The Little Sri Lankan
Shooting with a small local business in Stockport
Looking to network and connect with small local businesses in the Greater Manchester area, I recently decided to put a call out on Threads to see if there was any any appetite for a free photo shoot. I have long been a believer in providing creative work for free as a means of gaining experience, growing a portfolio and making connections. As a fairly recent arrival in Greater Manchester this was something I had been thinking about for a while.
I had some promising responses from small local businesses (a testament to how good Threads can be for local reach?), including a delightful supper club pop-up based in Stockport, The Little Sri Lankan. Cooked up by Malanie (the titular Little Sri Lankan) and Michael (a skilled chef who has learned to cook Sri Lankan cuisine from Malanie’s mother) this supper club serves delicious Sri Lankan cuisine cooked from the heart. Their slogan, ‘Share food, spread love’ speaks volumes about their passion for sharing this unique and frankly underrepresented cuisine.
I was invited down to their latest supper club at Miru Mill in Stockport to photograph their process and attempt to capture just a hint of the relaxed, informal atmosphere. Upon arrival, I was welcomed by Michael and Malanie and got to chat at length, particularly with Michael who was preparing for service before the guests arrived. I was impressed with his ability to talk about some of the unique flavour combinations and preparation that goes into Sri Lankan cooking. Along the way Michael also invited me to taste some of the dressings and other ingredients before they were added to the dishes.
I hadn’t asked to be fed, but they kindly offered me my own dish from each course of the menu which was excellent. In particular, the main course, cod baked in banana leaf was a revelation and I could honestly say I haven’t eaten this well for a long time.
In terms of photography, I did my best to capture all aspects of the evening. From the preparation happening in the kitchen, to the detailed introductions ahead of each dish presented by Malanie. The atmosphere was very laid back and casual and Michael told me this was one of his favourte things about supper clubs… the informal, relaxed feel.
I was very happy with how the photographs turned out, and I understand The Little Sri Lankan were too. They have used them a few times for their socials and I am sure they will use them for a long time to come for web content or whatever they may need.
Do you run a small local business or venue in Greater Manchester and fancy a similar collaboration? Why not let me know. I have a background in hospitality and I’m especially interested in documenting independent food and drink venues so give me a shout…