Photographers Boutique

We have moved to http://www.photographersboutique.co.uk

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 09:33:00 +0000

Yes the rumours are true... we've had a facelift and can now be found here:

Http://www.photographersboutique.co.uk

Please stop by and say hello...we're getting a little lonely over there!

How to shoot in low light

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 12:58:00 +0000

I’ve always been uncomfortable with low-light situations, to the point of becoming obsessed with natural light. There are also lots of times (especially during wedding photography) where is is impossible to use your flash, or if like me that you just don’t like the look that flash lit photos give.

Here are a few tips to make the most of the light, and avoid blurry or really grainy photos.

Lenses

Investing in good lenses is, in my humble opinion, one of the most important things you can do. The lower the f-stop on your lens, the more light it will allow into your camera and therefore it will allow you to use a faster shutter speed and then will help you avoid blurry photos. When you’re first starting out you tend to use the kit lenses which will be around f/5.6 and though perfectly adequate when you’re just learning, wont help much in a dark church! I use canon lenses and started off with the kit lenses, progressed to the 50mm f/1.8 and then upgraded to the 50mm f/1.4. I’ve now got my eye on the 50mm f/1.2 (though might need to save my pennies for just a little while longer!). I also use a 17-35mm f/2.8 and a 70-200mm f/2.8 and they’re invaluable when it comes to low light situations, as having just a few extra f/stops makes a huge difference.

ISO

Don’t forget your can also raise your ISO to make your camera more sensitive to the light. The only problem with higher ISO is that you might experience a bit of noise in your photos (or speckledy bits) which is fine if you’re after an atmospheric black and white but could be quite distracting in the photo. Full-frame DSLR’s like the 5D Mark II and III are capable of raising the ISO without creating too much noise, however if you have a crop-sensor camera you’ll see much more noise.

Tripod/Monopod

Using a tripod of monopod will help you keep your camera still and will allow you to use a slower shutter speed. The only problem is that moving them around isn’t always practical, so look for other ways of steadying your camera.

Post-Processing

If all else fails, there are ways of using Photoshop or Lightroom’s for noise reduction can be helpful if you find that your photos have a lot of noise from using a high ISO. Try shooting in RAW, rather than JPEG, when you are in low-light situations, as this will give you more control in your post-processing. Be careful not to make your photo’s look over processed.

{Maryanne Scott, owner and Photographer for Maryanne Scott Photography, wedding photographer in Yorkshire. Portrait & kids photography covering the Yorkshire region. Published cookbook author, married to Andrew, loves chocolate, mayonnaise and red wine (but not all at the same time). }

Bright light, low light, No light - Diary of a (newish) Wedding Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 11:51:00 +0000

Ok, so its been a while since my last “Diary of a (newish) wedding photographer” but I thought I would start on the next wedding that I did after this one, in May 2012.

The wedding was a traditional church ceremony followed by a reception at a sports club. The couple were lovely, down to earth and I wasn’t expecting any surprises. They weren’t being fussy over what photo’s they wanted and in fact they weren’t even bothered about meeting me before the day (though I have photographed them before so I did know them).

So the big day arrived and it was bright and sunny: perfect! I suffered the usual nerves as I drove over to the brides house but unfortunately no-one told my tom tom that I needed it to behave today and it refused to find their house. So after countless laps of their neighbourhood (where every house looked the same) I had to resort to Google on my phone. By this point I was starting to panic (imagine I’m red faced and sweating - very attractive) as I had to be at the house for a certain time to accompany the bride to the hairdressers, luckily with just minutes to spare I spotted it. Panic over.

The hairdressers was fine, you know how it is, the usual battle between low lighting and an ugly backdrop (though isn’t that why black and white was invented??), then on to make-up and finally back to the brides house. I often look at wedding blogs and wonder where on earth some photographers find their clients, because generally speaking most people don’t live in huge mansions with beautiful rooms that are a pleasure to photograph. So there we were in their house and again the battle of lighting commences... I really don’t like using flash, unless it’s the reception, so I spend the time moving the bride & bridesmaid around the room to get the best light. I think they were as exhausted as I was and it was only 12.30.

And then suddenly it was time to get to the church to photograph the groom and it amazes me every time how quickly the day goes. Again, no surprises yet , the groom and his friends posed for a few images, I get a couple of shots of the church, and then horror of horrors the sun comes out. Right onto the front of the church. And because everyone expects photo’s outside the front door, here come the squinty eyes and uncomfortable smiles. I just pray that by the time they come out after the ceremony that it’s a bit dull... and I guess this is down to experience and I know everyone wants sunshine at their wedding and I should be grateful it isn’t raining.

The church was beautiful, but again very dark and lit with candles. The vicar asked that I didn’t use flash (which I had already assumed would be the case), and that I kept out of the way in a corner. All well so far. The bride arrives at church, the ceremony takes place & it was pretty much perfect. However no relaxing just yet...in the back of my mind I’m preparing myself for the formal photos outside the church...I don’t enjoy the formal photos.

As we leave the church, I start to arrange the guests and family into some sort of semblance of order, when someone announces that the bus to take everyone to the pub has arrived. So after a couple of squinty photos of the guests everyone hastily departs. And I mean everyone. Unfortunately they had forgotten to tell me that we’d be going to a local pub before the reception, so I quickly grabbed one of the guests who was planning on walking there and offered them a lift. Sometimes no matter how prepared I am (I have a pre-wedding questionnaire and speak to them to get a good idea of the timeline) I feel like I’m chasing my shadow...

So I get to the pub and everyone heads for the bar. It’s a beautiful quaint little pub, all dark beams and little candlelit nooks. Finally I bring out my flash and do my rounds. We pause for half an hour to get some shots of the bride & groom on their own out in the grounds of the pub, but they ask for the formal photos to be done later on at the reception. I’m conscious of the light fading, I just hope there’s time to get the photos at the reception without flash.

So we head off for the reception. And would you believe it – the tom tom doesn’t even recognise the postcode., FFS, time to stick to that Vintage bus like glue.

The sports club is set up for a disco and music blares out invitingly and as I arrive I’m met by the clubs own photographer. Do I mind if he gets a few shots just for the venue? No of course not, by this point in the day as long as he doesn’t get in my way he could do the birdie dance too and I wouldn’t care. So after the obligatory camera gear discussions, you know the ones...”what camera do you use, which lens, are you full time???” I finally get to do some photos...and finally get the formal shots. Unfortunately by this point everyone is a little worse for wear, so I get it done quickly.

I’m starting to flag a little now, its just gone 6.30pm and I haven’t eaten properly all day and could really do with a cuppa. The speech’s and meal fly by and we’re at the first dance. I’m always conscious during the reception that people might be sick of me by then, always in their faces taking photos. But I suppose its better to feel the wrath of a couple of moaning guests (which has only happened a couple of times) than miss some of those unplanned moments which make great photos.

And finally its 8.30 and its time to go home. Time for a glass or two of wine, obviously after I’ve downloaded the photos (and resisted starting to edit them straight away...)

I think the thing I’m learning is that being prepared is important, but being flexible and calm is probably more important.

