Behind the Lens: Airwallex x McLaren F1, Melbourne Grand Prix 2025
Some events are once-in-a-career opportunities. Photographing Airwallex's "Shifted Perspectives" activation at Canvas House during Melbourne's 2025 Formula 1 Grand Prix week was one of them.
The event
Airwallex, an official partner of the McLaren Formula 1 Team, brought together Australian F1 driver Oscar Piastri and acclaimed Kamilaroi artist Reko Rennie to unveil a custom McLaren Artura supercar — its design built around Rennie's Indigenous artwork and diamond motifs, paying homage to his heritage. Over 200 guests attended the unveiling and fireside chat, timed to coincide with Grand Prix week in Piastri's home city.
Why this kind of event is different
A brand activation at this level moves fast and has no second takes. The unveiling itself happens once. A fireside chat has genuine, unscripted moments that won't be repeated. Capturing an event like this means anticipating the room — knowing where the car, the driver, and the artist will be positioned, and being ready before the moment happens, not reacting after it's gone.
High stakes, high visibility
Campaigns like this generate content used well beyond the night itself — press coverage, brand marketing, social media, and internal reporting for a global company. The photography needs to hold up at that level: clean, on-brand, and ready to represent the partnership in the best possible light.
GAZi brings 25+ years of Melbourne event experience to campaigns like this — from major brand activations to conferences, gala dinners, and everything between. Get in touch to discuss photography for your next event.
