I Love Markets Photography Competition Winners

We believe London boasts some of the most diverse and interesting markets in the world and we asked you to prove it using the power of photography.  This is our I Love Markets Photography Competition Winners from 2013. 

We are pleased to announce the winners and runners up. Judged by Ronojoy Dam, UK Creative Director of VICE, the photos selected below will appear as part of our curated I Love Markets Photo Exhibition being held this Sunday May 5 at MARKETS UNITED, Shoreditch Town Hall Basement, FREE entry, Midday-9pm. Thank you to everyone who submitted entries. We hope to find more news homes for this exhibition over the coming months. Do come and check out the exhibition on Sunday where they'll be market stalls, photography, art, live music and more!

The Winner! 1st Prize

Ivan Angell, "Dance like no one is watching"

I Love Markets Photography Competition Winner, Ivan Angel, Brick Lane Market, "Dance like no one is watching"

Ivan says: "Brick Lane market is a constant inspiration for me. Around every corner is a marvellous expression of creativity. In this image the moody sky just adds to the drama of this sculpture adorning the skyline."
Ronjoy Dam's Comment: "This photo manages to capture grey British realism with a burst of colourful surrealism. The photographer has looked where others aren't, and been rewarded for it. The dancer looks like it might even have been drawn on as an afterthought."

2nd Prize

Motoko Fujita, "South East London's Diamond"

I Love Markets Photography Competition Winner, Motoko, Deptford Market

Motoko says: "Come down for a wander and you are bound to find a little something nice in that pile of junk at Deptford Market."

Ronjoy Dam's comments: "The colours from film always give a more special and everlasting memory. The scene is simple, but the soaring bird gives something everyday a sense of the epic."

3rd Prize

Dan Baiton, "Three legged dog at the market"

I Love Markets Photography Competition Winner, Columbia Road Flower Market, DanBaiton

Dan says: "Taken at Columbia  Road Market. An energetic street band were performing and they’d brought along their charismatic dog – who unfortunately had a leg missing.  The street band brought in a very large crowd,  and the shot was taken through the gaps of some of the audience, and luck had it that I was able to capture this image of the dog looking straight towards the camera."

Ronjoy Dam's Comments: "There's something timeless about the grain, contrast and scene of this picture. Was it taken last week or at the start of the last century? And with it it's about observing the unobserved, which makes it special."

Runners Up

Miles Kirby, "Hats With Feathers on Easter" Brick Lane

I Love Markets Photography Competition Runner-Up, Miles Kirby, Brick Lane Market

Ronjoy Dam's  Comments: "This sums up the joy, community, internationalism and exoticism of markets"

Bella Horwood, "Leroy says no!"

I Love Markets Photography Competition, Runner Up Bella Horwood, Brixton Market

Bella says: "This photo was taking at Brixton Market. I think that the man in this photo has an interesting character which shows in his face and clothes. I like that when you look to the left of the photo you can see people moving in and out of the photo, representing the business of market life. This is contrasted by the image of the man with his bill-board with his messages. It made me wonder about how many people had actually noticed him, or read his messages."
Ronojoy Dam's Comments: "Like Patti Smith said, "People have the power."

Jaxetta Photography, "Portobello Market at dusk"

I Love Markets Photography Competition Runner-Up, Portobello Road Market by JaxEtta

Ronoy Dam's comments: "The colour spread of black and white and colour makes this scene as ethereal as a dream."

The Prizes!
Judged by Ronjoy Dam, UK Creative Director of VICE.
First Prize- Custom build Fixie from Full City Cycles plus,
one month’s free trading at Netil Market, Hackney
Second Prize- £100 to spend at the Camden Blues Kitchen
Third Prize- 3 Personal Fitness Sessions at Bamboo Fitness plus,
a signed copy of the new Manu Chau Biography by Peter Culshaw

For press enquiries contact Katie Ingham, press@ilovemarkets.com

If you interested in hosting our London Market Photography exhibition

New Discoveries at Chatsworth Road E5

People who know Chatsworth Road and Chatsworth Road Market are avid admirers. Not only has the Sunday market gone from strength to strength, the high street has also been transformed. Ghetto chic sums parts of it up. What's so unique is how locals have claimed disused spaces and shops to offer something truly unique. It's a place that has a real sense of community and as i learned on Sunday, you never quite know what you'll find! 

It happened by sheer accident. Normally I enter from the Clapton end, but this time i got lost and entered from Homerton. First discovery! The Mini-Mini-Yeah-Yeah Market open every Sunday, at Chatsworth Palace. They've been posting events on ILM for a while, but so far i've never managed to find it. Very happy I did! Run by local Kevin, it's a petite and demure affair that needs to be bigged-up a bit!

