Mark “Happy Bob” Parker, owner of HB Total Media, is a Peterborough-based documentary, street and editorial photographer whose work celebrates the beauty, character and humanity found in everyday life. Best known for his striking black and white imagery, he is passionate about creating photographs that go beyond the obvious, capturing authentic moments, forgotten places and the people who give communities their identity.
His photography spans street scenes, portraits, landscapes, wildlife, architecture and urban exploration, all united by a documentary style that seeks to preserve the world as it is today. Whether wandering the streets of Peterborough, exploring the Nene Valley or travelling further afield, Mark is constantly searching for moments that tell a story without the need for words.
Mark is also an experienced photography educator, sharing his passion and knowledge through practical workshops designed to help photographers of all abilities develop their creative vision and confidence behind the camera. His workshops encourage participants to see beyond the technical aspects of photography and focus on storytelling, observation and finding beauty in everyday scenes. More information can be found at www.creativephotoworkshops.co.uk
Mark is currently working on two major long-term projects. Nene Noir is a fine art coffee table book showcasing the landscapes, wildlife, architecture and hidden corners of the Nene Valley in timeless black and white. His second project, Pints and Portraits, documents the fascinating people who gather in Wetherspoons pubs across the UK, pairing portraits with personal stories to create a unique social record of modern Britain.
Through every photograph, Mark hopes to encourage people to slow down, look more closely and discover beauty in places and moments that are often overlooked. His work is not simply about making pictures—it is about preserving memories, documenting communities and creating a lasting visual legacy for future generations.
Thank you for being part of Peterborough’s cultural story!
