Corporate Event Photography in Manchester for CDW

I was recently commissioned by Coolbox Films to deliver a comprehensive corporate photography shoot for CDW at their Manchester offices. The brief combined conference coverage with the creation of a versatile marketing image library for future use.

As a Manchester-based commercial photographer, I regularly work with businesses to produce high-quality imagery for websites, social media, PR and internal communications. This project was a great example of how a single shoot can generate a wide range of visual assets.

Conference Photography in Manchester

A key part of the shoot focused on conference photography, capturing speakers presenting to a live audience within CDW’s office space in Manchester.

My approach to conference photography is observational and documentary-led, allowing me to capture natural moments without interrupting the flow of the event. This results in authentic images that reflect both the professionalism and atmosphere of the day.

I documented keynote speakers, audience engagement and wider environmental shots that establish the scale and setting of the conference. These images are particularly valuable for future event promotion, marketing and press use.

Corporate Photography for Marketing and Brand Content

Alongside the conference, I created a series of corporate lifestyle images designed to build a strong marketing image bank for CDW.

I focused on capturing genuine interactions between staff, showing teams working together in a natural and believable way. This style of corporate photography helps businesses present a more human and approachable identity, which is especially important for tech companies.

The final images are suitable for use across websites, social media campaigns and recruitment materials.

Office and Workspace Photography

I also photographed CDW’s office environment in Manchester, producing a range of clean and well-composed interior images.

This included wider shots of the workspace, as well as more detailed images of desk setups featuring both PC and Apple systems. These types of images are ideal for communicating company culture, workplace quality and technical capability.

Office photography like this is often used across websites, presentations and hiring campaigns to give a clear sense of the working environment.

Corporate Headshots in Manchester

As part of the shoot, I produced a series of professional corporate headshots for CDW staff.

I kept the approach consistent to ensure the images work seamlessly across LinkedIn, company profiles and press releases. My aim with headshots is always to create natural, confident portraits that align with the company’s overall brand.

Creating a Flexible Image Library

The goal of this project was to deliver a comprehensive and flexible set of images that CDW can use across multiple platforms over time.

By combining conference photography, corporate lifestyle imagery, office interiors and headshots, I was able to provide a complete visual resource without the need for multiple shoots.

This approach is particularly effective for large organisations and growing businesses looking to maintain a consistent visual identity.

Corporate Photographer in Manchester

Manchester continues to grow as a hub for technology and business, and I regularly work with companies across the region to create high-quality commercial photography.

If you’re looking for a corporate photographer in Manchester for conference coverage, marketing imagery or headshots, please drop me a line at: david@davidoates.net

Manchester Conference Photography: Innovate to Elevate Awards and Showcase Event Coverage

I recently photographed the Innovate to Elevate Awards and Showcase, organised by the Centre for Digital Innovation and held in Manchester. The event brought together technology companies, researchers, and innovators working across fields such as artificial intelligence, cyber security, digital manufacturing, and sustainable technology.

Events like this highlight how important it is for organisations to document conferences and innovation programmes with clear, professional photography that communicates their work long after the event has finished.

For organisations running conferences, innovation showcases, or industry awards, photography is not simply a record of the event. It is a marketing asset.

High-quality conference photography supports press coverage, social media communication, funding reports, and future event promotion. The images produced during an event often become the primary visual documentation used by organisers, sponsors, and speakers.

The Innovate to Elevate event focused on supporting small and medium-sized businesses working in digital and emerging technologies. The programme included presentations, workshops, networking sessions, and an awards ceremony recognising companies developing innovative solutions.

Many of the discussions at the conference centred around responsible AI, digital transformation, hydrogen technology, cybersecurity, and the role of emerging technologies in supporting innovation across industry.

Events like this allow organisations to present research and innovation outcomes, connect businesses with potential collaborators, and demonstrate the impact of regional technology programmes.

For initiatives funded through innovation programmes, strong visual documentation is particularly important. Photography from these events is frequently used in reports, communications campaigns, and stakeholder updates.

Photographing a technology-focused conference requires attention to the moments that communicate what is actually happening at the event.

