A budding photographer from Croydon will be holding her first ever exhibition at an art galley in Brixton on Wednesday.

Maria Thompson, who lives in South Norwood, will be presenting Comfort in Chaos at the Red Gate Gallery in Coldharbour Lane.

Having only began pursuing photography as a hobby two years ago, the 28-year-old decided to take a more serious approach in the last 12 months.

“I enjoy taking pictures of everything," she says.

"But I'm particularly fascinated by people imagery and fashion portraiture, which tends to be what most of my work is based on.

“I'd describe it as contemporary with a subtle, sexy edge, which engages the viewer into a world of emotion through strong expressions of colour and unusual imagery of people.”

She was recently noticed for her contemporary style by burlesque fashion designer Velda Lauder, who asked her to shoot her latest 2009 corset range, which was displayed at several of the designers European launch parties.

“I was very lucky to be given such a fantastic opportunity to work with one of London's most renowned burlesque fashion designers and I learnt a lot from her," says Maria.

“I am now looking forward to holding my first exhibition which I called Comfort in Chaos because that's exactly what my photos portray.

“I have captured on camera people who support themselves with visual aids, such as make up, fashion and labels, which gives them an identity and a comforting sense of belonging in a chaotic world which we live in today.”

Comfort in Chaos, Red Gate Gallery, Coldharbour Lane, September 16, 2.30pm to 6.30pm. Call 020 7326 0993 or visit redgategallerylondon.co.uk.