Dolly Photography

New Blog www.dollyphotography.co.uk/blog

2010-04-06T08:12:00.001+01:00

Hello everyone,
Thanks for your interest in Dolly Photography's doings and goings, this blog will no longer be updated as I now have a new blog site.
It can be found here www.dollyphotography.co.uk/blog and you will find entries as my life as a wedding photographer in barnsley, boudoir photographer and lots of other fun stuff.

Charity Shop - In Vintage

2010-04-02T19:06:00.003+01:00

As a photographer in the digital era, the options for processing are limitless. Gone are the days when you had to shoot on special films to get a special effect, most of it can be recreated digitally.
Finding your photoshopping style is as difficult as finding your photography style - it's something that has to be personal and unique to you.
I always err towards bright, colour popping images that make a statement, but for some reason on this shoot, something else won out.
The images had a distinctly vintage feel to them - and so I processed them differently. It's not my usual style and I'm not even sure if I like them, but for now they will stay that way because - as Dolly says - it's always good to be different.
This shoot was on behalf of Barnsley Hospice - to show brides that wedding dresses have funk, even when they are second hand.

Rocking The Dress - Barnsley Hospice

2010-03-22T08:01:00.002Z

The people at Barnsley Hospice are truly fabulous and those that work in the shops are always looking for inventive new ways to present their goods.
At the moment, the hospice shop in Goldthorpe is organising a wedding extravaganza and we thought it would be fun to illustrate exactly how funky charity shop donations could be.
This dress will be on sale at the Hospice, for a bargain price.
We shoot this in a half hour at Locke Park in Barnsley - we loved the idea of the Gazebo and we were so lucky - because look at that fabulous light!

There will be more to come over the next few days but to finish, here's a closeup. I don't know if you can make out the eye makeup but it was fab!

Andi and Aimee - Your Suprise!

2010-02-10T19:13:00.003Z

Andi and Aimee are one of my funnest wedding couples - and they are unfailingly cheerful. Their wedding day was a challenge for them, their amazing church was beautiful but had no grounds and - being November - it was FREEZING!
Nevertheless, the pair managed to pull off one of the most lovely weddings I have ever been to where family was a strong and lasting theme. Poor Aimee almost froze getting her wedding photos but she never complained once.
This is a surprise for you, Aimee, because I know you've been under the weather and I hope you feel better soon!

The Joys Of Weddings

2010-02-06T15:39:00.006Z

Sharing a bride and groom's wedding day is a great responsibility and it's always great if you actually get on with the couple.
One of my most favourite, stand-out couples has to be Pip and Glenn who got married last year.
They had such a sense of fun, of flamboyance. Their wedding was laid back, smooth running and very, very cool.
One thing I have discovered recently, is the massive difference a great slideshow can make to the photos.
I just couldn't resist digging out their photos and having a go.
Obviously the quality of this slideshow is shrunk for the web but the real thing is so good it plays through your DVD player like a normal home movie.

We Rock It - Not Trash It!

2010-01-10T17:25:00.002Z

One of my most favourite things to do is a Rock The Dress shoot - this is where brides get to dust off their wedding dresses and give it a good work out!
It DOESN'T get set on fire, caked in mud, wet to the bone or anything else (unless you want the shoot to go that way of course!)
Rock the Dress is a modern take on a bridal portrait, which uses fashion styling and lighting to create a more couture edge.
Here we have Hannah - believe it or not she is photographed in a car park off Summer Lane in Barnsley Town Centre. Many thanks to Keeley at Dolly Rocks Make Up for the fabulous bridal makeup in this shot - if you need a makeover contact her at http://dollyrocksmakeup.blogspot.com.

Andi and Aimee - Coming Soon!

2009-12-11T22:52:00.002Z

The fabulous Andi and Aimee married last month in Stamford - I met them earlier this year at Sheffield Botanical Gardens for their engagement shoot.
An engagement shoot is something I do with every bride and groom, to make sure they like my style of photography.
Andi and Aimee rocked it in their shoot - and keep your eyes peeled for their wedding photos, coming soon!

The Joys Of A Shootsac!

2009-12-11T22:46:00.002Z

Being a girl and a photographer is a bit of a struggle sometimes. Depending on the kind of shoot it is, you usually need loads of kit. I have a HUGE Lowepro rucksac that feels like I am smuggling gold bullion everytime I carry it...
Add to this a tripod, video light, and other gubbins and you've got arm and shoulder pain by the end of the day.
But I have a savior! American photographer Jessica Claire has designed a camera bag called a Shootsac. It's a lifesaver!
It comes all wrapped in a pretty box...

And it even has a little thankyou sticker...

The Shootsac is a really strong neoprene, which makes it easy to carry lenses without a huge padded bag...

The Big Rescue Of Patsey!

2009-12-07T21:09:00.000Z

I was sorting through my computer and came across these which I meant to blog in the summer and never got around to!
Blogstalkers, there's a story here. This is Patsey - she's a little lost dog (she's found her owner now don't worry!)
She got trapped down a drain and my bro-in-law and husband had to fight through a thicket of brambles to lift her out.
She's been stuck in there roughly two days but here she is, cleaned up after her rescue as happy as larry. She's shown with her rescuers Mike and Liane!

Moo Designs Fashion Shoot!

2009-12-04T20:11:00.001Z

Fashion photography has always been my inspiration. I scour magazines for posing ideas and my trademark in my weddings is the 'fashion' edge I give to the day. My photography is stylish and edgy and I work hard to keep my posing fresh.
When I was given the chance to shoot some fashion pics for a new fashion designer called Moo - I jumped at the chance.
The shots were for the company's opening ad campaign and it was a bit of a last minute thing. All I had on me was a camera and a video light - I hope you like what I came up with.
NB - Moo has opened a shop in Lucorum, Barnsley. Check it out they have some fab bags!

Miss G In The Boudoir!

2009-12-01T18:49:00.002Z

When you post photographs of boudoir clients, people are ALWAYS dubious as to whether the client is real or a model. It's difficult to post boudoir clients, because quite often the photos are done as a suprise for a hubby to be - or as a confidence boosting present for yourself.
Quite often, boudoir shots are for your eyes only and not something you share with the world. At Dolly, we don't expect it of our clients - we ALWAYS ask before we post, and we don't have any problem with it if you say no.
But it's always thrilling to be able to share your work and Miss G a recent Barnsley client of ours was brave enough to share.
Thanks so much!

Meeting Lucie Jones!

2009-11-24T18:41:00.000Z

So, do any of you any wonder what us photographers do when we aren't photographing, editing or album designing?
Here's what I do! I am an internet journalist for a new website and here I am interviewing Lucie Jones from the X-Factor in Barnsley.
Don't I look fetching in my fabulous red fleece??

Meeting Stavros Flatley!

2009-11-18T18:37:00.000Z

So - as some of you guys may know - I have been a journalist for 11 years and I work on this internet TV project thingamajig called We Are Barnsley (it's a right laugh!)
Here I am at the Barnsley Christmas lights switch on meeting Stavros Flatley - they were so lovely!
Fame at last!

Leopard Print Nicole!

2009-10-27T17:26:00.002Z

It's always fun to work with a makeup artist because you never know what they are going to come up with!
On a recent shoot with Dolly Rocks Make Up, the makeup artist supremo Keeley took inspiration from her clients leopard print top.
The result was a Madonna-esque 80s vibe so I went for a little bit of a retro vibe on the processing.

For those eagle-eyed blog viewers these shots were done in Barnsley town centre.

Danielle - Clockwork Orange!

2009-10-20T08:35:00.002+01:00

As it gets towards winter, my wedding season always dies down a little. Although I always miss weddings for a few months, the down time gives me chance to work on different projects, try new techniques.
This portfolio shoot is an example of the kind of multi-tasking jobs we take on at Dolly - it's for a makeup artist and a model!
Hope you like!