I'm writing these posts, not to moan about photography or any clients, but because I honest love doing it and have learnt so much each time something unexpected has happened. I'm just hoping that someone new to wedding photography might learn something about what to expect.

I'D LOVE TO HEAR YOUR EARLY EXPERIENCE IN WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY - PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT

Ava Inspired - Photography Props

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 19:09:00 +0000

This weeks highlighted Photography Prop's come from Ava Inspired by Claire Bradley.

I came across Claire recently when I did a Photoshoot with her family, here are a couple of photo's of her gorgeous knit wear:

If you'd like your Photography Props to be featured just get in touch!

{Maryanne Scott, owner and Photographer for Maryanne Scott Photography, wedding photographer in Yorkshire. Portrait & kids photography covering the Yorkshire region. Published cookbook author, married to Andrew, loves chocolate, mayonnaise and red wine (but not all at the same time). }

Interview with Antonina Mamzenko

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 17:29:00 +0000

So here it is... the first interview of 2013!

1. Will you start by telling us where you work and live and the type of photography you do?
I’m a lifestyle family photographer and I photograph babies, families and bumps. My style is really unobtrusive and even documentary in a way. I strive to capture genuine emotions and unposed moments just through allowing people to be themselves.

I live in a tiny house in Surrey, UK and work on location, travelling to places near to where my clients live, pretty much anywhere in London, Surrey and sometimes even further afield.

2. What inspires you as a photographer?

Capturing people the way they really are, creating a snapshot of their love and happiness – something they can look at on a bad day and remember everything that’s great about their family. Although my dad was very much into photography when I was growing up, we didn’t really have beautiful photographs of our family spending time together. I think I always had it at the back of my mind and that’s what I want to give my clients.

3. How long have been a photographer?

I’ve been photographing people for the last 5 years, slowly discovering my own style and things that move me.

4. When you’re not photographing, where can we find you?

On Facebook, haha! Browsing the internet or reading a book. I also love travelling but since I had a baby 2 years ago I haven’t been able to do it as much as I’d love to. Slowly getting back into it though!

5. Any books that inspired you {or helped you} in your business?

The book that kick-started my business was “Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway” by Susan Jeffers. I was too scared to admit (even to myself) that photography and running my own business on my own terms is actually what I’d like to do, and reading this book helped me to gather up courage and just do it!

6. Best marketing idea?

For me – a great online presence. A website and a blog that looks professional and showcases you and your images in the best light is something I wouldn’t be able to get my first clients without.

7. Worst marketing idea?

Giving away free photography sessions hoping to get some good clients. Doesn’t work. I did it once when I first started and told myself “never again”. I now only do it when I want to try something new for me, and add to my portfolio, and I don’t expect to find paying clients this way. Also print advertising. Unless you have a budget to advertise every month, in a number of magazines - don’t do it.

8. Do you have a studio and if not do you feel having a studio would help your business grow?

I was working out of my bedroom for the most of the first couple of years, and now I’m working out of a tiny study so I can get organised and have space for all the stuff that I’ve got (and I’m slowly running out of space!), but I don’t have a studio as such. I would love to though, but it’d have to be a pretty large space with a lot of natural light – somewhere I could take my clients to when the weather isn’t that great, or when it’s cold outside. I think it would definitely help.... Maybe in about 5 years time, something to aspire to!

9. What do you think makes a photographer successful?

It’s a tough one. I’d love to say “talent” but the truth is that sadly talent has very little to do with a professional success. Business brain is what will make you successful, although a little bit of talent will definitely help along the way.

10. What’s your weakness in this business?

Procrastination!

11. Are you a Nikon or Canon? and which model?

Canon, but for no other reason than it being my very first camera, so I bought a number of lenses over the years and switching to something else is a bit of a pain! I shoot with a 5D Mark II and it’s a brilliant camera.

12. and Lens?

I shoot with 50mm f1.4, 24-70mm f2.8 and 70-200mm f2.8 L. The 50mm prime is my current favourite and a 85mm lens is currently on my wish list.

13. If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?

I’ve already been so many things it’s hard to choose :) I’m actually a trained lawyer and after that I changed my career to being in marketing and design, as I needed a creative outlet law couldn’t give me. So I think I’d stick to being in marketing if I didn’t have the guts to be a photographer.

14. Can you give the readers your best piece of advice for starting or running a photography business.

Get your business ducks in a row, figure out what it costs you to actually run the business and price to make a profit. Don’t spend a lot of money on the latest gear, samples you won’t need, and all the fancy design templates. Just do it slowly and more importantly, do it your way. There are no rights and wrongs in this business, there’s only what’s right for you and your clients.

15. Tell us your proudest moment of your career?

Genuinely... being booked again and again by the same families, and seeing how comfortable they are with me, it really makes it all worth it.

Here is where you can find Antonina:

Twitter https://twitter.com/antoninam
Facebook www.facebook.com/LondonFamilyPhotographer
Website: http://www.mamzenko.com/
Blog: http://www.mamzenko.com/blog/

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Be Photography Workshops

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 09:40:00 +0000

I came across this website recently and thought it was definitely worth a mention - Be Photography Workshop's - I love a good training course but its difficult to find ones that suit my own style of photography (or what I want it to be at any rate) they tend to be quite old fashioned and traditional! So when I found out it was being run by two local (Yorkshire) photographers I thought I should share it.

The course is being run by Jaye (Tux & Tales Photography) and Shelley (Toast of Leeds) so it is bound to be something quite special. I've actually featured both photographers on here if you'd like to read more about them...

Interview with Tux & Tales Photography
Interview with Toast of Leeds

Anyway I "borrowed" the following extract from their site. If you go on the course get in touch as I'd love to put a review on here.

Two days guaranteed to Be. full of awesome!

We are offering two days full of awesome….. so you can choose to book one day or both depending on what strikes your fancy.

Want an opportunity to stretch your creative photography muscles? Day one is for you!
Want to learn how to make your business a lean, mean machine? Day two is for you?
Want it all? Then book both days together to get a fabulous break on the price and maximize your experience!

Day 1 -
A hands-on creative photography shoot in two parts. We will work with you one on one through two different fully styled wedding shoots.
Shoot one - taught by Jaye – will focus on client interaction. How to pose and work with clients so you can illicit natural, stunning photographs that reflect your client’s style as well as your creativity! This is an outdoor all-weather styled shoot and we will discuss how to work with the available light and weather conditions of the day.
Shoot two - taught by Shelly – will focus on the challenges of low light photography -set in the gorgeous (but dimly lit!) East Riddlesden Barn. We will discuss the common challenges of shooting in churches and other popular low-light venues and teach you how to bend the light to work for you instead of against you.
Delegates will be put into groups no greater than 10 and work with one instructor at a time on a rota basis – ensuring that you will get maximum individual shooting time as well as plenty of one on one instruction.

Day 2 -
An in depth look at how to run your business efficiently leaving plenty of time for both home life and work life!

