Bank of England: Capturing the Beauty of British Banknotes

Photography that Showcases the Unique Design of the British Pound Sterling

The Bank of England plays a vital role in the production of banknotes, and the British Pound Sterling notes are known for their distinctive design and security features. To showcase the beauty of these banknotes, photographer Matteo Ruisi embarked on a project to capture their unique characteristics through photography.

Ruisi's inspiration for this project came from the intricate details of the banknotes themselves. Combining abstract, graphic composition and backlighting techniques, he aimed to make the notes more visually captivating and less obvious.

The photography project focused on three categories: groups of notes, details, and abstract compositions. Each category aimed to highlight different aspects of the banknotes, from the overall design to the intricate details that make them so special.

Using a DSLR Canon EOS 5D Mark IV camera with a macro lens, Ruisi pushed the capabilities of the equipment to capture the smallest details of the banknotes. By using a shallow depth of field and backlighting with black material, he created a show-through effect that enhanced the areas of the notes he wanted to emphasize.

The images were carefully edited to enhance the detail and color of each note, while still maintaining the integrity of the design. Ruisi's goal was to create imagery that reflected the essence of the Bank of England and its commitment to producing high-quality banknotes.

The resulting photographs can be used for various applications, both digital and print, to showcase the beauty and uniqueness of the British Pound Sterling notes. Whether it's for promotional materials, educational resources, or artistic displays, these images provide a visually stunning representation of the banknotes.

The project, which started in May 2020, was carried out at Ruisi's home studio in Chartham, Kent. With the assistance of a creative director and a photographer, Ruisi experimented with different lighting techniques and camera angles to achieve the desired effect. The project covered the 5, 10, 20, and 50 pound notes, with the final shoot day capturing the new 50 pound note to complete the set.

By pushing the boundaries of traditional banknote photography, Matteo Ruisi has successfully captured the beauty and uniqueness of the British Pound Sterling notes. His innovative approach and attention to detail have resulted in a collection of stunning images that showcase the artistry and craftsmanship behind these banknotes.

With its Bronze A' Design Award in Photography and Photo Manipulation, this project has been recognized for its outstanding creativity and ingenuity. By adhering to the strict regulations set by the Bank of England, Ruisi has created a visual representation of the British Pound Sterling that is both captivating and informative.