This past weekend I had the pleasure of photographing one of the most iconic annual events in the Cape, the Franschhoek Bastille Day celebration. Held over two days, Saturday and Sunday, the town transforms into a slice of France, complete with wine tastings, food stalls, and live entertainment.
A Dream for Event Photography
From a photography point of view, events like these are a dream. The streets were bursting with red, white and blue. Berets everywhere. The effort people made with their outfits was incredible. It created an atmosphere that was both playful and electric. As an event photographer, this is exactly the kind of event I love to shoot: vibrant, interactive, and full of energy.
Starting the Day with a Parade
What really made the day was the energy. It started early with a troupe of minstrels leading the crowd into the main entertainment area, randomly pulling people in to dance and join the fun. That kind of spontaneity is gold behind the lens.
Wine, Dancing, and a Packed Floor
Then came the wine, and with it, the party really got going. By mid-afternoon, the dancefloor was packed. Actually, packed doesn’t quite describe it. You could barely move, everyone was dancing!
My Approach Behind the Camera
When I photograph events like this, I don’t just point and shoot. I interact. I joke, I engage, I create space for people to drop their guard and they love it! The smiles are real, the moments are genuine. That’s the kind of Franschhoek Bastille Day photography I aim for. Not just a record of the event, but something that captures the vibe of it.
See You Next Year?
If you haven’t been, mark your calendar for next year. And if you’re running an event that needs this kind of energy captured, let’s talk.