Collage of vibrant, retro-themed photos including people, objects, and scenes. Bright colors convey an energetic, nostalgic vibe.
My Path in Photography
My journey into photography began in Birmingham, England, working alongside my father. Donnelly Burns Davies was a prominent advertising and design agency that played a significant role in the creative landscape of the West Midlands during the 1970s and 1980s. In the 1980s, the agency expanded further, relocating to Harborne and rebranding as Donnelly Burns Nicklin. This move included the establishment of two specialised studios: one dedicated to fashion and furniture photography, and another drive-in studio designed for high-end automotive shoots, serving prestigious clients.
Bright blue background with "Hot Shoe" in bold red cursive. Caption: "For people in the photographic world," conveys a creative and welcoming tone.
Alt text: A black and white magazine spread features bold text reading "Lions and Boa Constrictors a Specialty." The left side shows people in humorous poses, bandaged with defiant expressions. The right page shows an interior with modern furniture, a fish on a rug between two chairs, conveying a surreal and quirky vibe. Donnelly Burns Nicklin
With seven commercial photographers and numerous graphic designers and retouch artists all under one roof, I was immersed in a dynamic studio environment, capturing everything from boilers, crossbows, rock bands, room sets to luxury Bentleys and jaguars. 
Donnelly Burns Davies was renowned for its comprehensive creative services, offering graphic design, photography, and advertising solutions. The agency's client list featured a range of notable Black Country firms, and its work contributed to the visual identity and marketing strategies of many local businesses. The studio's environment was described as vibrant and collaborative, fostering creativity and innovation.
A jaguar reclines elegantly on a sleek black car with "Jaguar" branding. The vibrant red and orange sunset backdrop adds a bold, striking contrast.
Collage of images on grid paper, featuring luxury cars, clocks, drinks, a helicopter, and an airbrush. Futuristic and stylish tone.
This rare opportunity gave me first-hand experience with a wide range of creative techniques and commercial setups like airbrushing and illustration, dbn were the first company to develop "neon" effects transforming images by sandwiching 10 x 8 e6 layers  creating 'tron' like  flashes of light around products or models.
Collage of vibrant images showcasing diverse advertising effects. Includes cars, technology, neon graphics, and dynamic designs. Promotes creativity and innovation. Donnelly Burns Nicklin
incredible to think the hours spent nearly forty years ago helping to perfect these early post production techniques have now formed the perfect foundation for my own career using A.I combined with professional commercial photography.
Blurred black and white image of dancers with feathered costumes and numbered armbands. The number "1987" is seen, adding a nostalgic feel.

one of my first advertising commisions for tarmac

From Darkrooms to Fashion Editorials
I honed my craft in film photography and traditional darkroom processes in the late 80's, learning from skilled technicians — including time spent assisting the legendary fashion photographer Sir Terence Donovan.
Black and white photo of two men; one holds a book, “Terence Donovan Glances.” Above is a blue autograph, beside a newspaper clipping. Terence Daniel Donovan FRPS & peter joseph donnelly @ park hill studios Harborne Birmingham

Terence Daniel Donovan FRPS & peter joseph donnelly @ park hill studios Harborne birmingham

