BIPP President

Really thrilled to have been asked, and I am very much looking forward to meeting lots of aspiring and inspiring photographers1 :) Saraya x

Statement released 11th March 2019.

The British Institute of Professional Photography is delighted to announce that Saraya Cortaville FBIPP is to take over from Kevin Wilson Hon FBIPP as the Institute’s President.

Saraya is an award winning portrait and social documentary photographer, a highly respected voice within the industry, and like her predecessor has a true passion for the education and development of her fellow photographers.

Saraya has received two fellowships with the BIPP (one of only two women in the UK to have achieved this). The first for Studio Portraiture in 2009 and more recently Social Documentary for a project she completed in 2015 during a fourth month relocation to Africa while working for an international NGO.

This passion for travel and people has now taken Saraya as far as Tanzania, Nepal, Nicaragua and Costa Rica, although she can still be found back in the UK in-between trips where she shoots primarily location portraiture, specialising in children.

No matter where or who Saraya is photographing, she manages to draw out her subjects’ emotions, crafting a connection that goes beyond the traditional photographer/subject relationship.

Kevin Wilson’s shoes are big ones to fill, but Saraya is an inspiring speaker, skilled and experienced judge, and a dedicated mentor. All qualities that will serve her and the Institute well during her time as President.

We would like to thank Kevin for his steadfast dedication and commitment to the BIPP, especially during these recent turbulent months. In his position as President, Kevin has been kept abreast of developments as the situation unfolded. His support and advice during this time has been invaluable. We hope Kevin will still be a part of the BIPP community long into the future, but at least for now, he’s earned the chance to grab a comfy seat and put his feet up with a brew!

Photohubs, Crewe. 4th February 2022

WEX 25th Year Celebration, London 23rd July 2022

The Photography Show NEC 19th-20th September 2022

Photo Training Overseas, Spain. 2nd October- 8th October 2022.

Photojourney, Nepal. 16th-24th October 2022

Ross on Wye Camera Club, 2nd November 2022

Forest of Dean Camera Club, March 2023