I am always delighted when clients want photos as gifts for family. Connect that with some personal branding too, and I think you have a great recipe for success.

Last year I did a branding shoot for Helena from the Space Maker Our original shoot had to be postponed due to Covid-19 so when we were eventually able to do it, it felt so good to be back photographing people.

A wedding is such a wonderful thing – you have your friends and family all together to witness your commitment to each other. It’ a day full of love, laughter and happy tears - often mine when I am photographing the speeches, I find it quite emotional sometimes!

Here we are, one year on and still in a lockdown - but hopefully not for much longer! I am booked to have my vaccination this week so will be pleased when that is done.

Last Autumn, before we had the second lockdown, I photographed the lovely Aisling from Ruby Rua Holistic Therapies.

Aisling wanted to update the images on her website and for social media.

To get the most of any photo shoot, it’s important to talk to your photographer first. We’ll explore some of things it’s worth discussing from time to time.

This time, I want to kick off about orientation, and why that’s so important…

I have a passion for all animals, but I do have a huge soft spot for dogs. I have always had a dog - the house would be far too quiet and empty without the pitter patter of their feet, and the panting!

I always feel dogs offer us unconditional love and companionship no matter what - they are so loyal and loving. And with us for such a short time.

The term personal branding has really caught on in the last few years. With the plethora of YouTubers sharing their lives on camera, there has been a huge surge in interest in blogging and social media.

But what does that mean for the average person, who isn’t chasing instant stardom?

I have a number of clients who blog or vlog, sometimes both. They talk about their lives, sharing tips and skills with their followers… 

In America, having your photograph take at around the age of 16 is almost a rite of passage. Boy or girl – they seem to really enjoy the experience and love having something to look back on in years to come.

That stage in a young person’s life – from around 16-19 – usually marks some quite significant transitions…

Today I want to talk to you about using a static background versus ‘on location’.

I offer both options to all of my clients, but if I have the opportunity to influence the decision, I would always go for ‘on location’.

Let’s explore what they both mean…