International Women’s Day is always a powerful celebration of the achievements, resilience and ambition of women across industries. This year’s event was particularly special for me — not only was I invited to photograph the event and create professional headshots for attendees, but I was also shortlisted for a business award on the very same day.

It was a moment that perfectly captured what my career has become: balancing high-demand event photography with recognition for my contribution to the creative industry.

Photographing Professional Headshots at a Live Event

Throughout the event, I photographed professional headshots for attendees, giving women in business the opportunity to update their professional images in a relaxed and supportive environment.

Headshots are often underestimated, but they remain one of the most powerful tools for professional visibility. Whether used on LinkedIn, company websites, speaking engagements, or press features, a strong portrait communicates confidence, credibility and professionalism.

Working in a live event environment requires a very different skillset from studio photography.

You need to:

• Work quickly while maintaining quality
• Create a relaxed atmosphere for people who may be nervous in front of the camera
• Deliver consistent results across many individuals
• Adapt lighting and space within a busy event setting

It’s a balance of technical knowledge, communication skills and experience, something that comes from photographing hundreds of professionals over the years.

Being Shortlisted for a Business Award

While photographing the event, I was also honoured to be shortlisted for one of the business awards being presented that day.

It’s always a strange experience when you are both behind the camera documenting the event and also being recognised within it.

However, it’s also a reminder that the work I do extends beyond simply taking photographs.

Over the years my work has grown into:

• Speaking at photography and creative industry events
• Writing two bestselling photography books
• Hosting a podcast discussing the realities of creative business
• Supporting and mentoring other photographers

To be recognised within a room full of inspiring women in business was genuinely meaningful.

Why Event Headshots Are Increasing in Demand

One of the biggest trends I’m seeing within corporate events is the growing demand for on-site professional headshots.

Companies and organisations are realising that events are the perfect moment to offer attendees something valuable that lasts beyond the day itself.

Instead of simply attending talks or networking sessions, guests leave with something tangible: a professional image they can use immediately for their brand or career.

It’s also a highly efficient solution for businesses who want their teams to maintain a consistent professional image across marketing materials.

Experience Matters in Event Photography

When photographing events — particularly high-profile or busy corporate events — experience matters.

You only get one chance to capture the moment.

There are no re-takes when someone steps onto a stage to receive an award or when a room erupts into applause.

This is why many organisations and event organisers trust photographers who have proven experience working in fast-paced environments where timing, awareness and reliability are essential.

Over the years I’ve photographed:

• Conferences
• Corporate awards ceremonies
• Festivals and live events
• Fashion and creative industry shows
• Red carpet and press events

Each requires a slightly different approach, but the goal is always the same: capturing the atmosphere, the people and the story of the event.

Celebrating Women in Business

International Women’s Day events always carry a unique energy. They celebrate achievements, but they also create space for conversations about leadership, entrepreneurship and community.

Photographing events like this means documenting not just the speakers and award winners, but also the quieter moments — the conversations, the laughter, the connections being made.

Those moments often become the photographs people remember most.

Looking Ahead

Being able to both photograph an event and be recognised within it is something I don’t take for granted.

It reflects years of building a career that blends creative skill, business knowledge and industry involvement.

As demand for event, corporate and red carpet photography continues to grow, I’m incredibly grateful to keep working with organisations that value professional imagery, fast delivery and an experienced photographer who understands the pace of modern events.

If you’re planning an event and want photography that captures both the energy and the professionalism of the day, I’d love to hear from you.