We always see this guy running at pace with an expensive camera and all the gear, documenting crews and race days like it’s second nature. One day we should do a World’s Fastest Running Photographer project, seriously!
What I love is how he captures the essence of running - the personalities, the highs and the lows, the journey, the pain, joy, camaraderie, and everything in between. He’s captured and shot many of our crews, friends and the events we’ve worked on. It’s not about the finish line, it’s about what happens along the way. He’s got a super calm vibe and delivers with a smile, then he shoots off to capture something else. Always great to collab with.
How would you describe yourself, and what drives you?
I’m a photographer and storyteller driven by people, community, and emotion. I’m interested in the moments that often go unnoticed. The interactions, energy, and connections that exist around culture, sport and everyday life. A lot of my work focuses on documenting real experiences in an honest way. What drives me most is creating images that make people feel something and preserving moments that might otherwise disappear with time.
What pivotal moments have shaped your journey so far?
Running the London Marathon for the first time nearly a decade ago was a huge moment for me. At the time, I trained alone without any real community around me, and that experience shaped how I see resilience and perseverance.
More recently, combining running and photography through documenting London run communities has been another turning point. It made me realise how powerful storytelling can be when you’re fully immersed in the experience yourself rather than observing from the outside.
What is your relationship with Rosie Lee, Unorthodox Blend, and/or Mark & Russell?
I first met the team through Run Dem Crew. What started through running naturally grew into conversations around creativity, culture, and storytelling. I’ve always admired the way they bring people together in an authentic way and create spaces where individuality and community can exist side by side.
What does being unorthodox mean to you in your work?
It means trusting your own perspective even when it doesn’t fit the expected route. Some of the best work comes from approaching things differently, taking risks, and allowing personality and lived experience to shape what you create.
What beliefs have guided you through tough decisions?
Consistency and honesty. I’ve learned that growth rarely happens when things feel comfortable. You have to trust the process, stay patient, and keep showing up even when things aren’t moving as quickly as you’d like.
What challenge in your field of work is often overlooked?
The emotional side of creative work. People often only see the final image, but not the uncertainty, rejection, pressure, or self-doubt that can sit behind it. There’s also a constant pressure to stay visible and relevant while still trying to create meaningful work.
How do you balance creativity with structure / order with chaos?
I think structure creates the freedom to be creative. Discipline gives you the consistency needed to create opportunities, but you also have to leave room for spontaneity because some of the best moments happen unexpectedly.
What cultural shifts are you noticing in your field of work?
People are moving away from overly polished perfection and connecting more with authenticity and real stories. Communities are becoming more important than audiences, and storytelling feels more collaborative now rather than one-directional.
If you could master any skill instantly, what would it be?
Directing films. Photography already feels cinematic to me, so being able to combine visuals, sound, and storytelling on a larger scale would be incredible.
What’s one experience everyone should have at least once?
Running a marathon or taking on something physically challenging that scares you. Not necessarily for the achievement itself, but because it teaches you a lot about yourself mentally.
Inspirations
Shoe Dog
The story behind Nike and Phil Knight’s journey has always inspired me because it’s really about persistence, belief, and building something meaningful through uncertainty.
The Last Dance
Beyond basketball, it’s a story about obsession, pressure, teamwork, and legacy. The way it documents culture and emotion alongside sport is something I find incredibly inspiring visually.
Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick’s storytelling, attention to detail, and ability to communicate personal and cultural experiences through art constantly inspires me creatively. His work always feels layered and intentional.
What advice would you give to young people starting out in their career?
Start before you feel ready. A lot of people wait for permission, confidence, or the “perfect moment,” but growth comes through doing. Stay curious, stay consistent, and don’t underestimate the value of building genuine relationships with people.
How can people connect with you, get involved or take part in any of the projects you’ve highlighted above?
The best way is through Instagram, LinkedIn, and by following the projects I’m currently documenting around running, culture, and community storytelling. I’m always interested in collaborating with people and communities doing meaningful things.
Bonus Question
“What’s something you had to unlearn in order to become the person you are today?”
Instagram: www.instagram.com/simonrphoto
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/simon-roberts-85b3444a
Website: www.simonrphotography.com