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In this episode, Angela Nicholson speaks with Anna Sparham, Curator of Photography for the National Trust. Anna’s career spans over two decades in the museum and gallery sector, including 15 years at the Museum of London. Now responsible for more than half a million photographs in the National Trust’s collections, Anna’s work uncovers the rich and often surprising stories hidden in the archives.
Anna shares how her lifelong passion for photography, first sparked by her father’s teaching and time spent in the darkroom as a child, led her to a career in photographic curation. She talks about the importance of not just preserving photographs, but also interpreting them and bringing them to life for the public.
We explore the creation of the book 100 Photographs from the Collections of the National Trust, how she chose the images, and why some of the most powerful photographs come from unknown or amateur photographers. Anna also discusses her own personal photography journey, including a creative project based in her local park using large-format film and cyanotypes to reconnect with her own photographic voice.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in photography, storytelling, or curatorial work. It offers a fascinating look behind the scenes at how the National Trust is working to make its photographic collection more accessible and engaging, and how images from the past continue to shape our understanding of the world today.

Takeaways

• Curatorial work is deeply collaborative – it involves engaging with colleagues, researchers, and the public to bring stories to life.
• Historical photography offers timeless inspiration – images from the past can still shape how we see and photograph today.
• Photography projects thrive on consistency – regular practice builds both confidence and creative vision.
• Editing is as important as capturing – selecting the right images helps define the message and narrative.
• Material qualities matter – original prints, negatives and contact sheets all tell different parts of a story.
• Curation connects past and present – showcasing historical images can make them meaningful to contemporary audiences.

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National Trust Collections
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100 Photographs from the Collections of the National Trust

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