Steve Bacon, the beloved and iconic photographer for West Ham United and the Newham Recorder, has sadly passed away on November 8, 2024, leaving a profound legacy in British sports photography and a void in the hearts of those who knew him. Known affectionately by fans and colleagues as “Stevie Bacon,” he was a familiar presence at West Ham matches, capturing some of the most unforgettable moments in the club’s history. His death marks the end of an era for West Ham fans and the East London community that cherished his work.
Early Years and Career with the Newham Recorder
Steve Bacon’s career began with a deep passion for photography, which blossomed into a profession that earned him recognition across the UK. He first joined the Newham Recorder, East London’s popular local newspaper, where he covered not only news and local events but also football—a love that would define his career. Steve’s unparalleled eye for capturing the spirit and energy of the game quickly made him the go-to photographer for West Ham United coverage, and he became synonymous with the team itself.
Following West Ham’s 1980 FA Cup victory, a momentous event that saw the team lift the trophy after defeating Arsenal, Steve’s fame grew immensely. His lens captured the unfiltered joy of the players, staff, and supporters, solidifying his position as more than just a press photographer but a true artist who had a special connection with the game and its audience. His iconic shots of the team, such as the players’ celebrations at Upton Park, became historical records cherished by fans and the club alike.
A Deeply Personal Relationship with West Ham United
Over more than three decades, Steve became a beloved figure at West Ham. His connection with the club was deeper than a professional arrangement; he was a friend, fan, and an essential part of the West Ham community. Steve’s work didn’t just depict moments in the game but encapsulated the very essence of the club and its fans. For him, West Ham wasn’t merely a subject; it was family.
Steve’s book There’s Only One Stevie Bacon celebrated this unique bond. The book was more than a photo album; it was a vivid testament to his life with the club, sharing humorous anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories that only someone as deeply connected to West Ham could tell. Another book, Hammers in Focus, continued this legacy, capturing images from decades of West Ham’s ups and downs, wins and losses, but always with the passion and pride that made the Hammers a legendary team.
Contributions Beyond Photography
Steve’s contribution to the football community extended far beyond his photographic work. He inspired generations of fans, photographers, and aspiring journalists. For years, he was a mentor and friend to younger photographers, offering advice, insights, and a healthy dose of humor. His unwavering loyalty and dedication made him not just a chronicler of the game but an integral part of the story of West Ham United itself.
Through thousands of photographs and countless hours on the sidelines, Steve’s work fostered a deep respect from fans, players, and even rival teams. Known for his gentle demeanor and sharp wit, Steve had a unique ability to make players feel at ease, even in the heat of a match. He knew the players, their families, and often the personal stories behind their careers, which allowed him to capture not just images but emotions. His skill in photography and his heart for the people he photographed earned him a revered status in the world of sports photography.
A Lasting Legacy
Steve’s passing has left the West Ham United community, his colleagues, friends, and family in deep sorrow. Social media flooded with tributes from fans, players, and former colleagues who shared their favorite memories of Steve’s humor, kindness, and dedication to his craft. Fans on Twitter and Facebook recalled meeting him at games, his cheerful greetings, and his readiness to share stories about the club.
Beyond the realms of football and East London, Steve’s influence on the photography industry has been profound. His works are not only reminders of significant sports events but also of a style and era that focused on capturing real moments. His career as a freelance photographer at Upton Park—a position he dedicated himself to after transitioning from the Newham Recorder—allowed him to document the evolution of West Ham United and English football over a crucial period in the sport’s history.
Steve’s contributions are celebrated and preserved through his published works and his countless images that adorn fan collections, sports archives, and stadium walls. His work will remain a cornerstone of West Ham’s visual history, immortalizing moments that shaped the club and the lives of its fans.
Family and Friends’ Reflections
In their grief, Steve’s family expressed how proud they were of his achievements, sharing that Steve had always seen photography as more than a profession; it was a way to connect with people and tell stories that would last beyond his lifetime. Friends recalled his deep love for family, loyalty to friends, and the kindness he showed to everyone he met.
To his colleagues, Steve was more than a photographer. He was a cherished friend and a mentor who had an immeasurable impact on their lives and careers. One former colleague recalled, “Steve always had a way of finding lightness and joy, even in the most intense moments. He taught us that capturing the essence of a moment requires more than skill; it requires heart.”
As the East London community mourns, the profound legacy Steve Bacon leaves behind will continue to inspire and bring joy to those who view his photographs. His family plans to release information on his obituary and funeral arrangements soon, allowing those who loved and admired him to pay their respects.
Honoring a Legend
The impact of Steve Bacon’s life and career is immeasurable, with tributes pouring in from sports fans, photographers, and friends across the world. His work—often the defining images of memorable moments in West Ham’s history—will live on as a testament to his talent, passion, and connection with the game he loved.
Though his passing leaves a profound void, Steve Bacon’s legacy will continue to be celebrated by the fans, players, and friends who knew him best. His memory will remain a cherished part of West Ham United’s history, as his photographs continue to tell the story of a community united in their love for the game.