Rather than simply photographing audiences, the goal is to capture the work being presented: keynote speakers delivering talks, panel discussions, demonstrations of new technology, and conversations between researchers and businesses.

Conference venues can be challenging environments to photograph. Lighting conditions change constantly, schedules move quickly, and photographers often have limited access to speakers and presenters.

Capturing clear and usable images under these conditions requires experience in anticipating key moments while working efficiently and without interrupting the event itself.

At events like Innovate to Elevate, photographs of speakers, panel discussions, and audience engagement help illustrate how ideas are shared and discussed within the conference setting.

Networking and collaboration are also a central part of innovation events. Images showing attendees discussing projects or reviewing demonstrations help communicate the connections being formed between organisations.

The awards section of the event recognised companies contributing to technological innovation and regional economic development. Photographing award presentations provides organisers and winners with images that can be used for press announcements and marketing.

For organisations hosting conferences, professional photography helps ensure that the event continues to generate value long after it has finished. Images can be used across websites, social media, reports, and promotional material for future events.

If you are organising a conference, awards ceremony, or industry event in Manchester and need professional photography coverage, feel free to get in touch.

Photographing the Manchester Artist Teacher Collective

Manchester Artist Teacher Collective (MATC) is a group of artist teachers from secondary schools and colleges across Manchester, and gallery educators from Manchester Art Gallery, the Whitworth and HOME. They foster collaboration between art educators, local artists, studios and gallery spaces. Through this collaboration, they seek to develop and share artistic and educational expertise, enabling teachers to engage with contemporary practices and sustained personal making. By centring on the artist teachers’ own creative development, the collective highlights the local cultural ecology and future opportunities within Manchester for the young people they teach. 

Documenting an Art Fund Event Across Liverpool’s Museums and Galleries

Art Fund is the UK’s national charity supporting museums and galleries. For over 120 years grants have helped them to acquire, commission and display great works of art, fund curatorial training and research, and reach new communities and audiences across the UK. Their Art Partners are a group of patrons who share our passion for museums and galleries, providing annual support that makes our work possible. I was asked to document a patron’s event in Liverpool that gave exclusive insights into their work and the museums they support. The tour took us to the Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool Library, FACT and the Bluecoat and was led by Liverpool Biennial CEO Sam Lackey, who I was delighted to meet again having known her for her great work in her previous role as Head of Collections and Exhibitions at the Whitworth in Manchester.

Photographing the Adidas Marketing Conference at Factory International, Mancheste

I always look forward to photographing the Adidas Marketing conferences, and this year’s event at Factory International in Manchester was nothing short of spectacular. Working alongside Jules from TOL Events, who consistently delivers remarkable experiences, I was excited to capture every moment of this high-energy gathering.

A Unique Venue for an Immersive Experience

The venue, a giant warehouse transformed into a versatile event space, provided the perfect backdrop for a dynamic and immersive conference. The auditorium was buzzing with activity as presentations, fashion shows, interviews, and even a beatboxing performance unfolded, keeping attendees fully engaged throughout the day. Every corner of the space offered opportunities to capture both staged and candid moments that reflected the energy and creativity of the event.

Capturing the Finale: A Fun Fair Surprise

The finale was particularly memorable. As the curtain lifted, the audience was treated to a full-size fun fair inside the warehouse, complete with rides, attractions, and a surprise appearance by Juergen Klopp. Capturing the excitement, expressions, and unique atmosphere of this unexpected twist made this assignment especially rewarding. The combination of dramatic lighting, large-scale installations, and human interaction created compelling photographic moments that told the story of the event from start to finish.

The Importance of Professional Event Photography

Professional event photography plays a crucial role for brands like Adidas. High-quality images not only document the day but also communicate the brand’s energy, professionalism, and vision. The photographs from this conference can be used across marketing campaigns, social media, press releases, internal communications, and future event promotion. Capturing a multifaceted live event like this requires technical expertise, creative framing, and an instinct for storytelling. Every shot contributes to the overall narrative, highlighting both the audience experience and the brand identity.

Collaborating with TOL Events

Working with TOL Events ensured a seamless flow throughout the day. Jules’ ability to push creative boundaries and orchestrate an engaging experience made my work as a photographer both challenging and exciting. From structured presentations to spontaneous interactions around the venue, there was always something compelling to capture.

