On Saturday 4th July and into the early hours of the following morning, Howl – what photographer Imogen describes as Hackney’s “queer, playful, chaotic and sweaty” alternative Pride festival – was in full swing. “What made the event so special this year was the feeling that the queer community had fully taken over east London,” Imogen tells Dazed. “It was a huge celebration of queer culture, music and nightlife.” In contrast to what many feel is the “corporate” feel of the traditional parade, Imogen feels that Howl captures the original spirit of the event – a “celebration built by and for the community”. 

Assimilating into the 4,500-strong crowd with her camera in hand, Imogen captured the unfolding scenes taking place on 11 stages across five Hackney Wick venues. For the London-based photographer, the highlights included Miss Bashful’s “unapologetically camp and chaotic” performance. “She ate up the crowd with her provocative performance, shaking ass and reeling off her ‘slut commandments’”, Imogen recalls. “DJ Aya’s closing set in the Colour Factory garden was one of those moments when London summer feels unmatched. The sun was setting and the crowd were electric. She took us on a journey through groovy techno and UK bass, closing out with a throwback Britney Spears anthem.”

Imogen’s photographs take us into the heart of the action – she isn’t a spectator, but embroiled in the chaos. “The best images, for me, come from experiencing the energy of the night from within,” she says. “I closed out my night dancing with friends at the FLINTA stage in Hackney Bridge. There’s something special about documenting a space and then getting to fully immerse yourself in it. Even off duty, I always have my point-and-shoot film camera in hand, which is often when I capture some of my favourite photos.”

Working in digital and analogue, her photographer’s eye is attracted by the most potent exchanges. “I’m drawn to moments of queer intimacy, be it between lovers, friends or maybe even exes,” she says. “It’s these moments that demonstrate the passion, joy and tenderness of the queer scene.” From lovers kissing and friends gathering, to dancefloors in the heat of the midday sun, febrile nighttime scenes, DJ booths, and chaotic smoking areas, Imogen’s pictures distil the mood and spirit of east London’s alternative Pride. Visit the gallery above for a closer look.