Freelance commercial photographer Louis Bamford has carved out his career capturing the emotion of sport.
From humble beginnings shooting Sunday League football to working directly with brands and agencies, Louis has built a reputation for creative vision, authenticity, and an unshakeable passion for the craft.
In this Behind Sport feature, he opens up about his journey, the realities of freelance life, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
Tell us about yourself, what do you do in your current role and what roles have you done previously?
I’m Louis Bamford, a Freelance Commercial Photographer – I would say my work is predominantly within the sports sector but have also shot a range of other subjects over the years.
I started photography back in 2012 at college and have been shooting ever since. Previously to being freelance I have worked in house at agencies and direct for brands such as Pro:Direct Sport.
What three words would you use to describe your role?
Freedom, grafting, rewarding.
“Normal” isn’t a thing in sport so what does an “average” week look like for you?
The average week for me can vary, sometimes I can be doing 2 shoots a week and then the next can have a week off so it’s not too structured but that’s the beauty of freelance.
I always make sure I’m working on bits when I’m home – if that’s replying to emails, admin, editing, prepping kit or sorting anything else.
How did you end up where you are right now? When did you know you wanted to work in sport?
I started shooting sport during my second year of university, focusing on Sunday League football, this then got me a job once I graduated in 2017.
I then progressed through my career until I made the jump to go freelance. I have always had a passion for sports, I think it’s so important for people to enjoy what you do – life is far to short to be working on things you that doesn’t get you stimulated.
I know sports was always going to be part of my career path from early on.
What is your number one focus when it comes to your work?
Always trying new ideas and trying to push my skills – without testing my ability, I find I can’t improve.
I find it super important to do research or create mood-board prior to the shoot on how to add a little more interest to the work.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career so far?
A very mundane answer but I believe the admin side of running your own business. I think is just as important as the content!
Also just be yourself, don’t try and be someone or act in any other manner than your usual self, people invest in people. I’ve definitely felt I’ve got gigs from being myself rather than being the best person for the job.
In addition, having a big social media following doesn’t always translate into being a good photographer, so don’t stress about anything to do with IG – if your work is good and you’re consistent, you’ll get noticed.
What are you most excited about in the sport industry?
There’s so many photographers and new talent emerging, I think competition is healthy and good for all jobs.
If there is no competition, the content and work would plateau – having people create new and exciting ideas is what I love seeing.
If you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be?
Late invoices, chasing people is a pain and it’s not fun for anyone.
Sport is a hectic industry, what do you do to switch off?
Ironically, I watch sport to switch off. I also come from Cornwall so love to get back home and be near to the sea, being close to the city all the time can feel like a hundred miles per hour.
Taking time off to relax is super important, both mentally and for your workflow.
Louis Bamford Cornish Sunday League Football
If you were to give a piece of advice to someone wanting to do your role, what would you say?
Do your research into the admin side of photography – learn about usage, tax, and all the bits in-between.
This for me was something that I had to learn on the job and over time but can be a vital part of how your work is being used.
How to connect with Louis Bamford…
www.instagram.com/louisbamford
Louis Bamford’s path shows how far consistency, curiosity, and genuine interest in the work can take you. His approach to freelancing, creativity, and staying true to himself offers a realistic look at what it takes to build a career in sports photography.
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