Latest Editorial, Portrait & Commercial Photography Projects

A selection of my most recent commissions and ongoing projects.

The work shown here spans editorial assignments, portrait commissions, documentary projects and commercial photography for organisations and publishers. It reflects current areas of focus and the range of contexts in which I am working.

New projects are added regularly.

Documentary, Event, Commercial, Conference David Oates Documentary, Event, Commercial, Conference David Oates

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.

Dancers performing on stage at Adidas Marketing Conference at Factory International Manchester, event photography capturing movement and high-energy performance

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.

Fairground setup at Adidas conference, editorial photography documenting immersive corporate event experience

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.

Two presenters on stage photographed through the crowd at Adidas Marketing Conference, professional event photography emphasizing atmosphere and audience perspective

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.

Man photographed from behind in audience during Adidas conference, dramatic lighting capturing scale and crowd energy

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.

Delegate seated on stage giving talk to audience at Adidas Marketing Conference, corporate event photography highlighting speaker engagement

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.

Wide-angle shot of audience during Adidas Marketing Conference, professional event photography emphasizing lighting, scale, and attention

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.

Presenter on stage giving talk with Adidas logo backdrop, editorial photography capturing branding and corporate environment
Attentive audience member listening intently to speaker during Adidas Marketing Conference, professional photography capturing engagement and focus
Delegate photographing fairground entertainment after Adidas Marketing Conference, lifestyle and event photography documenting participant interaction
Portrait of Jürgen Klopp laughing at Adidas Marketing Conference, professional editorial photography highlighting personality and engagement
Fairground attractions at Adidas Marketing Conference, Manchester event photography capturing immersive entertainment elements
Two attendees at Adidas conference fairground, one with a man and another with two cuddly toys, lifestyle and event photography documenting fun engagement
Participant throwing darts at soft toys during Adidas Marketing Conference fairground event, action photography capturing interactive entertainment
Young girl riding dodgems at Adidas Marketing Conference fairground, lifestyle photography capturing fun and dynamic event experience
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Commercial, Conference, Documentary, Event David Oates Commercial, Conference, Documentary, Event David Oates

Adidas Superstar Awards

The Superstar Awards are where Adidas Europe recognise the outstanding contributions of their staff over the previous 12 months. I documented the event at their UK headquarters. Many thanks to the superb event managers at TOL Events for bringing me on board.

Adidas Superstar Awards ceremony at Adidas UK headquarters

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.

Corporate awards event recognising Adidas staff achievements

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.

Event photography capturing Adidas’ corporate culture and brand identity

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.

Professional photography documenting Adidas internal awards

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.

Stage presentation and award recognition at Adidas UK headquarters

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.

Event photography capturing professionalism and brand ethos at Adidas

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.

Candid moments from Adidas Superstar Awards event

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.

Stage presentation and award recognition at Adidas UK headquarters

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.

Corporate event images illustrating Adidas’ influence in sport and culture

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.

Employees celebrating achievements at Adidas Superstar Awards
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