Barry Craven is struggling to establish his reputation as a portrait photographer. Unfortunately for him, 1976 is not a good time for business of any kind, but he must succeed or go under.

Happily, he is not entirely alone. Aspiring model Claret, his weekend assistant Wesley, bookshop and tearoom owner Lucy, and his enigmatic companion Jack each have their part to play in his seemingly-haphazard pursuit of success, not to mention his chaotic love life.

Animal pictures, scene-of-crime work and the dreaded weddings all form part of his regular fare as he prepares his entry for the portrait prize that he hopes will give his career the boost it needs but, inevitably, he meets a few hitches and surprises on the way.