2011:Weddings in Bristol & Bath

It feels an age since my last blog, which is probably a reflection that I have not been spending enough time in the coffee shops of Clifton - don't you hate it when work gets in the way like that?! Anyway, apologies for the absence of my usual words of wisdom (or 'grumpy old man moments' as they have become known...). Its just that we are making so many changes to the business for next year - stunning new frames, a stylish new approach to the albums, perfect portraits and some great wedding capture changes - that I am failing miserably to keep up with the blog. Just to say, I don't think that will change until after Christmas but watch this space. Next year I am debating whether I can make a new years resolution to update everyday (other than holidays - may not have access to the site then) - so that's not a promise, but might become one.

In the meantime, thank you so much to all the couples who have booked over the past few weeks for next year - we have some absolutely fab weddings to look forward to. There are some spaces left, but for those of you planning September and October weddings especially do give us a call sooner rather than later, as the autumn is even busier than the summer right now!

Winter Portraits in Bristol & Bath

www.andrewjacksonphotography.co.uk

I know, it's cold, the evenings are drawing in and really, anything other than sitting in front of the fire feels like madness...but it is a fab time for portraits. There is a lovely quality to the light at this time of year, with a very different feel which is great for portraits. Also, the colours of scarves, hats and gloves against a winter backdrop does produce a very different picture. So whether its 'scary monsters' (first picture) or 'christmas present sensible' (bottom picture) do call now - there is still just about time to get pictures taken, chosen & framed in time for Christmas - contact Andrew via the website at www.andrewjacksonphotography.co.uk

Thank You!

Once upon a time, in the old days, when I started wedding photography (actually, its only ten years - the intro makes it sound as though I had to put a black sheet over my head for each picture) (although some clients have suggested this might be preferable even today!), the wedding season was really Easter to the end of October. Now, its a 12 month season and I'm just as likely to be shooting winter weddings as summer celebrations. I fact, I'm becoming quite a specialist a low light, winter weddings - I love the cosy feel, the pictures in front of a roaring log fire - winter weddings have a unique ambiance. But, when I get to the end of October, it still feels like the end of the season...

So I just wanted to pause for a moment and say a big 'thank you' for all the thank you cards we've received over the course of the year. I know how busy everyone is and how quickly real life kicks in when back from the honeymoon, so I'm always amazed that couples find the time to write. Having a passion for great photographs is a good starting point, but that passion is a bit lost if it doesn't translate into happy clients, so the feedback is really important. This year especially we've had some lovely comments, so thank you, thank you, thank you!

Bibury Court Wedding Fair - This Sunday

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Just a quick blog to let you know that Saskia and I will be at Bibury Court wedding fair on Sunday, making an exhibition of ourselves! If you are still looking for the perfect Cotswold wedding venue then Bibury Court is definitely worth a closer look. The village of Bibury is picture postcard perfect and the hotel is just as beautiful - set in lovely grounds and with a brilliant team to look after your day. Its been one of our main venues this year and its been a real pleasure shooting there. So, do visit us on Sunday 31st and we promise not to talk at you for ever about how great we are!!!

2011: Portraits in Bristol

All pictures copyright Andrew Jackson Photography

As part of next year's portrait relaunch, I've been looking to capture a little more emotion, more intimacy than in my work to date. These three are just a small sample of pictures from Bristol Docks with Stina & Joel. Pictures shot yesterday, all with natural light and all on location. Fab shoot - and if you would like something similar, there is still time to get a Bristol portrait shoot in the diary before Christmas - just contact me via the website.

Andrew Jackson Photography at Wedding Fair

This Sunday, we shall be at the Bannatyne Charlton House Hotel in Somerset for their first wedding fair since Duncan Bannatyne bought the hotel earlier in the year. It has always been a fab wedding venue - big enough to invite a good number of guests but its layout, and its wealth of original features, really gives the impression of an intimate, cosy place to get married. In Summer, the gardens look great, but as the evenings draw in, those big sofas start to look very inviting!

So Andrew Jackson Photography will be there showing off some of the latest albums and talking to couples. Its difficult to have a proper conversation on these occasions but we'll have our diary with us, so if you like the pictures and would like to talk through your day in more detail then we'll be able to sort that out with you.

The wedding Fair is Sunday 24 October, 11:30-3pm at Charlton House - we look forward to seeing you there.

2011: Amazing New Albums

Firstly, I mentioned a couple of posts ago that there are lots of changes in motion for 2011 and that I would be letting you know what was going on over the coming months... well, to help the 'search' facility, I'll start each of these with '2011' in the title bar... hopefully, this will make it easier to find.

So, new albums... I'm really pleased to announce that we have just signed up with Graphi Studio to produce our book style albums. For those of you unfamiliar with these albums, the printing is direct onto the page, so it produces a very modern, contemporary presentation for wedding and portrait photographs. Best of all is the ability to print a picture across a double page spread, so pictures can be used much, much bigger than in a regular album - so loads of impact. We have a great sample here from one of our weddings at The Royal Crescent Hotel in Bath, which will be on display at our wedding fairs this month.

