Behind the Lens at Essex Roller Derby: Sports Event Photography in Chelmsford
Riverside Leisure Centre, Victoria Road, Chelmsford
Having heard a lot about Roller Derby from my colleague Steph, I finally took her up on the offer to photograph one of Essex Roller Derby‘s 5 Nations home games in Chelmsford. Being based in Leigh-on-Sea, the journey wasn’t too bad and took around 45 minutes on what turned out to be a stunning sunny day (as a photographer I had my fingers crossed for some natural light in the venue). I arrived not really knowing what to expect, armed with my Canon DSLR’s, a couple of prime lenses, a trusty telephoto, and a vague understanding of the rules courtesy of a crash course on YouTube.
A Warm Welcome and a Wild First Impression
Once at Chelmsford’s Riverside Leisure Centre, I was warmly welcomed by the Essex Roller Derby team, with Jade stepping in as my guide for the day. After speaking to a few of the crowd the enthusiasm of the supporters was clear, meanwhile the teams were gearing up, and a sea of referees in stripes patrolled the track. It felt a little overwhelming at first, stepping into a high-octane subculture I didn’t yet fully understand.
Figuring Out the Track (and the Rules)
Thankfully, another photographer (Ben I owe you a pint!) gave me some much-needed tips on when it was safe to move around. That meant I could position myself inside the track boundary, or “the danger zone” as I kept calling it in my head, to get up close to the action.
From what I managed to absorb on the day, roller derby is a chaotic and beautiful blend of speed, strategy, and sheer willpower. Each team has a player called a ‘jammer’ (they’re the ones with the star on their helmet) who scores points by lapping members of the opposing team. While they charge ahead, their teammates work hard to block the opposing jammer while helping their own break through. It’s a bit like bulldog on wheels, but with a rulebook and a battalion of referees.
Not Just an Event, A Whole New Perspective
As an event photographer primarily known for a candid, reportage-style approach, I’m not typically associated with sports photography, but this experience might just change that. I genuinely enjoyed the challenge and the energy, and it’s something I’d definitely like to do more of.
Over two matches, I photographed Game 1: Herts Roller Derby vs Oxford Roller Derby, followed by Game 2: Essex Roller Derby vs Big Bucks High Rollers. It was non-stop movement, tactical blocking, and dramatic wipe-outs (all in good spirits). The players’ expressions told a thousand stories, grit, joy, determination, and in some cases, glitter.
Editing, Sharing and That Feel-Good Moment
Back in Leigh-on-Sea, I couldn’t wait to dive into the edits. I filtered through the action shots, bench banter, and those glorious post-game hugs, picking out my favourites to share with the team. Seeing players and fans from all teams sharing the images on social media was a proper feel-good moment. It means a lot when your work resonates with people who live and breathe the sport.
Why You Should Go (and Why I’ll Be Back)
If you’ve never been to a roller derby game before, I can’t recommend it enough. Whether you’re a fellow sports photography enthusiast, someone looking for a new weekend thrill, or just in it for the snacks and team spirit, it’s an incredible day out. Essex Roller Derby were not only fierce on the track but also some of the friendliest people I’ve worked with.
I’ll likely be back for the Halloween Double Header on 25th October, and hopefully with an even better eye for catching the best moments. If you’re looking for an event photographer in Essex, Chelmsford or Leigh-on-Sea, whether it’s sports, community events or beyond, I’d love to be part of your story.
Until next time, keep rolling.
All photos by Jonathan Owen – Event and Sports Photographer based in Leigh-on-Sea.