Conclusion: Capturing the Energy and Spirit of the Event

Photographing the Adidas Marketing conference at Factory International in Manchester was an exhilarating experience. From the energetic auditorium sessions to the whimsical fun fair finale, every moment offered a unique story. Event photography is not simply about taking pictures—it is about capturing the spirit of the occasion, the energy of the participants, and the essence of the brand.

Working with IN4 Group: Photographing the Launch of HOST Gametech and CyberFirst EmPower in the North West

Over the past year it has been a privilege to work with IN4 Group documenting a series of events and initiatives focused on innovation, education and the future of technology in the North West. From the launch of new technology programmes to graduation ceremonies celebrating the achievements of young people entering the digital sector, these events highlight the growing importance of skills development and digital opportunity across the region.

For an event photographer, projects like these offer the chance to document not only key moments and milestones but also the wider story of how organisations are shaping the future of technology and education.

Photographing the Launch of HOST Gametech

One of the highlights of the past year was photographing the launch of HOST Gametech at HOST, a hub for digital innovation and skills development based in Salford.

HOST has become an important centre for collaboration between industry, education and emerging technology companies. The Gametech programme was created to support the fast-growing games and esports sector by helping develop talent, entrepreneurial skills and new opportunities for people looking to build careers in this rapidly expanding industry.

Events like the Gametech launch bring together entrepreneurs, educators, policymakers and students, creating an environment where ideas, partnerships and opportunities can emerge. Photographing these gatherings helps capture the energy of the technology community and the conversations that shape new initiatives.

Documenting Graduation Ceremonies and Achievement

Another important aspect of the work with IN4 Group has been documenting graduation ceremonies celebrating the achievements of programme participants. These events are significant moments for students who have completed intensive training programmes designed to help them transition into careers in technology and digital industries.

Photography plays a crucial role in marking these milestones. Graduation ceremonies are not only personal achievements for the individuals involved but also powerful visual moments for the organisations delivering the programmes. Images from these events often become part of promotional materials, annual reports and future recruitment campaigns, illustrating the impact of the training and the success of the participants.

Capturing the pride and excitement of graduates as they move into the next stage of their careers provides an authentic and human perspective on the impact of digital skills programmes.

CyberFirst EmPower and Supporting Girls into Tech Careers

One of the most important initiatives photographed during the year has been the delivery of CyberFirst EmPower, developed in collaboration with the National Cyber Security Centre.

CyberFirst EmPower is part of the wider CyberFirst programme, which aims to inspire and support young people interested in careers in cyber security and digital technology. The EmPower initiative specifically focuses on encouraging girls from across the North West to explore opportunities in technology and cyber security.

Workshops and events delivered through the programme give participants hands-on experience with technology, exposure to industry professionals and a clearer understanding of potential career pathways. Photographing these sessions helps document the enthusiasm and curiosity of the students involved, while also highlighting the importance of improving diversity and access within the technology sector.

Images from programmes like CyberFirst EmPower often play a role in communicating the broader social impact of these initiatives. They show how education, mentorship and community engagement can help open doors to careers that may previously have felt inaccessible.

The Importance of Photography in Technology and Education Events

Events connected to technology, innovation and education often move quickly, with presentations, networking sessions and workshops taking place across multiple spaces. Professional photography helps organisations capture these moments in a way that reflects both the scale of the initiative and the people involved.

For organisations like IN4 Group, photography provides a visual record that can be used across press coverage, digital platforms, social media and future programme promotion. These images help communicate the organisation’s mission and demonstrate the real-world impact of their work.

Beyond documentation, photography also contributes to the wider narrative of how regions like Greater Manchester and the North West are building strong digital ecosystems. Events that bring together educators, technologists and young people entering the industry represent important steps in developing the future workforce.

Documenting the Growth of the North West’s Digital Economy

Greater Manchester and the surrounding region have become increasingly important centres for technology, digital media and innovation. Initiatives led by organisations such as IN4 Group play a significant role in supporting that growth by connecting education, skills development and industry.