Now, I know that this style of album has been around for a while, but I've always resisted using them because there are so many dreadful alternatives out there. Just because it is now possible to make photo books doesn't mean that its right for a polite society; I've seen so many versions where the pictures have looked second rate and its only the gimmicks offered by the album that makes the product even remotely usable. BUT when I saw what Graphi Studio produced, I have to say I was blown away - the quality is first class - both in the construction of the album (after all, the stitching and binding has to be top quality to hold together as you share your pictures with family & friends) but the print quality too was supberb.

So we are still offering the jorgensen albums for those who prefer a more traditional approach, but have the option of the very best in book albums for people looking for something a little different. Hooray!

Portrait Promotion

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Recently, I've been really doing a lot of navel gazing (or is it naval? I'm rubbish at spelling and this is one of those moments where there really is quite a difference: one spelling suggests I spend my weekends at Portsmouth harbour, the other that I am a belly button obsessive - anyway, its the later). So, having removed all the fluff, chewing gum and the remains of last weeks hummus & avocado sandwich, I started to think about how we approach the various styles of photography. And with portraits particularly it felt that I was shooting in much the same way as two / three years ago. So, I've gone back to basics, reassessed my style and approach and created a style more inspired by the fashion pages. First trial shoots have produced some lovely shots and the 'new look' is getting a really good response. Different to the usual studio portraits, it is a style more about capturing movement, emotion and atmosphere.

Special Offer? Well, until Christmas we're looking for victims (doh! sorry, 'customers') to experience the new style shoot. Its a special price of £25 for the session fee (will be £125 when officially launched in January), with discounts on any prints ordered. It's ideally suited to couples or teenagers (rather than family shoots - sorry), so if you know anyone who might be interested, do get in touch as soon as...obviously, good timing for Christmas presents, but even so, a fab experience at a great price. Email the Andrew Jackson Photography website for more info.

All Saints Photo Project

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Very busy right now, with the All Saint's Church exhibition rapidly reaching its conclusion. The church (one of the friendliest I've found and with all our weddings, I see a lot of churches) (perhaps there should be a Trip Advisor review service for churches?!) is celebrating 150 years at the end of the month and the photo project is a central part of that. The project has been fascinating and the picture above one of my favourites -although it didn't make the final selection!! I love the light and the colours - its difficult to come up with a new interpretation of stained glass, but I think this works really well.I am looking for an interesting project for 2011, so if you have any thoughts do drop me a line via the website. Any ideas based around French vineyards especially welcome.

Weddings UK & France

www.andrewjacksonphotography.co.uk

Very pleased to announce that our new prices and packages for 2011 are now available... I say very pleased because for the first time since we started I've really changed pretty much every aspect of what we do and the way we do it. Its the first time we've really 'gone back to basics' since I started the business (well, since 2003 - I started in 2000, but I really didn't have a clue what I was doing then) (not much has changed over the years, obviously) (well, other than the widespread use of web and e-mail, mobile phones and the death of video hire shops - do they still exist somewhere?) (and the introduction of coffee shops - thank God!). Anyway, big changes, top to bottom, effecting just about every aspect of the business. So exciting times. Over the coming weeks I'll start to introduce some of the new products and services but more importantly, explain some of the background to why the changes came about.

Wedding Photography - Kind of Missed Opportunities

Just been reading the back page of 'Brides' magazine. The feature is based around sound bites from couples wishing they had done things differently as far as the photography was concerned - too much B&W, bot enough colour shots / too many formal or not enough formal poses, that kind of thing. What struck me is that I would have avoided pretty much all the issues raised - BUT it does require the couple to engage beforehand. Great photography is a partnership - after all, I can only photograph what is in front of me, so if the groom or grand parents wander off and can't be found, there is very little that can be done, other than to move on and capture some thing else - guests enjoying the reception for example. But that type of situation is not ideal.

Whoever you decide to book for your wedding pictures, do meet up before as a couple to agree the style and the broad bones of a shooting list. You don't have to get bogged down with lots of formal poses, but making sure the names of key guests are listed will ensure no one is missed in the excitement of the moment. And check if images are captured digitally and in RAW format - that way you have the best possible starting point for colour or B&W decisions afterwards.

Elsewhere in the magazine, the advice is 'talk to your photography' - for the day at least we are a team so good communication is an easy investment to make to ensure great pictures.

Andrew Jackson Photography - "The Best!"

Compliments come in many shapes & sizes, but we had a lovely one this weekend... the best man at the wedding (actually, strictly speaking one of two - its about times the guys balanced the armies of bridesmaids!) said that he had been to eight weddings in the past twelve months and we were definately the best photographers... so in a wholly unscientific survey, when sampled against seven other unspecified photographers, measured against no objective critria, we are the best! Okay, so its not the most scientific bit of research, but 'best' is best, so we were happy!!!