Chloe - Retro!

2009-10-08T08:10:00.001+01:00

Usually my style of processing pictures is bright and edgy. I love eye-popping pictures with colours that make your eyes cross.
But every once in a while I like to play with something different - and it's always more fun to practice those new colours on your rellies.
Here's my cousin Chloe. I wanted to give her a bit of a retro edge, like an old faded photograph that's yellowing slightly.
Hope you love it!!
I love the back light on this picture.

Rebecca - Rock Star!

2009-10-02T19:35:00.001+01:00

Model Rebecca was funked up like a rock chick for this photoshoot we did recently in Barnsley town centre. It was a promotional shoot for the funky team at Dolly Rocks Make Up.
We had a full day of makeovers, shooting, wigs, costume design. It was crazy but fun. Here, the fantabulous makeup artist Keeley used a lace imprint to create a rock chick makeover, that was trimmed in diamantes.

For all you photography buffs out there, these were all shot in natural night, no reflectors or flashes used. I was lucky that day.

Me and Peter Andre!

2009-10-01T18:03:00.003+01:00

So I am not sure if many of you know but I am a journalist, and have been for ten years. I am currently working on an internet TV thingamabob and I had to go and interview Peter Andre which was HILARIOUS!
Many thanks to John from We Shoot Gigs for getting the snaps of me doing my interview - don't I look serious? We were told not to ask about Jordan...Scarborough warning and such like. And yes, numerous people have already told me off for having not done my hair and makeup!!
Here is my super-glam camerawoman Helen, muscling in passed the BBC to get a great shot. We were in a mosh pit of press and had to fight for our space but we got our interview! Yey!

And here I am - it looks like I am telling him off but I am saying 'can you do me ONE favour?' I'll leave you guessing as to what that favour was...

Pip and Glenn - Wedding Favourites!

2009-09-24T19:49:00.002+01:00

The night dos are one of the hardest parts of weddings to photograph. You have to contend with pitch dark rooms, disco lights, music so loud the bride and groom can't hear you.
Pip and Glenn's wedding was the first 'night do' I had done where I truly captured the spirit of the bride and groom's first dance.
The couple made their wedding super fun by giving their guests kazoos to join in with the music. Here's Glenn putting his all into it...

The best man volunteered his band's services and rocked it out at the night do...

And the lead singer, Otis from the Gadget Show, gave it his all for Pip and Glenn!

Jon and Sarah - Coming Soon!

2009-09-20T22:32:00.007+01:00

Shooting any wedding is a high-pressure affair. You want to do your very best for the bride and groom - to make sure they have photographs that will last them a lifetime.
That pressure is about a hundred times worse when the wedding you are shooting is family! There's a whole other heap of emotions into the mix there too.
Jon and Sarah, my cousins, were married in August in the fabulous Pitville Pump Rooms in Cheltenham and asked me to do their wedding photos.
While it was an honour to be asked, it was nonetheless nerve-wracking. Pressure. Times a million :-)
I had a fabulous day - as did all the family, and here's a sneak peek of what's to come.
I hope you too had a fabulous honeymoon and your pictures will be finished soon!

Wedding Favourites - Pip and Glenn!

2009-09-15T19:39:00.002+01:00

Pip and Glenn were married earlier this year and I have been so lax in my blogging that I never had chance to post my wedding favourites. So here they are, strutting their stuff at Wentworth Castle Gardens.
There are so many favourites I have for this wedding that I will have to blog in two posts but for now - here they are. I was ably assisted at this wedding by photography supremo Mark Pearson, I just love working in teams!
I love this ceremony shot - Pip's expression reflects her feelings perfectly.

But here she gets really serious and caught up in the moment...

Chosing the wedding car was left to Pip - and she selected this bright pink beetle as a suprise for Glenn! He was a good sport about it though!

Pip and Glenn - The Album

2009-09-08T08:32:00.002+01:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More wedding

Pip and Glenn are one of my most favourite couples! I had a real blast shooting their wedding at Wentworth Castle Gardens.
Here is their wedding album and a new example of Dolly's latest range of wedding albums. We have decided to go for sleek and chic with these classy coffee table books that are each hand-designed by a super impresario graphic designer.
Hope you love it as much as I do!

Sexy Sally hits the boudoir!

2009-08-27T20:13:00.003+01:00

A really really good friend of mine, the fantabulous photographer Dave Sander asked me to help him out on a fun shoot a coupla weeks ago.
It's a LIVE boudoir shoot, he said. As in in a hotel. With people watching. With models and such like.
EEEEKKK!
Although I was super nervous at the thought of people watching me work (I look like a total eejit when I start throwing around my poses) I jumped at the chance to help out because, well, a. he's a great guy and b. the man seriously knows his stuff. I mean, this guy is like my photography hero!
Here are some snaps I managed to grab of the superglam Sally. This one was right up my street, because look at all those fabulous colours. The moment I clocked that orange sofa I was determined to get a shot of it, wild horses couldn't have kept me away!
I had a really great, fun day and got some stonking shots for my portfolio so thanks for letting us come along guys! We had fun!
PS Embarrassing side note, while I was taking the shot below I actually slipped and fell full weight on my knee. In front of everyone. I insisted I was okay in a strangled kind of voice even though it KILLED!! I ended up coming home with three kneecaps - two on the same leg. It was weeks ago now and I still can't kneel properly. Ouch!

Mark and Mary Get Married!

2009-08-11T20:05:00.001+01:00

So, those of you who follow my blog will no doubt remember me talking about my mentors. The people who took me on when I knew nothing! When every image I took blew out, was out of focus and was just generally...technically poor!
Way back when, I took my little photography keenness to a studio in Leeds and begged for help. I am keen, I said, little cap in hand. I work for free, I added!
Mark and Mary - two very successful wedding photographers in Rawdon - took me on as their 'third' shooter.
I basically bimbled around, picking up the tricks of the trade and learning what I could. Everyone who knows me knows I now live photography. Every spare second I have is spent improving my technique. For me it's a passion.
Mark and Mary were the two guys who gave me a little head start in the early days and who have supported me ever since.
This month, they were married at The Chevin Country Park Hotel. I have never seen so many photographers at one wedding! We were all jumping in there.
I bagsied the best spot at the end of the ailse and managed to capture this.
I think their expressions say it all!

Barbarella in the boudoir!

2009-08-03T20:10:00.001+01:00

I just love it when a plan comes together! I have been thinking for ages about doing a Barberella inspired shoot - all blonde hair but hardcore with it.
When Kim rocked up with her bouncy girls and leopard print I couldn't believe it! My prayers had been answered.
Added to that the most stunning location - the penthouse suite at the Great Victoria Hotel in Bradford and I was in my element!

Kim's boudoir marathon

2009-07-25T19:41:00.000+01:00

Occasionally you meet people whom you just click with straight away. When Kim walked into the hotel room with her mum, her arms laden down with suitcases, I knew this would be one of those times.
With a cheeky smile, she said she couldn't decide what to bring with her for her shoot...and so she fetched about half the contents of her wardrobe!
We got our heads together and with some careful styling, hey presto! Look at what we achieved. She looks AMAZING! And those outfits? Kim, they were perfect! As you can tell, I especially loved this fabulous kimono that she fetched! It was amazing!
On a side note, I have to point out that all the makeup for this shoot was done by my sister Keeley. Watch out for some exciting news regarding that soon!

Kim's boudoir marathon - coming soon!

2009-07-22T19:12:00.003+01:00

Keep checking back from more hot shots from Kim's boudoir marathon on Sunday! Oooohhheeehh I thought all of my Christmasses had come at once.
She was the perfect model, knew just how to pose and totally went for it...to such an extent that she even climbed in the window to see what that shot turned out like. And I will tell you, it's one of my favourites!
Keep checking back for more exciting news about Dolly's boudoir! You won't believe what we have in the pipeline!!