How to set and manage client expectations
How to manage and maintain a workflow which gives you the time to love your job
Internet marketing & SEO basics
Tips and tricks to help you find the right suppliers
Branding and Blogging – hosted by the lovely Kelly from the Boho Wedding Blog

You will leave with a wealth of information at your fingertips so you are supercharged to make your business awesome in 2013
Cost
You may attend each day individually (£200 per day) or both days together for a reduced price (£350)
EARLY BIRD SPECIAL! Book before the 31st of January 2013 and get £50 off when you book the full two day course!

Happy New Year

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 16:40:00 +0000

You might have noticed that I haven’t been around much since last March. Well, following on from my last post (Confessions of a new(ish) wedding photographer), it was my first full year of weddings (on top of my usual portrait shoots) and it all just got a bit too much!

Anyway things seem to have settled down a little now so I’m working on blogging regularly. So starting from tomorrow there will be more “Confessions” followed by some more interviews with great UK photographers. There will be more packaging ideas, I’ll be unveiling a new look to the blog and of course some more great advise from guest bloggers.

If you would like to be featured then just get in touch. I’m looking for wedding photographers this month & next!

{Maryanne Scott, owner and Photographer for Maryanne Scott Photography, wedding photographer in Yorkshire. Portrait & kids photography covering the Yorkshire region. Published cookbook author, married to Andrew, loves chocolate, mayonnaise and red wine (but not all at the same time). }

Religion, Torrential Rain & Auntie Bob

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 14:46:00 +0000

Here's the first instalment of Diary of a {newish} wedding photographer

Last Saturday I did my first wedding of the season. I’m relatively new to wedding photography (only done 5 weddings), so I’m still struck by nerves and I still freak out over the organisation & formal photos.

In principal I know what I’m doing; I’ve been “doing” photography for the last 4 years, I’m comfortable with my equipment, I know my style and I’m good with people. But I don’t think there is anything that can prepare you for the stress of wedding photography. I’m fully aware that these photos will mean so much to the bride and groom, and that to mess up on them is completely out of the question –so I prepare to the point of obsession.

So anyway back to the day. I arrived nice and early (with butterflies) at the grooms house. I took the obligatory photos, we had a bit of a laugh & generally I eased myself into it. The torrential rain cleared up and we managed to get outside (which was a good job as I had left my wedding umbrella at home – arghh) . All good so far.

Next I had to get myself to the ceremony – never underestimate the journey over to the venue. I always allow extra time, but even that didn’t prepare me for the disastrous traffic. So with maybe 10 minutes to spare I arrived at the location for the ceremony and yet again the heavens opened. It was just going to be one of those days...

Its at this point that I have to point out that although I was brought up catholic, I’m not particularly religious. All the weddings I have done so far have been either non-religious, church of England or catholic. And so I made my first mistake. The bride & groom were Jehovah Witnesses. I knew this in advance, I had taken the time to try and find out what to expect. Little did I know that the chain I wear round my neck would cause offence, leading to the gentleman leading the ceremony asking me to remove the offending cross. OMG – I was so embarrassed.

Then within about 2 minutes a lady approached me to tell me that she was an “ex” photographer and started to quiz me about what I was planning on doing, my equipment etc... my heart sank. Not only did I feel my usual nerves, I was also now expected to perform! I just hoped that this would be the last I would hear from her.

And yes you guessed it. Just as I started rounding up family for the formal photos, she popped up again. Was I really going to do that? Why wasn’t I doing this? When she last did weddings at this venue she did X Y & Z. It took all my strength to remain polite. I don’t enjoy formal photos, I’m not a naturally bossy person & I don’t do shouting – possibly a recipe for a disaster at a wedding, but it works for me. So I got on with it, spoke to the bride and ignored this lady. It was a stressful afternoon. And a definite learning curve! Note to self, talk to other photographers to find out what they do...

The bride and groom had only wanted me there until the meal, so thankfully I got to leave quite soon afterwards. Though not before the rather odd hotel manager asked if I would download all my photos onto his computer – so he could use them for marketing? WTF? I’m all for working with venues but prefer a little time to look at my photos first!

Suffice to say, that my first wedding of the year was an experience & felt in some ways like it was my first one again. Note to self: lots to learn and even more to remember.

I'D LOVE TO HEAR YOUR EARLY EXPERIENCE IN WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY - PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT!

Interview with Tux and Tales Photography

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 15:02:00 +0000

Will you start by telling us where you work and live and the type of photography you do?

I live in Selby, which is just outside of the City of York, in North Yorkshire, England.

What inspires you as a photographer?

Colour and Light. Some people get excited when they see a pretty dress or pretty shoes - I am jumping out of my skin with joy when I see pretty light dappled on that dress or an amazing pop of colour on the shoes. It is a silly way to be, really. I am at my happiest during the late autumn, when the sun is low in the sky and it shines the most gorgeous yellow and purple light across the vibrantly green Yorkshire fields.

How long have been a photographer?

Like most photographers, I don't remember a time in my life when I wasn't camera-in-hand.

When you’re not photographing, where can we find you?

Reading a book - preferably outside in the rare English sunshine. When the weather isn't cooperating, I can be found with that same book in any kind of warm, light spot in the house. My husband calls them my 'sunny spots'.

Any books that inspired you {or helped you} in your business?

There have been so many since I am the kind of person that devours books. A few that pop to mind - Visionmongers, Duct Tape Marketing & Six Pixels of Separation. My biggest piece of advice for any entrepreneur is to read, read and then read some more. Some of the best pieces of advice you will ever find about running your business will be in the pages of a book.

Best marketing idea?

Collaboration. When many wedding vendors work together to create a shoot, you get so much exposure to so many new people in the industry. It is like networking on steroids. Instead of exchanging business cards and having a cuppa, you are exchanging ideas and concepts - which build a friendship - not just a wallet full of business cards

Worst marketing idea?

Print advertising.

Do you have a studio and if not do you feel having a studio would help your business grow?

We don't currently have a studio and I am always of two minds about wanting one. Sometimes when you work from home, you feel like you never get to leave your job. However, if I had a separate office or studio, I would have to pass that cost on to clients which isn't ideal. I don't do loads of studio work - so I generally find that when I need a studio- someone has one to rent at a really reasonable price.

What do you think makes a photographer successful?

Persistence, ability to 'find the light', persistence, an empathetic way of working with clients, persistence, good marketing savvy & oh yeah.... persistence.

What’s your weakness in this business?

I am sometimes too personally invested. If someone doesn't like my work, or a shoot doesn't go as well as I would have liked, I am really, really hard on myself. I am my own biggest critic.

Are you a Nikon or Canon? and which model?

Neither. I am one of the 2% that use Olympus. I grew up on Olympus and my first digital was an Oly. I shoot with 2 Olympus E5's, 1 Olympus E3 and I still clutch onto my E410.

and Lens?

Zuiko 12-60 2.8, Zuiko 70-200 2.8, Sigma 50mm 1.4, Sigma 35mm 1.2 (and a few others which don't get to see much action)

If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?

I can't imagine being anything other than a photographer - but I can imagine being a different kind of photographer. Perhaps a photo journalist visiting really exotic places.

Can you give the readers your best piece of advice for starting or running a photography business.

Shut up and do things. The people I see that are really floundering (outside of skill issues) are doing so because they spend a lot of time talking about what they should or should not do - and never really doing much of anything. In this business, if you stand still, you die.