Getting Bigger All The Time!

My previous blog has only been up for a matter of hours and already a few people have suggested that 'Andrew Jackson Photography is getting bigger' is a reference to my wasitline... well, actually its both the waistline and the business, so there!!!

Andrew Jackson Photography is getting bigger!

As always, apologies for the rather rubbish attempt to keep up to date with blogs - only excuse is that the past few weeks have been spent having some very interesting conversations....

At this stage, I can't quite announce all the changes happening to the business, except to tease you with the thought that our business plan is entitled 'World Domination 2011'... To be fair its starts modestly enough with domination of the South West but its good to know the bigger picture! But whilst we fine tune the details, we do need to recruit some new bods to the team.

We have two vacancies: the first is a Studio Manager (likely to be full time, but happy to consider part-time / job share, etc) and the second is for a part-time photographer. Obviously, both roles require a strong focus on looking after our clients - we pride ourselves on being friendly and accessible (well, that's the aim - if we fall short you are allowed to say... no one likes having negative feedback, but better to know so that we can amend our ways!) and both require weekend working. If you are interested, in the first instance please send a CV to Andrew at info@andrewjacksonphotography.co.uk.

And I'll try to get the next blog posted a bit quicker!

Charity Donations

I'm just back from a networking breakfast (how many of these posts revolve around me eating & drinking somewhere???) and an interesting thought came up... The breakfast is £9 and the hosts asks that rather than give change that the £1 goes in the pot for charity. Today we raised £50 which seemed a lovely bonus from an event that is not 'fund raising' in the traditional sense. It posed the question whether I should try something similar - if each transaction - each reprint, wedding booking, portrait booking, etc that went through the business carried an optional £1 donation, which my business then 'price matched', we would get to a reasonable size donation without a great deal effort or pain!

But of course, people like the choice of where their money goes and it can put people on the spot if a donation is asked for... so what do you think? A great fund raising idea or best not to mix business and charity / fund raising? Do let me know...

Wedding Experience

I had a slightly bizarre experience recently when I met a wedding planner who had been trading for a year but who hadn't actually planned a wedding yet. The curious bit was that from this starting point she mentioned that she was mentoring 20 other would-be wedding & event planners. I was tactfully trying to phrase the question of how that might work (experience at some level seemingly a pre-requisite in mentoring others) but the conversation moved on which was probably just as well - the question might have come out wrong and caused offence, which wasn't the intention at all - we all have to start somewhere after all. But it did pose the question of how much experience is necessary before a product can be offered to the general public.

I've no idea how many weddings I've captured; I started in 2000 and since then there have been quiet years and busy years, so I'm guessing it must be 200-250 kind of number, which seems quite a lot (but maybe accounts for the nervous tic, the hairline receding further & faster than the tide at Weston-super-Mare and the growing attraction to prescription drugs!!) But when I think back to the start of my career, I can't remember at what point I felt comfortable claiming to be "experienced". Does it come after 5,10, 20 weddings or is it less about actual numbers and more about the seasons? After all, shooting in the summer is very different to a winter wedding - the latter often requiring a different skill set and, ideally, better kit because the low light is such a challenge. Most pro photographers will admit that they never stop learning - every wedding is different, as is the venue, the weather, the social dynamics of the guests, etc, etc. I have to adapt to each new set of circumstances and deliver great pictures - so maybe after the next 250 I will be REALLY able to claim to be experienced... What do you think - let me know your definition of an experienced wedding photographer... If you were booking someone now what would you look for to reassure you that you had the best person for the job?

Hotmail Accounts

Just a quick blog to say that there seem to be some issues emailing hotmail addresses at the moment - it would appear that their spam settings are so high that regular mails are not reaching their destination. So if you do email us from a hotmail account please add 'info@andrewjacksonphotography.co.uk' to your address book and then our reply should reach you without any problems.

But Is It Art?

'Is photography art' is a fascinating question and one critical to how the value of photography is perceived in 2010 and beyond.

It is difficult to define 'fine art photography' in terms of subject matter - which in essence is unrestricted: of more importance is the creative process followed. Fine art photography has to have considerable creative freedom attached to it which excludes most, if not all, commissioned work. With the creative freedom comes the luxury of time. It is unique in having no time deadline - no delivery date - so the image can be worked on for as long as the photographer feels appropriate; there need be no compromise. But at some point it has to be signed off - literally, the signature in the corner marks the transition from 'work in progress' to 'finished article', from adolescence to adulthood and from that point on, the piece of work stands alone.

But there are two more elements to a 'fine art' definition and the first is that the image must elicit an emotional response from the viewer. Crudely, this is demonstrated by a desire to buy and own but even in the broader sense an image without engagement is a failed image.

The second is its pedigree. It is one thing for the photographer to capture an image but did they own the process? The origination of subject matter, the capture, the post production and printing, the presentation to exacting standards... the greater sense of ownership by the artist of this process, the stronger the fine art pedigree. Do you think this is a fair summary - let me know what you think...

