Jessica Taylor: 2020 in the Commons

It has been a year of firsts in Westminster, but throughout it all Jessica Taylor, the Official House of Commons photographer, has been there to document Parliament at work. She shares some of her favourite shots, and reflects on how both she and Parliament have adapted.

"I’ve been very fortunate to capture many historical moments in our political history and 2020 has been no exception. It’s hard to believe nine months ago the House of Commons was full to the brim as Members crowded in to listen to the Chancellor’s budget.

"Where once I would construct tableaus from crowds of Members as events unfolded in the chamber, Coronavirus regulations around the estate presented me with new challenges resulting in more sparse compositions."

"I always aim to capture the kinetic energy and atmosphere of the chamber, however social distancing has meant that my style has altered from capturing busy scenes where people fill the frame to what feels like reportage style portraiture where individual subjects are pictured in isolation (no pun intended!)"

"It has been fascinating to see how the House has incorporated new technology into proceedings and it has been a privilege to document some of the greatest procedural changes in 750 years.

"I love showing the juxtaposition between the old traditional elements of Parliament against the newly introduced technology.

"A heritage building with its practices firmly rooted in tradition that has had to adapt to everything that 2020 has thrown at it!"

This article was originally featured in the House Magazine.