James's Graduation (the second one!)

2009-07-20T20:00:00.002+01:00

I was so proud of my husband James who graduated from Leeds Met University last week with his SECOND degree! Some people are just plain greedy :-)
James is a planner and made some great friends on the course. It was wonderful to see them all in their caps and gowns (though James's controversial wardrobe attire of no tie and short sleeves didn't go down well with his mum and is still a talking point!
Congratulations my hubs! I am so proud!

The Big 3-0!

2009-07-13T20:23:00.000+01:00

As my birthday approached, I could feel myself getting more and more nervous. The big 3-0...I would no longer be in my 20s.
The days and hours sped by, each day me taking one more step into official adulthood. I am fairly sure as you grow up you reach a mental age in your mind and never grow any older. My mental age was 15 I think. I am now double my mental age...and to cap it all with a 'toyboy' husband I never hear the end of it!
However, when my birthday arrived it fetched with it some lovely surprises. Thanks to everyone for making my day so special and especially to James who excelled himself with the present below...
...a book case!
Since we moved in together three years ago I have campaigned for a book case. I am an avid reader and every nook and cranny has a book stuffed into it. He has always resisted until now!
It wasn't my main present and I got lots of other things but secretly it's my most favourite!

Hello, Charliegh!

2009-07-02T20:53:00.002+01:00

Our family is known for its rowdy get-togethers. This Saturday gone we celebrated a pretty major birthday and my brother fetched along the latest addition to the clan, Charliegh.
The poor little mite was subjected to the usual treatment - camera in face grabbing a few shots!
Since then, Daniel has been hounding me to get these online so he can get them on his phone!
Dude, three days aint bad for a worker bee! Here they are! PS Aint she a cutie?

Good Golly, Miss Dolly - it's Sharon!

2009-06-17T19:46:00.005+01:00

Congratulations to my friend Sharon who married Dave on Saturday June 13! As a special treat for Dave on the wedding morning, Sharon has some boudoir shots done.
We had a make-up artist come in and do her a bit of Hollywood glam eyes and lips and went to Barnsley's newest hotel, Encore in Dodworth for the shoot.
Check Sharon out working it. These have to go down as some of my most favourite boudoir shots yet. And the one with the red polka dots? Would you believe that was shot with all ambient light?! How cool is that?! Just me, a camera, a model and a bathroom. You gotta love it!
Thanks to Encore for their fabulous hospitality and thanks to Sharon for being such a splendid model to work with.
Oooh you worked it girl! I hope Dave loves them!

My l'il bro (and almost sis!)

2009-06-12T19:22:00.000+01:00

Technically, I have known my brother-in-law longer than I have known my husband. We all went to the same school. I remember Mike, the bro-law, coming into my best friend's clothes shop with a cocky little swagger only a 15-year-old could have.
We're almost ten years on from that and much has changed. I am now his sister for one (oh, how I am sure he rues the day!)
It's difficult to see someone who you will always think of as a 15-year-old as an adult: no matter how many times he tells me I look like I have combed my hair with a toffee apple (cheers for that) or reminds me of all the early dates he was my 'chaperone' he will always be that cheeky chappy with a cocky grin and a bit of a swagger.
He comes from a lovely family and so, like my husband, has grown into a wonderful man.
This is him now, as a grown up, with his lovely other half Liane. You see, me and her are the smart ones. We are both older ladies who grabbed the boys when they were young :-) Mind you, since she looks like Demi Moore and I look like a scarecrow you have to wonder which brother got the short end of the stick...
...Sorry, James...
PS Congrats to both Michael and James on completing the 70-mile bike ride for charity. I cannot apologise enough for making both your ladies miss you cross the finish line..please forgive me!!

Jazzles - oh how we love thee!

2009-06-07T19:15:00.002+01:00

I am a retro kind of girl. I scour charity shops, my teeshirts look like they were run over by a tractor in the 70s and my vintage shoe collection is epic.
But when I saw these I had a flashback to the 80s moment. I thought of Fame! I thought of leaping around my nannan's kitchen, singing Fame, my hair in the tightest poodle perm you could imagine. I remember my sister, in a bid to outdo me, doing a jump into splits to Fame...and getting stuck.
I remember wanting to be Dempsey and Makepeace. I remember watching Moonlighting and Cheers and thinking how cool life will be when I grow up.
I remember Jazzles. I saw these sweets and it felt like someone had whipped me into a Delorean and took me back 20 years.
Long live Jazzles! And long live the vintage sweet shop that sells them!

Heart of stone!

2009-06-04T19:09:00.002+01:00

My husband is a romantic little fiend when he wants to be...I met him after work the other day and he was stood grinning like a Cheshire cat with something clutched in his hand.
"Here," he said, passing it over. "I thought it looked like a little heart."
It was so sweet, I nearly welled up. All the way home I nursed the little pebble heart in my hand, glancing sideways at James and thinking what a lucky girl I am that my husband sees love even in little stones on the street.
As we went into our house, we both looked down at the little stone again.
"Actually...." James said, his brow furrowing. "Now I think about it, maybe it looks more like a kidney..."
Who says romance is dead? Kidney or heart, I will let you make your own minds up. But I think it looks like a heart. And I am keeping it.

Pip + Glenn - coming soon!

2009-06-02T08:26:00.002+01:00

Every now and again you meet a bride and groom who is simply perfect for you as a photographer. For me, Pip and Glenn were that perfect couple. Their wedding day was total perfection, a mix of serious emotion and fun.
Two lovlier people you couldn't hope to meet, their wedding at Wentworth Castle Gardens was a blast and was a perfect reflection of just how scrumptious they are as people.
I have been busily editing their photos (I hand process every image with Dolly's secret colour pop recipe) but here's a sneak peek of what's to come.
The album is expected to go live next weekend and once Pip and Glenn have seen it, guests will be able to use their secret log-on codes to view!

Pip and Glenn had decided not to have a first dance - but when their best man's band got up to boogie they joined in! I just love Glenn's face here!

A wedding: and everything else!

2009-05-17T10:50:00.002+01:00

There are many things to get excited about at a wedding, and - as a photographer - lots of things to think about.
One thing that's easy to overlook are all those incidentals - the flowers a bride spent a fortune on; the shoes she picked to wear on her day; the suitcase her mother loaned her to carry her wedding items; the perfume she wore that will conjure up memories every time she smells it.
These are the things I wanted to work on. My captures of these details have previously been after thoughts, but I am going in to weddings giving them a new sense of importance.
Here are one of my sets of those important details, done at a bridal preps a few weeks ago.

Just love it!

2009-04-25T19:18:00.002+01:00

I was at a wedding at a most fabulous location last week. The Traddock at Austwick is a little gem of unusual furniture and quirky corners.
I spotted this antique clock that really caught my eye. Had it fit in my handbag it would have been coming home with me.
I don't know why, I just love it!

Pip and Glenn - Engaged!

2009-04-19T12:49:00.003+01:00

Congratulations to Pip and Glenn who are gearing up for their fabulous wedding. They have picked a stupendous venue, the lush Wentworth Castle Gardens which has appeared on TV programmes like Restoration for its historic heritage.
For their engagement shoot we had a little time to explore, to find out how the land would lie on the day. It was FREEZING but they smiled through it all.
I just love how Glenn is looking at Pip in the above photo, it's just such an adoring expression. Bless!

One of the first things Pip said to me was "I'm not at all photogenic." It's always the most beautiful women who say that to me. She totally rocked it and looks great. Can't wait to see her as a bride.

We went a bit artsy for the last shot, playing with the shadows created by the harsh sunlight.

Good luck to you guys and I am really looking forward to the big day!

Weekends away and favourite tees!