Tell us your proudest moment of your career?

I keep having them! I would say my first 'WOOOOO FREEKING HOOO' moment was when we were first featured on Rock n' Roll Bride.

Here is where you can find Tux and Tales

twitter.com/TuxandTales
Facebook www.facebook.com/TuxandTalesWebsite: http://www.tuxandtalesphoto.co.ukBlog : http://www.tuxandtalesphoto.co.uk/blog

Chris Chambers Photography – Urban Wedding Portfolio Course

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 19:11:00 +0000

Yesterday I went on a portfolio training day with Chris Chambers of www.ChrisChambersPhotography.com. I’d chosen the Urban wedding course, because later in the year I have a couple of weddings in Leeds City Centre. The course cost £120 and lasted from 9.30am to 4.30pm, with various stops for coffee/lunch etc (though not included in price obviously).

The day started with a coffee and an introduction from Chris, and then it was straight out into the mean streets of Leeds. We headed down to the train station for some flash photography in front of one of the newer buildings. Then Chris had found an amazing graffiti wall, and later we walked up to the main pedestrian area by Harvey Nichols. And finally after a quick cuppa and a warm up (it was bloody freezing) we made our way up to the Town Hall.

Chris was helpful and happy to share tips throughout the day, he shared his settings, helped out with using flash and generally explained what he would do in the situation. He also encouraged us to try new techniques and generally have fun with the models.

The models were great; young, slim, pretty and full of fun, perhaps it’s a little unrealistic to expect that all weddings will be like this, but if you get some nice images from it and you learn a few things – it’s all good!

The photographers I spoke to were divided over whether to use the images for their portfolios. Some didn’t think it was an issue, but a couple thought it would be unfair to suggest that they were taken from a “real” wedding. Personally, I’ll be using them in my portfolio, but I will be saying that they were from a shoot rather than a wedding. I also think that if you’re just starting out, its really difficult to put a portfolio together if you haven’t done a wedding so you need to do things like this.

So to round up:

Positives:

· Got to find out how a more experience photographer works

· Chris shared tips and tricks

· Chris brought lots of equipment and wasn’t precious about us using his.

· Met some lovely photographers, shared stories, moaned etc!

· Found some really great locations for future weddings.

· It was cheap compared with other portfolio building courses, and local to me!

· Use the images for your portfolio

Negatives:

· You need to have a fairly good understanding of flash & off camera flash (though Chris was more than happy to help).

· There was only one “couple” – if there had been another couple it would have been more beneficial in terms of using it in your portfolio.

· Although there were only 8 photographers (plus Chris) at times it wasn’t possible to all get the shots. Some people are naturally pushier than others so it could have been frustrating for some – though to his credit Chris did his best to sort this out.

· It was freezing and wet at times – I’d probably go for a course in summer in future J - but I suppose not all weddings are perfect!

One thing to remember is that you need to be sure you like the style of photography that the photographer running the course does – personally I wanted to try flash more and I know Chris uses flash in a lot of his images. But if that’s not your thing, then make sure you’re aware of what you’re getting into!

Anyway, my overall thoughts are that it was a really positive experience, I learnt a lot, I met some lovely photographers, got some great images and overall achieved what I wanted to achieve from the course. I’d definitely recommend it! and here are a few of my favourites:

You can find Chris here:

www.chrischambersphotography.com

Interview with Donna Brookes from Brookes Callow Photography

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 19:08:00 +0000

Will you start by telling us where you work and live and the type of photography you do?

I live and work in Whitehaven on the outskirts of the Lake District. I am just one half of Brookes Callow Photography and we specialize in contemporary Wedding, Lifestyle and fashion photography in and around Cumbria, the UK and internationally.

What inspires you as a photographer?

I’m definitely a ‘people’ person so the people I photograph inspire me – everyone has a life story to tell and if I can be part of their world for just a few hours and put smiles on their faces then I get really excited about that!

Art inspires me – Texture, colour, shape and form. I am constantly experimenting with different ideas to give each image the individuality it deserves.

Emotion inspires me too! – The love between a mother and her baby child, the unspoken feelings between a couple, the attitude of a teenager! I believe an image should evoke an emotional response, whatever that response may be, joy, laughter, tears…. I know then that I have done my job right.

How long have you been a photographer?

I’ve been a professional photographer for two years but photography has been part of my life in lots of ways all through my life! I remember my first experience of a camera when I was four years old, my Dad hiding under a bed sheet and jumping up snapping a photo of the expression on my face!

My uncle had a Canon A1 when I was young and I knew then that I wanted to take photographs of the world.

I studied Graphic design at University and using photography to illustrate an idea always inspired me!

When you’re not photographing, where can we find you?

When I haven’t got a camera in my hand you can find me in a classroom teaching photography! I work part-time for the Workers’ Educational Association, whose whole ethos is to bring learning to adults who would not ordinarily enter into any sort of learning, especially from disadvantaged communities.

I love the fact that photography can give so many people a purpose, a passion even, or just a different way of looking at the world around them!

You can also find me at home with my husband and two teenage girls just being mum, or down the garden in my greenhouse in the warmer months, nurturing my chili plants!

Any books that inspired you {or helped you} in your business?

The book that has inspired me from the first time I read it as a child, is Alice in Wonderland, that colourful, weird and funny world! I am not sure how this has helped or inspired me in my life or my business, but I am sure it has!

Best marketing idea?

Being me and letting people get to know the ‘real’ me! I don’t feel that I should ever pretend to be someone or something I am not and I think people appreciate and like me for that.

Worst marketing idea?

This would probably be… making the mistake of paying money for advertising, without really doing enough research into whether this would result in a positive benefit for our business.

Do you have a studio and if not do you feel having a studio would help your business grow?

We don’t have a studio at the moment but now you have asked, I do think having a ‘high street’ presence raises your profile. Would people take us more seriously as a business if we had a studio, as it gives the business a more tangible identity? The jury is out on that one in my mind at the moment!

Photographically speaking, I know I wouldn’t enjoy the restrictions I would come to feel in a studio environment. What I love is using the world around us to compliment or represent our clients’ lifestyle, and I do believe I can bring out the best in a person during a shoot when the environment is ‘real’ and not ‘set up’ if you like.

What do you think makes a photographer successful?

The words that came to mind when I read this question were passion, commitment, dedication and a love of life, in no particular order and in equal measures!

What’s your weakness in this business?

My total lack of organization at times! People always try to make me feel better about this, by telling me they’d heard that “all creative people are like that”

I think that will be my excuse and I’m sticking to it!

Are you a Nikon or Canon? And which model?

I shoot with a Canon 5D. Not, I have to admit necessarily through initial choice. I bought my first DSLR second hand and kind of fell in love with it. I can be quite analytical and that side of me would probably have bought a Nikon!

And Lens?

I absolutely love my Canon 70-200! I use this whenever I can, it’s like its part of me and everything is just instinctive when him and me are together! I also have a 50mm prime lens, which I use if my big baby just won’t do the job, and recently I bought a set of Lensbaby creative lenses. These have so much creative possibility, an opportunity to do something a bit different!

