Backstage With Shane Todd at the Millennium Forum, Derry
There’s something special about photographing a performer before they walk out in front of a packed room.
The noise is there, but it’s distant. The audience is waiting, the lights are ready, the stage is set but backstage, everything feels quieter. More concentrated. More human.
I recently had the chance to do another backstage photography shoot with Shane Todd at the Millennium Forum in Derry, and it was exactly the kind of setting I love to photograph.
Not staged. Not over produced. Just honest, observational moments before a live show.
Photographing the moments before the show
Backstage photography is less about creating a perfect portrait and more about noticing the things that happen naturally.
The small pauses.
The quiet focus.
The last minute conversations.
The atmosphere before someone steps into the light.
For this shoot, I wanted to keep things simple and documentary led. My approach was to stay out of the way as much as possible and photograph what was already happening. No big setup. No forced direction. Just a camera (the Konica c35), the backstage environment, and the energy of the night.
That is where the best images usually are.
Shane Todd at the Millennium Forum
The Millennium Forum in Derry is one of those venues that carries a real sense of occasion. It has hosted huge names over the years, and there’s always a buzz around the building when a big comedy show comes to town.
With Shane, that energy was definitely there.
Comedy backstage has its own rhythm. It’s calm and chaotic at the same time. There’s the pressure of a live audience, but also a lot of humour and ease in the room. That balance makes it brilliant to photograph.
The goal was to capture Shane in a way that felt natural not a polished promo shoot, but something closer to a behind the scenes film still. A glimpse of the person and the atmosphere around the performance.
Why I love backstage photography
As a photographer, I’m drawn to the parts people don’t always get to see.
The finished show is what the audience experiences, but backstage is where the story begins. It’s where the performance is about to happen, but hasn’t quite started yet. There’s a tension in that space that makes it visually interesting.
For me, those are the photographs that last.
They don’t need to shout. They don’t need to be overly styled. They just need to feel real.
That’s the same reason I’m so drawn to film photography and film inspired imagery. There’s a texture and honesty to it that suits these moments perfectly. The grain, the contrast, the imperfections they all help create something that feels a little more timeless.
A documentary approach
I’ve always preferred photography that feels candid and cinematic rather than heavily directed.
For this backstage shoot, I wanted the images to feel like stills from a documentary. Deep blacks, controlled highlights, natural texture, and a sense of atmosphere. The kind of photographs that make you feel like you were allowed into a private moment for a second.
That’s the beauty of shooting backstage. You’re not trying to interrupt the night. You’re trying to quietly preserve it.
Derry, live performance, and the people behind the curtain
Derry has always had a strong connection to live performance, comedy, music, and storytelling. Nights like this at the Millennium Forum are part of that wider creative culture.
Being able to photograph performers in these spaces feels like documenting a small part of the city’s cultural life. It’s not just about one person or one show it’s about the atmosphere around these events and the people who make them happen.
For me, that’s where the value of this kind of photography is.
It captures the night in a way that isn’t just about the stage, but about everything surrounding it.
Final thoughts
Photographing Shane backstage at the Millennium Forum was another reminder of why I love this type of work.
The best images often come from simply being present, watching carefully, and letting things unfold naturally.
No forced poses.
No big production.
Just real moments, strong atmosphere, and a brilliant venue in the heart of Derry.
I’ll be sharing some of the images from the shoot below.
Bimbo & Butch LIVE
There’s something different about shooting a live show. The energy, the unpredictability, the atmosphere, it all hits differently compared to a controlled wedding day or a planned shoot. Recently, I had the chance to step into that world while capturing behind the scenes photography for the Bimbo & Butch Podcast, featuring Jenna and Emer.
And this wasn’t just any recording…
This was a completely sold-out live show at the iconic Millennium Forum.
From the moment I arrived, you could feel it, this wasn’t going to be a quiet, sit down podcast recording. The crowd brought a level of energy you’d normally associate with a gig or live theatre performance.
The queue outside. The buzz in the foyer. The anticipation as the doors opened.
Inside, the stage was set. Lighting dialled in. Mics ready. And a room full of people who were completely invested before the first word was even spoken.
My role was to document the night as it unfolded authentically and without interruption.
That’s the beauty of behind the scenes photography:
You’re not directing anything. You’re reacting.
Some of the moments I focused on:
The pre-show nerves and excitement backstage
Candid interactions between Jenna & Emer before going live
The crowd reactions laughter, shock, connection
The subtle, unscripted glances that tell the real story
Live events move fast, and you don’t get second chances. It’s all about instinct anticipating moments before they happen and being ready to capture them in a split second.
Unlike weddings or styled shoots, live podcast events bring a unique set of challenges:
Lighting changes constantly – stage lighting can be dramatic, unpredictable, and unforgiving
Movement is limited – you have to work around the audience without becoming a distraction
Moments happen once – miss it, and it’s gone
But that’s also what makes it exciting.