2009-04-13T18:15:00.002+01:00

Today is a day for firsts. I think this is the first time I have posted an image on my blog that was not taken by me!
But I am in that kind of relaxed, happy state that follows a really great weekend away with friends. We ate. We chilled. We ate. We jacuzzied...we ate...
So on to more firsts, today is the first day in three weeks I have eaten chocolate; the first time in a year I have had a photo taken with my husband James; the first time I let James take a picture of me in a hotel room (where are my hands?!; the first time in weeks we have seen each other at a weekend (busy busy wedding season!)
And, most importantly, the first time I got to wear my brand new camera tee-shirt. It speaks of all things Dolly! Isn't it fab?!

Happy Easter, blogreaders!

2009-04-09T08:08:00.004+01:00

So, this Easter I decided to bypass chocolate. I usually buy a million and one eggs for everyone I know but for 2009 I decided to do something a little more personal.
I corralled my Auntie Sue, a fabulous cake maker, to show me how to make some Easter cookies. I have to say, these are my icing handiworks not hers, hers are much much better.
It took me while the small hours last night but I quickly snapped these photos before my eyes closed for sleep!
Happy Easter everyone! I hope you like my Easter biscuits. And for those interested in how a true professional creates wedding cakes, cookies and favours, check out Sue's blog here.

Dolly's Boudoir Special Promotion!

2009-04-02T18:25:00.002+01:00

Check out Dolly's new e-shot, this will be winging its way over to existing and new clients within the next few days to keep them updated of special offers etc.
If you would like to sign up to recieve Dolly's News then please email me at info@dollyphotography.co.uk.
We promise not to spam you, and will only send you stuff that is totally fabulous!

The Princess Dress!

2009-03-29T21:39:00.001+01:00

There comes a time in every girl's life that she gets to wear the dream dress. For me it was my wedding day...since I am almost 30 (eeek!) my teen years were spent before the age of mobile phones, internet, blogging and twitter...
...before the advent of High School Musical, The Jonas Brothers'...before our schools oooop North had American-esque year books and proms.
My cousin Chloe celebrates her sweet 16th in the Summer and, pefectly for her, it's timed just around her school prom.
She went searching for weeks before settling on her princess dress. Here she is, modelling it for me with a hair-do we were trying out for the big day.
She looks like a little movie star, I just want to squeeze her and then lock her in a cupboard for a few more years! Though I have to say, Kudos to you Clonks for picking a dress that matches my company colours...
...and yes, before her friends ask, she has retained my services to be her official prom/friends photographer on the night :-)

Turtle Soup...(just kidding!)

2009-03-25T21:15:00.002Z

As soon as it hits Springtime our family gets a little addition...the pitter patter of little feet...
Toby the Tortoise comes out to play. My husband's aunt found Toby wandering around the streets almost 30 years ago and, since noone ever turned up to claim him, he has become a permanent member of the family.
He has his quirks, he sleeps for half the year, eats the most random foods and can be seen furtively wandering around the garden, taking in his surroundings (Toby, I mean..not my husband!)
Toby woke up from hibernation this week, he was in his little box, feet propped up with a look in his eye that screamed 'get me out of here!'
We have no idea how old he is, he's probably older than most of us put together, but he's always a quirky little addition to the family when he wakes up.
I love the expression on his face in the top picture and in this one he's waving at me...

I wish to point out that my husband is only PRETENDING to take a bite out of Toby...no tortoise's were harmed during the making of this blog entry...and I have to point out my bedraggled husband had just completed a 14-mile run at the time...

Dolly's Boudoir Magazine - Issue Two!

2009-03-22T17:05:00.005Z

So here it is, issue two of Dolly's Magazine. Click on it for the full screen version to enjoy examples of Dolly's boudoir work, album design and rock star treatment finishing techniques!
Hope you like it!

Scarlett's Bar - A Different Style of Boudoir!

2009-03-16T16:59:00.000Z

The thing I love about boudoir photography is its verstility - there are so many different routes you could take, and a lot of it depends on your location and client.
Nancy's fabulous outfit centred around a few key pieces, not least of which some vintage gloves that were her grandmas. For this portion of the shoot, we kept it a little retro.

And for luck, a smoky black and white that adds to that jazzy blues flavour...

Boudoir at Brooklands - Continued!

2009-03-15T11:02:00.000Z

Brooklands Hotel in Barnsley has this fabulous venue called Scarlett's Bar. It's a corss between a retro jazz longue and a 50s diner! It has these fabulous red leather booths, with classy murals and trendy trimmings.
It's used as a bit of a party venue - and up until now has never been used for a boudoir shoot before!
Here we are actually ON Scarlett's Bar with Nancy working it...I love this as a fresh take on boudoir photography. It shows the sheer variety of shots you can get!

New: Dolly Magazine, issue one!

2009-03-08T09:52:00.004Z

There are loads of excellent photographers out there, really talented creative types who I learn from and who inspire me. For Dolly Photography, I always strive to be different...to offer things other people don't; to be original and eyecatching and different.
So, I had this idea..what about if I make my clients famous? If I can create my own Dolly Magazine that features my best shots. A magazine they can share with their friends and family.
So here it is, issue one of the magazine, featuring Nancy. The online magazine will be offered FREE OF CHARGE to all boudoir clients who buy printed albums. I will design and create it for you and host it on my site (can be password protected so only your friends can view it) and - if you are feeling brave, I can even help you put it on your facebook site!
I hope you like it! Tip: if you want to view the full screen version then click on it!

What happens in Dolly's boudoir? The results...

2009-03-07T09:38:00.002Z

So a few loyal blogstalkers may remember my post about what happens on a boudoir shoot. I posted some pictures of me testing the light, those who don't recall it click here: what happens?
Here are the results with Nancy - these are the 'real' photos taken on the day, with Dolly's extra special processing to make them pop! Hope you like them.
I have so many favourites in this series - the shadows cast by Nancy's legs on the shot above I adore; and speaking of legs...

She did a much better job of working the four poster than I did...

And finally, Nancy's favourite from the shoot:

Magazine inspiration!

2009-03-06T09:31:00.001Z

Every now and again, I see things that inspire me. I keep a little inspiration book, and in there there is a whole manner of pencil sketches, magazine clippings and generally random musings that inspire me.
I have always loved the dark and dramatic nature of 50s photography, the smokiness of them appeals to me.
I once remember seeing an old Vanity Fair cover, from decades gone by, that was lit so prettily!
I tried to recreate this look on my shoot at the bridal suite in Brooklands Hotel, Barnsley - here are the results.

Good Golly, Miss Dolly - Nancy in the boudoir!

2009-03-01T13:47:00.000Z

At Dolly, we always try to be different. There are lots of extremely talented photographers out there - and so we have to have that competitive edge.
Every image on a Good Golly, Miss Dolly shoot is given the Dolly Rock Star Treatment - a special formula I create to add a little pop and sparkle.
My clients don't need it - but they like the look it gives their photographs, a bit of an editorial, magazine style edge.
Here's Nancy - she is sickeningly gorgeous and an absolute pleasure to shoot. We had a blast on our bridal suite boudoir and I have so many favourite pictures, I can't even blog them all at once so watch this space.

Nancy's boudoir make-up was skillfully done by Dolly's number one make-up artist, Keeley. We had two make-up changes but I just love this pretty look that matches Nancy's lingerie.

Dolly's boudoir is super-flexible - we do home-shoots, studio shoots and we have some big news coming about a top-secret deal with a fabulous hotel!
So if you are thinking of a boudoir party, mail me because girls, it's gonna get hot!! :-)

Good Golly Miss Dolly - promotional flyers!