If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?

Hmm… I’d probably stick to teaching. (Although my husband always says I should have been a social worker!) The joy of seeing a person walk away with a confidence to do something they never thought they could do is such a truly special feeling.

Can you give the readers your best piece of advice for starting or running a photography business?

Don’t be scared! Don’t be put off! Talk to lots of people already doing it, expect to make mistakes, reflect on why they were just that, and then move on, but above all love every minute of it!

Tell us your proudest moment of your career?

I could say the first time a client cried with emotion when they saw their images, and yes that was a proud moment, but probably my proudest moment, if I am to be totally honest, was seeing the faces of my students from a disabled Centre, the day an exhibition of their photography was opened in the community, by our local Mayor!

A moment I shall never forget and a reminder to me that anyone can achieve great things no matter what the odds!

Here is where you can find Donna

http://twitter.com/donna56455

Facebook: www.facebook.com/donna.brookes3

Website: www.brookes-callow-photography.co.uk

Blog: www.brookes-callow-photography.co.uk/blog

Free Ways To Get Great Publicity

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 21:17:00 +0000

Social media - More and more, media outlets are using Twitter and Facebook to find great sources for the stories they’re working on. Is there a magazine or TV news show you’d like to be featured in? Chances are, they’re on Twitter and Facebook – and once you “follow” them, you’ll see when they're looking for people like you.
Guest posts - Want to reach a whole new audience with your message? Guest posting on other people’s blogs is a great way to do just that. In fact why not write for us? Get in touch if you're interested.
Press Releases - Writing and distributing a press release can announce news, launch products, tweak your SEO and help you reach the media.
Editorial Calendars - An editorial calendar shows the major editorial features planned for forthcoming issues of a newspaper or a magazine. Editorial calendars were traditionally used by the advertising department but YOU can use them to increase your chances of being featured in a publication.Where can you find editorial calendars? Go to the publication’s website and look for a link or tab that says “Advertising” – it’s usually waaaaay down at the bottom of the website. Click on that and you’ll probably find rate information, closing dates and a “download editorial calendar” link. Download the editorial calendar and start hunting for publicity opportunities in the features they have planned!
Wedding Blog Submissions - have a look on blogs like Love my Dress or Rock my Wedding or Boho Wedding Blog - just a few to get you started.
Charities - offer your services to a charity, maybe offer your services as an auction prize or just do something nice that people will remember.
Offer a selection of printed images to your local doctors surgery or hospital. If you specialise in kids, get your photos somewhere lots of people with kids will see.

What's worked for you?

{Maryanne Scott, owner and Photographer for Maryanne Scott Photography, wedding photographer in Yorkshire. Portrait & kids photography covering the Yorkshire region. Published cookbook author, married to Andrew, loves chocolate, mayonnaise and red wine (but not all at the same time). }

Ways to use Pinterest

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 21:53:00 +0000

A cheap way of collecting inspiration Instead of paying for expensive inspiration guides, set up a board for each of your types of photography and then getting pinning. Also get the “Pinterest” App on iphone etc That way, when you’re out and about you can view it.
Show your style Start a collection showing your own images. More and more people are using pinterest so it makes sense that they might find you.
Weddings Why not create a board for each of your brides, so that they can pin their favourite images to it and then you get a great idea on what they like.
Word of mouth Pinning your own images over and over is frowned upon on Pinterest. But offering a really easy way for visitors to your site to share your images on their boards, is a fantastically smart marketing move. Pinterest makes it really easy to create a “pin it” button for your retail site. They even have a button creator that will automatically fill out a description for the person pinning. This means users can share your marketing message with just a click of a button.
Community building Because Pinterest supports open, collaboration boards, it’s a great place to share like-minded finds. Create a board for your friends, fans and followers to collaborate. Title it, add a description and moderate it from time to time. Creating and moderating a pin board is a fun way to further your “expert” factor.

Interview with Kerry McNair Photography

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 21:12:00 +0000

Will you start by telling us where you work and live and the type of photography you do?

I’m a professional photographer based in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. I specialise in photographing Women and Weddings – these are my passions. I offer boudoir, beauty makeover and business photography for women covering London and the South East mostly but I have travelled further afield. I love photographing weddings and shoot nationally and internationally.

2. What inspires you as a photographer?

I’m passionate about photographing women and my style is about creating timeless, classic and beautiful images. So I find I am inspired by images of film stars such as Audrey Hepburn and Elizabeth Taylor but I’m also a self-confessed fashion magazine addict.

3. How long have been a photographer?

I’ve been working as a photographer for 2 years now having been in marketing for the last 13 years. So for many years I booked photoshoots and worked with photographers, critiquing and choosing images. This has helped me understand and appreciate what makes a great image which I use when working with my clients.

4. When you’re not photographing, where can we find you?

If I’m not photographing I’m probably with my husband or girlfriends. I might be reading a magazine or doing something business related such as networking.

5. Any books that inspired you {or helped you} in your business?

I have to say that the Annabel Williams book on Wedding and Portrait photography is brilliant. Her approach to photography is fantastic and inspired me to become the photographer I am today.

6. Best marketing idea?

Last year networking was brilliant for me to raise my profile locally. This year google adwords is really working for me to extend my reach over a wider area.

7. Worst marketing idea?

Didn’t someone once say that all PR is good PR? But seriously if I was talking to someone who had no marketing experience and was just starting out I would advise them against press advertising as it’s very difficult to make it work without investing quite a lot of money.

8. Do you have a studio and if not do you feel having a studio would help your business grow?

I’m a location photographer so I don’t have a studio. I prefer the freedom and spontaneity that working on location brings, whether it’s outdoors, at a clients house or at a reputable hotel/venue.

9. What do you think makes a photographer successful?

I think politeness and patience go a long way plus determination to succeed. I also think you have to constantly promote yourself as no-one else is going to do it for you. It doesn’t have to mean you sell to every person you met but just work it into a conversation. After all you can be the best photographer in the world but if no-one knows about you then you’ll be the best kept secret in the world.

10. What’s your weakness in this business?

I love photographing women and just want to give every woman I meet a fantastic photograph of themselves that they love. So I have to try hard when I meet women not to offer my services for free just to stop them from ever saying this again: “I hate having my photograph taken. I don’t have any good photos of myself.” I like to think I can change that.

11. Are you a Nikon or Canon?

Canon.

12. and Lens?

I have a fabulous wide angle (16-35mm), a flattering portrait lens (24-70mm) and my favourite telephoto lens (70-200mm). This pretty much covers me for every situation I need across weddings, boudoir and business portraits.

13. If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?

If this is an imaginary world and I could have been anything then I’d have become a singer and performed a duet with Marilyn Monroe. How amazing would that have been?

14. Can you give the readers your best piece of advice for starting or running a photography business.

Get out there and network – a lot! I have met some amazing people in the last couple of years and it’s all thanks to networking. Invest in a strong brand and website/blog. Stick to your prices or people won’t value what you do. A polite way of responding to people who as for a discount is to let them know this wouldn’t be fair to previous and existing customers so your prices are fixed.