*written whilst enjoying the view of Lake Lucerne, 7.7.10

Church Weddings

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As has been pointed out a number of times, this blog is rapidly turning into a tiny bit of a rant; or at least something of "soapbox corner" (think of it as my therapy!) but yesterday I was left wondering what is the next level down from a soapbox? (technically speaking, I guess its the ground, but you know what I mean)...maybe an "Its a Shame" Step...

We shot a wonderful wedding in the Cotswolds yesterday; the couple were lovely, 200 friendly guests and a church that was borderline Catherdral it was so spectacular - really beautiful, indeed everything a church wedding should be.

Except that the vicar refused permission for pictures to be taken during the service....so when the bride & groom look back on their photos the most important part of the day will be missing. The nervous looks, the father giving his daughter away, the exchange of rings, the first kiss, the joy of the occasion all missing. And by and large, it is a C of E issue; Roman Catholics are incredibly welcoming and really want to share the service and experience, Methodist services the same - but venture into a C of E church and it becomes a lottery. Some churches are wonderful, with a ready welcome and are a real joy to experience (All Saints in Clevedon as a great example of the warm welcome extended to visitors) but others are noticeably less so.

Photography in church is always a delicate balance - after all, it is hugely distracting to see a photographer moving around or firing a flash or intruding on the occasion in any way. But those of you reading this whose weddings we captured, will know how discreet we can be - no flash, no moving around and considerable respect for the occasion. So this isn't a rant as such, or even a soapbox moment - but it is such a shame that some vicars don't reflect upon the legacy that images from the service produce and who can't find the a compromise that maintains the integrity of the occasion without depriving the couple of such wonderful memories.

New Workshop Dates Announced

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I am just putting the finishing touches to the next workshops, both to be hosted by the very lovely Rectory Hotel near Tetbury. Two workshops this time - an absolute beginners course, which is really for people you want to take a good snap, but have no interest in the techie side of things. The second is more advanced, with a starting point of taking the camera off the auto settings and taking control. We'll have a model and maybe some studio lights to play with, so you'll need to be a little more confident with your camera. If you might be interested, do call me - all the contact details can be found on the www.andrewjacksonphotography.co.uk website - and I can talk through which workshop might suit you best. All the previous workshops have been great fun and very supportive, so no need to hide at the back of the room if you are not sure about things - its a great opportunity to ask daft questions! The workshops are likely to be towards the end of September but let me know as soon as possible if you might be interested and I can keep you up to date.

Oh, and the fish picture has nothing to do with workshops - it just caught my eye as I was looking through some old images!

Copyright and an Interesting Article

Firstly apologies for the lack of blogs in recent weeks... no real excuse but it has been incredibly busy - thank goodness - with a mix of boudoir, wedding, commercial and portraits in equal measure - its been a really interesting month or so. But even so, of course, my coffee habit has needed to be nurtured over that time so I've signed in to update the blog a few times but deleted the draft because nothing quite captured my thoughts.

There are a number of issues that have had me climbing onto my soap box in recent weeks, but in essence the two that are recurring are 1. the decline in standards in wedding photography and 2. copyright.

The decline in standards is a huge issue, but I really don't know how to address this without offending somebody, somewhere. Couples seem quite cavalier in entrusting their day to part-time, mediocre photographers for the sake of saving a few hundred pounds (and yes, I know times are tough but that doesn't change the maxim that 'you get what you pay for'). Its quite depressing, not just because it compromises my business but it also demonstrates how little creative work is appreciated. There are some very, very good wedding photographers in the Bristol/ Bath/ Gloucester area, but plainly we are not making the case clearly enough for couples to appreciate why they should book us. For my part, its put a huge spotlight on the quality of my work and has re-energised me in working even harder to create great shots - after all, no point complaining about the quality if my work isn't the very best it can possibly be. So I have rejoined the BIPP (British Institute of Professional Photography), with a view to ensuring my qualifications are brought back up to date. I'll keep you posted as to how I get on.

But actually, that wasn't the point of this blog...I saw a really good article by Caitlin Moran in the Times today talking about copyright. Really, I recommend that you track down a copy and read it for yourselves. For me, the following reflection particularly hit home: "I liked the 20th century. The 20th century was great; for the first time in history artists stopped starving in garrets or being indentured to wealthy patrons and got paid decent money, thanks to massive tranches of dull yet hard-assed copyright legislation. As a consequence, the 20th century was artistically dominated by the working classes, because for the first time they could actually afford to be artistic."

Too many photographers (and maybe those in other creative roles too?) are handing over their copyright, competing on the lowest price, offering quantity over quality and in the process, driving down standards, which ultimately will lead the consumer to loose confidence and faith in the product offered. As I said, I can only really respond by challenging my own work, not just today but on an on-going basis and hope that I can find the words to explain why quality should win the day.