2009-02-26T21:18:00.000Z

So I have so much going on with my boudoir stuff right now, I just wanted to show one of my promotional flyers.
If you are in Sheffield, Barnsley, Leeds, Wakefield, Huddersfield or in fact most of Yorkshire you will have hopefully seen this advertising my boudoir photography.
Special thanks to my graphics wizard Kyle Wilkinson, who designed all my logo, branding and promotional materials. He is a genius. If you saw my attempts...well, it was embarrassing!
I actually have a funkier version hitting the streets soon, keep checking back. If you would like to go for a Good Golly, Miss Dolly boudoir shoot then be sure to contact me through my website or email me at info@dollyphotography.co.uk.

Our first wedding fair - at Brooklands Hotel!

2009-02-20T17:41:00.000Z

Firstly many thanks to everyone who came on our boudoir stand at Brooklands Wedding Fair in Barnsley on Sunday.
Everyone - visitors and exhibitors - made us feel right at home for our debut. Our boudoir stand certainly was eye-catching. Hopefully if you were there you saw us and may be tempted to give our Good Golly, Miss Dolly boudoir packages a go!
Don't forget, we do hen parties too in some lush venues and our prices start from just £100.
Anyway, all that aside, I thought I would blog some pictures of our stand, so that I have a permenent record of Dolly's maiden voyage into the world of wedding fairs.

We stuck with our black and pink company colours, using basques and feather boas to add to the boudoir flavour...

And as a special welcome to all the new people we met, we had some custom made corset cookies to hand out!

If I met you on Sunday then thanks so much for your support - and I hope to be shooting you soon!
Keep checking back soon for some exciting promotional offers you won't want to miss out on!

Valentine's Day - and peas...

2009-02-14T16:15:00.000Z

I have a deep-rooted hatred of peas. It stems back to childhood. When I was younger, I used to go to my Auntie Irene's for dinner, and she always, always cooked me peas because she mistakenly thought I liked them.
She made such a special effort to do them with every meal that I just didn't have the heart to tell her the truth.
I used every trick in the book. I used to hide them under my mashed potato, swig them down with coke hoping that if I swallowed them without chewing I could escape the taste. But, most often than not, I had to eat them. And smile while doing so...
As an adult, peas have no place in my life. It's become a bit of a standing joke. My in-laws all love peas. My husband eats frozen ones out of the bag (wierd I know); my brother in law sneaks them onto my plate when I am not looking, just to traumatise me.
You get the picture...
Fast forward to this morning - I sit down to open my little stack of Valentine's gifts from James and here: this is what I find.
I don't know where he found this tee-shirt but we had a right old laugh about it. A pea tee-shirt. Just perfect!
His plan had been to buy one for everyone in the family, so they could do their campaigning on Sundays! Give peas a chance? Not likely! But for once something pea-related made me smile!
Happy Valentine's Day James - and thankyou as always for making me smile.

Fran in the boudoir!

2009-02-08T16:04:00.000Z

Fran is one of those sickening lucky people who just have the 'bones' for photography.
Her face is incredibly photogenic (though like every woman in the world she would likely disagree!)
Thanks Fran, for taking the time to pose for me and allowing me to show a glimpse of your hotness :-).
Don't forget, if you want to step into Dolly's Boudoir and be a Good Golly, Miss Dolly model yourself, then come to see us at the Brooklands Hotel Wedding Fair in Barnsley, I think it starts at 10am!

Louise in monochrome - my thoughts!

2009-02-06T18:54:00.000Z

Okay, so...here's the thing. I am going to have to bend on the black and whites (for my boudoir work ONLY :-)!!)
As my blogreaders will know, I have a 'thing' with black and white. It is not my friend. It sneaks up on me when I am not looking and steals my favourite chocolate. It waits until I am out and deletes Project Runway from my Sky+. It makes inappropriate passes at my husband. We. Are. Not. On. Friendly. Terms.
I love my colour, cheerful, bright, happy colour. BUT I admit when I am wrong. To previously exclude black and white from my boudoir was a bit, well, ridiculous.
So, here's the thing. Me and Mono are going to relationship counselling. We are talking through our problems. We are putting ourselves on more amicable grounds...
Black and white does have a place in Dolly's Boudoir...and here is Louise in all her retro Hollywood glory to prove it.

Good Golly, Miss Dolly - it's Louise!

2009-02-06T18:47:00.000Z

In preparation for my show at Brooklands Hotel in Barnsley I have been pushing forth on my boudoir work. Thankfully, it's a great time of year for this type of photography. With Valentine's Day creeping ever closer, it makes a surprising pressie for your other half!
Louise was another boudoir client kind enough to let me show some pictures from her shoot (this isn't essential, if you want to keep them to yourself, that's fine: I always ask consent before I blog!)
The light loves Louise, just check out her bone structure here. Wowzer!

Good Golly, Miss Dolly - it's Mary!

2009-02-05T17:57:00.000Z

People take to boudoir photography in different ways - some are outright throwing themselves into it, others are a little more wary.
Mary brought a quietness to her shoot, a little shyness maybe but I think she looked amazing.
She had on the most beautiful dusty pink satin wrap and when I came to process it with my usual pop-your-eyeballs-out-of-your-head bright colour popping style, it just did not work.
So I tried something new, a little old-fashioned cross-processing technique that I think suits these photos, and Mary, down to the ground.
Many thanks to Mary for giving her permission to use this piccies on the world wide web - it's a brave thing to do so thankyou. Hopefully it will give more quieter ladies the confidence to say, 'let's have a go', themselves!

I so rarely do black and whites, but on the odd occasion a photo calls for it. This was one of them. I felt it had an arty 50s vibe that suited the old bw treatment.

What happens in Dolly's boudoir?

2009-02-04T14:05:00.000Z

I have had a lot of ladies ask me what actually happens during a boudoir shoot.
Quite often, they fail to realise that - if they had any concerns about feeling daft or silly - they really should leave them at the door.
Before any shoot, I always have a little play with the space, figure out the best possible shapes and shots I can get...and I always practice on myself!
So, while you are comfortably having your makeup done, I am flinging myself around like a madwoman working out the angles.
And trust me, I look a fool. So there's no reason for people to feel awkward about it, cos I am there all the way : been there done it!
To illustrate here's what I mean. This is me at work. Check out how glam I am! I am a right state - we were snowed in, I had left my hair straighteners and make up at my mum-in-laws and my fashion statement is more lumberjack that Loubotin.
My husband, God love him, calls me Scarecrow...yes, I can see you nodding in agreement. So here I am, in all my curvy, spotty, none made-up stupidity to say to you ladies, come into my boudoir! Let's have fun! :-)

P.S. Remember, these are the prep shots! Watch this space for the 'real' pictures taken of the fabulous Nancy at this boudoir shoot, in conjuction with my guru Dave Sander, at 1Click Photography.

Boudoir at Brooklands!

2009-01-21T19:56:00.000Z

After a busy 2008, I have decided to bite the bullet and attend my very first wedding fair, at Brooklands Hotel in Barnsley on February 15.
I will be showing my boudoir work to prospective brides, to promote my hen party boudoir package and also those saucy piccies for your husband-to-be.
Here's one of my most recent clients, the fabulous florist Emma who suprised her husband Paul with her boudoir photobook the night before their wedding.
She looks amazing!
Any brides, bridesmaids, or in fact anyone interested in my boudoir work, feel free to come to the event at Brooklands and have a chat!

Sisters, Sisters....

2009-01-16T18:56:00.000Z

Okay, I deserve my hands slapping. I own up to it. My blogging has been lax! Poor! I apologise!
I have been so busy over Christmas that I have hardly had time to breathe (well, maybe that's a little dramatic but you know what I mean!)
Anyway, one thing I did do was some portrait shots for some long-time favourite clients of mine, Danielle and Nicole.
Now, you know me, I am all about the bright colours and when they asked me for a sepia print I recoiled in true horror.
I HATE sepia. It bugs me. It's like not quite black and white but not colour. It's bluergh! But, it floats their boat and it matches their living room so they wanted sepia.
I caved. I didn't want to disappoint them after all. But, after much tweaking, I finally found a lovely sepia mix that reminds me a bit of the colour tones in the movie 300!
I am a sepia convert :-)
I think they look great so - in this case - I have to say to Danielle and Nicole...I was wrong to try to talk you out of your sepia. It looks cool!