15. Tell us your proudest moment of your career?

Much as it sounds clichéd, when my first bride cried with joy upon seeing the photographs of her wedding and then cried again when she looked through the beautiful album. A seminal moment in my life and I found myself welling up too.

Here is where you can find Kerry McNair Photography
http://twitter.com/kerrymcnair

Facebook http://www.facebook.com/kerrymcnairphotography

Website. HYPERLINK "http://www.kerrymcnairphotography.co.uk" www.kerrymcnairphotography.co.uk

Blog HYPERLINK "http://www.kerrymcnairphotography.co.uk/blog/" www.kerrymcnairphotography.co.uk/blog/

Interview with Steve Oatway Photography

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 22:27:00 +0000

Will you start by telling us where you work and live and the type of photography you do?

I am the owner of Steve Oatway Photography Ltd, based in Epworth, North Lincolnshire. I am primarily a location based Lifestyle and Wedding photographer, although we do a little advertising and commercial photography too. We are lucky to have some amazing locations close to hand so can often be found out and about working with clients across Lincolnshire and Yorkshire. We are located in a pretty rural part of the Country so we are blessed with having fabulous locations to shoot in right on the doorstep, from local farms through to stately homes and even Sherwood Forest, just a short drive away.

What inspires you as a photographer?

My inspiration is the people I am photographing, I've never been a landscape or architectural photographer – I love to photograph people and create images that make the audience really 'get' the sitter. All my favourite work has people in it. I recently visited Berlin and saw the Helmut Newton institute, his work will undoubtably have an influence on some of my personal studio work coming up. As a portrait photographer then Rankin and Richard Avedon have produced work I love.

How long have been a photographer?

I started as an assistant to a local professional photographer back in the 1970's. However I have had a number of 'proper' jobs but came back to photography full time about 5 years ago

When you’re not photographing, where can we find you?

At home with the family – although they will tell you I'm rarely not photographing !! - If I'm not actually working on images then I'm working on ideas for shoots or scouting locations or networking with local businesses to see how we can work together – I'm quite a driven person.

Any books that inspired you {or helped you} in your business?

I have to thank Annabel Williams for opening my eyes to Lifestyle Photography, before I picked up one of her books I was a typical studio bound photographer but seeing her work really changed my whole approach and has resulted in the successes I've had recently.

Best marketing idea?

Opening my own gallery, people take you more seriously if they see you have a physical presence – and it allows me to showcase my work in a setting I can control

Worst marketing idea?

Doing work for free so that I would get 'credit' for it

Do you have a studio and if not do you feel having a studio would help your business grow?

I do have a studio, it is only normally used for personal projects or very specific subjects (passport photographs for example). We are starting to develop the studio a little more now in response to demand from clients for fashion portfolio's etc. and it gives us more latitude to shoot when the weather is bad, but we prefer to work out on location

What do you think makes a photographer successful?

It depends on what you mean by successful – if you mean creating beautiful images and winning awards then that requires good technical ability, an eye for detail and the ability to see beyond the obvious – if you mean successful in business then that requires hard work, determination and the ability to produce the work that your particular client pool wants to buy – someone once told me that to succeed it's better to be a businessman that knows a bit about photography rather than a photographer that knows a bit about business.

What’s your weakness in this business?

Setting realistic prices and sticking to them

Are you a Nikon or Canon?

Canon

and Lens?

All Canon, mostly 'L' and mostly Primes

If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?

I don't have any ambition to be anything else, I guess I'd be miserable !!

Can you give the readers your best piece of advice for starting or running a photography business.

Don't expect clients to beat a path to your door, and whatever price you charge there will be somebody locally doing it for less, so be prepared to work really hard to attract potential customers and make sure you can articulate the value of your work

Tell us your proudest moment of your career?

Every piece of work that leaves the gallery makes me proud – but a client recently told me that they would be customers for life, that absolutely made my day !!

Here is where you can find Steve Oatway Photography
twitter.com/seoatway
Facebook www.facebook.com/steveoatwayphotography
Website www.steveoatwayphotography.co.uk
Blog www.steveoatwayphotography.co.uk/blog

Wedding Fayres - should I do them?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 18:16:00 +0000

I took the decision last year to do weddings. I really enjoy a good wedding and if my dream to do “this” full time is to come true, I need to be doing more weddings. But I have a dilemma – should I attend wedding fayre’s?

My own personal experience of them from my wedding last year, was that they were terrible places, full of brides on the lookout for freebies, over zealous sales people and too many interruptions from what I was there to do – ie get inspiration.

I only approached one photographer and she was the only one without that hungry look – you know the ones who pounce as soon as you take even a mild interest.

I have to be honest- I wasn’t sure what to expect, but from the minute you arrive someone is trying to extrapolate your personal details, in whatever way they can. The photographers I saw had impressively large books of photos but lacked any real style to their display – or any branding attempt whatsoever. It all seems a little bit like a school fate – I was disappointed that there wasn’t a tombola???

Maybe I just had a bad experience and not all fayre’s are like that (though I did go to 3 different ones in Leeds that’s day and they were all very similar), but its been enough to put me off going back to show my own stuff... Or perhaps I was an unusual bride and most brides respond well to this approach but either way I’d really appreciate any comments you might have on the subject, in fact I need some help!

Happy New Year from Photographers Boutique

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 21:08:00 +0000

I'm going to start with Happy New Year! and an apology for the absence of blog posts for the last few months!

Its been a funny year for me, I've been particularly remiss in posting on this blog, mainly due to planning a wedding and running my own fledgling photography business, but also I sort of lost my way with it all. I couldnt see the wood for the tree's so to speak and something had to give. However with a little perspective and more free time, I'm hoping to be bringing you some more gorgeous photos from some of the really talented photographers in the UK.

I had quite a few comments recently saying they found these interviews useful, and I know I love to have a nosy about what people are up to so I'm going to be looking for photographers to interview for 2012. If you're interested get in touch...

Thanks

M x

QR Codes - Have you used them yet?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:34:00 +0000

Have you heard about QR codes, or even noticed them recently? Lots of magazines, books, newspapers and websites are starting to include these codes on them – this is what they look like. They’re like abnormally large barcodes!

To make use of them all you have to do is get a QR scanner app on your phone ( I have QR scanner on my iphone) and then it allows you to scan these large bar codes – have a go and see where they take you.
There are some great used for them, including:
On leaflets/postcards/business cards – the code will direct people to your website
In emails as special offers – when you scan the code it takes you through to a special offer not available to anyone else.
Treasure hunt – take people to multiple sites (your own or other peoples) and then eventually to where you
I’m thinking of using them for a competition on my own website – it will be interesting to see if they’re just a fad or if the general public pick up on this. If you have a QR code linking through to your site get in touch and I’ll publish it!
If you want to create your own code click here http://qrcodify.com/

October's Top 10 BLOGS

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 11:01:00 +0000

Well October is here, its warm (very strange) and its about time I made an effort with this blog again. Weddings (my own) & a busy summer with portraits & wedding clients meant that something had to give... but I'm back now with some lovely Blog's I've been enjoying this month:

1. ENJOY THE SMALL THINGS

2. ALEX BEADON PHOTOGRAPH

3. FULL BLOOM

4. BRAND CAMP

5. GO4PRO

6. THE SAVVY PHOTOGRAPHER

7. REVERIE

8. PICTAGE

9. INSPIRE ME BABY

10. IDENTITY KITCHEN

If you have any blogs that you're reading this month don't forget to leave a comment.

