Charlie Swinbourne

Charlie is a photographer with a sharp eye for expression, community, and storytelling. Partially deaf and raised in a visual world of lipreading and sign language, Charlie brings a unique sensitivity to capturing faces, body language, and the quiet connections between people. Whether working with individuals, theatre companies, musicians, or community groups, Charlie’s portraits celebrate authenticity, emotion and identity. Charlie is especially passionate about photographing deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people, and his recent projects reflect that commitment. His work spans performance, screen and grassroots communities, with commissions from organisations including Leeds Playhouse, Graeae, Opera North, Apple TV, Deaffest, the Wellcome Collection, and many more. Charlie is also an award-winning screenwriter and director, with BAFTA and RTS awards for his work, as well as an Honorary Doctorate.