Workshop at The Rectory

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Just back from another workshop at The Rectory Hotel, Crudwell. Just wanted to say a big thank you to Leah, our model (above) who was just brilliant and thanks to everyone for joining in! It always feels a long day, as there is always more to cover in the workshop than we have time for, but over all a great day. Watch this space for news of the next workshop, planned for September.

All Saint's Church, Clevedon

Stained Glass Detail: copyright Andrew Jackson Photography

I'm very pleased to write that I have been commissioned by All Saint's Church in Clevedon to document their 150th Anniversary. Its a fascinating project in prospect, not least because its a real legacy project that will become part of the history of the community. And 'community' plays a big part of this project, because as well as capturing some of the incredible details like the stained glass, the project also aims to reflect how the church fits into real life. So baptisms, weddings and funerals will all feature - each posing a different photographic challenges - but also the people who keep the church alive - the wardens, the flowers arrangers, the bell ringers and cleaners. The project will result in an exhibition in November, more of which later.

Vicki's Boudoir Shoot

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It's probably no surprise if I said that right now, I am sat in a coffee shop, with my americano (with hot milk) in front of me - regular followers of this blog will know that this is the life blood of my business (did you notice the optimism of 'followers' plural!). Anyway, just wanted to share one of the shots from Vicki's boudoir shoot that I mentioned recently. Vicki was absolutely amazing! When we started shooting boudoir the images that came to mind were very dark and moody, but its becoming a trend now that people have so much fun in front of camera that there are too many smiles to make mean & moody work! But in a way, I'm really pleased with this response. I've met lots of women who like the whole 'How to look good naked' thing, but who hate the idea of being pictured in a 'page three' style. So sexy and fun seems to work much much better.

French Weddings: New For 2011

Really pleased to announce that from 2011 onwards we shall be available to shooting weddings in France. Our first French wedding was shot in the south west, not far from Bergerac and was a great experience. Firstly, amazing settings - the chateau and vineyard backdrops are just SO inspirational from a photographic perspective. The light is incredible - especially in the countryside - and that really helps me to create something different and interesting. And from our experience, weddings tend to be very relaxed, so more smiles and more informality to capture, which suits my style down to the ground!

It makes good sense if you are UK based getting married in france to commission a UK photographer, since all the pre-meetings and post production are more easily managed. And flights are so reasonable these days: we are available for commissions across the UK, so really its as easy for us to get to France as it is to a castle in Scotland. And I get an opportunity to practice my quite dreadful language skills (that's true for France and Scotland!).

Its been my aspiration for a long time to base at least part of the business in France, so the prospect of spending more time in this beautiful country is very exciting. Do please have a look at my website and contact us if you are planning an overseas wedding.

Boudoir & Cotswolds: Two Very Different Days!

Busy few days... last Friday we photographed the very lovely Vicki, who won the Clifton Life boudoir competition, so hair / make up stylist Julie Johnson was with me to ensuring maximum pampering (that was Vicki receiving the pampering, not me obviously!), Charlton House provided a stunning backdrop (as well as a great dinner, canapes and champagne - I do love working with a glass of champagne in my hand - really, its the future!) & we captured a lovely set of poses. Then on Saturday, it was up to the Cotswold's to capture Jon's 30th birthday - great set of guests and a lovely evening. I wish more people considered photography for key celebrations like this - we met 150 guests, all dressed up and looking fabulous & it made for a great set of images to remember the occasion. Then off to Christchurch to celebrate my own wedding anniversary...

In between all of this, I did see an article in the Times magazine on Saturday, which posed the question "what really annoys you as a (wedding) guest?" There were a range of answers from sugared almonds (how you take offence at a sugared almond?!), to photographers taking too long (then maybe the couple should have booked me - really, I've no sympathy!) and dress codes. Obviously, if couples insist on a "pride & prejudice" theme then maybe it might become an issue (although I think I might be able to carry off the 'Darcy' look if the lights are kept low and I can keep breathing in!), but is a dress code something to stress about? Strange, sometimes, what bothers people!

A Stunning Spring - Its Portrait Time

I'm back in my favourite 'office' - one of Clifton's best coffee shops - wondering why I am sat here and not taking pictures! The weather is glorious, the blossom is in the tree's - this is such a great time to book a portrait shoot! Once upon a time, I did promise that there would be some special offers for people who kept tabs on this blog, so here is the first special offer. Mention that you have seen this blog before the end of April '10 and I will offer a free on-location portrait session (in Bristol, Bath or surrounding area). Reprint prices start from £20 unframed, so a bargain to be had! Shoots need to be booked by the end of April and take place before the end of May. Have a look at my website for some sample images. Have to go - my americano with hot milk is cooling rapidly....

Trash The Dress

Trash the dress... daft name, great concept. For the name, we must blame the Americans (or at least an American - I doubt the whole country got together to brainstorm the name) (to be fair, it might be have been someone who just lived in America at the time, so maybe 'blame' is the wrong approach - maybe a group hug would be a better response). So daft name, great concept... In yesterdays blog I highlighted how precious time is at a wedding. Do you know that despite all the time shared with your photographer, you'll only get 20-30 minutes to take some stunning couple shots. And yes, stunning couple shots is what you will end up with but...