How to start up a blog for your Photography Business

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 21:22:00 +0000

I spent hours researching this when I originally looked into having my own blogsite. I knew that I needed someone to host my site (thats the limit of my technical knowledge) and I needed a good template, because who on earth know how to "build" a website from scratch?

So anyway after hours of research I finally found Prophoto3 and I have to say that they are fantastic. The templates are unbelievably easy to customise, and when I got stuck & something went wrong with what I was doing they stepped in & sorted it out!

The templates work on wordpress ( a bloging platform) which is hosted via Bluehost. So its all very simple. You pay an annual amount to Bluehost for web space (so to speak) upload wordpress to it and then load your blog template!

Its really not that complicated to get a professional looking website! Check mine out here http://www.blossomandbloom.co.uk to see how it looks.

And if any of you are struggling with getting it all sorted get in touch & I'll see if I can help!

Throw away the Inspiration Guides - get on http://pinterest.com

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 03 May 2011 20:57:00 +0000

Like many newbie photographers I've bought and lusted after many inspiration guides - usually from Design Aglow! They're gorgeous but so expensive - so instead I trawl the internet for inspiration and then "cheekily" save the ones I like - I try not to reproduce them but use them as a guide.

Now as you can imagine my harddrive is groaning under the pressure and I then have to remember them when I'm on a shoot!

In steps http://pinterest.com/

I simply "pin" the photos I like and save them to a board! I can access it via my iphone when I'm out and about.

All you do is save a special link they give you to your favourites bar at the top of your screen, then when you see a photo you like (from anywhere on the net) you drag and drop the link onto the picture...its really that simple.

You can follow other peoples boards too, start boards for inspiration for decorating, cooking, clothes - absolutely anything. It connects to Facebook & Twitter too!

You have to get an invitation to join - so if you're interested - the first 5 people to leave a comment will get invited!

Interview with Wonderland Avenue - UK's finest wedding photographers, selected by professionals

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 08:10:00 +0000

Will you start by telling us where you work and live and exactly what you do?

We (James & Louise) live In Bristol with our 2 year old son (expecting our 2nd baby any day now). We run a website called Wonderland Avenue an online directory promoting the very best UK wedding
photographers.

http://www.bigdaypictures.com/

How did you end up doing this?

When we got engaged back in 2006, James, a commercial photographer, was sent off to ‘find the perfect wedding photographer’. He thought a couple of hours on the web would do the trick but he was very wrong!! It took months of scouring websites, magazines and directories to find a photographer who could offer what we were looking for, and just as we thought we had it cracked, he would stumble upon another… What we really needed was a site that brought brilliant photographers together and had already done all the research for us, so finding a wedding photographer could be as painless as possible. And so Wonderland Avenue was born!

What inspires you?

When we started the research for WA we didn't really know what we'd find, however when I came across photographers like Steven Gerrard, Emma Case, David McNeil & Ed Peers I was absolutely blown away with the quality of their work & it's talented photographers like these that provide the inspiration for our site.

If you weren’t running your business ,what would you be

Along side WA I run my own business (james king photographer).. photography is all I know & is all I've ever done.

http://www.steveshipmanphotography.com/weddings/

When you’re not running your business, where can we find you?

With my family, or at a motocross track or when I can persuade Louise, both!

How can photographers get listed on your site?

Photographers can apply for membership via the form on our website [http://www.wonderlandavenue.co.uk/photographers-area]. If after having a look at their work I feel our site is right for them they will be invited to upload information & images. Our members can either pay Monthly £22.00 or annually £220.00.

We are looking for talented photographers, some may have been in the business for years, some may be just beginning to establish themselves but the bottom line is quality. We like to see clearly designed & well presented websites with galleries showcasing full weddings not just a dozen 'best of' shots. Sensitive application of post production techniques is also very important to us.

Why would they want to be listed on your site?

There are literally dozens of photographers directories online today all vying for a piece of the action, ours is different. Our members are hand-picked, you cannot simply pay & join. A Google search of 'wedding photographer London' returns over 3 million results, couples are overwhelmed by choice. We aim to make that selection process much easier, instead of having to wade through thousands of websites wondering 'is this wedding photographer any good?' visitors to our site can simply browse a concise list of quality wedding photographers in their area and trust that we strive to include the very best the UK has to offer.

http://www.chriscrawford.co.uk/

What tips can you give readers?

It's well worth making sure your own website really showcases your work to its full potential. There is so much choice out there for engaged couples and a well designed website can really make the difference.

http://www.samanthabrownphotography.co.uk/

Any books that inspired you {or helped you} in your business?

Because we were developing a website we looked at other successful online businesses, We really liked sites like Baby Friendly Boltholes and Mr and Mrs Smith who provide directories with a twist. Well designed, clearly laid out sites coupled with expertly researched options. We always felt reassured booking through them & I think that’s the kind of experience we want couples to have when they visit us.

http://www.frankaphotography.com/

Best marketing idea?

We identified very early on the influence of blogs like Rock'n'Roll bride & Love my Dress who were promoting talented & creative wedding photographers, by advertising on these blogs we can get our message to ten's of thousands of couples at a fraction of the cost of print media. Twitter & Facebook are also excellent marketing tools.

Worst marketing idea?

The hard sell.

http://www.lucasphotography.co.uk/

What do you think makes a photographer successful?

When I think of successful wedding photographers Allister Freeman always springs to mind. Allister is a real storyteller. When looking through his photographs you understand why each one was taken, he isn't just going through a mental check list of shots or snapping away until he has the 600 images he promised the bride, every frame is considered. His website & blog are also excellent, superb image galleries alongside useful advice & information for his visitors.

http://www.mcbweddings.com/

What’s your weakness in business?

I'm too thinned skinned.

http://www.mikegarrard.co.uk/

Can you give the readers your best piece of advice for starting or running a business

It's an old one but it's true... do your research.

http://www.oacphotography.com/

.
Tell us your proudest moment of your career?
I think seeing the site go live was pretty special, having spent so long with it in our heads we were thrilled to see the real thing.

http://www.reniraandjanephotography.co.uk/

Here is where you can find Wonderland Avenue

twitter @Wonderland_Buzz
Facebook Wonderland Avenue
Website http://www.wonderlandavenue.co.uk/
Blog http://www.wonderlandavenue.co.uk/blog

