Omar Saleem | Birmingham Portrait Photographer & Creative Writer

Storytelling through a lens and a pen. Providing artistic portrait photography and bespoke creative writing in Birmingham and the West Midlands.

Portrait Photography & Creative Writing in Birmingham

Based in Birmingham, I’m a professional portrait photographer serving clients across the West Midlands and throughout the UK. I specialise in creative and cinematic portrait photography, offering bespoke services that capture your story with authenticity and style.

Whether you need professional artistic portraits, or family photography, my approach combines expressive portraiture, thoughtful lighting, and cinematic storytelling. Every image is carefully crafted to reflect your personality, creating a visual narrative that is uniquely yours.

I work with individuals, artists, and families across the West Midlands, delivering high-quality portraits that feel natural, cinematic, and memorable.

Blog & Creative Work

Photography Inspired Snake Game - Capture the Moment - 08 March 2026

I’ve always loved retro games. There’s just something about those pixelated graphics and the clicky buttons. I recently decided to put together a small game with a little help from AI and JavaScript to build a quick tribute to the classics. The result is a game called Capture the Moment, a retro-inspired twist on the legendary Snake game.

Instead of hunting for apples, you have to snap up as many cameras as possible. It’s a simple, fast-paced nod to the games we grew up with. If you've got a few minutes to spare, give it a go and see how high of a score you can "capture." Have fun!

Why I Became A Photographer

Today’s modern world has given people a taste of photography by putting a camera in their pockets. Social networking has allowed them to share images instantly with friends and relatives. This change in society has embedded photography into our lives like never before.

“I didn’t choose photography. Photography chose me.” - Gerardo Suter

I have always found it difficult to express myself through words. Through photography my images become a stage through which the art and vision held deep within is expressed creatively.

Often photographs can express powerful emotions and messages, in ways, which is not possible with words. These images become our inspirations and motivations. It allows us to see beauty in the little things and sometimes that is what matters most in life.

Poem: Our Journey

My Dad held my hand on the train,
And called out my name,
And as we waited for our destination
We held a conversation:

He said, “Always work hard”
And “Follow your Heart”
“Be confident” and “Be strong”
And most importantly “Always get along”

“Life is short” he remarked
And told me it had come his turn to depart
Goodbye he said
“Always look ahead” and “have no regret”
With those final words he departed and left
Whilst my journey continued on to progress

By Omar Saleem - 11/03/2023
In loving memory of my father.

Photography Exhibition: Disney Princesses

Disney Princesses Re-imaged with an Eastern Influence By Omar Saleem

"Fairy tales allow children to be immersed in a world which develops their imagination and creative thinking. The imagination of a child becomes the foundation and backbone for the future, whether their creativity is channelled into becoming a scientist, artist, inventor or photographer.

Within this body of work Omar Saleem has investigated the western perceptions of Disney Princesses and re-imagined the fairy tale characters with a South Asian or eastern influence.

By taking inspirations from elements such as traditional Asian clothing and temporary body art created using henna, Saleem has expanded on the range of ethnic ideas, allowing the transcendence of racial backgrounds and boundaries.

Saleem has used the migration of ideas and visual imagery into a valuing diversity. The viewer is compelled to see, rethink and interpret their perception."

Jubilee Arts Archive Project - Smethwick Library

Echoes of Smethwick: Bridging Generations Through the Jubilee Arts Archive

One of my photographs as part of Library for the Jubilee Arts Archive Project

There is a kind of magic that happens when you step into an archive. It’s a mixture of feelings you get from the smell of aged paper and the realisation that you are holding a physical fragment of someone else’s life. I had the privilege of seeing one of my own photographs displayed at Smethwick Library as part of the Jubilee Arts Archive Project. It was a moment that felt like the closing of a beautiful, creative circle.

This project wasn’t just about looking at old pictures. It was about a deep engagement with the history of Sandwell. My involvement began during my time as a photography student at Sandwell College. Under the guidance of photographer Helen Sweeting, our group of photographers spent our Saturdays in the Smethwick archives.

We looked through countless photographs from the archive which were the soul of the Smethwick community. Inspired by what we found, we took our cameras back out into the streets of Sandwell to once again document the area with our photographs. We wanted to see how these locations had aged and what had become of the area that was once documented.

The result was an installation at Smethwick Library that blurred the lines between then and now. My photograph, which is now part of that legacy was exhibited along with photographs from the Smethwick Archive. It’s a strange and humbling thought that perhaps in another forty years, a student will be looking through my work for inspiration, trying to understand what life felt like in the 2020s.

New Logo!

A good logo is more than just a symbol. It tells a story and captures a person's thoughts and ideas. When it came to choosing a new logo, I wanted something that was personal to me. That is why I love my new logo for Omar Saleem Photography.

There are a lot of hidden details within the logo that makes it special. The logo was designed using a self portrait photograph of myself. This creates a deeply personal connection, making the logo literally part of me.

Further hidden gems can be found nestled within the design if you look closely. The most eye-catching among them is the skyline of Birmingham. This skyline and the city of Birmingham represents my roots, my home, and the source of so much inspiration for my photography. It’s a subtle reference to the city where I was born and grew up through my childhood.

"I Love my new Logo! It has a lot of hidden details within it and special things making it very personal."

