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The Harriott & Solomon Portrait Parlour:
Bringing North Shields Heritage to Life
I am delighted to announce a brand-new creative collaboration that combines photography, storytelling, heritage and immersive design.
Together with set designer and creative stylist Mark Harriott, I have launched the Harriott & Solomon Portrait Parlour, a unique travelling vintage photography experience inspired by the rich fishing heritage of North Shields.
The idea grew from a shared love of creative projects, craftsmanship and creating memorable experiences for people. We met through Cullercoats Creatives and quickly discovered that our skills complemented each other perfectly. Mark brings his talent for creating atmospheric and authentic sets, while I bring my passion for capturing people and preserving moments through photography.
For our first project, we have drawn inspiration from the fishing families, dock workers, fishwives and seafarers who helped shape the character of North Shields and the Fish Quay. Mark has designed a heritage-inspired backdrop that evokes the sights and stories of the working waterfront, creating an immersive environment that transports visitors to another time.
Visitors are invited to step into the scene, dress in period-inspired clothing and have their portrait taken. Each photograph is printed on the day, allowing people to leave with a tangible keepsake of their experience.
What excites me most about this project is the opportunity to connect people with local history in a fun and engaging way. Photography has always been about more than simply taking pictures. It is about storytelling, creating memories and celebrating people. Through the Harriott & Solomon Portrait Parlour, we hope to do exactly that.
The experience is designed for everyone. Families can create a unique portrait together, friends can embrace the fun of dressing up, and local history enthusiasts can immerse themselves in a visual tribute to North Shields' maritime heritage. Looking forward to our future, our photography experience can be booked for commercial and private events for any theme, for example Great Gatsby or James Bond. All you need to do is start the conversation, we can work around you!
Join us at our first event on Sunday 26th July at the I Love North Shields summer vintage market, which is free to attend. More details can be found here: https://ilovenorthshields.com/i-love-north-shields-vintage-market-2/
About the Creators
Mark Harriott
Mark Harriott is a set designer, stylist and creative director with a passion for immersive experiences, visual storytelling and theatrical design. His work blends craftsmanship, imagination and attention to detail to create environments that transport people into another world. For the Portrait Parlour, Mark has drawn inspiration from the heritage of North Shields, creating a set that honours the area's proud fishing history while inviting visitors to become part of the story.
Emma Solomon
Emma Solomon is a portrait and brand photographer based in Whitley Bay, specialising in relaxed, authentic photography that captures genuine personality and connection. From families and newborns to business owners and creative entrepreneurs, Emma's work focuses on telling stories through natural, engaging imagery. Through the Portrait Parlour, she brings together her love of people, photography and local heritage to create a unique experience that visitors can take home as a printed keepsake.
Join Us at Our First Event
Harriott & Solomon Portrait Parlour will be making its debut at the Salt Market Social with I Love North Shields on Saturday 26th July.
Visitors will have the opportunity to step into our heritage-inspired set, dress in period costume and have their portrait professionally photographed and printed on the day. Whether you're a local resident, a lover of history, a vintage enthusiast or simply looking for something different to enjoy with family and friends, we would love to welcome you into the Portrait Parlour.
This is just the beginning. We have many ideas for future themes, events and collaborations, all centred around celebrating local heritage, creativity and community.
To find out more about our work, visit:
Emma Solomon Photography – www.emmasolomonphotography.co.uk
Mark Harriott Style – www.markharriottstyle.com
We look forward to meeting you and helping you create a portrait with a story to tell.