Mary McCartney is a globally recognised British photographer, filmmaker, and sustainable food pioneer. Her photography has been showcased in exhibitions worldwide and is held in prestigious collections like the Victoria and Albert Museum and the National Portrait Gallery. As a champion of food sustainability, she co-founded Meat Free Monday and hosts the Emmy-nominated cooking show "Mary McCartney Serves It Up!". Mary is also a published author with a range of works, including her latest book, "Feeding Creativity," which uniquely combines photography, portraits, and recipes.

Join us in conversation with Mary and learn about her creative journey and the inspirations behind her work:

What specific aspects of Abbey Road Studios' 90-year history inspired you to create the documentary ‘If These Walls Could Sing’?

I was approached to direct the Abbey Road documentary, at the time when I was starting to look for a new project. Moving into documentary feature directing was a creative project I was keen to explore, it felt like a natural progression. Abbey Road Studios feels like family to me, I have been going there since before I can even remember, but I knew so little about the 90-year history, so I was inspired to learn more and share the story. My experience as a portrait photographer was very useful, as I employed a similar style to the interviews, keeping them relaxed conversational and intimate.

As a global ambassador for Green Common Foods and co-founder of Meat Free Monday, what strategies do you believe are most effective in encouraging others to adopt plant-based diets for a more sustainable future?

I grew up in a vegetarian family, so I have lots of ideas on how to fill the gap on the plate if you choose to eat meat-free. My style is all about making vibrant meals that are quick, easy and delicious. I love a shortcut and I love comforting, nutritious food. Cooking for friends and family is a way of expressing my love.

Your latest book, ‘Feeding Creativity,’ uniquely combines photography, recipes, and portraits. Can you share what inspired your concept for this project?

The idea of Feeding Creativity came to me one day as I was walking in the park. I thought it would be interesting to cook one of my recipes, then take it to the home or studio of someone creative I admire so that we could eat it together. I would then photograph the occasion and share the recipes. I ran the idea past Marlene Taschen and she commissioned the book. It’s quite unusual, a hybrid portrait cookbook, full of anecdotes, photos and recipes. I am so proud of it; it's been a real labour of love.

With your extensive experience in portrait photography, what techniques or approaches do you find most effective in capturing the essence of your subjects?

I am as passionate about portrait photography today as the day I started. It’s about chemistry and collaboration. Gestures and directions allow my sitter to enjoy the experience, that way I can get something really special, a photograph that can hold your attention, and make you curious.

I like to use available or continuous lighting, rather than flash and I love to be out on location, either in someone’s home or a location that I’ve searched out that will make the day feel more adventurous.

What is your proudest career accomplishment to date and why?

I was invited to the Telluride film festival with my documentary If These Walls Could Sing, my Royal Ballet dancers study (Off Pointe) taken in 2004, some of the photographs from that study are in the V&A’s permanent collection. Lastly, I’ll never forget being commissioned to take Queen Elizabeth II’s official portrait to make her become Britain’s longest-reigning monarch when she surpassed her great-grandmother, Queen Victoria, it was an incredible experience.

Do you have your eyes on any emerging photographers?

I just published a zine with New Dimensions publisher and was drawn to the book they have published by Charlie Tallott called “At Least Until The World Stops Going Around”.