There are other personal details stitched into the fabric of the design too. These parts of the logo hold a specific meaning for me. Such as my favourite camera, the Rolleiflex, and my date of birth. All these little things together create a beautiful visual representation, making the logo incredibly personal.

My logo is a visual autobiography and it demonstrates that the most beautiful things are those that tell a powerful story, a story that is personal to you.

Silent Echoes

When will you see the silence?
When will you hear the emptiness?
Like the grains of despair,
like the absence of laughter,

The reach out to touch tomorrow,
They forget the taste of today,
Like the desperation of hope,
Like the sorrow of time,

Can you see the stories?
Can you hear the memories?
Like an echo in the water
Like the shadows in the sun

My eyes feel unrest,
My heart tastes tears,
Like the embrace of defeat
Like the fate of separation,

By Omar Saleem - 24/11/2014

This poem was written in memory of my cousin. The poem was featured alongside my photography work at the Smethwick Library for the Jubilee Arts Archive Project

New Business Cards

I treated myself to some new business cards from Moo.com. I chose the business cards from their Luxe range, and I couldn’t be happier. Just by holding them you can tell the cards are special and have a good quality. The thick, textured feel immediately sets them apart from your standard cards. They have a sense of quality and care in every detail making them perfect for my Omar Saleem Photography brand.

I opted for a minimalist design, keeping things simple with my logo on one side and contact details on the other. I believe that a great business card should be able to communicate your brand clearly while being able to feel the quality in your hand. The combination of simplicity and material makes a huge difference. It's what people remember long after they’ve seen your card.

I would love to look at Letterpressed cotton business cards in the future. If anyone wants to send me a sample please get in touch! :D The thought of a card that feels even softer with the logo sitting on 100% cotton is very appealing. For now, though, the Luxe range has set a high bar for what I’ll be handing out at meetings and events.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer portrait photography in Birmingham?

Yes, I provide artistic portrait photography across Birmingham and the West Midlands. I frequently work on location in areas such as the creative hub of Digbeth, the greenery of Edgbaston, and the residential areas of Sutton Coldfield. Whether you need an outdoor lifestyle session or a stylised indoor shoot, I cover the entire Greater Birmingham area.

How can I commission a custom poem or creative writing piece?

You can commission a bespoke poem by reaching out through social media or WhatsApp. I specialise in merging photography with literature to create unique storytelling pieces. We will discuss your themes, emotions, or the specific occasion you’d like to commemorate, and I will craft a professional, original poem tailored specifically to your story.

Can I book a combined photography and poetry commission?

Absolutely. Many clients in the West Midlands choose a "Storytelling Package." This includes a professional portrait session followed by a custom piece of poetry inspired by the imagery we capture. This integrated approach is perfect for meaningful gifts, family legacies, or personal branding that requires a deep, artistic touch.

What should I expect during a portrait session with a freelance photographer?

My approach is relaxed and collaborative. As a Birmingham-based freelance photographer, I focus on "storytelling imagery" rather than stiff, traditional poses. We will work together to find a location that reflects your personality, ensuring the final portraits are authentic, artistic, and deeply personal.

How long does it take to receive my final photos and written work?

For portrait photography in Birmingham, digital galleries are typically delivered within 2 weeks. If your commission includes custom poetry, please allow an additional week for the creative writing and editing process. I pride myself on delivering high-quality, professional work that meets the unique needs of individuals and families across the UK.

What should I wear for an artistic portrait session?

I always recommend clothing that makes you feel authentic. As an artistic photographer in the West Midlands, I suggest neutral tones or textures that complement the urban grit of Digbeth or the natural beauty of Sutton Park. Avoid heavy logos; we want the focus to be on your personality and the storytelling imagery we are creating together. I’m happy to provide a style guide once your Birmingham session is confirmed!

Do you offer physical prints or just digital files?

I believe art is best enjoyed off-screen. While I provide high-resolution digital files for all Birmingham portrait commissions, I also offer bespoke printing services. You can have your custom poem paired with your favorite portrait in a high-quality print or a handcrafted photobook—creating a tangible piece of West Midlands artistry for your home.

Can I book you for creative writing or poetry without a photoshoot?

Yes! While many clients love the combination of both, I am available for freelance creative writing commissions independently. Whether you need a poem for a wedding in Edgbaston, a commemorative piece for a family event, or storytelling copy for a creative project, I work with clients across the UK to deliver meaningful, original literature.

Are you available for photography and poetry commissions outside of Birmingham?

Yes, while I am a Birmingham-based photographer, I am happy to travel for commissions across the UK. For sessions within a 20-mile radius of Birmingham city centre (including Sutton Coldfield, Solihull, and Wolverhampton), travel is included in my standard fee. For projects further afield, I charge a modest travel fee to cover mileage and time. Whether you’re in London, Manchester, or a rural village, I’m available to bring my signature storytelling imagery and custom poetry to you.

How do I get in touch to book a session or commission?

The best way to get in touch is via WhatsApp or the Social Media links on my website. Whether you are looking for a portrait photographer in Birmingham or wish to discuss a West Midlands poetry commission, I recommend reaching out at least 2–3 weeks in advance. I am always happy to jump on a quick call to discuss your creative vision, location ideas in Sutton Coldfield or Digbeth, and pricing for bespoke projects.