Filming the Elliot James Bransby Memorial Shield
As a filmmaker, there are some projects that stay with you long after you’ve packed your camera away.
A few weeks ago I had the privilege of filming the fifth Elliot James Bransby Memorial Shield here in Yorkshire, an incredible annual charity football event raising funds for Martin House Children’s Hospice. On the surface, it was a football match featuring Leeds United legends, former professionals, celebrities and supporters. But from the moment I spoke to organiser David Bransby, I knew the real story wasn’t going to be found in the goals or the tackles, but why everyone was there.
How My Yorkshire Pumpkin Photographs Found an Audience in Japan
One of the things I love most about photography is that you never quite know where a photograph might end up.
Sometimes images are delivered to a client, shared online, and that’s the end of their story. Other times they take on a life of their own. That’s exactly what happened recently, when a message turned up out of nowhere from a photo editor on the other side of the world.
Shadow & Light Monthly #85
Shadow & Light is a list of curated photography stories, features, techniques, news and inspiration that I’ve come across this month.
In this edition we revisit the timeless street photography of Saul Leiter, explore eight decades of British documentary photography, discover richly symbolic work inspired by memory and heritage, and celebrate one of the most beautifully designed cameras ever created. From quiet observations of everyday life to iconic photographic design, this month’s selection is a reminder that the most enduring images often come from curiosity, craftsmanship and a unique way of seeing the world.
Capturing the Energy of STEMFest 2026
Live events are unpredictable by their very nature. You can plan what you want to capture, identify the key people you need to speak to and build an idea of the story beforehand, but once the doors open you have to be ready to respond to what’s happening around you.
That was very much the case when I spent two days filming STEMFest 2026 with RTC North, an event designed to inspire young people through hands-on experiences with science, technology, engineering and maths.
Shadow & Light Monthly #84
Shadow & Light is a list of curated photography stories, features, techniques, news and inspiration that I’ve come across this month.
In this edition we take to the skies with this year’s best aerial photography, step inside the creation of what is believed to be the world’s largest photograph, revisit the enduring legacy of Henri Cartier-Bresson’s “decisive moment”, and celebrate documentary photography that places people and stories at its heart. From breathtaking perspectives to pioneering photographic processes, this month’s selection is a reminder that great photography is about far more than the camera in your hands.
New Behind the Scenes Video: Delivering Event Photography & Video in Real Time at UKREiiF 2026
One of the questions I’m often asked is how I manage large event shoots on my own, especially when clients need both photography and video delivered throughout the event.
In this behind the scenes video, I take you through the workflow and planning that helps keep everything running smoothly.
Shadow & Light Monthly #83
Shadow & Light is a list of curated photography stories, features, techniques, news and inspiration that I’ve come across this month.
In this edition we step into the secret nightlife of 1930s Paris, explore a remarkable archive of contact sheets left behind by Peter Hujar, revisit the history of one of photography’s most extraordinary instant cameras, and celebrate 200 years of photographic innovation through some of the most influential cameras ever made. From lost archives and iconic machines to hidden worlds illuminated after dark, this month’s selection explores the stories behind the images as much as the photographs themselves.
Filming a Goalkeeper Camp with TopCatch Goalkeeping and Kick On Academy
When TopCatch Goalkeeping and Kick On Academy invited me to film their first joint goalkeeper camp featuring Leeds United goalkeeper Alex Cairns, it combined two of my worlds perfectly.
When I’m not behind the camera, you’ll usually find me coaching junior football, so the opportunity to capture a day dedicated entirely to goalkeepers was one I couldn’t resist.
Bringing a Campaign to Life Behind the Scenes: My Work with Yorkshire Tea
A few months ago, I had the opportunity to work on a brilliant project capturing behind-the-scenes photography and video for a new campaign shoot with Yorkshire Tea.
Introducing SEND-Friendly Family Photography Sessions in Leeds & Yorkshire
I believe every family deserves the opportunity to capture meaningful memories together, regardless of disability, diagnosis, additional needs or neurodivergence.
That’s why I’ve introduced a new SEND-friendly family photography offering designed specifically for families who may benefit from additional preparation, flexibility and sensory-aware support.
About me
I'm Simon Wiffen, an award-winning photographer, husband, dog owner, record collector and dad of three.
For image usage enquiries or to discuss a photography brief please give me a call or drop me an email and I’d be happy to talk through some ideas.