Tarsila V.
Yelp
Yup, this is what I'm talking about.
Went there with a friend a couple months ago to see the Chinese Photobook. The exhibition was comprised of two floors and very good - it included photos, documents and photographic books from China, from the last centuries: truly interesting for a Jung Chang fan.
Later we went to another exhibition in the top floor, which was also quite interesting. It did not only inspired me in my photography, but also inspired me in my personal life. I have been to dozens of galleries and museums in the last year, but this was the one that marked me the most. I believe photography (and art itself) needs to make a difference in the people who experience it, and The Photographer's Gallery has succeeded in that.
Still, that would only gain 4 stars. The fifth star, my first one in Yelp, can be attributed to the Camera Obscura (you can play with it and I even took some shots of it with my camera) and the very nice cafe in the first floor - I ordered a sandwich, which was very good, and surprisingly came with a salad. I also ordered a delicious cranberry juice for only £1.25. The cafe is quiet and you get a nice view of the street. I plan on coming back there to do some work.
There is also a nice bookshop - I didn't buy anything, but prices looked good. They also sell Lomos, postcards and camera equipment (such as roll film).
I'm an amateur photographer, so I'm quite excited about photography. However, I do believe this gallery can captivate the attention of everyone, regardless their relationship with photography. It's not one of those pretentious places where technical knowledge is expected in order to understand or connect with the exhibition.
Staff is friendly, expositions are free and the cafe is good. It's not crowded or loud, and atmosphere is amazing. The Photographer's Gallery is amongst my favourite places in London.