Photographing these programmes provides a visual record of the people and partnerships driving this transformation. From the launch of new technology initiatives to the celebration of graduates beginning their careers, these events capture moments that reflect the region’s ambitions for the future.

Over time, images from these projects become part of a wider story about how investment in skills, education and community programmes helps build a stronger and more inclusive digital economy in the North West.

School of Digital Arts (SODA) Opening at Manchester Metropolitan University – Event Photography

The opening of the School of Digital Arts (SODA) at Manchester Metropolitan University marked an important moment for creative education in the UK and for the cultural life of Manchester itself. Designed as a centre for innovation in digital storytelling, film, animation, photography, sound, gaming and immersive media, the new SODA building represents a major investment in the future of the creative industries.

Events like this are significant not only for the institutions involved but also for the wider cultural landscape of the city. Documenting them through professional photography ensures that these moments are preserved as part of Manchester’s evolving creative history.

A Major Milestone for Creative Education in Manchester

The new School of Digital Arts at Manchester Metropolitan University was created to bring together students, researchers and industry professionals working across digital and creative disciplines. Located in the centre of Manchester, the building provides purpose-built studios, production spaces and collaborative environments designed to support the next generation of filmmakers, photographers, designers and digital artists.

The official launch event attracted an impressive range of guests from politics, film and music. Among those attending were Peter Mandelson, Andy Burnham, Oscar-winning director Danny Boyle, and Manchester musician and composer Barry Adamson.

Their presence highlighted the importance of the project and the role that institutions like SODA will play in shaping the future of digital creativity in the UK.

The Importance of Photographing Cultural and Institutional Events

Photography plays a vital role in documenting events that mark significant moments for universities, cultural organisations and cities. While speeches and announcements define the official narrative of an event, photography captures the atmosphere, the people and the interactions that bring those moments to life.

Images from the opening of a new building or institution quickly become part of an organisation’s visual archive. Years later they are often used in publications, exhibitions, press features and anniversary retrospectives. A well-observed photograph can communicate the significance of an occasion instantly, providing a visual record that will remain relevant long after the event itself has passed.

Professional event photography also allows institutions to communicate their identity and ambitions. In the case of the SODA launch, the photographs reflect the collaboration between academia and the creative industries, the architectural identity of the building, and the sense of energy surrounding the new school.

These visual narratives help organisations present themselves to prospective students, partners and the media.

Capturing the Atmosphere of the SODA Launch

The opening event for the School of Digital Arts was filled with moments that reflected both the prestige of the occasion and the creative spirit of the institution. Guests explored the building’s studios and digital facilities, viewed demonstrations of student work and spoke about the future of creative education in Manchester.

From a photographic perspective, events like this require careful observation and an ability to anticipate moments before they happen. Conversations between prominent figures, reactions from audiences during speeches and informal interactions between guests all contribute to the visual story of the event.

Alongside documentary images of people, the architecture of the SODA building itself also becomes an important subject. The spaces in which creative work will take place in the future are part of the narrative of the launch, providing context for the institution’s ambitions.

Manchester’s Role in the Creative Industries

The opening of the School of Digital Arts reinforces Manchester’s reputation as one of the UK’s most important creative cities. For decades the city has been a centre for music, film, television and digital media, producing artists, filmmakers and innovators whose work has had international impact.

Institutions like SODA strengthen that ecosystem by providing students with direct connections to industry and access to the technology shaping the future of storytelling. The launch of the school represents another step in Manchester’s continuing evolution as a hub for digital creativity.

Photographing events connected to these developments contributes to the broader visual history of the city. Images captured at these moments become part of the record of how Manchester continues to reinvent itself as a centre for culture, media and innovation.

The Role of the Event Photographer

Photographing high-profile events requires a combination of documentary awareness, portraiture skills and editorial judgement. The photographer must be able to move through the event discreetly while remaining alert to moments that reveal the significance of the occasion.

The most effective images often emerge from small details: a conversation between guests, the expression of an audience listening to a speech, or a quiet moment that reflects the atmosphere of the room. These photographs collectively build a visual narrative that goes beyond simple documentation.