From experience most brides have spent more on their wedding dress than any other item of clothing they have ever bought and whatever their size and shape, they will probably have been in the gym or on a diet in the lead up to the wedding to make sure they and their dress look as fab as possible. So, you are feeling and looking better than ever and you get twenty minutes in front of the camera - not long is it? But of course, on the day, you don't want to risk the dress getting marked and you'd really prefer to be talking to your guests anyway, which is where 'trash the dress' comes in. Firstly, the dress doesn't get trashed (that would just be silly) - think of it as an extra special portrait shoot: what happens is that we meet up a few weeks after the wedding and go for an extended portrait shoot somewhere amazing - a striking urban setting like Bristol Docks or on to the beach or a remote landscape setting - somewhere that is a total contrast to your wedding day. And with the extra time, and all the stresses removed, we create some amazing set piece pictures. I saw a picture a few weeks back where the groom was in smart casual clothes and the bride in her dress with an urban setting and it looked AMAZING. Just as though the couple had stepped out of the pages of a fashion magazine.

It's not expensive. The session fee is £95 (or £45 if I photographed your wedding), with a range of frames starting from £295. Do please ask for details.

Wedding Advice 003: Time Waits for No Man (or Bride)

Time. Waits for no man. And definately not for brides, although w've photographed a few that may disagree...there is not enough of it on a wedding day, that's for sure. The day will fly by, so there is a huge advantage in sitting down with your photographer (yes - your photographer - sorry, remind me who else knows the day from start to finish - florists, venues, vicars and cake makers only share part of the day, I'm with you all the way!) and plan the day. And as I write this (actually in a very lovely coffee shop in Bristol - I do love the fact that I can work on location!), I can almost hear you shout something to the effect that "we don't want our day to be planned - we want natural, fun, relaxed", etc. But it makes SO much sense - make a plan and then let other people to deliver it for you - that's the hallmark of great, relaxed, wedding day...

Anyway, advice number 3: ALWAYS overestimate how long everything will take. If your timings are correct, the worst that will happen from over-estimating is that you will have more time to talk to your guests; more time to look around and soak up the atmosphere. If you need the extra time, then its factored in already and it won't throw the rest of the day. Couples always worry that they need to ensure the day keeps moving, in case guests get bored... being positive, get a few mates and /or family (the two are not necessarily mutually exclusive) together and they can spend hours catching up - so a couple of hours spent with a pims on the lawn isn't going to be a great challenge - so don't worry! Or, put another way, if your guests are getting bored, maybe you invited the wrong guests?!

The reality is that there are too many demands on your time on a wedding day - so inevitably the day is a compromise, there is no way of avoiding this (well, there is, but you wouldn't like the answer so I won't go there), so plan the day, prioritise the parts that are most important and be relaxed about the rest. Give me a call if you have any queries about your special day.

Green Weddings

I read an article today about Green Weddings - which got me thinking how environmentally friendly can / should a bride & groom be and also how environmentally friendly can photography be? In the old days we shot on film (excuse me whilst I wipe a nostalgic tear away - film was lovely - the whole alchemy of capturing and processing an image on film is magical - its a real shame that digital process is so soulless in that regard) (but I really don't understand pro photographers today making a virtue out of capturing images on film - its the 21st Century - get a life!...but thats another story!). I guess by today's standards, film wasn't desperately 'green' and so digital capture has improved things there. But from experience, we still print almost as much as before. So that's one tick in the 'green' box and one tick in the 'nothings changed' box!

One aspect is with so many more suppliers in all aspects of wedding planning, their is a temptation to meet lots of people - decisions become harder to make because there must always be a feeling that there is someone better / cheaper / different around the corner. Personally, I think too much choice can confuse rather than help. So save the miles and start with on-line research. Find five photographers whose style you like, because style is so individual and much easier if you can find someone whose pictures really engage you from the outset. Then call them and from the conversations check availability and decide who sounded most interested in your day and who gave you most confidence, because these are key factors too. Armed with this, pick your three favourites to meet - in the unlikely event that you don't like any you have two reserves to come back to. Meet all three close together and make a decision. Efficient, low mileage, low stress and - trust me - you will end up with the right person. Don't even bother with wedding fairs - the concept is great, the experience today has become awful unless you can get to one of the boutique events (ie at Bibury Court the experience is a real pleasure). So miles saved equals a greener approach another tick there!

Finally (for this post), go local. We have probably a dozen quality venues within a 15m radius of the studio but we are just as likely to be shooting 50 miles plus away from base. If everyone went local, imagine how many miles would be saved...

But when all is said and done, from experience I can report that my wedding day was the best day of my life and for those of you planning your big day, do enjoy it and don't get too side tracked meeting the agendas of others - you should have the day of your dreams and not someone elses!

