Covering stands, sponsors, and the organised chaos of one of Australia’s biggest hardware expos
When the regular photographer couldn’t make it, the team behind the Australian Hardware Journal needed someone to step in — fast. The brief was simple: be ready by 9AM, cover a full day of expo chaos, and deliver exactly what they needed without being handheld every five minutes. Challenge accepted.
The HBT (Hardware & Building Traders) Expo isn’t a small affair. It’s one of the biggest national trade events for independent hardware suppliers, pulling in major names like Jakmax, Haymes Paint, and Trio — along with hundreds of members and retailers from across Australia.
I got the call the day before, after the original photographer had to pull out last-minute. The job? Capture the energy of the expo floor, get strong visuals for editorial use, and make sure key sponsors walked away with imagery worth reusing.
Oh — and shoot everything from group photos to branded signage to chaotic crowd scenes. With zero time to prep, it came down to experience, instinct, and a well-packed camera bag.
The client provided a punchy list of priorities. Here’s how that translated on the floor:
Key partners like Jakmax, Haymes, and Trio were top priority. I photographed each stand at peak activity, ensuring there were clean brand shots alongside more natural “in-action” moments — customers asking questions, demos in progress, and real engagement between suppliers and members.
Christine, the Editor of the Hardware Journal, helped coordinate a full team photo with the HBT crew. Tricky lighting and signage? Yep. But we made it work with natural light and a quick setup that didn’t hold up the day.
On top of that, I caught dozens of members in action — often families — walking the aisles, chatting with vendors, or gathered around eye-catching stands. When possible, I stopped them for a quick posed shot to add structure to the coverage.
From wide shots of bustling aisles to tight frames of giveaways, games, and promo activity, this was about showing the scale of the event. These images are the ones that sell next year’s expo.
Every photo was framed to capture movement and interaction — not just lifeless booths and empty walkways. It’s the kind of coverage that gives editors variety and marketers something they can actually use.
Lighting wasn’t ideal in some areas. I used natural light where possible and avoided harsh bounce flash, keeping the photos consistent with their previous coverage.
Crowd density made group shots hard to coordinate. Quick direction and framing made it easier to grab clean shots without waiting forever.
No second chances. Everything had to be captured as it happened — no rehearsals, no repeats, no do-overs.
This kind of trade show coverage demands speed, awareness, and the ability to read the room. It’s not a studio session — it’s controlled chaos with a schedule.
Trade shows move fast. If you’re after someone who won’t miss a moment — sponsor stands, demos, team shots and all — you’re in the right place.
Fill out the form below and I’ll be in touch with availability and options.
All files were fully edited and delivered via a private cloud drive within the agreed timeframe. The coverage matched the editorial style of their previous expos, with upgrades in lighting, composition, and natural interaction.
No fluff, no overshooting. Just solid, usable content for print, digital, and social media.
For anyone planning a trade show, expo, or corporate event — especially those needing last-minute event photography or sponsor coverage — you’ll want to check out these links:
Yes — last-minute bookings are possible if there's availability. The HBT Expo was shot with less than 24 hours’ notice. Get in touch here if you're in a bind.
Make sure to get sponsor booths, team photos, crowd scenes, branded signage, and any product demos or promotional games. It helps tell the full story of your event.
Absolutely. Sponsor booths, product displays, and branded signage are always prioritised — especially if you're using the shots for post-event marketing or editorial use.
Yes — if there’s a live demo or product showcase happening, I’ll capture both stills and quick video clips when needed. Great for socials and internal comms.
Timing and lighting are key. I’ll find a clean backdrop with good light, direct the team quickly, and keep it casual so no one looks stiff or uncomfortable.
Yes — I balance both. Quick posed shots are great for teams and sponsors, while candids help capture the real energy of the event without interrupting the flow.
All images are fully edited and delivered via a private cloud drive, ready for web, print, or social media. If you need anything extra tweaked after delivery, just ask.
Based in Adelaide, but I shoot events all across South Australia — including the Adelaide Hills, Barossa Valley, regional expos, and anywhere a camera can get to.
Yes — I’ve stepped in for plenty of events where the regular shooter bailed. If you’ve been left in the lurch, reach out here and I’ll do what I can.
This article was written by Corey M — the bloke behind Shameless Visuals, based right here in Adelaide. Whether it’s chasing the Southern Lights through a frosty paddock or setting up lights in a boardroom, the job’s the same: find the shot that actually means something.
When Corey’s not editing until his eyeballs hurt, he’s out shooting everything from commercial campaigns to birthday chaos to full-scale conference coverage. No fluff, no gimmicks — just real work that makes people take notice.
If you’re here reading this, chances are you’re after more than just a pretty picture. Here’s what Shameless Visuals actually does:
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Event and corporate photography that captures energy, moments, and actual people (not just blurry backs of heads).
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Explore the full range at the Shameless Visuals homepage or get in touch here to book something real.
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Your project is unique, let’s make sure it’s given the attention it deserves. Hit the button below to head over to our contact page. I’d love to know more about what you’re wanting to achieve and how I can help you make that dream a reality!