For universities, cultural organisations and public institutions, this kind of visual storytelling is essential. Photographs from launch events, conferences and cultural gatherings are used across websites, publications, press releases and long-term promotional campaigns.

Preserving the Beginning of a New Chapter

The opening of the School of Digital Arts at Manchester Metropolitan University marks the beginning of a new chapter for creative education in the city. It brings together technology, storytelling and artistic practice in a way that reflects the direction of modern media industries.

Photographs from the event help preserve that moment. They record the people who were present, the atmosphere of the launch and the sense of anticipation surrounding the new institution.

In years to come, these images will remain as part of the visual history of both the university and the city of Manchester, documenting the moment when the School of Digital Arts opened its doors and began shaping the next generation of creative talent.

Conference Photography for The Invisible Orthodontist

It was a real pleasure to photograph The Invisible Orthodontist’s conference in Murcia, Spain earlier in the year. Fantastic weather and accommodation, even time for a quick dip in the pool between sessions and great to see everyone letting their hair down at the conference dinner.

I’m looking forward to the next one!

Adidas UK

Spring/Summer 2023 Adidas UK Sales and Marketing Meeting Photography

I recently photographed the Spring/Summer 2023 sales and marketing meeting for Adidas UK, documenting the event at their UK headquarters. The meeting brought together key staff from across departments to review performance, plan strategies, and align on marketing initiatives for the upcoming season.

Capturing Corporate Collaboration and Strategy

Corporate photography for events like this focuses on capturing interactions, presentations, and collaborative moments. The Spring/Summer 2023 meeting was an opportunity to highlight teamwork, strategic discussions, and the creative energy driving Adidas UK’s sales and marketing efforts. Photography helps communicate the professionalism and cohesion of the company while showcasing the dynamic environment in which staff operate.

The Significance of Adidas in Sport and Culture

Adidas is a globally recognised brand with influence across sport, fashion, music, and lifestyle culture. Working with a company of this stature allows for imagery that reflects not only corporate professionalism but also the cultural and creative impact of the brand. Documenting meetings like this provides a behind-the-scenes perspective of how Adidas UK continues to innovate and maintain its leadership in both the sportswear and lifestyle markets.

Professional Event Photography for High-Profile Brands

Photography at corporate meetings requires attention to detail, capturing both formal presentations and informal interactions. Images from this shoot can be used across internal communications, marketing materials, and social media campaigns. For Adidas UK, this documentation supports the visual narrative of a collaborative and forward-thinking company culture.

By recording these moments, the photography illustrates the brand’s commitment to strategy, innovation, and engagement, highlighting the environment that drives its ongoing success in the global market.

Adidas Superstar Awards

Adidas Superstar Awards Event Photography at Adidas UK Headquarters

I was commissioned to provide professional event photography for the Adidas Superstar Awards, held at the Adidas UK headquarters. The Superstar Awards are an annual ceremony where Adidas Europe recognises the outstanding contributions of its staff, celebrating achievements across teams and departments. This high-profile corporate awards event brings together employees from across Europe to highlight excellence, commitment, and innovation within the company.

Providing photography for an event of this scale is always rewarding, but working for a globally recognised brand like Adidas adds a unique dimension. Adidas is not just a sportswear company; it is a brand with significant cultural influence. Its impact stretches across sport, music, fashion, and lifestyle, making it one of the most aspirational and respected brands worldwide. Being involved in documenting their events allows me to connect with a company whose reputation for innovation and quality is synonymous with excellence in global culture.

Corporate Event Photography at Adidas

The Superstar Awards combine formal presentations with social and celebratory moments, creating ideal conditions for corporate event photography. Award presentations, stage ceremonies, and staff recognition moments provide opportunities for structured imagery, while candid interactions, networking, and celebration offer a natural, documentary style. These photographs capture both the achievements being celebrated and the energetic atmosphere of the event.

Events at Adidas UK headquarters are particularly well-organised, providing a professional environment with high-quality lighting, staging, and design. This allows for high-quality images that can be used for internal communications, social media campaigns, corporate reporting, and marketing materials. Documenting such an event contributes to Adidas’ broader brand narrative, showing both the recognition of staff and the brand’s commitment to excellence.

