Kettering photographer's porch-traits raise vital food bank cash

The Steels: John, Becky, James (three) and Amanda (seven).

A Kettering photographer has turned the coronavirus nightmare into something positive by snapping families on their doorsteps - raising vital funds for a town food bank.

Prime Focus Photography's Andy Brown would normally be taking pictures at weddings and other celebrations but, because of the Covid-19 pandemic, has seen about 30 bookings postponed.

After taking inspiration from an American website he decided to use his new spare time to take 'porch-trait' pictures of families at home during the lockdown, all while keeping his social distance.

The 44-year-old, whose firm is based in Kettering, said: "You see old photos from a hundred years ago of people standing outside shops and factories and these pictures are like those.

"This is a once in every four generations event and these photos will stay in the family and be a talking point in years to come. It's capturing a moment in history."

He's donating funds he receives to Kettering Food Bank, which is run at Praise Community Church in Alexandra Street, and is so busy that he has already handed over £250 after just two days of shoots.

Andy, who lives in Desborough, already has more than 20 other families booked in and is so busy he hopes to donate up to £500 a week.

He said: "I'm donating to the food bank because I saw on the news that they were being inundated with requests.

"So many people are out of work or spending more time at home and they are being overwhelmed."

Andy will take pictures of families in the boroughs of Kettering and Corby and asks for a minimum donation of £10 for at least five digital images.

One family to take part was the Steel family, with John and Becky pictured with their children James and Amanda on their doorstep in Rothwell.

John said: "Andy came to ours on Friday and he was great.

"It's going to a good cause and whether it's the food bank or another charity, we can all do our bit to help."

To request a porch-trait session, contact Andy on the Prime Focus Photography Facebook page