Marrakech - photographing without a brief

Most of my photography is commissioned, whether that’s for a charity, festival, magazine or portrait. But every now and then I like to go somewhere with no agenda other than to take photographs.

Earlier this year I spent a few days in Marrakech. I wasn’t there for work – it was simply a chance to wander with my camera and photograph whatever caught my eye.

Street photography has always been one of my favourite ways to work. There’s no plan and no shot list. It’s about slowing down, watching what’s happening around you and waiting for those small moments that can never be staged.

As always, it was the people that interested me most. I found myself drawn to the quieter moments away from the busiest streets – conversations, expressions, beautiful light etc.

I think these kinds of personal trips are really important. When most of your work is commissioned, it’s easy to forget how enjoyable it is to photograph simply because you want to. I always come home feeling inspired, and those experiences inevitably influence the way I approach my commissioned work too.

Here are a few of my favourite photographs from Marrakech.