Have You Heard? #7: Eljay Briss

This week, Bristol-based photographer and long term Bristol Beacon collaborator Eljay Briss, who specialises in music, events and portraiture, shares some of his personal highlights, the importance of the connection between the artist and audience in a live setting and a selection of his favourite photos from this year.

As a self-taught photographer, Eljay’s imagery works as a reflection of his own identity and experiences. Born in Bristol and of Jamaican descent through Windrush generation lineage, his creativity is rooted in foundations of Black Bristol inner city upbringing; culture, food, music and community.

What can you tell us about your work and your connection to Bristol Beacon?

Photography is my way of expression away from the madness. As a kid I was really into Manga art and Anime productions like Dragon Ball Z, Akira, Ghost in the Shell, etc., so I got into sketching with pencil. The same shading techniques I used back then unconsciously made their way into my image edits when I was forming a style.

I was contacted by Beacon after my images caught the attention of a staff member. I’ve been shooting for them ever since, and they were one of the first organisations to give me an opportunity.

What can you tell us about some of your highlights from this year?

My highlights this year have been shooting at Glastonbury, Boomtown, London O2 shooting the Rye Lane movie Premiere, fashion brands like Linda Farrow and also talking on a panel at Abbey Road Studios about my photography – that was a milestone for my career.

Artist-wise, I got to tick Travis Scott, Erykah Badu, 50 Cent and Wizkid off my bucket list which was dope. My biggest personal moment was shooting at the O2 London which was surreal, moments like this I have to give thanks and remember how far I’ve come from a dream.

What makes a stand-out performance for you?

Connecting with the audience. I always tell artists, people will always remember how something made them feel. So focus on those moments, be it flames, fireworks, a crazy showstopper, captivating energy or intimate moments with individuals in the crowd.

I love witnessing the reactions in these moments and this is what I focus on in my images because it’s just as impactful in pictures. Artists that come to mind would be Travis Scott, who’s stage presence and energy is second to none.

Central Cee had his boys come onto stage on push bikes throwing T-Shirts into the crowd, Asake came onto the stage with a DIY flamethrower (!!!), Erykah Badu was 30 minutes late to the stage, but her energy was so captivating that she was instantly forgiven.

It’s moments like these that stick in people’s minds.