Interview with Sian Robertson Photography

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 21:29:00 +0000

Interview with ..............................
1.
Will you start by telling us where you work and liveand the type of photography you do?
I am based in Staffordshire and am currently photographing Weddings, baby portraits, business and fashion! Quite a variety!
2.
What inspires you as a photographer?
Everything! Just looking in magazines, blogs, people and places... You just have to look around you to find inspiration.
3.
How long have been a photographer?
I started professionally in the industry about 18 months ago, however, photography has always played a large role in my life, especially when I went traveling.
4.
When you’re not photographing, where can we find you?
Like every photographer, im sure the first place to look would be in front of the computer, researching, editing or communicating! If i'm not there, im out with my husband and dog either cycling or walking!
5.
Any books that inspired you {or helped you} in your business?
I LOVE the Scott Kelby series... he is straight to the point and doesn't baffle you with unnecessary jargon.
6.
Best marketing idea?
Still working on it!! lol
7.
Worst marketing idea?
Thinking that advertisements in magazines would be a good idea... I think you really have to do your research and plan, otherwise you could end up wasting valuable pennies!!!
8.
Do you have a studio and if not do you feel having a studio would help your business grow?
Im looking into the idea of a studio. I am doing a lot of creative pieces which a studio would be useful for, but i will need to research more!
9.
What do you think makes a photographer successful?
Hard work, patience, manners and a smile!? Heres hoping!!
10.
What’s your weakness in this business?
Sometimes I don't give myself enough credit... I think we all suffer from lack of confidence from time to time- especially in an industry thats so competitive. Self belief and self motivation are key if you're self employed and I think its always worth stepping back and appreciating what you have done!
11.
Are you a Nikon or Canon?
I've always used Canon. I did try Nikon when I was upgrading, just to make sure... but i prefer the feel and layout of Canon!
12.
and Lens?
Canon of course!
13.
If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?
I would like to think i would do something creative, like a set designer!
14.
Can you give the readers your best piece of advice for starting or running a photography business.
Believe in your own abilities, research and just go for it! :-)
15.
Tell us your proudest moment of your career?
Photographing at London Fashion Week and having one of my first photographs published in the Telegraph, Australia.

Here is where you can find

Website http://www.sianrobertsonphotography.com/
Facebook www.facebook.com/smileyM14
Twitter http://twitter.com/#!/sianrobertson

Interview with Charlotte Stone

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 21:28:00 +0000

1.
Will you start by telling us where you work and liveand the type of photography you do?
I live in Bristol at the moment and currently have two day jobs which are a world away from Photography. The Photography that I do is mostly Portrait & Fashion, with a small bit of Commercial.
2.
What inspires you as a photographer
?
Everything & Anything! Generally a lot of magazine & editorial work; Vogue, Elle etc.
3.
How long have been a photographer?
I first picked up a camera when I was about 15, so 6 years now.
4.
When you’re not photographing, where can we find you?
Usually at work unfortunately!
5.
Any books that inspired you {or helped you} in your business?
Richard Avedon’s “Performance’ is full of such gorgeous photos but actually books aside, lighting seminars online have helped me so much.
6.
Best marketing idea?
Flickr. Ever since I joined Flickr, I’ve had almost 500,000 views and it has such a wide audience across the world.
7.
Worst marketing idea?
I would probably say Tumblr – for the one reason is that people never, ever give credit. However, the audience on Tumblr makes it worth it on the other hand.
8.
Do you have a studio and if not do you feel having a studio would help your business grow?
I don’t own a studio space but I turn my flat front room into a studio. I love being able to turn my home into my workplace.
9.
What do you think makes a photographer successful?
It’s hard to define. I think passion is one, because there are a lot of impassionate photographers out there, but I think you need to have a good business head. It doesn’t come on a plate, and you really need to want it and work for it. You need that ‘want’ to make it work.
10.
What’s your weakness in this business?
I would say it would be saying ‘no’! I find it hard to turn models down when I work on a Test basis, even though they won’t benefit my portfolio. I am getting better at it too!
11.
Are you a Nikon or Canon?
I am a Nikon girl, born and bred.
12.
and Lens?
My two favourite lenses are Sigma 30mm 1.4 and 50mm 1.4
13.
If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?
I’m not actually sure. I think somewhere in Marketing & Advertising.
14.
Can you give the readers your best piece of advice for starting or running a photography business.
Be realistic, and be prepared to work for free. It’s a long hard run before it starts to show, but if you’re dedicated and you want it, there is no reason as to why it won’t work for you. Remember it is a business too!
15.
Tell us your proudest moment of your career?
Oh that’s hard. One would be walking into a pub & 5 star B&B where my images are on every table in a A5 brochure and on a digital photo frame for everyone to see.
Other than that, it would be having an e-mail from someone on the other side of the world saying that they saw my photos in a magazine. That was surreal!

Here is where you can find Char
twitter.com/ www.twitter.com/charloustone
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Char-Stone-Photographer/232535842966
Website: http://www.charlottestonephoto.com/
Blog http://www.charlottestonephoto.blogspot.com/

Interview with Ines Banks of Source Images Photography

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 20:59:00 +0000

Will you start by telling us where you work and liveand the type of photography you do?

My main discipline is as a wedding photographer but I also spend a lot of time second shooting/assisting my husband when he is shooting travel assignments’. I live in the small village of Pinkneys Green in the Berkshire countryside but I am originally from Dubrovnik, Croatia so I still spend a lot of time over there working. Our offices are in the village of Cookham but I am fairly lucky that my work takes me all over the world.

What inspires you as a photographer?

Anything and everything inspires me really. Most of the best photographs I have taken I didn’t have a camera so I guess my memory and the drive to produce images that live up to what I have stored in my head are what inspires me most.

How long have been a photographer?

Roughly 5 years now

When you’re not photographing, where can we find you?

At home working on the interior of our house. I love interior design!! If I’m not at home the airport would probably be the best place to start.

Any books that inspired you {or helped you} in your business?

Ansel Adams the Camera, the Negative and the Print. These are a must for any photographer really wanting to master the skill required to take great images. After that I would be James Nachtwey’s Inferno

Best marketing idea?
Do a good job. Nothing will beat that but getting your work published in magazines and blogs is a very close second.

Worst marketing idea?

Photography listing sites where you are one of 10,000. I won’t mention any names but I am sure all the photographers reading this have been contacted by at least some of them. No one will ever find you even if they have the patience to troll through these mundanely boring sites.

Do you have a studio and if not do you feel having a studio would help your business grow?

We do have a studio but I don’t think it has really made that larger impact on our business.

What do you think makes a photographer successful?

Practice, hard work, patience, professionalism and above all great work.

What’s your weakness in this business?

Saying no and knowing when to stop working. It is possible to work too much and it will eventually harm your productivity.

Are you a Nikon or Canon?

Nikon & Leica but they are all boxes to capture light so the next question is more important to me.

and Lens?

50mm 1.4 leica or a 24-70mm 2.8 Nikon

If you weren’t a photographer, what would you be?

A fashion designer most likely but I would love to be an interior designer too.

Can you give the readers your best piece of advice for starting or running a photography business.

Don’t think of photography as a nine to five job. It’s a lifestyle and If you can cope with that you should be fine.

Tell us your proudest moment of your career?

It hasn’t happened yet and until Magnum or VII ask me to join them I am going to have to go with the day my husband believed in my ability to let me go on shoots without him. It was a while ago now but I guess that would be it.

Here is where you can find Ines

http://twitter.com/source_girl
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Source-Images-Photography-wwwsource-imagescouk/140967442585015
Website http://www.source-images.co.uk/
Blog http://www.sourceimagesblog.co.uk/