Wedding Advice - 002: Virtual Weddings

Helpful Tip: Talk to your suppliers, don't just email!

When I started in wedding photography (back in 2000, not so long ago), a photographer with a website was considered 'cutting edge'. On-line galleries were just a twinkle in a developers eye and if couples wanted to find out more it really was a case of getting up close & personal - calling in to a high street studio, meeting at a wedding fair or calling in response to an advert. But one way or another, there was a personal contact that is missing now. Clients look on line, send 'copy & paste' emails to lots of suppliers and generally avoid anything other than 'virtual' contact to the last minute.

I understand the reasons why but once you have used the web to create a short list of three possibles, pick up the phone. We always advise clients to ignore the 'questions to ask' lists in the wedding magazines. Selecting your photographer comes down to just three issues: style (if you don't like what you see on the web its unlikely that's the photographer for you); personality and budget (in that order). This posting is focused on personality. A professional, experienced photographer will have a host of questions about your day before they can get to the prices. Yes, we have standard packages that set a framework, but most photographers can tweak their offer (I was going to say 'tweak their packages' but that may be open to misinterpretation...) to match your day - if we know what your day looks like. But don't view the call as waste of your time: how friendly the photographer sounds, how interested they are in your day (if they are not asking lots of questions how interested are they in your day - and if not interested, how creative will they be when the time comes?) and whether you come away from the conversation thinking "he sounded friendly" is all useful research. Our longest wedding shoot was about 14 hours, with a lot of that time spent with the bride - if we didn't hit it off it would have been a nightmare on both sides (fortunately we did and it was great fun but that's not the point!). So be brave, pick up the phone and talk to us. Yes, its kind of old fashioned but it is SO the best way!

Wedding Advice - 001

So where do you turn when you want advice about your wedding? I ask because I've just flicked through a very glossy,free wedding magazine targeting the south west and I'm really disappointed. It really is a case of the "same old, same old" so does that mean there is nothing new to say about weddings? I suspect that the problem stems from magazines wanting to enhance their advertising offer by promoting advertisers as experts; trouble is the advertisers that the titles attract are not always experienced / sufficiently recognised to produce quality articles or to have anything meaningful to say. Which takes me back to the original question, where do you turn when we want really useful advice? Do email me and let me know which websites / magazines / books / colleagues worked for you and I will share it via this blog.

In the meantime, over the coming months I shall be asking the suppliers I know and trust to offer some meaningful tips about how to make the most of your day. No hard sells, no fluffy sales pitches - hopefully just very helpful advice.

And if you have any questions now, mail them through to me: info@andrewjacksonphotography.co.uk and I'll do some of the research for you!

New Workshop Date Announced

Are your snaps missing their crackle and pop?!

If your camera has been banished to the back of the cupboard, now is the time to set it free! Perhaps you have a big family gathering on the horizon or the holiday of a lifetime; maybe you’ve just treated yourself to a fancy new camera and would like to know how to get the best from it… why not attend one of Andrew’s training workshops this year?

Our next course is a jargon-free beginners session that will help you understand your digital or film SLR camera and will give you the confidence to move off the auto settings to take control and take beautiful pictures. The workshop is taking place on Tuesday 25th May at The Rectory Hotel, in Crudwell (not far from Tetbury, Glos). It starts at 9:00 for 9:30 and costs £85 (includes lunch).

Please contact Andrew on 01761 452084, who can talk you through what each course will cover.

Soap Box Corner

I would like to draw your attention to an article in The Sunday Times (7.03.10), entitled 'The Shooting Party's Over', which outlines how photography in public spaces is coming under increasing threat from officialdom. Inevitably, the police - implementing the new rules and guidelines - receive most of the flak, but rather than place the blame on hard working and under-valued officers performing an all ready difficult job, its probably fairer to widen the debate to try and understand why photography is suddenly seen as such an threat. From this starting point, maybe there is some common ground that will help resolve some of the issues and keep photography possible in public spaces.

Do read the article if possible and do be aware of the issues - if you are a photographer, amateur or professional, you should understand the issues so that a) you don't make a situation worse if stopped & challenged and b) start campaigning to reverse this nonsense. The article in The Sunday Times highlights some of the classic, iconic photographs that just won't be possible to recreate in the future, but the rationale for not accepting this situation goes beyond creative picture making and historical documentation and embraces issues central to our civil liberties.

Back to Work!

Seems ages since the last post - no real excuse except that I've been much, much busier than expected at the start of the year. Obviously a good thing, but with everything going on, I've neglected the blog. That's not good!

Since the last blog, I've won a great commission to document a community project - more on that later; also, the first training workshop at Bailbrook House has taken place (great fun had by all judging from the positive feedback); we have a competition winner for the boudoir competition in Exeter, we've done some commercial 'stuff' and shot some weddings - its been a good start to the year. So watch this space. As promised on blog No: 1, I really want to use this space to post most recent work, keep you up to date with special offers and events and - occasionally - climb on to my soapbox...

