BOP Bristol, the annual Books on Photography festival organised by the Martin Parr Foundation and the Royal Photographic Society, took place once again at Paintworks in Bristol. It was a brilliant two days for Biscuit Books, our best yet, filled with generosity, conversation, and the fantastic photography community.
We were joined at the Biscuit Books table by Sue Vaughton and Andrew Gilbert-Hill across the weekend, with the welcome helping hand of Val Williams and Brian O’Callaghan on the Saturday, and this year had a particularly friendly atmosphere. People came not only to browse but to talk, share stories and ideas, and say hello. We caught up with many of our Falmouth friends and comrades, and it was lovely to meet familiar faces from the MA again. Huge thanks to Jesse Alexander, Michelle Sank, Colin Pantall and Paul Clements for their warmth and support. It meant a great deal to us.
Conversations and Community
BOP isn’t just about selling books. It’s about generosity, curiosity, passion and belonging. Across the weekend, we met new people, shared our publications, and found time for proper conversations. Those exchanges are what make events like this matter.
We were directly next to Mark Power on the Magnum table, where we also met Chilli Power, who was showing her debut zine New York by Ferdinando Scianna, a striking collection of his New York photographs from the 1980s, beautifully edited and curated by her. We loved it so much, Andrew & Sue bought a copy.
Opposite us was Jem Southam with his new book Starlings, which was as beautiful as ever. We also caught up with Marc Wilson and bought his latest book, The Edge of Ruin, an exquisite combination of paper choice, design, and image sequencing.
There were numerous photographers, publishers, and collectives across both venues showcasing thoughtful and original work. We couldn’t possibly name everyone, but the whole place had a real energy. From established presses to those showing for the first time, every table had something that stopped us in our tracks. The range of books, papers, bindings and stories was really inspiring.
The Highlights
Meeting Brendan Barry was one of the real highs of the weekend. His giant camera obscura is an extraordinary thing to step inside. Watching him create and develop a contact print on the spot was a reminder of how photography can still feel like magic. He couldn’t have been more generous with his time or knowledge.
It was also a pleasure to meet Justin Quinnell, founder and director of the Bristol Community Darkroom. His enthusiasm for keeping photography hands-on and accessible is infectious. Encounters like these remind us just how strong and generous the photographic community in Bristol has become.
And not to forget the Curry House and its lovely owner, Bob, along Bath Road on the way to Paintworks. It now ranks as the best and healthiest homemade vegetable curry and pilau rice we’ve ever eaten. The convenience of staying at Arnos Manor Hotel, just a short walk away, made the weekend all the easier, as Sue had managed to put my back out the day before!
Reflections
This was the most successful BOP yet for Biscuit Books. Our sales were the highest to date, but more importantly, the engagement and enthusiasm for what we do and how we do it were humbling. We’re so grateful to everyone who stopped by, bought a book, chatted, and shared their time with us.
And yes, there were plenty of biscuits shared along the way. It’s a steadfast Biscuit Books tradition now, and a light-hearted way of connecting with so many people over the two days.
BOP Bristol remains a highlight of our year, and our thanks go to the Martin Parr Foundation, the Royal Photographic Society, and all the volunteers who make it happen. We’re already looking forward to returning next year.