On October 10th, the historic Cutlers’ Hall in Sheffield came alive with laughter, celebration, and generosity as Elevation Recruitment Group hosted the Manufacturing Charity Ball, raising an incredible £50,000 for Weston Park Cancer Charity.

As a photographer, it was one of those events that truly remind you why capturing stories matters. With 300 guests, a stunning venue, and an atmosphere buzzing with purpose, it was a night to remember.

I’ve been working with Elevation Recruitment Group for the past few months on a range of projects, so when they reached out about photographing their first ever Manufacturing Charity Ball, I was thrilled.

The brief was clear but exciting: capture the story of the evening. They wanted candid moments, laughter, and all the little interactions that make an event memorable. They also wanted group portraits of the guests as they arrived, against their charity banner backdrop and gold arch balloon display.

With an event of this scale, I recommended bringing on a second photographer. There are a range of excellent photographers that I work closely with to meet the needs of every client. While the second photographer focused on the arrivals and group portraits, I covered the storytelling side. Moving through the venue, capturing the flow, energy, and emotion of the night as it unfolded.

Cutlers’ Hall is one of Sheffield’s most elegant venues with its beautiful chandeliers, grand staircase, and ceilings that soar sky-high. It’s a dream to photograph visually, but can be technically challenging, which is why hiring a professional photographer for this venue is invaluable.

To maintain the venue’s ambiance while ensuring every image was clean and crisp, we relied heavily on flash photography. It was all about balancing the drama of the venue lighting with the clarity of each shot. Staying adaptable and calm under pressure, no matter the lighting challenge, is what we do as professional photographers.

From the first arrivals to the closing dance party, the evening was full of life. Guests looked incredible in their evening wear, and the atmosphere was equal parts glamorous and joyful.

During arrival and welcoming cocktails, I shifted fully into storytelling mode, looking for moments of laughter and connection. The entertainment lineup included a saxaphonist, a member of Elevation Recruitment Group singing beautifully next to a piano, and a comedian who had the whole room laughing.

One of my favourite moments came during the charity auction. Photographing auctions is always a challenge as you never know who will raise their paddle, so you’re constantly scanning the room, ready to react. At one point, two guests began playfully “fighting” over a bid, with one trying to stop the other from bidding against them again. It was spontaneous, hilarious, and pure gold from a photographer’s point of view.

When the final gallery was delivered, the feedback was simple and perfect:

“Thanks as always, Elle.”
“The photos are brilliant.”

Hearing that from the client is always the best part of the job.

This evening was a reminder of what I love most about corporate and charity event photography: documenting people coming together for a purpose.

Capturing the Manufacturing Charity Ball was an absolute honour. It was a night of elegance, generosity, and heart, all in support of a cause that makes a real difference.

If your organisation is planning a corporate event, charity gala, or end-of-year celebration, I’d love to help you tell your story through photography.

Get in touch to discuss your next event.