Richard and Beth are live!

2008-11-19T22:48:00.000Z

For all you guests at Richard at Beth's wedding, you will be thrilled to hear their online album is now live!!
Go to the website and type in your super-secret passcode to view them. They should all appear in a slideshow. Until then, here's a few to whet your appetite.

Richard and Beth - you guys were a dream couple for me. You had fun, you let go and here's you in all your splendour!

I just love this one! Beth's like: What ARE you laughing at?!?!

The Temple is an amazing building - I could have happily shot there all day. Absolutely beautiful. I had a golden opportunity to use these pillars and didn't pass up on it!!

Coming Soon - Richard and Beth!

2008-11-13T22:39:00.000Z

Occasionally, you meet people who you instantly click with. Richard and Beth for me were those kind of people.
I first met them on a chilly day at the Elsecar Heritage Centre for their engagement photoshoot and was honoured when they asked me to photograph their wedding.
It was a multiple destination wedding and I was lucky enough to be accompanied by an absolutely fabulous (and super seasoned) photographer Mark Pearson, who has a studio in Leeds. Check out his website for some super-hot wedding photography - he is awwfff the hooooookkkkk! :-)
Richard and Beth were married at a church in Sheffield, before going on to the most amazing temple I have ever seen. Absolutely gorgeous.
Richard and Beth are young, happy and in love. I wish them all the very best. I had an absolute ball photographing their big day as they were such fun (you will understand what I mean when you see some of the shots!)
They married on October 11 and their online album is due to go live for them any day now...but for those guests who had asked, here is a sneaky peek of what's to come.

Dolly featured in Wedding Ideas, November 2008

2008-10-13T11:02:00.000+01:00

I have been so lucky to secure the help of two fabulous mentors in my pursuit of photography. Both are very successful photographers and both are extremely unselfish in helping me learn and develop. They pass on their skills with flair and finesse, they advise, cajole, encourage and sit through hours of discussion on photography and anything related to photography with unfailing patience.
This month, I am honoured to feature alongside one of them in Wedding Ideas magazine. We pitched a feature on Trash The Dress to the editor - and to our surprise they used it on a full page!
I am so excited, it is such a coup to be featured in this magazine!
Check out the main image, the Sarah Jessica Parker look-a-like! That shot was taken by Dave Sander - more funky stuff from him can be found on www.1clickphotography.co.uk.

Crazy presents and anniversaries!

2008-10-12T12:43:00.000+01:00

So, the Hyde household is no stranger to crazy presents. One year, James made me a mini ski slope in a show box because he had paid for me to have snow boarding lessons. Another birthday and he made a lion's cave (complete with little lion figurines) because he was taking me to see my first West End show, The Lion King.
Every year he makes iit his mission to find me some comedy socks - and he excelled this year. BUT, I have to say, both our gifts were overshadowed by what our families and friends did for our one year, paper, anniversary.
My best friend and cousin Joanna bought us the biggest monster box of loo roll in the most garish colours of pink and orange I have ever seen. How she quite managed to find so many that were so eye-ball popping is beyond me and, as a result, we won't need to buy loo roll for, oh, at least the next decade.
And my mum and sister went to town by creating us our very own lucky dip. Filled with everything and everything paper related. My sister even made us some origami birds.
Thanks to both our families for making our first anniversary so special and to those who are interested we will be doing a one year anniversary show live on Galaxy radio tomorrow morning.
On a side note, happy anniversary to my nannan and grandad who celebrated 56 years this week. I only hope James and I can be so lucky.

Dolly featured on global website!

2008-09-30T09:14:00.001+01:00

As I write this, I am in Sydney recovering from the Bridge Walk (lucky me!) but I just had to share my fabulous news.

I have been selected to appear on a global website that supports and promotes Trash The Dress wedding photography!

To see my post, visit http://www.trashthedress.eu/. Thanks so much to the team at TTD for making this possible! Yey! PS. For those who don't know my full name it's the one dated Sept 21, Nicola Lambert Hyde!

Dolly's Sparkle Boudoir

2008-09-08T21:48:00.000+01:00

At the end of every shoot, I like to spend ten minutes to wind down, chill out.
I don't put my camera down. Instead, I have a bit of fun with my subject, trying something different.
I check I have the shot they want, and then we try for something so opposite, so completely zany, that occasionally, we end up with something really special.
These funky boudoirs, with Dolly Sparkle added, were the last shots taken in Sunday's session. They were fun, playful, not usually what traditional boudoirs are about. They screamed out for some wicked colour processing and I just love, love, love them!
As always, dear blog readers, would love to hear your thoughts! And watch this space for some exciting news about Dolly Photography coming soon!

Boudoir Photography - Phase Two!

2008-09-08T21:35:00.000+01:00

I created the 'Good Golly, Miss Dolly' part of my business specifically for boudoir photography. I knew most women would be more comfortable being photographed by a woman. I knew the style I would like if I wanted some shots doing.
As my photography style develops, it's very hard to keep focussed on that aim. I want to try new things. I want to experiment with poses, colour techniques and have a go at different lighting options.
As always, however, the best things come when you go back to basics.
These tasteful nudes are undoubtedly my favourites of the boudoir session and serve to remind me - sometimes, you don't need a hook to draw people in.
Sometimes, the simplest route is the best.

Boudoir Bridals - Phase one, whipped!

2008-09-08T21:21:00.000+01:00

One of my most favourite things in the world to photograph is boudoir photography. It's fun, it's a laugh, it's a chance to coo jealously over someone's sexy undies (better than my Spongebob Squarepant boy boxers) and - above all - it's the moment where you can give a woman a confidence boost as she realises, "wow, I don't have to be a twiglet to look like a girl in a magazine. I just have to have the faith to work it!!!"
My boudoir session on Sunday was such fun - here is the first set, going for a vampish gothic look. More will follow... I'm all about bringing the boudoir photography to Yorkshire. And I am even thinking of running fun sessions as hen parties too!

Introducing - Richard and Beth! Ta-da!

2008-08-18T19:54:00.000+01:00

Funky and kitsch - that's me!

2008-08-08T19:53:00.000+01:00

A few weeks ago I had the absolute pleasure of meeting vintage wedding planner Tiffany Grant-Riley. If you want a chic, vintage inspired wedding, this is your girl.
She is planning her own art-deco themed do and is an expert in anything retro from the 1920s to the 1960s. Her ideas boards are so inspirational.
I am honoured that she carried a piece about MY blog on HER blog...and so I am returning the favour and sharing the blog love.
She very kindly describes my photography style as funky and kitsch. Check it out at www.grantrileyweddings.blogspot.com.

Vote for Mum!

2008-08-05T19:47:00.000+01:00

GMTV are running a competition called 'Fab at 50' to cooincide with Madonna's birthday. They were looking for some uber-glamorous 50-somethings to go on their website vote.
My sister Keeley entered my mum with a photo I took the other week - come on guys, go on to the website and vote for her. She has five stars at the moment - let's keep her that way!! Voting is here: http://your.gm.tv/ClipDetails.aspx?clipid=55030&cid=109&scid=59

G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S!

2008-07-26T09:32:00.000+01:00

When I decided to take up photography last year, Danielle was one of the first people I called on to 'model' for me. I mean, look at her - she's not exactly been hit by the ugly stick!
She was 18 at the beginning of this month (I feel old) and so I asked her to model for me again. It's always great to try new things with Danielle because she's not camera-shy.
We went to the uber-glamorous location of (drumroll, please!) Barnsley Bus Station for these shots.

