Two Days of Events, Energy and Exceptional People
Conference photography in the Cotswolds was my main focus last week.
I had the pleasure of once again being the conference photographer for the Food Equipment Association (FEA). This event was their annual gathering, held at the beautiful De Vere Waterfront Hotel near Cirencester. My 12th year shooting this event for them!
Over two packed days, I documented everything from formal AGM moments to high-energy keynote sessions, relaxed networking, and two spectacular evening celebrations.
Day 1 – AGM, Group Portrait, Headshots & Charity Dinner
A Strong Start: FEA Board Members’ Group Photograph
The conference opened with the Annual General Meeting. As soon as the final agenda item wrapped, I gathered all the attending members for their official group portrait. Luckily I had arrived early so was in the room next door when I heard them wrapping up 40 minutes early! Coordinating a large group always brings a mix of organisation and improvisation, but the FEA board members made it easy. Plenty of smiles, good spirit, and just the right amount of gentle herding.
Mobile Studio & Professional Headshots
I then moved to the mobile studio I had set up earlier to photograph the new members’ professional headshots. This setup is always one of my go-to favourites for multi-day conferences. It’s not too over-the-top so people feel relaxed and doesn’t take ages to set up and down. When done, I was very pleased to have my RocknRoller cart to transport all my gear to the opposite end of the hotel!
Evening Charity Dinner & Awards
The first day closed with an informal charity dinner, where guests could unwind, connect, and enjoy an evening supporting a great cause. I moved through the room capturing candid moments, table interactions, laughter, raffle winners’ celebrations and of course the awards segment. The Enterprise awards brought well-deserved recognition to several members’ charitable endeavours.
Day 2 – Speakers, Reactions, Networking & Exhibitors
Conference Sessions Come Alive
Day 2 began early with a full schedule of talks and panel sessions, hosted by 1473 Media‘s Michael Jones. The theme this year was Business Agility, with a focus on the use of AI within the industry, opened by the broadcaster Declan Curry. I photographed the speakers on stage as well as during the fascinating panel discussion. I always ensure a mix of expressive shots, wide views of the room, and close-ups capturing the energy of each presentation.
Audience reactions always add context and authenticity to the visual story of the event.
Keynote: Eddie “The Eagle” Edwards
One of the highlights was the keynote session with Eddie “The Eagle” Edwards. His story and delivery was mesmerising and kept the room fully engaged. As a fellow ski fan, and remembering his Olympics experience from my childhood, it was a joy to photograph him. A man full of expression, warmth, and humour.
Networking & The Sponsors’ Exhibition
Throughout the day, I also documented networking sessions and the sponsor exhibition stands. These images are especially valuable for FEA and the exhibitors—showing interactions, product demonstrations, and the buzz of industry connection.
Gala Evening – Drinks Reception, Awards & Celebration
The conference concluded with a stunning gala dinner, beginning with an elegant drinks reception. It’s always a pleasure to capture people in that transition between business and celebration—glasses raised, conversations flowing, and everyone dressed for the occasion.
Gala Dinner and Awards
A fabulous four course meal followed with three more awards of the conference being presented during the gala evening:
- Chair’s Awards – rewarding those for their contributions to the food equipment industry
- Apprentice of the Year – celebrating emerging talent in the industry
- Outstanding Contribution to the Industry – honouring those who have made a long-term impact
All were emotional, proud moments, and I made sure to capture the recipients, the reactions, and the atmosphere in the room as the applause filled the air.
The celebrations rolled into the early hours with many having a flutter at the casino tables. Another conference for the FEA comes to an end and it’s back home for a mammoth editing sesh.
Wrapping Up
Across two days, the FEA Annual Conference showcased everything great about the industry. Focusing on community, innovation, recognition, and a genuine passion for moving things forward. As always, it was a privilege to document it all, and I’m excited to share a selection of images that tell the story. Thank you to the FEA team and events organisers Dewberry Redpoint who are always a pleasure to work with and for the booking. See you next year!
Are you in need of a Brighton conference photographer? If so, please go to my Contact page and send me a message. I’d welcome the opportunity to showcase your celebrations.
