Unseen life on the streets of the capital has been captured in a new exhibition.

Barking and Dagenham Post: Street photographer Jimmy Lee who is holding an exhibition of his work at The Boathouse in BarkingStreet photographer Jimmy Lee who is holding an exhibition of his work at The Boathouse in Barking (Image: Archant)

Photographer Jimmy Lee has been taking pictures of everyday sights that the general public often miss for his first-ever exhibition which is being held at the Barking Boathouse.

The builder-turned-photographer, who lives in Barking Riverside, is displaying 30 images at the Abbey Road studio from Friday.

“It’s going to be like walking down a street,” Jimmy explained. “It’s people and things going on in London that others may not see that I take pictures of.”

The former student of Bishop Ward, which is now known as All Saints Catholic School, has received support and funding from local organisations such as Creative Barking and Dagenham, Studio 3 Arts and East Thames all of whom he has worked for since changing career a year ago.

The show is called J-Walking – but the photos themselves are left unnamed in order not to spoon-feed visitors.

“I don’t name any of the pictures because it gives it away,” the 47-year-old said.

“I like to leave it open to people’s imagination as people see different things.”

While he was putting together the exhibition last week, Jimmy had an unexpected visit from iconic photographer David Bailey who spent time looking at his work – and gave him some great feedback.

“He was a really down to earth guy – he said he’s looking forward to my exhibition but I’m not sure whether he’ll actually come,” Jimmy said.

He plans to host a special auction of some of his other pieces of work during the exhibition to raise money for George Brooker House, a care home in Dagenham.

“I want to put something back into the community,” Jimmy explained.

Jimmy Lee’s exhibition runs until February and entry is free.