Published on Tue May 7, 2019 by David J Colbran
London, UK. 27th April 2019. Extinction Rebellion Cyclists 'Swarm' Central London to Protest Insect Death
Extinction Rebellion Cyclists 'Swarm' Central London to Protest Insect Death - Extinction Rebellion demonstrators held a "Critical Mass" cycling event around London and a die-in at the Tate Modern on April 27 2019 to protest against the deaths of insects, mainly bees, due to climate change, according to participants.
I caught up with some of the climate protesters in London recently - it was towards the end of two weeks of direct action across the capital. This was of particular interest to me, as I used to participate in Critical Mass rides evey month when I lived in London and commuted by bike in to central London.
Critical Mass is a cycling event typically held on the last Friday of every month; its purpose is not usually formalized beyond the direct action of meeting at a set location and time and traveling as a group through city or town streets on bikes.
The event originated in 1992 in San Francisco; by the end of 2003, the event was being held in over 300 cities around the world.
Critical Mass has been described as "monthly political-protest rides", and characterized as being part of a social movement. It has been described as a "monthly protest by cyclists reclaiming the streets." Participants have insisted that these events should be viewed as "celebrations" and spontaneous gatherings, and not as protests or organized demonstrations. This stance allows Critical Mass to argue a legal position that its events can occur without advance notification of local police.
Images below are available to licence - please email me before any use.
Author: David J Colbran
Out and about on location for another busy day completing a commercial photography project. This time the end client was Adidas and as one of the main sponsors of the Manchester Marathon 2025, they needed coverage of their brand presence in and around the event.
In the last few months, my camera has captured the energy, elegance, and essence of numerous events, from corporate gatherings to public relations campaigns, each presenting its unique challenges and opportunities. Here’s a look at some of my recent projects and how I’ve approached capturing these moments through my lens.
Currently available to take on commissions for events, PR and celebrations at the Grand National meeting in Aintree 3rd to 5th April - get in touch ASAP - it is a very busy time for me and I get booked up quickly
"As a new business, it was very important to me to get the right publicity photographs for my marketing materials. When I met David, he listened carefully to what I was trying to achieve with my brand, and then produced fabulous photographs that were exactly what I needed. He was extremely professional throughout but also nice and friendly. Myself and my clients found it easy to relax with him, which was essential to create the right vibe for the shoot. I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone."