Photo gallery - Black lives matter

Martyn Hayes
May 25
2 min read

Person with a megaphone in a protest, wearing sunglasses and a beanie. Black and white image with "Black Lives Matter" text on yellow.

When photographing events in a documentary style, I often incorporate a touch of humor to enhance the series. For instance, they usually feature amusing signs to capture the positive energy of the day. However, the Black Lives Matter protests evoked a different response.

In the aftermath of the 2021 George Floyd murder, the world rightfully expressed outrage and frustration. While the protests were ignited by the tragedy and injustice in Minneapolis, the issue of racism resonated universally. Demonstrations erupted in major cities worldwide, from Boston to Berlin - and London was no exception.

The Big Smoke's residents took to the streets to voice their anger, disgust, frustration, and grief. They united in solidarity with our American counterparts, proclaiming a powerful message - "Black Lives Matter."

Documenting history through photography

My goal was to document history - to depict London and its people during a significant moment. The political landscape of the 2010s and 2020s was tumultuous, and I believed it crucial to showcase to future generations who we were as a society and what values we held dear.

Hopefully my photos support the sentiment that black lives do matter.

Explore these black lives matter protest photos

Below are images I captured during that transformative summer. Don't forget to share with your friends and leave a comment below.

Cute kid holding a carboard sign with the words 'Black Lives Matter'

Man with a megaphone at the Black Lives Matter protest

Musical performer shooting a music / promotional video

Man outside parliament with a sign saying "fuck systemic racism"

People outside Buckingham Palace holding signs detailing racism relating to Covid-19 and tax to reimburse slave owners

Man with a facemask with the sign Black Lives Matter

People holding protest signs with fists in the air outside parliament

Smartly dressed man with his fist in the air

People sat on the grass with a large protest sign saying "black lives are beautiful"

Man holding printed laminated documents at the black lives matter protest

Person speaking into megaphone in front of statue, black-and-white image. Background shows trees and buildings, suggesting an outdoor setting. — Young lad speaks through a megaphone in front of the Nelson Mandela statue

Thank you to all the amazing individuals who are featured in this gallery! If you see yourself or someone you know, feel free to reach out to me, and I will happily provide you with a high-resolution image.