Military precision

Vince Preston explains how he captured the natural atmosphere and special moments on Armed Forces Day

- Vince Preston

I love attending events as a photographer - you get to capture all the natural atmosphere and unique moments and add an element of storytelling. My personal experience of the military only goes as far as being an army cadet as a schoolboy, but my grandfather fought for the British Army in World War II and survived. So events like Armed Forces Day feel special to me.

I always dress to blend into the event itself - neutral colours are ideal. I carry my Peak Design backpack to store my gear; it feels safe and strong but doesn't look like a camera bag - even at events like this, you never know who might be eyeing you up. And finally, as you will be on your feet for hours, wear comfortable shoes or trainers.

I shoot with a Canon EOS R5 and a Canon RF 85mm F1.2L USM - an 85mm focal length might not have as much reach as a 70-200mm telephoto, but as you are likely to be fairly close to the action, it's enough for frame-filling shots. It also softens the background and allows you to capture all the emotion and the atmosphere of the scene.

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