His gritty black-and-white style and urban portraiture left a lasting impression on my own visual approach. I shot on 35mm film with Ilford HP5, processed by pushing two stops, and printed on fibre-based paper with gold toning—a labour-intensive process that taught me precision and patience.
A sepia-toned image of a couple embracing intimately. The man kisses the woman's neck as she closes her eyes, conveying a sense of romance and tenderness.
My dedication paid off—I became the youngest affiliate member of the British Institute of Professional Photography, challenging outdated standards and proving age doesn't define professionalism.
Portrait of a person with eyes partially covered by a patterned scarf. The text discusses Simon Donnelly's photography career and achievements.
From Assistant to Independent Photographer
After gaining hands-on experience and learning the ropes, I began building my own portfolio—initially focused on model and fashion test shoots aimed at the editorial market in London. The goal was simple: build a strong body of work, earn magazine tear sheets, and establish my presence in the fashion photography world.
Person holding a floral handbag, wearing a striped sweater and a patterned skirt. The image conveys a sense of elegance and artistic style.
Teaching, Exhibitions & International Work
I later joined the Kodak Pro Roadshow as a guest speaker, sharing my techniques on darkroom printing and studio lighting with budding photographers across the UK.
Sepia-toned image of a grand, eerie mansion with towers, surrounded by trees under a dramatic, cloudy sky. Gothic atmosphere conveyed.. westwood house worcestershire
At the same time, I exhibited with the Association of Fashion and Editorial Photographers (AFAEP) in London. It was here that some of my landscape and fashion test images caught the eye of a French designer—leading to my first commercial work in Paris and the UAE.
A woman in a dark, intricately patterned dress holds a strawberry-shaped purse, set against a white background. Bold red Arabic text is beside her.
A memorable Turning Point: From Film and print to Digital
Everything changed after witnessing the aftermath of 9/11 in New York. I was in the city visiting agencies the day of the attacks. working with ophrey winfrey the week before. things had been going great until today. 
i didnt have my camera that day, id been lugging my portfolio around downtown, it weighed over 15kg. not because of all the shots, i pitched from a set of 30 prints, it was the swish stainless steel case, big mistake
i went back a few days later to ground zero Capturing the scene on camera  Ilford 35mm FP4 printed on fibre based paper with a selenium tone. 9/11 was a haunting experience, i grabbed a few shots but didnt feel right about it, i'd previously witnessed some angry crowds surrounding vendors selling the usual twin towers postcards and keyrings memorabilia...  three days after the event is not cool seemed to be their point but it was very edgy down there.
shadowy blur in the foreground of the picture is a nun, one of many along with priests giving last rights to the many body parts that were found.
Black and white photo of a somber street scene with a woman walking past the rubble of a collapsed building, smoke rising, and emergency workers visible.
that image marked my final use of analog film. From then on, I fully embraced digital photography — i do miss the darkroom vibe but rather be trading chemicals and dust spots for Photoshop precision and creative flexibility.
International Projects & Return to Roots
Over the years, I’ve traveled extensively for photography. Highlights include working with Oprah Winfrey on O, The Oprah Magazine in New York, and documenting educational outreach projects like Rally to Read in rural South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal region—capturing powerful moments promoting literacy at grassroots level.
Convoy of white SUVs drives on a dirt road through a hilly landscape under a dramatic, stormy sky. Dark clouds and scattered trees enhance the sense of adventure.
A group of smiling people waving next to a building, with a car labeled "Rally to Read" in the foreground. The scene is set in a wooded area.
Rally to Read South Africa is a nationwide literacy initiative dedicated to improving education in rural communities by delivering books, learning materials, and teacher training to under-resourced schools.
A vibrant scene of four people joyfully leaping on a dirt path in a rural landscape. Green hills and scattered trees create a lively, carefree atmosphere.
As part of this inspiring campaign, I had the privilege of documenting their efforts across KwaZulu-Natal and other remote regions
Children in green and colorful uniforms stand outside a school building with adults interacting. The scene is lively and engaging, conveying a joyful atmosphere.
My photography captured the heart of the project—highlighting the smiles of children receiving their first books, the dedication of educators, and the life-changing impact of literacy at a grassroots level.
Children in school uniforms gather closely, sharing a book titled "Left, Right." One child smiles brightly, creating a joyful and engaged atmosphere.
These powerful visual stories were used in national campaigns and educational publications, helping amplify Rally to Read’s mission. For organizations seeking meaningful visual content with social impact, this project stands as a testament to the power of purposeful photography.
Valley of a thousand hills. Kwa zulu natal A silhouetted person stands near a tree on a mountain, gazing outward. An eagle soars above. The scene is backlit by a bright sun, conveying serenity.
Modern building with "Fort Dunlop" sign against a vibrant blue sky. An airplane flies by, and trees are in the foreground, creating a dynamic scene.
Now after a 5 year stint at the above, I'm freelancing back in the Birmingham area, working with a wide range of clients—from global brands to local businesses and creative individuals. Whether it's a product shoot, fashion campaign, event photography, ai fashion models or a digital art concept, I bring experience, creativity, and technical excellence to every project.
Work With Me – Let’s Bring Your Vision to Life
If you have a creative concept, a visual marketing goal, or just an idea you want to turn into something powerful—I’m here to help.
In today’s digital-first world, high-quality photography is essential to capturing attention, building your brand, and standing out online. I offer:
Commercial Product Photography
Fashion & Editorial Shoots
Event & PR Photography
AI Model Imagery & Digital Art
Expert Retouching & Post-Production
Let’s create imagery that makes your brand memorable.
📞 Call or Text: +44 (0)7836 337293
📧 Email: sidonnelly@aol.com
Back to Top