Capturing the atmosphere of a live event is one of the most enjoyable aspects of event photography. Every performance brings its own personality, energy and fleeting moments, and the challenge is to capture those details in a way that tells the story of the occasion. You can find my events photography page here
I recently photographed An Evening for Ukraine, held at the Frazer Theatre in Knaresborough on Saturday 7 November 2026. It was a special evening of live music celebrating Ukrainian culture, bringing together performers from different musical backgrounds to raise money for a worthwhile cause.
Organised in support of Knaresborough Aid for Ukraine, the event aimed to help bring a junior football team from the Ukrainian town of Volodymyr to Yorkshire in 2027.
Mariia Petrovska – The Ukrainian Bandura
One of the highlights of the evening was the performance by Mariia Petrovska, a Ukrainian singer and accomplished bandura player.
The bandura is a traditional Ukrainian stringed instrument, and its distinctive shape and playing style made for some particularly interesting photographic opportunities.
I wanted to capture more than simply a record of the performance. The theatrical lighting, the contrast between the dark stage and Mariia's clothing, and the concentration involved in playing the instrument all helped create a striking image.
Live performance photography often involves working with whatever lighting is available, anticipating moments as they happen and finding compositions that convey something of the atmosphere on stage.
Oleg Malan – A Powerful Classical Performance
The evening also featured Ukrainian tenor Oleg Malan, whose repertoire spans opera and modern classics.
Oleg brought a different musical character to the programme, providing a contrast to Mariia's traditional Ukrainian music. His performance was another opportunity to capture the expression, movement and personality that make live music such an interesting subject for photography.
Chechelele – World Music and Vocal Harmony
Oleg Malan and Chechelele
Completing the varied musical programme was Chechelele, a York-based a cappella world music choir.
Their performances combine four-part vocal harmonies, international musical influences, rhythm and movement, bringing a particularly vibrant energy to the stage.
The variety of performers made this a particularly enjoyable event to photograph. From an individual musician playing a traditional instrument to a larger vocal ensemble, each performance presented different opportunities to capture the atmosphere and character of the evening.
Photographing Live Events in Knaresborough and Harrogate
Event photography is about much more than taking photographs of people on a stage. It's about documenting an occasion, capturing the personalities involved and creating a collection of images that allow organisers and audiences to remember the experience.
For organisations, charities, businesses and event organisers, professional photographs also have a practical purpose. They provide valuable material for websites, social media, publicity, press coverage and promoting future events.
I provide event photography in Harrogate, Knaresborough and across North Yorkshire, covering everything from live performances and charity events to corporate functions and community celebrations.
If you're organising an event and need professional photographic coverage, take a look at my event photography and coverage service to find out more.
I'd be delighted to help tell the story of your next event
