2015 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras

While on assignment in Sydney covering a Cricket World Cup match, I had the chance to shoot the famous Mardi-Gras. An error of judgement on my part meant I missed the chance to get into my media bay on time. I ran the risk of being run over by the float aptly named ‘Dykes on Bikes’ so chose to photograph amongst the punters. With people towering over one another to get a brief glimpse i had no chance of getting any viewing let alone footage. Consequently I missed the chance to shoot the actual parade which was a shame. However, I did get the chance to shoot some of the pre-parade preparations in the marshalling area. I found shooting here far more interesting as it allowed for more candid shots as participants got ‘glittered up’ before the big parade.

A few of my selects below.

Participants have a chat before the start of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade. The Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras is amongst the worlds most spectacular celebrations of LGBTQ pride and diversity. Photo Asanka Brendon Ratnayake

A group of topless men covered in glitter get ready before the start of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade. The Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras is amongst the worlds most spectacular celebrations of LGBTQ pride and diversity. Photo Asanka Brendon Ratnayake

A participant dressed in drag orders something to eat from a food truck during the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade. The Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras is amongst the worlds most spectacular celebrations of LGBTQ pride and diversity. Photo Asanka Brendon Ratnayake

A group of men in golden G-strings before the start of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade. The Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras is amongst the worlds most spectacular celebrations of LGBTQ pride and diversity. Photo Asanka Brendon Ratnayake

A group of men drapped in shiny gold & silver outfits during the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade. The Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras is amongst the worlds most spectacular celebrations of LGBTQ pride and diversity. Photo Asanka Brendon Ratnayake

A man takes a photo of a group of friends dressed in Leather chaps during the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade. Photo Asanka Brendon Ratnayake

Spectators using a Selfie stick take a photo in front of a mime in a mask outside a Adult Shop during the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade. Photo Asanka Brendon Ratnayake

Silhouttes of spectators viewing hte parade from an apartment building on Oxford street during the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade. Photo Asanka Brendon Ratnayake

Men in drag outside the famous gay bar/nightclub ‘The Colombian Hotel’ during the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade. . Photo Asanka Brendon Ratnayake