One thing, however, which didn't go to plan was my idea to have Danielle surrounded by bubbles! I had bought a bubble gun but didn't bring batteries (what an idiot!!) Needless to say it was so windy that she only had to HOLD the bubbles before they all started blowing back in her eye...
Here's an outtake shot - I didn't manage to get a proper one because by this point she had bubble soap in her eye! Whoops!

Dolly does burlesque!

2008-07-22T22:50:00.000+01:00

For a few months I have been learning how to burlesque dance to keep fit. I go with my mum and aunt-in-laws to the class in Wombwell and we have an absolute scream.
Today, eeeek, was our first show day where we performed our routines in front of an audience. Thankfully my workmates didn't crash the party as threatened. I was starting to get a little worried for a moment there. I am happy dancing in my little class but, let's face it, I have no rhythm and no style.
Here I am in my most burlesque-y outfit I own - as taken by my lovely husband James.

And then especially for Justin Timberlake and his 'Sexy Back' (take note, James, the lyrics are NOT hairy back!) here I am being 'street!' Oh yes, I AM Legend!
Word.

And my mum - flirty and in her 50s!

2008-07-21T19:03:00.000+01:00

My mum is BOUND to kill me when she sees this but I just have to say - she's 51! Can you believe it?! I always joked I get my youthful looks from her and I think she looks great. (But of course, I would say that!)
This weekend, she asked me to take some shots of her. For my mum, this is a big leap. She HATES her photograph taking. We have very few where she isn't hiding from the camera.
But, it emerges, she has a plan. She is 'with the programme' and has joined Facebook! Alas, she was without a profile picture. So I took these for her...and yes, I have warned her about picking up random men on the internet :-) Now, mum. You know the rules. Don't go taking sweeties from strangers!
And playing with lens flare again...

And here, playing with lens flare....

My sister - the glamazon!

2008-07-21T18:41:00.000+01:00

Okay - let's set the record straight. At school my sister Keeley was always the trendy, popular one. I was the bookish nerd who worked in the school library vountarily (oh, I wish I was kidding!)
I vividly remember us leaving the house to walk to the bus stop - she always made sure she was a good few paces ahead of me to keep her street cred. She used to hustle to the back of the school bus and someone ALWAYS saved her a seat. I always got sat with the freakish kids who nobody spoke to...well, nobody other than me because I felt sorry for them and - let's face it - I was pretty freakish too!
It took me years to realise that there was a reason she was popular. Not just that she was funny, that she was a little crazy, and not just that she was always the centre of every party...but something much more basic than that. She was pretty. And as we all know, when you are a teenager in secondary school, that's some mucho grando street cred right there.
We talk about those days sometimes and laugh (I remember her flicking a cig end at me, and she always denies it.) But now, over a decade later, I can still look at my sister and understand why she is still popular.
It isn't just that she is pretty - because she clearly is. But it is because she is a good person - and that shines through.
On a side note, the above photo was experimenting with lens flare. I am not sure I like it - I will let my blog stalkers decide!

The Real Thing!

2008-07-21T18:05:00.000+01:00

Okay, so after sharing the funny out-takes from my family day out, here are the 'real ones.'
This is my cousin Chloe, 15. I think the most hilarious comment of the day came from her mum who said she didn't look like herself on any of the photos...it took a while to realise she didn't look herself because in these photos she's actually smiling!
She will most likely come after me for portraying her as anything other than an angst-ridden teen but I just can't help it because look how pretty she is!!
She has no fear - she was up this climbing frame like a limber little thing and left me hanging on for dear life, hoping I didn't drop my camera.

The Out-Takes...

2008-07-20T09:31:00.000+01:00

With every photoshoot, there are inevitably out-takes. You have blinkers, lens flares and camera shake to contend with...normally these out-takes are thrown into the vault of 'never-to-be-seen again' to protect the dignity of your subject...
HOWEVER, if those subjects are your family, well, I guess those rules go out of the window! The thing you need to understand about my family is this. We are LOUD (for all of you who knows us, I can see you nodding yes!)
We meet at the grandparents every Saturday and the decibel level rises and rises as we compete to be heard. There are usually about seven conversations going on at once...my grandad is selectively deaf. He tunes us out when he wants to but you can bet he will hear you the moment a swear word slips out! My nannan usually sits at the top of the room, laughing at the same conversations we have every week...and my husband James. Well, he is the one who is the most screwy because, let's face it, he joined my family by CHOICE! He is usually a quiet type but on Saturdays he will join in, cracking the odd dirty joke that makes my Uncle David laugh.
This week, we went to Hillborough Park to do some shots of my cousin Chloe. She's 15 and is pictured above, laughing at the rest of the family who was chasing a squirrel up a tree so it wouldn't get eaten by a dog.
I thought Chloe would be a great subject to practice some new techniques on...
But my family being my family all came along to watch...and while I was hard at work, here is what they were up to...
What has to be my absolute favourite - my mum and my sister, Keeley, doing the rodeo...

Keeley strutting through the park, mocking Auntie Charlotte's jacket by singing 'Daddy, Daddy Cool....'

My Auntie Charlotte (call me, Choz) doing her most glam pose to jump in shot...

And my husband James, trying to be a Gladiator on the 'Hang Tough' event. He's 6ft 2. This is a kids playground...his feet were scraping the floor...

Mary and Dunstan (the story so far!)

2008-07-11T07:30:00.000+01:00

As promised, here are some more of Mary and Dunstan's e-session shots which were taken in the uber-glamorous Hillsborough Park.
Dunstan is a solicitor and Mary is a journalist so we decided to go for an super funky magazine style format to their shoot.
I always like to try something different in photos - see how it works. I particularly like the scuffy surroundings, I think it makes their fancy clothes just pop!

Mary and Dunstan - e-session!

2008-07-10T08:39:00.000+01:00

Despite having footballs kicked at our heads by some irritating youths, our park shoot turned out some cutsie images.
Here is the first, showing Mary in all her vamped out glory.
More to follow over the next few days - see you later blog-stalkers!

First magazine appearance!

2008-07-09T21:37:00.000+01:00

I feel thrilled to bits today, as I have just got my copy of Wedding Professional* and I am in it!
I wrote a feature on the trend for vintage weddings and my photography of the lovely Victoria Moy from the English Tea Party was featured.
It all came after a visit to Luella's Boudoir, in London, a gorgeous shop filled with everything wedding related. There, I met several vintage wedding experts, it was a great time!
Also in the piece was specialist vintage wedding planner Tiffany Grant-Riley from Grant-Riley Weddings! She has some absolutely gorgeous 'inspiration' boards for brides so be sure to check out her blog http://grantrileyweddings.blogspot.com/.
(*Wedding Professional is a business to business magazine for everyone working in the wedding industry.)

My favourite things...

2008-06-26T19:58:00.000+01:00

I was sat watching TV the other day and I glanced down and...there it was.
My wedding ring and engagement ring set.
The first set of diamonds I have ever owned. As a newlywed I am forever admiring my bling. I was engaged only a week before I married (long story!)...previous to that my 'engagement' ring was a Stagecoach bus ticket James had crafted into a little ring for me.
I like my diamonds much better.
Here they are sitting on one of my most favourite things in my house - our lime green chairs. We changed our entire decor just so we could have these Austin Powers-esque chairs.
Groooovy baby!!

Gumball Rally!

2008-06-02T21:51:00.000+01:00

And I have to pop this picture up, it is the absolute final one in the Rock The Dress shoot (I promise!) but it was one of those that leaves you torn.

It's really strange, some people like it, some hate it. I for one am not a fan, but everyone I have showed it to loves it and so, in the interest of fair comment, here it is.

Only person it really matters to anyway is Becky - so over to you, Lady. If you like it you like it, if you don't it will be deleted! :-)

All you new blogstalkers please scroll down for the rest of the images and explainations to them! Many thanks!

Making Tracks!

