The plan was approved by the union's national executive on Friday.

It's the first time members have been organised into a branch on the grounds of the specific job they do - rather than the sector of the industry they work in.

The change was requested by a meeting of photographer activists in London in July.

Michelle Stanistreet, NUJ Deputy General Secretary, said: "We want to ensure that our members have an effective voice in and through the union.

"The new London photographers branch will be all about giving members the opportunity to campaign on the issues that matter to them. Whether it's fighting cutbacks, highlighting the problems of covering public events or standing up for copyright, this new branch will give London photographers a chance to make their voices heard.

"NUJ members interested in transferring to the new branch should contact the union to let us know."

Photgraphers in London have the choice of transfering to the new branch or staying in their current branch - for example London Freelance or London Magazine.

Details of the new branch's launch meeting will appear on the NUJ website.

• NUJ diary dates
• Guide to internal organisation
• How the union works
• Branches

21 September 2009