You’re working in real time, under pressure, with no control over the environment and that’s where the magic lives
Events like this are more than just shows they’re experiences.
The connection between Jenna & Emer and their audience was unreal. You could feel the authenticity, the humour, and the honesty in the room. That kind of connection is exactly what makes live podcasting so powerful and why capturing it visually matters.
Photos from nights like this don’t just document what happened…
They bring people back to how it felt.
Below you’ll find a selection of my favourite shots from the night, moments that capture the energy, the emotion, and the personality of a sold out live podcast at the Millennium Forum.
Shooting the Bimbo & Butch Podcast live in Derry was a reminder of why I love what I do.
It’s not just about clean shots or perfect composition it’s about storytelling. Whether it’s a wedding, a film, or a live event like this, the goal is always the same:
Capture something real.
If you’re planning a live event, podcast, or show and want it documented in a way that feels cinematic and authentic, get in touch.
— Simon
Best Wedding Venues in Donegal for Stunning Wedding Films
Discover the best wedding venues in Donegal for stunning wedding films. A guide from a Donegal wedding videographer.
Donegal is one of the most breathtaking places in Ireland to get married. From dramatic coastlines to elegant country houses, it offers some of the most visually stunning wedding venues anywhere in the UK and Ireland.
As a wedding videographer working across Donegal, I’ve had the chance to film in some incredible locations each one offering something completely unique on camera.
If you're planning your wedding here and looking for a venue that not only feels special but also looks incredible on film, here are some of the best wedding venues in Donegal to consider
Lough Eske Castle
Set just outside Donegal Town, Lough Eske Castle is one of the most iconic wedding venues in the region. Surrounded by woodland and water, it offers a timeless, cinematic setting that works beautifully on film.
The mix of historic architecture and natural scenery gives you endless opportunities for relaxed, atmospheric footage, especially in the quieter moments throughout the day.
Harvey's Point
Located on the edge of Lough Eske, Harvey’s Point is known for its incredible views and bright, open spaces. It’s perfect for couples who want a relaxed, elegant wedding with a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.
From a videography perspective, the natural light and lakeside setting create a clean, cinematic look that feels effortless and timeless.
An Chuirt Hotel
An Chuirt Hotel Wedding in Donegal
Nestled in the Donegal countryside, An Chuirt Hotel offers a warm and intimate setting for weddings. It’s ideal for couples looking for something relaxed and personal, with beautiful surroundings that still feel understated.
The quieter atmosphere allows for a more documentary style approach, where real moments can unfold naturally without interruption.
Clanree Hotel
The Clanree Hotel in Letterkenny is a popular choice for larger celebrations. It offers a lively atmosphere and plenty of space, making it perfect for couples who want a big, energetic wedding day.
For film, this creates a completely different feel, more movement, more energy, and a strong sense of celebration from start to finish.
Why Your Venue Choice Matters for Video
Your venue plays a huge role in how your wedding film looks and feels. Light, space, surroundings and atmosphere all influence the final result.
But more importantly, it’s about how comfortable you feel in that space. When you’re relaxed, everything flows more naturally and that’s what makes a wedding film feel real.
Choosing the Right Wedding Videographer in Donegal
Once you’ve chosen your venue, the next step is finding a wedding videographer who can capture it in a way that feels true to your day.
As a wedding videographer in Donegal, my approach is always the same to document the day as it happens, without staging or interference. The focus is on real moments, natural emotion and creating a film that feels timeless.
Every venue has its own character, and my goal is to reflect that while keeping the focus on you and your story.
Planning Your Donegal Wedding
If you're planning a wedding in Donegal and looking for a videographer who takes a relaxed, documentary approach, I’d love to hear about your plans.
I film weddings across Donegal, Derry and throughout Ireland and the UK, creating cinematic wedding films that let you relive your day exactly as it felt.
Wedding Videographer Donegal – A Real Wedding Film in Ireland
If you're looking for a wedding videographer in Donegal, the best way to understand how a film should feel is to see a real wedding day unfold.
Donegal is one of the most naturally beautiful places to get married, but beyond the scenery, it’s the atmosphere and emotion of the day that really matter. My approach is always to capture those moments honestly without staging or interference so your film feels exactly like your day.
A Natural Approach to Wedding Videography in Donegal
As a wedding videographer working across Donegal, I take a relaxed, documentary approach to filming. There’s no pressure to perform or pose I simply observe and capture what’s already happening.
This allows the day to flow naturally, whether it’s the quiet anticipation in the morning, the emotion during the ceremony, or the energy as the evening celebrations begin.
Filming Weddings in Donegal
Donegal offers an incredible backdrop for weddings, from rugged coastlines to elegant venues like Lough Eske Castle and Harvey's Point.
Each wedding here feels completely unique, shaped by the landscape, the people and the atmosphere of the day. My aim is always to reflect that individuality, creating a film that feels personal rather than generic.