A collection of clothing and jewellery, books and a music stall, as well as Chatsworth's very own Japenese Cafe, where you can indulge in some sushi or miso soup. You can also get a cup of English tea or coffee too. In addition to a collection of great stalls, you can also admire the current exhibition, by music photographer, David Corio. He spent the 80s and 90s rubbing shoulders with the likes of Bob Marley, the Fugees and Marvin Gaye. You can catch a glimpse in these pics.

The next discovery was Olivia's Closet found in the most unexpected setting of Chatworth Road's old public toilets. It's an excellent and quirky use of a disused public space. Something that Chatsworth seems to be very good at. I don't think anyone can resist going in and having a gander.

Vintage Toilet takeover at Chatworth Road Market

Another random edition was this little boot-sale-stall set-up, outside the old Snooker Hall (left).

Also situated down the Homerton end of the market are Furnish and Sanderson Sweeting Antiques. Both East End purveyors of antiques, furniture, knick-knacks and curiosities. 

My stomach was also delighted to stumble across 
Cakey Muto, the best place in Chatsworth for some rock 'n' roll, glittery cupcakes! Or why not stop for a slice and cuppa.

All this was discovered before I'd even hit the fabulous Chatsworth Road Market. Happy Days indeed!

Chatsworth Road Market, Hackney

Enjoying a Sunday stroll at Chatsworth Road Market, Hackney

To find out more search all shops and stalls listed in the Chatsworth Road Market Directory. Enjoy and let us know how you get on! The only thing we're missing is a photo contest entry for Chatsworth Market - get snapping!

Loving London's Markets.

Katie Ingham
I Love Markets    

Photo Requirements

With regards to clothing, we encourage real photography with products modelled on humans to best showcase the item for sale. We would prefer if the background was simple, for example:

Similarly, with jewellery we would prefer a plain background, and for the item to be showcased on a person/mannequin. Here are some examples from I Love Markets site:

If a mannequin/person is not accessible, then pictures like this will meet our requirements: 

With objects such as bags, accessories and homeware. Again we would prefer for them to be against a plain background:

We would also like to make you aware that your picture when in thumbnail context will come up as a square, and could possibly be cropped or cut off (for example the diamante brooch below.) 

When photographing vintage items, it is very important to illustrate the condition of the product. Whether it be furniture, jewellery or clothing. If there is something faulty with the item, please do emphasise it in your photo. 

New Years Market News

Happy New Year to you all. Let's hope 2013 is a prosperous year for London's Markets.
 
ILM Shopping is nearly ready!  
The good news is that you will soon be able to supplement your market trading online via the I Love Markets shopping trolley. Detail on how to apply and benefit form 2 months free trading will be sent to you next week. View a sample shop 

Set up business at Netil Market 
It's the latest market to be added to I Love Markets and here's your chance to find out more! In 2013 new permanent "shacks" have been created which offer Hackney's business entrepreneurs and culinary and artistic creatives an affordable, low-risk way to set-up shop.  As Sarah Bates, Market Manager explains, "Rent is so high in Hackney and particularly in Broadway Market. This is the next best stop for people wanting to set-up shop."  Read more. 
 

January Stall Sale
Some market organisers are offering discounted rates for trading during Jan/Feb. Netil Market are offering 4 dates for just £60. Brixton's Station Road Market are offering any stall on Saturday throughout Jan/Feb for £15pp paid in advance and £20pp paid on the day. On Friday the same offer applies, but perishable food traders are only £10pp. To book and pay for a pitch, traders must contact John Gordon on info@brixtonmarket.net or 07944787336. 

SHOW YOUR LOVE! 

We have now introduced the ability to "LOVE THIS" on I Love  Markets. Show your appreciation for those you love by clicking "love this." Search the market directory now and encourage your fans to LOVE your page on I Love Markets!

While we're caring and sharing don't forget to add all your upcoming events to the market calender!

Best wishes,
Katie Ingham
I Love Markets
www.ilovemarkets.com

Netil Market sets up Shack Alley!

With Broadway Market gleaming on the front line, if you don't live in Hackney there is a good chance that you have never heard of Netil Market, but that is about to change!

In 2013 new permanent "shacks" have been created which offer Hackney's business entrepreneurs and culinary and artistic creatives an affordable, low-risk way to set-up shop.  As Sarah Bates, Market Manager explains, "Rent is so high in Hackney and particularly in Broadway Market. This is the next best stop for people wanting to set-up shop."

