a dark bench seat which had glass blocks behind it. I held the camera high to try and avoid reflections from my light. Layla was very relaxed and fun in front of the camera. Without me asking she put her feet up on the seat, which was perfect.

A former teacher, Layla became interested in politics as a way to change education policy. Getting elected was a complete surprise. Sitting in this same cafe, awaiting the results in 2017, she thought she was heading back to school the next day but instead it was off to the Houses of Parliament. As for there being more female MPs now, Layla comments: “There has always been a sisterhood in the House of Commons, but we are just getting better at it.”

www.franmonks.com / @franmonks

Photographed by Sandra Andrews

Jessica Morden has been actively involved with the Labour Party for over 35 years. She served as General Secretary of Welsh Labour from 1999 to 2005, before being elected MP for Newport East. She is now Chair of the Parliamentary Labour Party and a member of the Intelligence and Security Committee. Her political focus includes anti-social behaviour, policing, the steel industry and championing the city of Newport.

Having grown up in Cwmbran, Jessica’s roots remain firmly in Gwent, and she maintains a strong connection with her constituency. While Cwmbran and Newport are only a few miles apart, the journey from a pupil at Croesyceiliog School to serving as MP for over 21 years reflects remarkable dedication, resilience and leadership. It’s no surprise that she connected with the 40% Project and made time in her busy schedule to take part.

Newport East continues to evolve, building on its industrial, maritime and cultural heritage. The steelworks, long central to the city’s identity, are now looking towards regeneration with the launch of a new steel strategy. Newport Docks and Welsh Rail are also benefiting from significant investment, while the city is home to advanced manufacturing, cyber security expertise and a globally important semiconductor cluster.

At this pivotal time for the UK steel industry, we chose to photograph Jessica beside The Steel Wave on the River Usk — a symbol of Newport’s heritage, strength and resilience. An apt setting for “The Steel MP.”

saimages.co.uk

Photographed by Geraldine Curtis

Helen Morgan has been Liberal Democrat MP for North Shropshire since December 2021 when she convincingly won the by-election brought about by the resignation of the previous Conservative MP.

On first meeting Helen, you are immediately struck by the warmth of her huge smile, which despite the cliché really does light up the room and puts you immediately at ease in her presence. Brought up in neighbouring Staffordshire, Helen has made a big impact on the lives of the people of North Shropshire with her firm support for and highlighting of many rural issues.

Our location for the photoshoot was a local dairy farm. I took photos of Helen against a backdrop of the rural expanse of North Shropshire with Wales in the distance. The farm’s elevated position giving the perfect view of the local area. On the way back to Wem (her constituency office), Helen described how she had visited a local chicken farm in the morning to discuss a planning issue. Interestingly, the main part of our conversation followed a farming theme, North Shropshire being a very important food producing area for milk, chickens and potatoes.

Taking Helen’s portrait has been hugely important to me. Not only for taking part in The 40% Project, but as a farmer’s daughter, to help promote Women MPs supporting a largely rural community and all the challenges this brings means so much to me. My challenge was also to use off camera flash to make the portrait ‘pop’ in the late afternoon autumn light.

geraldinecurtis.bsky.social / www.flickr.com/photos/geraldinecurtis/

Photographed by Dee Robinson ARPS

Joy was born in USA and on her way to the United Kingdom and her future husband she undertook humanitarian work in Albania, Kosovo, China, and India, helping refugees, working in an orphanage and teaching English in 1999/2000. In 2008 at the LSE, she received a master's degree specialising in European Social Policy going on to attain British citizenship and is now a British American dual national. Politics followed, councillor on Ealing Council, standing as an MP for Ealing Central and Action at the snap 2017 general election coming second. In 2018 she was one of the 3 conservative nominations for London Mayoral Election. In 2019 she was elected MP for Beaconsfield, a busy lady. As a fervent campaigner and supporter of the Green Belt it was a no brainer to suggest we did the photo shoot with her beautiful, retired racehorse Dreamie. To get to know the other side of Joy was a joy.

@deerobinsonphotographer

Photographed by Antonia Penia

Margaret Mullane, Labour Party MP for Dagenham and Rainham. Taking part in The Royal Photographic Society’s 40% Project felt both meaningful and historic. As a woman photographer, contributing to a visual archive that celebrates women holding power in Parliament is something I deeply value. This project is not only about portraits, but about visibility, representation, and marking a moment of change.

