From clichés to connection: Rethinking charity photography with Matt Mahmood-Ogston
How can charities tell authentic, ethical stories through photography — without falling into harmful clichés?
In this powerful episode of The Charity Show, Tim Beynon and Piers Townley sit down with Matt Mahmood-Ogston, charity CEO, photographer, and founder of the Naz and Matt Foundation, to unpack how the charity sector can move away from tired tropes and build genuine human connections through visual storytelling.
We dive into:📸 The evolution from glossy PR shots to authentic, human-led photography — and why it matters now more than ever.
🖼️ The ethics of charity imagery — how to represent vulnerable communities with dignity and avoid harm.
🤝 How charities can embrace platforms like Vinted and Depop — adapting to new consumer habits while staying true to their mission.
🌟 Real-world examples of small charities nailing storytelling — including Open Country and Sunny Cycles.
💡 Practical tips for charities — how to rethink your photography and messaging to better resonate with modern audiences.
If you're involved in charity communications, marketing, fundraising, or leadership, this is a conversation you can't afford to miss.
Get involved
📌 Listen to The Charity Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite platform.
📌 Got a story, guest suggestion, or campaign to share? Email us at [email protected] or send us a voice message!
📌 All the links you need are right here: https://linktr.ee/thecharityshow
📌 If you enjoyed this episode, leave a five-star review and subscribe so you never miss an update!Useful links
🔗 Naz and Matt Foundation – Supporting LGBTQI+ individuals from religious backgrounds.🔗 Matt's own website – Find out all about Matt's photography and storytelling experience + read his useful guides. And CLICK HERE to read Matt's article ' The uncomfortable truth about your charity photos...'
🔗 Open Country – Helping people with disabilities access and enjoy the countryside.
🔗 Sunny Cycles – A cycling charity promoting inclusion and wellbeing through accessible cycling activities.
🔗 Charity Retail Association – Insights into how charity shops are adapting to the digital age.Chapters
(00:09) Why charity storytelling needs a radical rethink
(10:45) Interview: Matt Mahmood-Ogston on ethical storytelling and imagery
(35:30) Third Sector News Roundup – Vinted, London Marathon and burnout in fundraising
(50:15) How charities can shift from clichés to authentic storytelling
(1:00:50) Small Charity Spotlight: Open Country and Sunny Cycles🔗 #CharityPodcast #EthicalStorytelling #CharityImagery #SocialImpact #TheCharityShow
The Charity Show
The show for charity insiders, by charity insiders. Hosts Tim Beynon and Piers Townley tackle the topics that matter for charity staff, fundraisers and supporters.
- No. of episodes: 32
- Latest episode: 2025-05-12
- Business Non-Profit
Where can you listen?