Creative Network Partners who are behind both the market and Netil House have always been committed to building creative communities in declining spaces. The permanent shacks will help to bring footfall to the market as well as make full use of all the market area 7 days a week. To complete the offering they are welcoming enquiries from interested non-food traders to fill the last remaining spaces. You might be an art collective or vintage/fashion label?  Spaces are a steal starting from £500 pm. Another incentive is that all permanent residents get a free membership to the super-cool private members roof terrace bar at Netil House.

Netil Market already does have it's fair share of success stories. Lucky Chip is one of them. People come to the market just to sample their renowned burgers (right) and they have since taken up another residency in The Selbright Arms. For those non-meat eaters a mega-tasty tuna burger from Fin and Flounder  is also a popular choice. 

The Cycle Pitstop operates an excellent bike repair service and at very affordable prices (I can recommend these first hand as they changed my brakes last week for just £15!).

Victoria Yum are setting up their Yum Shack and will be spoiling Hackney with their delicious cupcakes.

Popular market stall regulars include Arrow Jewellery and PenelopeBlue Vintage. Throughout Jan and Feb stall holders can benefit from an brilliant offer of 4 days for just £60 (usually £80). For high-end shoppers Michaux Club sells a fab range of designer cycling bags.

Netil Market reopens it's doors after the festive break, this Saturday the 19th of January. Stalls holders and traders can now list themselves for FREE in our market directory, just register.

Click here to view all listings for Netil Market. 

On Feb 2nd To Be Worn Again are holding a vintage kilo sale at Netil House. 

See those smiles! It's photo time

Wishing you a healthy, happy and prosperous 2013!

Despite the torturous weather we had a great time at the I Love Markets Xmas Photo Booth at Brixton's Station Road Market. Click here to view the full photo album and see how Brixton rocks! 

January can be a quiet month, but be sure to post upcoming events here and will help you to publicise these during the January come-down!

We've had lots of fantastic new people join us this month! Some of our favourites are:

Mixy Fandino

The Vegan Tart

Beads and Pieces Jewellery

Crochet Bright and Beautiful

Lots of Love,
Katie Ingham
www.ilovemarkets.com

If you build it, they will come?

So what makes a good market and what does a good market need to ensure success? I've been prompted to write this post after witnessing a few flops in recent months and it's always a great shame for the sad looking traders who have given it a go. The sellers are important, but even with desirable products for sale, if you cannot attract the buyers then your market will have a short shelf life.  

Markets are so hot right now, and there are new and exciting ones popping up everywhere, but as a trader how do you decide which markets to say YES to? To avoid getting burned here's our trade-safe checklist which should assist you in choosing wisely. Read!

The I Love Markets Trade-Safe Checklist:

How long has the market been promoted for?
A good market organiser will announce the market date and start to invite stall holders way in advance of the actual market event. If the market organiser is established, maybe 4 weeks before acceptable, but usually i'd say at least 6-8 weeks is much safer!  

Does the market have a strong online presence?
Any serious event organiser will recongise the importance and value of the online world in promoting their markets. Check is there a Facebook Page, twitter, if so how many followers do they have? Have they posted the event on sites like I Love Markets?

Does the market offer something different?  
 For me a good and successful market offers not only excellent produce for sale but also an excellent market experience. Visiting markets is just as much about absorbing the market culture as much as it is about shopping. A market's "buzz" can influence and indulge you're shopper's hungry eye. Also, something different means people will naturally be interested in attending and the press more inclined to publicise it.

Where is the market located?
Achieving the right market chemistry is a hard task. It relies on having both amazing produce with enticing stall holders and also passing trade to make the market thrive.  
A successful market is a living and breathing entity and passing trade is the like the blood needed to keep it alive. Ideally the market needs to be situated either close to a tube, near a popular shopping area or some other reason why there is likely to be a naturally good footfall.

Who are the market organisers?
We're not suggesting you hire a private investigator but it won't harm you to ask a few questions. How long have they been running markets for? Did they used to sell at markets themselves? (if yes, you know they have some expereince and knowledge) Is this their first event or are they experienced in organising other types of events?

What do you get for your money?
If the market is new then it might be fair for the event organiser to offer you a special deal on stalls whilst they build it's popularity. Don't be afraid to barter especially if you're signing up for a few dates. Generally it's safer to see how the first one or two dates go before paying up for longer stints.

Who are the traders?
Don't be fooled by sales lines like "last few stalls remaining." You have the right to know how many traders are already signed up and if that turns out to be incorrect then you have a good claim to make in getting your money back!

Which other markets/events is it in competition with?
It's always worth checking what other markets are running on the same date, in the immediate area. Will this affect the footfall? 

We hope that this assists you. Don't let your descision feel like a gamble. Play-safe and trade-safe with this check list!
 
For an up to date list of market events in London, click here to subscribe to our mailing list!

Best wishes,
Katie Ingham
www.ilovemarkets.com