I photographed Margaret Mullane MP with the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben behind her, an iconic setting that symbolises the place where she works and where 40% of seats are now held by women. It felt important to situate her within this recognisable landscape, anchoring her presence firmly in the heart of Westminster. Due to parliamentary schedules and limited overlap in our availability, the portrait session took place after sunset and lasted just thirty minutes. The fading light, winter weather, and the fast pace of the shoot presented technical and creative challenges, but they also reflected the reality of this moment: women in leadership are busy, in demand, and constantly moving.

Despite the constraints, working with Margaret was a genuinely positive experience. She was warm, open, and supportive of the project, fully understanding its significance. While more time always offers more possibilities, this portrait represents what was achievable in a brief encounter, an honest response to the circumstances.

For me, participating in the 40% Project is about showing up, contributing my voice, and helping ensure that this moment in history is seen, recorded, and remembered through a female photographic gaze.

http://www.antoniapenia.com  / @antoniapenia

Photographed by Lucy Arscott

Tessa has served as the Liberal Democrat MP for the Wells and Mendip Hills constituency since July 2024 and is currently a member of the Justice Committee. She previously represented the Wells constituency from 2010 to 2015.

Widely recognised as a dedicated community campaigner and a true champion for her constituents, Tessa is committed to remaining accessible and active in local life. She continues her tradition of holding regular surgeries in cafés and pubs across the constituency, having already held more than 150 since last July. Her previous record of 704 MP surgeries during her first term still stands as the highest of any MP.

The few hours I spent with Tessa while capturing this portrait were truly unforgettable. She is a genuine force—resolute, compassionate, and unshakeable. You can trust that she’ll always be in your corner, ready to stand up and fight for every issue you care about.

www.lucyarscott.com 

Photographed by Kelly Mclean

Katrain Murry MP for the Scottish labour party in Cumbernauld and Kirkintiloch.  I met with Katrina while she was out campaigning, and it was lovely to chat with her in a non-political way. I believe it’s important, especially when meeting people in influential positions, to recognise the vulnerability and humanity behind the role.

Speaking with her reminded me that titles and responsibilities don’t take away the emotion, challenge, or personal history that shape who we are. We laughed about drifting into our mid-life crisis era and how, despite the chaos that can come with that stage of life, we both felt driven to make a meaningful difference for others.

Katrina shared that she grew up in Kirkintilloch and had recently lost her dad; it was clear that this was a deeply painful loss, and hearing her speak about him with such warmth gave me an even greater appreciation of her compassion and strength. Katrina is deeply passionate about women’s safety and about raising awareness of the many challenges faced by women experiencing coercive or financial control. This strongly resonated with me on a personal level. All too often, these issues are minimised or misunderstood, leaving women to navigate complex, frightening circumstances without the support, resources, or recognition they deserve. Knowing that Katrina is committed to amplifying these voices is incredibly encouraging.

I have been invited to the Cumbernauld Summit in January, and I look forward to attending and continuing this important conversation. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Katrina and her team in the future as we strive to create safer and more supportive communities for all.

K.mc.photography

Photographed by Anastasia Arsentyeva

Susan Murray is an extraordinary woman, and I don’t say that lightly. Of course, the reason why we met is due to her position as the Liberal Democrat MP for Mid Dunbartonshire. Yet it was her multifacetedness and her attitude towards life that captured me.

We met up on a wet and grey January day in Kirkintilloch, the town she has called home for many years. We spoke of our backgrounds, families and personal values. She is refreshingly open and sincere.

In 2006, Susan’s husband suffered a brain haemorrhage, after which she became his full-time carer for several years. Her son, now in his 30s, lives with schizophrenia. Those experiences now sit at the heart of her politics, especially regarding healthcare and unpaid carers. Having worked as an NHS dietician, marketing director and businesswoman prior to entering politics, Susan encourages ordinary people from non-political backgrounds to think about and engage with politics. Outlook and empathy are vital. “I’m not where I want to be, but I make the best of it,” Susan told me over our pre-shoot phone call. “It is important we find good [in society and individuals] and build on that.”

anastasiiayeva.com