New Boudoir Competition

Our new boudoir competition is now live, which is very exciting. We've teamed up with Exeter's leading style guide - 'Exeter Living' magazine - and for this month, you have the chance to win an amazing prize. Charlton House Hotel have offered the winner D,B&B in their fab hotel and the next day is all about some old fashioned hollywood glamour! Josie Lock is taking care of the styling side of things and I am poised to capture some great images. To enter, pick up a copy of Exeter Living or head for the magazine website. Good luck!

No More Recession - Hooray!

Yesterday's news that we are edging out of recession was welcome but there was a lot of hollow laughter among the photographers I know... still, since November last year there does seem to be many more bookings coming through and some dates this year we could have booked two, three even four times over. For some reason the most popular date of the year is 11.09.10 - and no, I've no idea why either...answers on a postcard please!

But one thing that is worth highlighting is that if you are planning a wedding, do book up your preferred suppliers earlier rather than later, as delaying might well mean you end up compromising your choice. Last year you could have left it quite late but I'm less sure that the same will apply so much this year.

And if you are planning your big day, have fun! Yes, there loads of decisions to make, but the day itself goes by so quickly, so think of all the shopping trips and meetings as all part of the big day and savour every minute!

Ashton Court Weddings

Just a quick follow up to the wedding fair post a few days ago. Thanks to everyone who stopped for a chat at the Ashton Court Mansion event. The rooms did look great and impressive to see the tables laid up - its not often that prospective clients can see all the choices available as there is usually a wedding or event of some description taking place. But this gave the chance to have a good look at what might be possible - each of the rooms looked really impressive - above is a shot of the Music Room. We spoke to lots of couples as the afternoon went on and look forward to following up the conversations over the coming weeks.

Finding Mr Right...

"Marriage isn't a passion-fest: its a partnership running a boring business" - Lori Gottleib, author. There was an interesting article in the Observer yesterday (24.01), that went under the headline of 'Find Mr Right before age 30 or settle for second best'. Now, setting aside the fact that I was well passed 30 when I got married so 'Mr Second Best' here is feeling slightly hurt, the article touches on some interesting points about modern expectations from marriage. Well worth looking up the article...

Ashton Court Wedding Fair

Although this Sunday's event at Ashton Court Mansion is not technically a wedding fair - its an 'invitation only' event for couples considering the venue for their celebration - it does give me an excuse to sing the praises of one of Bristol's best wedding venues. Hard to describe as a 'best kept secret' since with 60-70 weddings a year it is tremendously popular; mostly because it offers a great setting whatever the season. Great for pictures indoors and out; its the kind of venue that your guests will love. The Music Room, popular for the ceremony, is full of natural light in the summer and is just perfect for a grand entrance and to walk up the aisle. So if you are planning your day and looking for a venue that's a cut above the usual, do give them a call.

Venice

Just back from an amazing trip to Venice. Bitterly cold, but fortified by lots of espresso, great cakes and ice cream (it was cold, but the ice cream was fab - it had to be done!), the trip was a great success. One of this year's resolutions was to shoot more for myself, so I feel a bit smug to have already put that into practice. Just planning the next trip, with a view to shooting more stock shots as the year goes on...watch this space!

Devon Based Make up Specialist

Through the blog especially, its helpful I think to highlight some of the great people we end up working with... and if you are planning a Devon / Cornwall wedding, then we do recommend Josie Lock for all the bride and bridesmaid's hair & make up styling. Josie is incredibly friendly and is generating lots of interest in her work locally. I've been working with Josie on some exeter based projects and its been a real pleasure. The picture above is Josie at work, but rather than take my word for it, do give her a call and talk through your day with her.

Bath Photo Workshop - 21 February

Are your snaps missing their crackle and pop?

If your camera has been banished to the back of the cupboard, now is the time to set it free! Perhaps you have a big family gathering on the horizon or a holiday of a lifetime; maybe you’ve just treated yourself to a fancy new camera and would like to know how to get the best from it… Andrew will be hosting a number of training workshops this year, starting at Bailbrook House on Sunday, 21 February. Bailbrook is a lovely venue, with amazing areas of well lit areas indoors, so whatever the weather, we'll be able to get some great pictures.

For more information, please contact Andrew on 01761 452084, who can talk you through what the course aims to cover.

Winter Portraits in Bath

Well, like the rest of the country, I am snowed in today. Luckily no shoot booked, so I can relax and catch up on paperwork! My neighbours keep asking if I'm heading out with the camera and to be honest, no - its beautiful but far too cold! I think this is why I specialise in people photography, rather than landscape - much, much easier!

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year to all our clients, friends & supporters of the business! We're looking forward to working with you in 2010 and making the coming year a great success. It feels an exciting time in prospect; we've got some great portrait promotions in the pipeline, so watch this space and we've some stunning weddings booked in, which we'll profile on the blog as and when. Whatever your plans for the coming year, may we take this opportunity to wish you all a safe, successful and, above all, happy 2010.