Motorcycle Photography: Capturing the Soul of London's Motorcyclists through Urban Portraits
- Amir Wanas
- Jul 24, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 23, 2023

As a passionate automotive and portrait photographer in London, I had the privilege of embarking on a thrilling photography project called "Moto Photo Shoot." Fuelled by my desire to fuse the world of motorcycling with urban art, I gathered motorcycle enthusiasts from London and its surrounding areas for a weekly photo shoot in the iconic Fleet St. Hill graffiti underpass in Shoreditch. Armed with my trusted Canon EOS R camera and the Canon RF 24-105 f4L IS USM lens, along with Neewer equipment, I set out to create mesmerising urban portraits that celebrate the raw power and resilience of these riders against the backdrop of London's vibrant street art.

As an automotive and portrait photographer and a motorcyclist myself, motorcycle photography has always intrigued me. The genre allows me to capture the spirit of riding the thrill, the freedom, and the camaraderie, all in a single frame. Drawn to this dynamic art form, I set out to portray London's motorcyclists in a way that truly showcases their passion. "Moto Photo Shoot" became my canvas to blend their love for two wheels with the vibrant street art of Fleet St. Hill underpass.

As the visionary behind "Moto Photo Shoot," I have always been fascinated by the art of portraiture. My innate ability to capture the essence of my subjects allows me to portray these motorcyclists in their element - fierce, determined, and full of life. Armed with my Canon EOS R camera, known for its remarkable capabilities, and the versatile Canon RF 24-105 f4L IS USM lens, I aimed to create images that tell stories of strength and passion.

The underpass at Fleet St. Hill in Shoreditch served as the perfect backdrop for my motorcycle portraits. The captivating graffiti infused the images with the energy and personality of London's street culture. Every stroke of paint added depth and character to my compositions, elevating the portraits to a new level of creativity and expression.
To add drama and intensity to the portraits, I incorporated smoke machines and smoke grenades into the photo shoots. This created an ambiance that perfectly reflected the daring spirit of the motorcyclists. In collaboration with Neewer equipment, including stands, lights, and tripods, I brought my artistic vision to life, ensuring every shot was a masterpiece in its own right.

Week after week, as the clock struck 9 pm, the Fleet St. Hill underpass came alive with the roaring sounds of motorcycles. Around 5-6 motorcycle enthusiasts arrived on their cherished bikes, and I eagerly captured their essence through my lens. Guiding them into poses that showcased their personalities and passions, I immortalised their love for motorcycling against the vibrant urban backdrop. The result was a breathtaking series of portraits that celebrated their unity and shared love for the open road.
Throughout the project, Neewer equipment played a pivotal role in my creative process. Their budget-friendly gear, including stands, lights, and tripods, flawlessly complemented my Canon EOS R setup. The combination of these two brands empowered me to achieve remarkable results while staying true to my artistic vision, proving that high-quality photography is attainable without breaking the bank.

The "Moto Photo Shoot" project has been an exhilarating journey, encapsulating the true spirit of London's motorcycling community. Through my lens, the underpass of Fleet St. Hill transformed into a vibrant canvas, where the energy and passion of motorcyclists fused seamlessly with urban art. From the interplay of smoke and light to the powerful presence of each rider, these urban portraits stand as a testament to the remarkable world of motorcycle photography. "Moto Photo Shoot" is a celebration of the raw emotion, power, and resilience that define these motorcyclists, leaving an indelible mark on the ever-evolving tapestry of London's street culture.
Want to join me on my next group shoot, click below to book your session from £50 per person.
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