Chamber supports UK’s largest free International Women’s Day photoshoot

The UK’s largest free International Women’s Day (IWD) photoshoot returns to Birmingham next week for its fifth year – with support from Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

Created by Future Faces member Edwin Ladd, of Mr Ladd Media, the concept was developed during lockdown to amplify voices, visibility, and allyship through powerful photography.

The photoshoot is being hosted from 26 to 29 January at 24 Stories, 103 Colmore Row in Birmingham city centre.

It is open to women, men, and female allies who support equality and change.

Each participant takes part in a five-minute professional photoshoot and receives their images to use across social media and professional platforms, sharing personal stories or celebrating women who have inspired them.

Following last year’s success of photographing over 400 people, demand for 2026 has been high, with 100 bookings secured within the first 24 hours.

Limited availability remains, and those wishing to take part can book a free slot via.

“This campaign has grown into a movement,” says Edwin Ladd.

“It’s about giving people a platform to be seen, heard, and represented - and celebrating equality together.”

All images captured will be showcased at the International Women’s Day Expo & Conference on 25 March 2026 at Millennium Point, where a large-scale banner display will feature every participant from this year’s campaign.

As well as supporting the photoshoot, the Chamber is a sponsor for the expo and conference.

Edwin Ladd is co-founder of the conference and expo along with past Future Faces president Kasim Choudhry.

They said: “We are absolute delighted to be working in partnership to showcase gender parity in our region.

“Having like-minded organisations on board allows us to strengthen the campaign and reach more people and we truly grateful to Lillian Elekan (director of membership) and the Chamber team for their support.”

Christina Kruzewski, group sales and events manager at 24 Stories, said: “We are proud to host the fifth IWD photoshoot at 24 Stories. It’s an inspiring initiative that brings people together to celebrate women, allyship, and equality in a truly impactful way.”