The Significance of the Superstar Awards

The Superstar Awards are an important part of Adidas’ corporate culture. They reinforce the company’s commitment to recognising talent and rewarding excellence across Europe. From a photography perspective, capturing these moments is about more than documenting trophies being handed out—it’s about reflecting the company’s values, professionalism, and culture.

Adidas’ influence extends far beyond corporate achievements. The brand has shaped sportswear innovation, influenced music and street culture, and consistently collaborated with designers and artists to push boundaries in fashion and lifestyle. Photographing events for a company with this kind of global recognition allows me to contribute to their visual legacy and document a brand that resonates culturally and professionally.

Why Working with Adidas is Distinctive

For a photographer, working for Adidas is both rewarding and prestigious. The brand carries cultural and professional authority that few companies can match. Their products are of high quality, their events are carefully executed, and their staff embody a dynamic and creative ethos. Being associated with a brand of this stature reflects positively on the work itself, enhancing the perceived value and reach of the photography.

The Superstar Awards event was managed by the professional team at TOL Events, whose coordination ensured the evening ran smoothly. This level of organisation, combined with the high-profile nature of Adidas as a global brand, provides the ideal context for professional, high-impact event photography.

Capturing Staff Recognition and Corporate Culture

Event photography for Adidas is not simply about recording awards; it is about capturing moments that tell the story of the brand, the culture, and the people behind it. From winners’ reactions to team interactions, candid photographs convey energy, engagement, and the celebratory atmosphere of the Superstar Awards. These images form part of Adidas’ visual identity, used in corporate communications, online campaigns, and internal reporting to showcase excellence and achievement.

By documenting the Superstar Awards, I contribute to a record of one of the most influential brands in sport, fashion, and culture. Each photograph not only highlights the award recipients but also reflects the professionalism and prestige that make Adidas a global leader.

Photography of High Street Task Force

The High Streets Task Force was established to England's high streets and town centres to thrive - providing expert training, guidance data to the people who make them. Local leaders and partnerships are be able to access the latest data and evidence to inform their investment and regeneration decisions.

I was pleased to photograph the latest meeting of experts and representatives from the chosen towns at Manchester Metropolitan University business school. I was also able to photograph some portraits of the university staff at the conclusion of the meeting.

The funding will be piloted first in 20 town centres before being rolled out in 101 areas across the country.

The first 14 towns to take part in the pilot schemes and receive funding from the government will be:

Swinton Town centre – Salford, Thornton Heath – Croydon, Cheadle – Staffordshire Moorlands, Aldershot Town Centre – Rushmoor, Stirchley – Birmingham, Accrington Town Centre – Hyndburn, Kendal – South Lakeland, Friargate – Preston, Coventry City Centre – Coventry, Hartlepool Town Centre – Hartlepool, Ellesmere Port Town Centre – Cheshire West and Chester, West Bromwich Town Centre – Sandwell, Huyton Town Centre – Knowsley, Withington District Centre – Manchester.

“The Task Force will provide the tools they need to get the best advice possible and a dashboard of key local data,” Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said.

Ministers will also launch a consultation on whether to build an online register of commercial properties, which could make it easier to bring empty shops back into use.

The government has also pledged to cut small retailers’ business rates bills by 50 per cent from April.

If you require photography of your conference, meeting or event please drop me a line at david@davidoates.net or fill out the form on the ‘Contact’ page of this website.

Professional conference photography at Manchester Metropolitan University

Town centre redevelopment planning session in Manchester

Local leaders discussing town centre regeneration strategies

High Streets Task Force meeting participants reviewing data dashboards

Portraits of staff and experts at High Streets Task Force meeting

Portrait of Manchester Metropolitan University staff supporting Task Force

British Association for Applied Linguistics conference

Conference Photography at the BAAL Conference, Manchester Metropolitan University

A few weeks ago I photographed the latest conference organised by the British Association for Applied Linguistics (BAAL) at Manchester Metropolitan University. The event brought together researchers, academics and students working across the field of applied linguistics, with presentations, panel discussions and networking sessions taking place throughout the day.

