Last-minute briefs are my bread and butter, that email notification like a jolt of caffeine to the system. This one from Boots seemed straightforward: “Retail store shoot in Warrington, PR focus.” But hold on to your hats, folks, because a whirlwind day awaited, ending with me capturing none other than Home Secretary Suella Braverman on her visit to their store.

Adaptability is my middle name, so when the brief transformed into a high-pressure shoot documenting Ms. Braverman’s visit, I was ready. This wasn’t just about shelves stocked with Boots No7 and smiley staff; it was about getting the right shots in a chaotic, unplanned atmosphere.

Ms. Braverman’s visit to Boots Warrington was to raise awareness for the “Ask for ANI” scheme, a lifeline for victims needing discreet help. With limited info and a tight deadline, I hit the ground running like Usain Bolt after a triple espresso.

Preparation was key. Picturing potential scenarios, and anticipating Ms. Braverman’s arrival were crucial.

Then, she arrived. The atmosphere changed, like switching from cartoons to a gripping documentary. My camera clicked, capturing her interactions with staff, her visit to the “safe space,” and her engagement with the initiative. Pressure or not, my experience shone through. I navigated the balance of capturing compelling press photos while respecting privacy, resulting in candid moments that truly told the story.

The results? Stunning visuals that told a powerful story, generating a buzz on social media. But most importantly, the images helped raise awareness for “Ask for ANI,” potentially impacting countless lives. This Boots job wasn’t just about showcasing retail; it was about capturing a moment of social change.

And it’s a reminder that adaptability, resourcefulness, and a dash of luck can transform any last-minute brief into a powerful narrative.

Here’s the press release – https://www.boots-uk.com/newsroom/news/home-secretary-visits-boots-pharmacy-in-recognition-of-ask-for-ani-abuse-codeword-scheme/

So, need your brand story captured with a creative eye and a knack for thinking on my feet? I’m your guy. Get in touch!