I recently had the pleasure of photographing Kingswood House School’s production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at the Epsom Playhouse, and what a day it was! From the buzz of early preparations to the magic on stage, I’d like to take you through my day and share a few behind-the-scenes moments.
Early Morning Magic
I started bright and early—before the lights even came on—to capture all the little moments that make a performance so special. I was there as makeup was applied, costumes were carefully put together, and the cast ran through last-minute rehearsals. There was a real buzz in the air with parents, family members, and friends arriving, all adding their own touch to the excitement. These moments are the heart of the event, and I love capturing them as they unfold.
Finding My Way Through the Maze
Arriving early was absolutely key, especially at a venue like the Epsom Playhouse, which can feel like a maze if you’re not familiar with it. I took some time to scout out the quickest routes and the best spots for a great view of the action. Knowing where to go and how to move around without interrupting the show makes all the difference. It lets me cover the event from different angles while ensuring the audience can enjoy the performance undisturbed.
The Right Tools for the Job
Performances are often in dark venues, and this one was no different. That’s why having the right gear is so important. I used my full-frame Sony cameras, which are fantastic in low light, paired with lenses that shoot wide open. Plus, I shoot with two camera bodies—this way, I’m never caught off guard while changing lenses and can keep capturing every moment without missing a beat. Here’s what I brought along:
16-35mm f/2.8: Ideal for capturing those sweeping wide shots of the venue, from the stage setup to the lively audience.
24-70mm f/2.8: A versatile lens for capturing medium-range shots that blend context and detail.
70-200mm: Perfect for getting in those intimate close-ups of the performers, capturing every expression and detail of the costumes and props.
Showtime: Capturing the Performance
When the curtains finally lifted, the stage transformed into a magical world straight out of Dahl’s imagination. I moved around to catch both the big, sweeping shots of the entire stage and the close-ups that really captured the performers’ expressions. It was all about balancing the dramatic set design and lighting with the spontaneous, emotional moments on stage.
Candid Moments Offstage
Some of the best moments happened offstage too. I loved catching those behind-the-scenes snippets—whether it was a shared laugh between cast members, a quiet moment of focus before stepping on stage, or the excitement just after a great performance. These candid shots add a personal touch that tells the whole story of the day.
Keeping It Respectful
Throughout the day, I was very conscious of not disrupting the performance or the audience. By finding hidden vantage points and using longer lenses when necessary, I made sure I stayed out of the way while still getting all the shots I needed. It’s a delicate balance, but one that’s crucial for both a smooth performance and great photography.
Wrapping Up the Day
After the final bow, my work was far from over. I spent time reviewing and editing the photos to bring out the best in every shot while keeping the true feel of the day intact. The goal was to deliver a collection of images that tell the full story—from the early morning hustle to the magical moments on stage.
Final Thoughts
Photographing Kingswood House School’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at the Epsom Playhouse was a truly rewarding experience. Every detail, every backstage moment, and every magical performance adds up to a day full of wonderful memories. I’m especially proud that the school was so happy with the shots I captured—they’ve even used the images on their website and social media! It’s always a joy to see my work help tell your school’s story. If you’re looking for someone who not only captures events but also the heart and soul behind them, I’d love to chat about your next performance. Let’s work together to capture those unforgettable moments, one shot at a time!