I studied at Antonelli
Art Institute in Philadelphia from 1991-1992. During that time, I worked with
my Aunt Terry, a professional photographer (http://www.terryhirst.com),
where I learned crucial skills in portrait, commercial and creative
photography. I gleaned most photography experience since my move from
Philadelphia to Southampton in 2000.
In 2000, I took an apprenticeship
at David Bampton Studios in Southampton where I discovered a love for Wedding
Photography. It was here, I learned how to get the "best" out my couples and
how important "speed" is in wedding photography.
Most people usually say they
either "dislike" having their photo taken or they "produce" bad photos. I
believe that in every person there are hundreds of fabulous photos; most of
which are taken without their knowledge. This is what I strive for in my
work; a natural candid shot, showing a person enjoying themselves and looking
their best.
As mentioned, speed is important
in three ways. The light and conditions change constantly during a wedding,
whether it be clouds, sun, shadows, ceiling heights, flash, distance or
clothing. A wedding photographer works mostly in "manual" with their camera.
It is for this reason, we must, within a split second at times, know exactly
what to change, whether it be Fstop, aperture, speed, lens, distance, focus,
composition, or height from the ground, to mention a few.
Recently at a wedding, as we were
shooting formal groups outside the church, the wind had built up, clouds were
forming, the bridesmaid was about the cry and rain was close. With 125 people
waiting outside the church, I had a seconds to decide whether to a) go inside
b) go to the venue c) keep shooting. Because I had pre-visited the venue, I
knew it to be inadequate for formal group shots; I had checked with the vicar
and another wedding was starting shortly making it impossible to get 125
people in and out of the church before the next wedding. I made a decision.
As I had visited the couple's house one week before the wedding, I had a list
of groups. I announced that the listed people (about 25 in all) were to go
inside the church immediately for photos; the rest to go to the venue. The
bestman had a list of the group photos and helped quickly produce the shots.
Hence, we avoided a rain shower, the bridesmaid was given a "rest" and ployed
with "sweets for smiles" and the photos were super quick. I sent the group of
25 to the gate, giving the couple a few minutes alone in church. They walked
down the church path to be met by family and friends throwing confetti.
These scenarios come up time and
time again, usually several times during one wedding. Experience and quick
thinking are invaluable.
Speed, as in time taken, is also
important. I pride myself in "not taking all day" to do photos. I am extremely
fast (and people say quite entertaining) when it comes to my bit. There is no
hanging around. I try to let couples mingle "while" having groups taken, so
that it's not all work and they get time to chat to guests. It becomes a more
social event than a chore.
From 2000 to the present, I have
shot over 150 weddings; also shooting high key portraits, childrens' portraits
at nurseries and the occasional sporting event. Weddings are my primary
source of work. Wherein many photographers use a method to photograph each
and every wedding, I believe that each and every wedding is different.
I always meet my couples twice.
Once to view albums and get an idea of style preferred and once 2 weeks before
the wedding at the venue so we can go over any details. This also makes them
feel more calm.
If you have any questions about my
work, please go to the FAQ section and if the answer is not there, call or
email and I will endeavour to answer.
Thanks and I hope to meet you
soon!
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