The 40% Project pairs women MPs with women photographers to mark the record 264 female MPs currently serving in Parliament.
Michelle Webster is among those involved and, to date has photographed local MPs Samantha Dixon, Maria Eagle and Marie Rimmer.
Michelle said: “Being part of the 40% Project has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.
“Through photography, I’ve had the privilege of meeting remarkable women, hearing their stories, and creating portraits in places that hold real meaning to them.
“It reminded me that the most powerful portraits come from trust, conversation, and connection.
“I’m incredibly proud to have played a small part in documenting this important moment in history, and I can’t wait to see the project come to life as a book and exhibition.”
The portraits are taken in locations personally significant to each MP.
A Kickstarter campaign has now been launched to fund a book celebrating the project, with a public exhibition planned for 2026.
The 40% Project originally began with members of the Royal Photographic Society’s Women in Photography (WIP) group but has since grown to include emerging female photographers from universities, colleges and women-led organisations.
So far, 254 of the 264 women MPs have been paired with photographers, with portrait sessions underway across the country.
Sue Wright, chair of the RPS Women in Photography group, said at the time the project was launched: “As a result of the 2024 General Election, we now have the highest number of women MPs in Parliament.
“Through this project we aim to capture their strength, grace and power—celebrating their leadership through the creativity and vision of women photographers.”
Christina Osborne, Exhibitions Lead for the RPS WIP 40% Project, said: “By bringing these portraits into public spaces, we hope to inspire the next generation of women and girls to see themselves in positions of influence and leadership.
“Representation matters, and seeing these images on the streets makes that possibility feel closer and more real.”
For more details, see The 40% Project: Celebrating Women in Parliament website.
