Martin Parr

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Martin Parr (born 1952) is a British documentary photographer and photojournalist. His photographic projects take a critical look at modern society, specifically consumerism, foreign travel and tourism, motoring, family and relationships, and food.

Parr is known for his lurid, and sometimes shocking, use of colour in photography. His satirical, witty approach to documentary photography leaves the viewer not sure whether to laugh or cry. His photos are often taken using macro lenses and ring flash as well as high-saturation colour film.

He has had numerous books published, and exhibitions worldwide - including an exhibition in London at the Barbican Arts Centre. Parr is also a member of the Magnum Photos Agency.

Since the 1970s Parr has collected and publicised the garish postcards made between the 1950s and 1970s by John Hinde and his team of photographers. The images made by Hinde and his team are a key influence on Parr's colour photography.

He also directed the film, It's Nice Up North with comedian Graham Fellows as his character John Shuttleworth. The film is a comic documentary filmed over several years in Shetland and was released in 2006.