London at 8
The Photographic Journey of a Driver-Photographer in London
Step into the captivating world of London at 8 am
I am Danial Emani and I am thrilled to present this captivating photographic journey through London’s early mornings, capturing the city’s vibrant spirit.
London at 8 am is an exciting project that I started in October 2021. It is dedicated to capturing the essence of London as it awakens each morning.
This project is the culmination of three years of dedication, with countless hours spent capturing the essence of London’s early mornings. From sunny skies to snowy streets, camera in hand, I went to document the city’s awakening. Each photograph in the London at 8 am collection is a snapshot of London’s ever-changing landscape, taken precisely at 8 am, offering a glimpse into its dynamic diversity at the start of each day. After conducting over 800 days of photo sessions, a large collection of pictures has been collected, illustrating the vibrant rhythm of London at 8 am. These photos have been organized into four main categories to craft a visual narrative:
Events
- The Queen’s Funeral
- Woman, Life, Freedom
- Notting Hill Carnival
- Christmas Day
- Boxing Day
- New Year’s Day
People
Driver
Dedicated Workers
Drivers:
This chapter serves as an introduction to the book, offering insights into the drive and driver behind the project. I thank Addison Lee, the private hire firm where my career as a driver-photographer began. Additionally, I am grateful to the passengers I have encountered, some of whom are featured on these pages. Furthermore, I have included a diverse array of drivers, such as black cab and bus drivers, in this chapter.
Dedicated Workers:
This chapter highlights the countless people who make our cities function properly. The unseen heroes who keep London running smoothly, from construction workers to city bankers. Their hard work often goes unnoticed, but their contributions are invaluable to the city’s infrastructure.
People
City Portraits
British Army
City Portraits:
Candid views into the lives of Londoners from various walks of life. I aimed to document the diversity, energy, and spirit of the city’s people as they go about their daily lives through unposed street pictures.
British Army:
Discover the unique ways that the military serves in London’s city environment, both during ceremonial occasions and every day. This chapter highlights the skills and commitment of the military forces while providing a fascinating look at their role in the city. It also explores the historical significance of the military presence in London.
People
Cyclists
Active people
Cyclists:
Londoners love to ride their bikes, and this chapter honours the flourishing cycling community in the city. Cyclists are a vital part of London’s morning environment, whether they are commuting through busy roads or cycling enthusiasts enjoying beautiful paths.
Active people:
Londoners are known for their active lifestyles, and this chapter highlights different ways that people work out in the early morning. Looking at the exciting state of city activities where runners, cyclists, boxers, swimmers, and others turn streets and parks into playgrounds. See the vibrancy and diversity of people following their passions in the city.
Places
Road
Park
Cyclists:
Londoners love to ride their bikes, and this chapter honours the flourishing cycling community in the city. Cyclists are a vital part of London’s morning environment, whether they are commuting through busy roads or cycling enthusiasts enjoying beautiful paths.
Active people:
Londoners are known for their active lifestyles, and this chapter highlights different ways that people work out in the early morning. Looking at the exciting state of city activities where runners, cyclists, boxers, swimmers, and others turn streets and parks into playgrounds. See the vibrancy and diversity of people following their passions in the city.
Places
Staion
Airports
Station:
This chapter delves into the lively scenes of the major transport hubs in the city, allowing you to explore the vibrant heart of London’s transport network. Experience the energy of travellers along these important transportation routes of urban life, from the hustle and bustle of the Underground to the rhythmic flow of Overground train lines.
Airports:
The Airport chapter goes beyond the typical London scenes within the M25 boundary. While all of the book’s locations remain firmly rooted within Greater London, this chapter features exceptions, including London Stansted and London Gatwick airports. However, it is Luton Airport that offers a larger window into the world beyond London’s borders while also serving as one of the city’s main airports.
Places
Martkets
Landscapes
Markets:
Enter the lively atmosphere of London’s markets in the early morning. Explore Borough Market as sellers set up their wares. See how buyers start looking for fresh produce and unusual items at Portobello Market. Discover the lively mood of Camden and understand what makes these markets a mainstay of the city’s everyday life.
Landscapes:
The peaceful charm of London’s landmarks is explored in this chapter, stunningly illuminated by the gentle glow of morning. Views from Primrose Hill of London’s glowing skyline, shimmering River Thames, and Tower Bridge emerging from the mist are just a glimpse of what awaits. With each turn of the page, discover even more images that capture the essence of London’s morning magic.
Events
The Queen's Funeral
The Queen's Funeral
The Queen’s Funeral:
Enter the solemn ambience of Westminster during the national mourning period from 8 to 19 September. Feel the profound dedication and overwhelming presence of thousands of army, police, and security personnel as London united to bid farewell to its cherished Queen. Join people from all walks of life coming together to pay their respects and say their final goodbyes.
Events
Woman, Life, Freedom
Notting Hill Carnival
Woman, Life, Freedom:
Starting on September 16, 2022, after Mahsa Amini was killed horrifically while in the custody of religious morality police, shockwaves hit the country and began a revolutionary movement that came to be represented by the chant “Woman, Life, Freedom.” Since then, Iranians all around the world have been united in supporting women’s rights and fighting the brutal government. As an Iranian, I feel compelled to shed light on the bravery of Iranian women and the solidarity they demonstrate, even while living abroad.
Notting Hill Carnival:
An annual Caribbean celebration that has taken over the streets of London since 1966, transforming the Notting Hill area into a vibrant spectacle over the August Bank Holiday weekend. Over 2022 and 2023, I had the pleasure of collecting this exciting cultural celebration. Capturing the excited crowds and performers, the atmosphere was already filled with high spirits, signalling the start of a day full of parties.
Events
Christmas Day
Boxing Day
New Year's Day
Christmas Day:
The city’s roads, typically busy with activity, now lie quiet and peaceful, creating a rare moment of peace in the heart of London. As families gather in comfortable homes to enjoy the spirit of Christmas, bright lights and seasonal decorations create a vision of peaceful beauty.
Boxing Day:
While much of the city remains quiet during this festive time, certain areas like Oxford Street and Bond Street are active early. In this chapter, you can see how early morning shoppers hunt for the best prices in a sometimes chaotic fashion.
New Year’s Day:
As the city awakens to the first light of the new year, Londoners welcome the morning with a mixture of excitement and expectation. Families come together in warm, cosy homes to celebrate special occasions and make resolutions for the upcoming year. Meanwhile, across the city, preparations are underway for the vibrant New Year parade, a colourful spectacle that marks the beginning of new possibilities and adventures.
Animals
Birds
Doggies
City Animals
Birds:
Discover London’s avian residents from the colourful parrot of Kensington Gardens to the elegant peacocks of Holland Park. In this chapter, you will find passionate people feeding swans, pigeons enjoying breakfast and taking baths in fountains.
Doggies:
A collection of images showing playful dogs and their companions while they are walking through their morning routes. Images in this chapter show the beautiful relationship that exists between dogs and their owners and highlights the simple pleasures of daily living.
City Animals:
In London’s urban jungle, encounter an enigmatic fox darting through the streets with a stolen shoe in her mouth, lively squirrels scrabbling up trees, and serene cows lounging in the green grass of the city. Marvel at the graceful deer in Richmond Park and the colourful array of birds in the city’s skies. Each creature adds its own unique charm to the busy streets of London.
