The M&S Archive,, based in the Michael Marks Building at the University of Leeds, tells the story of one of Britain’s best-known brands – from market stall beginnings to global success. Previously known as Marks in Time, the exhibition has evolved over time to showcase the M&S story in fresh and engaging ways.
This project was part of a series of visits I made to the archive a few years ago, returning after a significant exhibition refresh. It was a brilliant opportunity to capture the updated space and new visitor experiences on offer.
Photography for Museum and Exhibition Spaces
I created a full set of stills to document the reconfigured space – from visitor amenities like the tea-making station, boardroom and mini cinema, to standout exhibits including the Penny Bazaar market stall recreation and the hands-on design studio, where visitors can sketch outfit ideas and try on replica fashion in a digital mirror. Other areas included displays on womenswear, food, menswear, and historic staff uniforms.
I also captured aerial images with my drone to give context to the archive’s location on campus.
Google Street View Virtual Tour for Museums
As part of the shoot, I extended Google Street View into the exhibition itself – making it possible for people to walk through the archive virtually via Google Maps. Even today, these tours help increase accessibility and online engagement for museums housed within wider institutions.
Trusted by Museums, Universities and Archives
Although this project dates back a few years, it still reflects the kind of work I love doing: helping museums, archives, and cultural institutions bring their stories to life through high-quality photography and immersive virtual experiences.
More Museum and Archive Photography
Interested in seeing more work like this? Here are a few other museum projects I’ve photographed – each with its own story to tell:
Planning a Museum Photography Project?
Whether you’re an independent museum, a university archive, or a brand with heritage to share, I’d love to help tell your story. I’m based in Leeds and work across the UK, offering photography, drone imagery, and Google Street View virtual tours tailored to heritage, culture and education.
