About

The ultimate educational platform for photographers of all levels

The British Photographers’ Alliance is a photographic industry body built around progression, community, and raising standards. At its heart sits a practical education platform led by founders SallI Gainsford and Mike Baker, supported by a growing team of qualified photographers inlcuding Kevin Wilson & Martin Grahame-Dunn.

Within the BPA you will find both purists who love the challenge of creating strong images in camera, and creatives who enjoy the possibilities of composites and advanced post production. Our teaching is based on the skills, techniques, and real world experience we have developed across our careers, and we are proud to share that guidance with photographers at every stage.

With decades of combined experience across multiple genres, our team can teach, judge, and mentor with clarity and consistency. As the Alliance grows, Associate members and above will also be able to contribute educational content, keeping the platform current, varied, and genuinely community led.

We would be honoured to welcome you into the British Photographers’ Alliance and look forward to supporting your progress, whether your goal is stronger everyday photography, competition success, or working your way through to Fellowship.

Our passion for photography drives us to deliver excellence in every project we undertake. We would be honoured to have you join our community and look forward to connecting with you in the future.

Salli Gainsford

UK, Fine Art, Equine, Canine, Portraiture Photographer and Post Processing - Educator

Salli Gainsford FBPA FNPS

Portraiture, Fine Art, People, Equine, Pets

Salli Gainsford FBPA FNPS is a UK fine art character portrait photographer, best known for emotive portrait work and her specialist subjects, including equine, canine, wolf a like breeds, and birds of prey. Her workshops focus on strong craft, thoughtful styling, and the practical steps that help photographers create images with real presence.

Alongside her creative career, Salli has built and sustained two successful businesses over many years, including one established before the internet era that continues to thrive today. She has delivered training across the UK, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland, and is valued for a teaching style that is clear, supportive, and rooted in real world experience.

As co founder of Studio Masters and a founder of the British Photographers’ Alliance, Salli is committed to helping photographers develop skill, confidence, and consistency, while keeping the community welcoming, encouraging, and focused on genuine progress.

"I am passionate about helping photographers grow and develop their craft while enjoying the creative journey. I believe in the power of community and shared learning, and I am here to support you every step of the way. If something we offer helps you, please do let us know, your success and joy mean everything to us".

You can contact to book Salli to speak, teach or judge here Contact Here

Mike Baker

UK, Corporate, Business, Wedding, Photographer and Lighting - Educator

Mike Baker FBPA ANPS LRPS

Wedding, Portrait, Corporate, PR & Media

Mike Baker is a professional photographer with over 40 years of experience, specialising in corporate, press, and PR work. His career has covered a wide range of assignments, from major infrastructure and estates through to high profile commissions.

He also spent many years running a newspaper, leading its photographic direction and developing a strong instinct for storytelling and impact. Known for his calm, practical approach to lighting, Mike is always testing, refining, and learning.

As co founder of Studio Masters and a founder of the British Photographers’ Alliance, Mike focuses on helping photographers understand light, simplify their process, and build confidence through solid technique.

" I am passionate about photography and believe the best photographers never stop learning. I am always open to trying new things and sharing what I learn. If you are prepared to put the work in, I will help you get there".

You can contact to book Mike to speak, teach or judge here Contact Here

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