For Danni Fairbairn, photography isn’t just about capturing moments — it’s about amplifying voices, celebrating stories, and spotlighting the beauty & integrity of women’s football.
What began as a curious hobby has blossomed into a creative journey that’s giving female footballers the recognition they deserve.
Danni’s journey into photography began at a young age, sparked by curiosity and a love of storytelling. Inspired by a YouTube creator who challenged himself to complete 10-minute photoshoots with athletes, she first picked up her family’s holiday camera — and something just clicked!
Her early experiences were rooted in community and connection. In 2019, her mum’s work with a charity offering football sessions for young adults with disabilities gave Danni her first chance to photograph sport. The reaction was immediate and heartfelt. “The participants always used to message to ask when my photos were ready or being shared,” she recalls. “It was so nice and showed me that my photography had an impact on them.”
At the time, football wasn’t her passion — but through the lens, it became one. A turning point came in 2023, when she attended her first West Ham Women’s home match against Everton Women. Tagging along with her mum and sister, both season ticket holders, Danni brought her camera along- Photographing the action from the stands sparked something new: a love for women’s football and the stories it held.
Since then, her journey has taken her far and wide — from West Ham Women and Billericay Town Women to Italy’s FC Como Women in Serie A, the 2024 Olympics in France, the Perth International Cup in Australia, and the World Sevens Football tournament in Portugal. Among her standout moments: photographing Belgium defender Amber Tysiak and Ireland midfielder Jess Ziu — an experience she describes as a real privilege.
But it was closer to home where her connection deepened. When her mum joined Charlton Athletic in the 2024/25 season as Women’s Operations and Player Support Manager for the CAFC Women’s 1st Team, Danni began photographing the players. “Through her, I was introduced to Caitlin Hollis, the Media, Marketing, and Communications Officer, who provided me with a media pass for match days and access to training sessions, along with valuable guidance and tips,” she says.
Volunteering her time and talent with Charlton has been both rewarding and purposeful. “It’s a great opportunity to enhance my photography skills in a dynamic and engaging environment,” Danni explains. “At the same time, I’m able to contribute by capturing and providing players with photos that highlight their dedication, teamwork, and achievements. Being involved in this way allows me to support the club community while continuing to grow.”
Her style is distinct — she doesn’t stand behind the goal like most photographers. Instead, she chooses to sit amongst the supporters, capturing the energy of the crowd and the emotion that connects players and fans. “This allows me to document the celebrations that are often directed towards the supporters,” she says. “After the final whistle, I usually wander around to capture more authentic moments from the stands.”
It’s those authentic, human moments that define Danni’s work. From the roar of a goal celebrations to the quiet joy of players greeting their families, her photography tells a deeper story of togetherness. One of her favourite photos perfectly captures that spirit: from Charlton’s final home game last season, when a player walked out with her grandad. “The contrast between the young athlete and her elderly grandad was such a sweet and unique moment,” Danni recalls. “It was his first time walking onto a football pitch — a really special memory for them both.”
Working so closely with the women’s game has opened Danni’s eyes to its dedication and heart. “The players and staff put in an incredible amount of work and commitment,” she says. “But the wider media still underrepresents women’s football. These players deserve much more recognition, not just at Charlton but across all women’s teams.”
Through her photography, Danni aims to change that — using her lens as a tool for visibility and empowerment. “Photography is a powerful way of storytelling because it captures a moment frozen in time,” she explains. “Through the photos I’ve taken at training and closed matches, supporters get a glimpse behind the scenes — an inside view they wouldn’t normally see.”
Volunteering with Charlton Athletic Women means more than just building a portfolio — it’s personal. “It means a lot because I get to do something I enjoy, capturing and providing photos for the players that they can share or keep as memories,” she says with a smile.
Looking ahead, Danni’s focus is on growth. “Right now, my main focus is on developing my skills and growing as a photographer,” she says. “I’m not entirely sure yet where I want to take my photography career, whether in sport or beyond, but I’m excited to keep learning and see where it leads.”
As for her dream moment? “Capturing Charlton Women winning the league and earning promotion to the WSL 1 would be unforgettable,” she says. “Especially documenting the celebrations shared with family and fans.”
Her advice for aspiring photographers is simple but powerful: “Share your photos and put your work out there. The more you share, the more you’ll grow, connect with people, get noticed — and you never know who it might reach.”
Through passion, purpose, and perseverance, Danni Fairbairn is doing more than taking photos — she’s helping to write the visual story of women’s football, one frame at a time.
Fans can see Danni's latest images, and keep up to date with her work on Instagram - @danni_fairbairn
Lets hope that Danni's 'dream moment' comes true, with the Addicks leading the charge to WSL1! COME ON YOU REDS!