Why Documentary Wedding Films Work So Well
Documentary wedding videography is about capturing moments as they happen, rather than directing them. It means you can be fully present with your family and friends, without feeling like you’re constantly being filmed.
When you watch your wedding film back, it won’t feel staged it will feel real, emotional and true to your day.
Looking for a Wedding Videographer in Donegal?
If you're planning a wedding in Donegal and want a film that captures the day naturally and honestly, I’d love to hear about your plans.
I film weddings across Donegal, Derry and throughout Ireland and the UK, creating cinematic wedding films that are timeless, personal and full of real moments.
Wedding Videographer Derry – A Real Wedding Film in Northern Ireland
If you're searching for a wedding videographer in Derry, one of the best ways to understand how a film will feel is to watch a real wedding unfold.
Every wedding is different, but what stays the same is the emotion, the quiet moments in the morning, the nerves before the ceremony, and the atmosphere as the day builds into the evening. My approach is always to capture those moments naturally, without staging or interference.
A Natural Approach to Wedding Videography in Derry
As a wedding videographer based in Derry, I focus on documenting the day as it really happens. There’s no pressure to perform for the camera, no awkward posing just real moments, captured as they unfold.
This style works especially well in city weddings such as Derry, where weddings often have a relaxed, close knit feel. From morning preparations at Ebrington Hotel to the energy of the dance floor in the Brewery, everything is filmed in a way that feels honest and unobtrusive.
Derry offers a unique and character filled setting for weddings, from historic streets to iconic venues like the Guildhall. Whether you're planning a large celebration or something more intimate, the city provides a beautiful backdrop for a wedding film.
What makes filming in Derry special isn’t just the locations, it’s the people, the atmosphere, and the sense of connection throughout the day.
Why Choose a Documentary Wedding Film?
Documentary wedding videography is about capturing moments as they happen, rather than creating them. It allows you to be fully present on your wedding day, without worrying about the camera.
When you watch your film back, it won’t feel staged or forced, it will feel like your day, exactly as it was.
Looking for a Wedding Videographer in Derry?
If you're planning your wedding in Derry and looking for a videographer who focuses on natural, cinematic storytelling, I’d love to hear about your plans.
I film weddings across Derry, Donegal and throughout Northern Ireland, creating films that are honest, emotional and timeless.
Derry City Wedding At the Guildhall
A Joyful Celebration: Conor & Stephanie’s Wedding at the Guildhall and Walled City Brewery
There is something undeniably magnetic about a wedding in the heart of Derry City. Between the ancient stone walls and the modern pulse of the waterfront, it’s a city that knows how to throw a party. But even by Derry standards, Conor and Stephanie’s wedding was something truly special.
From a breathtaking ceremony in the historic Guildhall to a craft beer fueled celebration at the Walled City Brewery, their day was a perfect blend of timeless tradition and contemporary cool.
The Ceremony: Saying "I Do" at the Guildhall Derry
The day began in the grandest way possible. The Guildhall is the architectural crown jewel of Derry, and its neo Gothic splendor provided a stunning backdrop for Conor and Stephanie’s vows.
As the light filtered through the famous stained glass windows, there wasn't a dry eye in the house. The ceremony was defined by a palpable sense of emotion a beautiful reminder that despite the grand setting, the day was, at its heart, about two people choosing their "forever."
Highlight: The couple’s walk down the iconic grand staircase as newlyweds, surrounded by the cheers of their closest friends and family.
The Portraits: A Stroll Across the Peace Bridge
After the "I dos," we took advantage of the city’s unique landscape. Crossing the Peace Bridge from the Cityside to the Waterside isn't just a great photo op; it’s a Derry rite of passage. The joy Conor and Stephanie shared was infectious, making for some of the most natural and radiant portraits we’ve had the pleasure of capturing.
The Reception: Industrial Chic at the Walled City Brewery
For the reception, the party moved to Ebrington Square, specifically the award winning Walled City Brewery. If you’re looking for a wedding venue that trades stuffy hotel ballrooms for industrial chic vibes and incredible local flavors, this is it.
The atmosphere was electric. Between the artisanal brews and the gourmet local food, the Brewery provided an intimate, relaxed setting that allowed the couple's personalities to shine. The speeches brought a mix of belly laughs and sentimental tears, cementing the day as one filled with genuine heart.
"We wanted a day that felt like 'us'—relaxed, fun, and right in the heart of the city we love."
Watch the Wedding Film
While photos tell a story, video captures the soul. You can feel the energy of the room, hear the tremor in the vows, and see the sheer joy on Conor and Stephanie’s faces on the video above.
Planning a Derry City Wedding?
If you're dreaming of a wedding that captures the spirit of the Northwest, Conor and Stephanie’s day is the ultimate inspiration. Whether it's the history of the Guildhall or the modern edge of Ebrington, Derry has it all.