Photographing academic conferences like this is always engaging, not only from a visual perspective but also intellectually. As a photographer you are immersed in subjects that you might not otherwise encounter, documenting conversations and presentations while absorbing ideas and research happening around you.

Applied Linguistics and Academic Research

The BAAL conference this year explored a range of themes connected to language learning and linguistic research. Topics included language acquisition, the experience of learning foreign languages, and the ways in which emerging technologies are influencing communication and linguistic change.

Events like these highlight the diversity of contemporary research in applied linguistics. Bringing together scholars from different institutions allows for discussion and collaboration while giving attendees the opportunity to share new insights and approaches to teaching, learning and analysing language.

Photographing Academic Conferences

Conference photography requires a balance between documentary observation and careful timing. The aim is to capture a clear visual record of the event: keynote speakers presenting their research, audience engagement during talks, informal discussions between delegates, and the overall atmosphere of the venue.

Universities and academic organisations often use these images for future conference promotion, websites, social media, and institutional archives. High-quality photographs also help illustrate the energy and collaborative nature of academic gatherings.

Feedback from the Conference Organiser

Freelance photographers often deliver work after an event without hearing much about how the images are received, so it was particularly gratifying to receive this message from the BAAL conference organiser afterwards:

“I’ve just downloaded the photos – absolutely fantastic. I’ve never given a photographer such a haphazard brief and had it nailed so well, so thanks very much. I wouldn’t hesitate to use you again based on these.”

Positive feedback like this is always encouraging, especially when working in fast-moving environments such as conferences where capturing the right moments requires careful observation and responsiveness.

Conference Photographer in Manchester and the UK

If you are organising a conference, academic event or professional gathering and require a photographer in Manchester, the North of England or elsewhere in the UK, please feel free to get in touch via email or through the contact form on the About page of this site.

What Makes a House a Home? for Hawkins/Brown

Hawkins\Brown have been debating this question for over 30 years and on Thursday 18 July 2019, hosted a party at Glass House One, Festival Square, to celebrate another successful year for Hawkins\Brown Studio North and their continued support of and involvement in Manchester International Festival.

The house: “a machine for living in” (Le Corbusier), or a place “to dream” (Gaston Bachelard)?

The panel delved into this rich and varied topic covering everything from co-living and the concept of community, to shifts in social demographics and changing lifestyles, to DfMA, buildability and volumetric housing, to what “home” means personally to each of the panellists. Some suggestions included: “my record collection”, “acoustic insulation (three children under the age of three!),” and “the freedom to DIY”.

British Ecological Society Conferences

Event Photography: British Ecological Society and Society for Tropical Ecology Annual Conference | McEwan Hall, Edinburgh

I recently photographed the joint annual conference of the British Ecological Society (BES) and the Society for Tropical Ecology, held in the magnificent McEwan Hall in Edinburgh. Covering conferences like this is always fascinating, and it can be a challenge to balance listening to presentations with capturing key moments for documentation and promotional purposes.

The photographs provide an overview of the event, highlighting the diversity of attendees, the atmosphere of the sessions, and the architectural grandeur of McEwan Hall. Capturing these moments visually helps illustrate the importance of the conference as a space for scientific exchange, networking, and engagement with current ecological research.

Capturing Academic Conferences

Event photography for academic and professional conferences requires attention to context, detail, and storytelling. I focused on capturing presenters during talks, delegates engaging in discussions, and the overall environment of the hall. These images are used for marketing, social media, and post-conference reporting, providing a visual record of the event that complements the written proceedings.

Documenting conferences also allows for the dissemination of the event’s energy and significance, giving future participants and collaborators a sense of the professional and social interactions that define such gatherings.

McEwan Hall: A Historic Backdrop

McEwan Hall in Edinburgh provides a dramatic and inspiring setting for conferences, combining historic architecture with modern event functionality. Photographing within this space adds visual interest, framing the attendees and speakers against the grandeur of the venue while highlighting the professional nature of the conference.

Conclusion

Photographing the joint BES and Society for Tropical Ecology annual conference offered an opportunity to create a visual record of scientific collaboration, lively discussion, and academic engagement. These images communicate the scale, professionalism, and atmosphere of the conference, providing valuable content for the societies’ marketing, archives, and social media.