One year ago, I launched my YouTube channel, DaysDayOut, not knowing just how much it would grow in such a short time. Now, with almost 900 subscribers and more than 100 local riders in the Instagram group, the community around these 125cc (and increasingly bigger) bike ride-outs has become something truly special. What better way to mark this milestone than by recreating one of my very first videos; the graffiti tunnel photoshoot in Newton Abbot?
A Look Back: The Graffiti Tunnel Ride
In my original video, I explored a set of graffiti-covered tunnels beneath the South Devon Expressway. It was a fun, but complex shoot, but it had an atmosphere that stuck with me. The artwork, the urban grit, and the moody lighting made for a great location. So, to celebrate DaysDayOut’s first anniversary, I wanted to revisit the tunnels and recreate that photoshoot, pushing the creative limits further than before.
The Photos
The first two photos show you what it looked like without and with my lighting. I think you’ll agree, the lighting really makes the bike and scene pop!
The Ride: Seven Bikes, Two Weekends
Once again, I wasn’t alone. Over two weekends, I was joined by seven other riders, each bringing their unique style and bikes into the mix. The lineup included a mix of 125cc bikes and a couple of larger ones, something that’s becoming more common on my ride-outs as the community grows.
We took a spirited ride out to the tunnels, enjoying a stunning sunset along the way! Upon arrival, we parked up and got ready for what turned out to be one of my favourite shoots to date.
The Photography Setup: Taking It to the Next Level
Just like my first visit, I came prepared to make these shots pop.
Camera Gear:
- Sony A7IV with the 85mm f/2.8 lens
- Sony A9 with the 90mm f/2.8 macro lens
Lighting Setup:
- Two Godox V1 speedlights, gelled red and blue, positioned behind the bikes to add a dramatic glow to the tunnels and enhance the graffiti.
- Godox AD200 in a softbox with a grid, placed in front to illuminate the bikes and riders with controlled, natural-looking light.
The difference this setup made was insane. The before shots, taken with just available light, looked flat and lifeless in comparison. But with the added flashes, the whole scene transformed, the bikes stood out, the riders had a cinematic glow, and the graffiti practically jumped off the walls.
The Results: A Game Changer for Bike Photography
Trust me when I say the difference is night and day. The lighting turned an otherwise dull tunnel into a high-energy, cyberpunk-style backdrop.
If you’re into bike photography or just creative lighting in general, this kind of setup is a must try. It proves that even the most unassuming locations can become something truly spectacular with the right approach.
Growing the DaysDayOut Community
Beyond the technical side of things, this whole shoot really highlighted how much DaysDayOut has evolved over the past year. What started as a small personal project has grown into a tight-knit group of local riders who come together for epic ride-outs and creative content. The Instagram group is buzzing with activity, and every ride-out brings new faces into the fold.
The channel isn’t just about me anymore, it’s about all of us. The friendships, the pranks (yes, the kill-switch wars continue), and the shared passion for two wheels make every ride more than just a vlog. It’s a story, a memory, a moment worth capturing.
What’s Next?
With one year down, I’m already thinking about what’s next. Bigger rides? More cinematic videos? A full-on DaysDayOut event? Who knows! But if the past year has taught me anything, it’s that this journey is only just getting started.
If you’ve been following along, riding with us, or just enjoying the content, thank you! Your support has made this channel what it is today. And if you’re new here, now’s the perfect time to hop on and join the adventure.
