Capturing Inspiration: Behind the Scenes at TEDxBrighton 2024

Brighton has long been a hub of creativity and innovation and TEDx Brighton embodies this spirit year after year by bringing together passionate speakers with curious minds. The 2024 edition was no exception, featuring a dynamic lineup that sparked thought-provoking discussions. I had the privilege of documenting the event, capturing both the rehearsals and behind-the-scenes moments, while exploring the art of documentary photography. 

The Role of a Documentary Photographer at an event of this magnitude is about more than just taking photos; it’s about telling a story through real, unposed moments. At TEDx Brighton, my goal was to capture not only the speakers on stage but also the candid moments offstage and during rehearsals. Events like TEDx offer a wealth of opportunities for meaningful images, but the challenge lies in being both invisible and omnipresent; capturing the essence of the day without disrupting it. 

Preparing for the Event: 

Preparation is crucial for successful documentary photography. I spent weeks preparing for TEDxBrighton, studying the speakers and familiarizing myself with the event’s flow to ensure I was in the right place at the right time. My gear of choice was the Leica Q3, a reliable, silent camera with exceptional image quality, perfect for getting close without disturbing my subjects. Lighting was another critical factor, as TEDx events are often held in dimly lit venues. The Leica Q3’s fast lens with wide apertures and the tremendous resolution were invaluable for working with limited light. Understanding how to use available light effectively is what sets professional documentary photographers apart. 

The Art of Candid Photography:

Capturing candid moments is a key skill for any documentary photographer. Candid photography requires instinct and quick reflexes to capture people in their most authentic states. During TEDxBrighton rehearsals, I focused on photographing speakers as they engaged in conversation sharing ideas and experiences, often shooting from a distance before moving in closer. This approach allowed me to remain unnoticed, ensuring the subjects stayed natural and unposed. The resulting images were intimate and genuine, offering a window into such unseen moments of TEDx Brighton. 

Challenges Faced:

Every project has its challenges, and TEDx Brighton 2024 was no exception. The primary challenge was the lighting conditions; the dimly lit venue made it difficult to capture clear images without introducing noise or blur. To overcome this, I decided to document the entire event in monochrome, using a high ISO setting to add a touch of drama to the visual narrative of the assignment. Another challenge was adapting to the fast-paced environment of an event like TEDx, which is different from the slower pace of other documentary work. Despite these hurdles, I believe I successfully captured the spirit of TEDx Brighton 2024, creating a comprehensive visual record that tells a story of innovation, inspiration, and connection. 

The Value of Choosing a Local Photographer: 

One of the reasons I was a great fit for TEDx Brighton 2024 was my deep connection to the Brighton community. Local photographers bring a unique perspective to their work, informed by an understanding of the city’s culture and vibe. This connection allows us to capture the essence of Brighton in a way that an outsider might not. Choosing a local photographer for your event has several advantages. It supports local talent and ensures the photographer is familiar with the best locations, venues, and lighting conditions in the area. This familiarity helps anticipate challenges and seize opportunities, ensuring a smoother and
more successful photography experience. For an event like TEDx Brighton, where the goal is to capture not just the event itself but the community’s spirit, working with a local photographer is invaluable.
Whether you’re planning a large event like TEDx or a smaller, more intimate gathering, documentary photography plays a crucial role in preserving the magic of the occasion. Skills like those I’ve described here can help you create a lasting visual legacy that you and your audience will cherish for
years to come.
For those in Brighton and beyond, my services offer a unique blend of technical skill, artistic vision, and local knowledge. If you’re looking to capture the essence of your project in a way that is authentic, compelling, and visually stunning. Please get in touch.