AJ Bell Great Bristol Run

16 Jun

Photographing the Spirit of the AJ Bell Great Bristol Run

I had the pleasure of photographing the AJ Bell Great Bristol Run for The Great Run Company—a city-wide celebration of movement, effort, and community.

My brief? To capture the essence of the day. Not just the elite athletes crossing the line in record time (though there were plenty of them), but also the everyday heroes—the people running for charity, in fancy dress, in memory of someone, or simply pushing themselves to get around the course. The ones where effort, not elegance, told the real story.

Commercial Work That Feels Real

This was more than just event coverage. The images also needed to have commercial appeal—capturing not only the human side of the race but also providing visual value for event sponsors and brand partners. That meant paying attention to the details. Branded banners in the background, cheerful volunteers in sponsor gear, finish line signage, and of course, happy runners clutching water bottles or medals with logos in full view.

It’s that balance I enjoy in this kind of work: authentic storytelling, but with a commercial lens. Getting the branding in there, but without making it feel forced or staged.

What I Look For in Events Like This

I spent most of the day moving through the city—positioning myself on bridges, corners, and quieter side streets—always watching for moments. A runner in a banana suit giving a high-five to a child. A group of friends in matching vests clearly having the time of their lives. A woman alone, near the back, gritting her teeth and pushing through. That’s the kind of image that stays with you.

I work quickly, quietly, and always with the intention of telling the story of the event as a whole—not just the obvious highlights, but the pockets of emotion, effort, and character that really define it.

Why This Matters for Brands

If you're running a commercial event—whether it’s a large public race, a brand activation, a corporate gathering, or something entirely different—imagery matters. It’s not just about having proof that the event happened. It’s about having a visual record that feels alive. That shows emotion, interaction, movement, and yes, your brand presence in a natural, meaningful way.

That’s what I offer in this kind of work. Not just photography, but thoughtful coverage that balances documentary-style storytelling with a clear understanding of commercial needs.

Final Thought

The Great Bristol Run was a brilliant example of a well-run, high-energy public event with a real sense of heart. And it was a privilege to play a small role in documenting it.

If you're looking for a photographer who can capture not just what your event looks like, but what it feels like—while also delivering imagery that has value for your sponsors, partners, and brand—I’d love to talk.