📸 Mastering the Moment: The Best Way to Photograph an Event By Goke Photography.
It all begins with an idea.
Photographing an event goes far beyond simply pressing the shutter. It’s about presence, precision, and preserving real emotions. At a recent event I covered, I leaned into a philosophy that always brings out the best results: using the right tools, working with available light, and staying invisible enough to catch the magic. Here’s how that unfolded — and how you can apply the same approach to elevate your own event photography.
1.
Use the Right Tools at the Right Moment
Every shot is a decision — and gear plays a huge role in how that decision unfolds.
For this event, I used the Sony A7RV paired with the Sony 50mm f/1.2 GM lens. Why this combo? The A7RV offers incredible resolution, which allowed me to capture even the finest details — from intricate decor to subtle facial expressions. The 50mm 1.2 GM lens gave me that gorgeous depth of field and bokeh, helping subjects stand out naturally from the background, even in low-light conditions.
This setup wasn’t just technically powerful — it gave me the confidence to move freely, knowing each frame would be sharp, clean, and cinematic.
2.
Let the Natural Light Lead
Flash has its place — but sometimes, the most beautiful moments come unfiltered.
90% of the images from this event were taken with natural light only. From soft ambient glows to golden hour tones pouring through windows, I let the environment set the mood. Working with natural light brings an organic feel that artificial lighting often misses. It requires awareness and timing, but the payoff is worth it.
The result? Photos that feel as real as the moment they captured.
3.
Capture the Candid, Stay Invisible
My style leans heavily toward candid photography — because the best smiles are the unplanned ones.
Throughout the event, I remained alert, always ready to anticipate laughter, glances, hugs, and joy. The goal was to capture the essence of the event without disrupting it. Blending into the background allowed me to photograph moments people didn’t even realize were happening — and that’s what makes an image powerful.
With this approach, every photo becomes a story — not just a snapshot.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all to event photography, but the recipe that works for me is simple:
Equip wisely. Use gear that delivers both performance and creative freedom.
Chase light, not perfection. Natural light tells its own story.
Stay present. Be invisible, be alert, and let the moments unfold.
If you’re an aspiring photographer or a client looking for timeless images, remember: it’s not just about documenting an event — it’s about honoring the feeling behind every frame.
Stay inspired,
Dr. AdeGoke OlaWuyi