2008-06-02T21:42:00.001+01:00

In the final sequence of Becky Hill's 'Rock Your Wedding Dress' shoot, we went to a disused railway line, a favourite location of mine.

It makes for a mean and moody location so I have tried to select more 'serious' images (or poe-faced as Becks calls it.)

Thanks again for coming out to play Becky! Had a great time. Hope you like them.

She's 'Spoken' For...

2008-06-01T20:21:00.000+01:00

...Geddit? Spoken for?! You know...cos, there's spokes...okay, I will hide in the corner in shame! Anyhoo, here is Becky's 'spoke' themed shoot. I was really trying hard here to show the fabulous swooshiness of her dress.
If any of Becks' friends would like to comment, please feel free. Would love to hear what you think!

The Flower Seller!

2008-06-01T20:10:00.000+01:00

Becky Hill was really working her alter egos this weekend for her shoot where she was rocking her wedding dress.
We had settled on several key locations and so I will keep them seperate for her, split into themes.
This theme makes me think of that bit in the film Oliver: singing in Cockernee 'Who Will Buy My Wonderful Roses...?'
I reckon if the flower-sellers looked like Becks they would have a queue a mile long! :-)
Adrian, I HAVE to say it - you are a lovely lovely man....and a VERY lucky one too!

The Superhero Shoot!

2008-06-01T11:15:00.001+01:00

You know on Superman, where Clark Kent goes rushing into a phone box and comes out as Superman?
Well, I just love this sequence of photos from Becky Hill's Rock The Dress shoot this weekend because it makes me think of that.

We were like excited school girls when we spotted the red phone box, I rather unceremoniously shoved her and her fantastic dress inside so we could have a play at some Superhero-themed photos! (Don't worry, we protected the dress with towels so it didn't get damaged.)

Here is your first sequence of shots Becks - now, don't go to work tomorrow wearing your underwear on the outside of your trousers...and I don't quite think a cape would match your outfit either...

Becky to the rescue!!

Playing with reflections, it's like Kryptonite dontcha know...

Quick change!

Beads and Sequins...

2008-06-01T11:00:00.000+01:00

Getting the wedding dress shot is probably one of the most important jobs a photographer has to bottom. Problem is - it's not easily done. What with the beads and sequins reflecting flash and the white dress throwing your camera's metering whazzy, it really is difficult to get one that shows the detail.

So, the mission I set myself this weekend was to try to do a dress shot that captured all the detail. With the camera in M mode. Which, basically, means every decision on light, ISO, shutter speed, etc etc had to be made by me! And, to cap that off, I wanted to try to hone my depth of field skills...

It took me five attempts to get this shot, but I wanted to show the beadwork of this gorgous gown. (Would you believe it, the bride didn't have a single shot in her albumn of her gown?!)

Hope she likes it!

Danielle - Playing with Shadows!

2008-05-30T23:52:00.000+01:00

Danielle is one of my favourite people to photograph - I mean, look at her! She's 17 (almost 18) and she really does sparkle.
When my Yoda Mark (photography mentor extrodinaire) set up a mission for studio lights, she was my model.
I always say that if you make an effort to actually pose for the camera in this type of shot, it really pays off. Sure, you might feel stupid for like 30 seconds but the results are well worth it. And besides, who is there to laugh at you? Just me, and, let's face it, I am so untrendy that even my own HUSBAND calls me Scarecrow!

Jill rocks it out!

2008-05-30T20:30:00.001+01:00

Jill has just been promoted at work and to celebrate decided to treat herself to some Good Golly, Miss Dolly boudoir shots!

We had a fine old time, Jill brought a suitcase full of props (I was worried she might be moving in to one of our spare bedrooms!) and we spent hours changing costumes, laughing, and generally aiming for the Moulin Rouge look!

It was great fun and afterwards we had a good cup of tea and a chatter which was lovely - though Jill did email me the next day to say she could barely move as I had made her work for it!

I hope it was worth it Jill, here are some of my favourites from the shoot. And congratulations on the new job!

My husband - the artist!

2008-05-27T10:26:00.000+01:00

James is my best friend, my most ardent supporter.

When I decided I wanted to eventually become a wedding photographer, James was the one who said I wasn't totally crazy. When I started spending hours with my camera and computer, he never complained. When I was lucky enough to land some second-shooting posititions with some really really great photographers, he put up with my excited chatter at ridiculous-o'clock when I came home.

Yesterday, we were talking about my blog because all our friends are now checking in on what I am up to (hi everyone!). I had this great idea to draw a little dolly to sit on my page (in my head, it looked cute.)
I don't have a graphics tablet. I work on a £200 quid Dell with a chunky harking-back-to-the-early-90s mouse. Drawing a dolly was harder than I expected.

So I yelled for my hubby - he is a details kind of guy. Another thing I love about him. If anyone can draw me a dolly, it would be him, I thought...

...this was his contribution!! We laughed until we cried. It's so bad...he tried to delete it but just because he tried I wanted to share it with you.

So here is James's dolly...not quite what I had in mind but cute all the same!

Dolly's Rock Star Treatment....

2008-05-25T15:34:00.001+01:00

At one time, photographers picked up their cameras and it was all about the film speed, the emulsions, the developing, the negatives and the darkroom. Different looks were achieved with different films...all gave different colour tones. You could cross process, split tone...it was all pretty creative! And it's a skill I envy as I can't process film.

But with the advent of digital photography - well, that was blown out of the water! The possibilities are limitless.

It's taken ages to develop my own photoshopping techniques (and I am still working on it) - but I did it so I could process my images like magazine formats, airbrushing, correcting and generally giving it the Rock Star Treatment!!

Some people don't like it and prefer to be left natural, but, as an example, I have some before and afters to share with you (not that the model needs it!) Though I will say, these are EXTREMELY photoshopped, I don't usually go this far!

Here we are: BEFORE

And AFTER :

And the very final image in its full crop:

It's all in the details...

2008-05-25T14:01:00.000+01:00

If I say the word, 'vintage' to my best friend Joanna, she instantly wrinkles her nose in dismay. She is not the kind of girl who would spend hours forraging in a charity shop for a designer bargain. I can count on one hand the number of times I have seen her wear something 'retro' and she is so on point she often looks like she has stepped out of the pages of Glamour magazine.

I, however, am the complete opposite and came across a vintage wedding weekend held in Wimbledon, London.

It was hosted by Luella's Boudoir, a fantastic little shop which has every dream accessory brides could possible want.

And if you like vintage details, then this would have blown you away. From vintage jewellery, to 200 year old crockery they had it all.

Here are some examples, which might give some vintage-loving brides a few ideas. Don't forget - everyone is welcome to comment on my blog! I would be interested to hear your thoughts on retro weddings!

The vintage crockery was sourced by experts at The English Tea Party...

Beads and tiny flowers added to the appeal....

Vintage inspired jewellery was on display in lovely little bird cages....

Wedding Ideas Magazine, May 2008

2008-05-24T12:38:00.000+01:00

James and I were married in October - it was a crazy day, as many of our friends and family can confirm! We won Galaxy's Arranged Marriage competition and were lucky enough to win our wedding, all expenses paid.

There were a few hairy moments as listeners had to vote on whether or not we won our dream Hollywood wedding. It was looking more and more like James would have to be dressed as Gandalf with me as a Playboy bunny!

But thankfully everything went our way and it was a splendid day. For everyone who wants a little reminder, here we are making the most of our five minutes of fame in Wedding Ideas magazine this month (reproduced with kind permission from Philippa Richards, editor.)

Our wedding photos were fantastic, and were done by my 'Yoda' whom I pester with endless questions, Dave Sander at 1ClickPhotography! Actually, I have two 'Yodas' who help me develop as a photographer - but Dave was the first! Then he put me in touch with Mark...it all went from there really. Anything I learn as a photographer, I learn from them. Thanks so much guys!

Good Golly, Miss Dolly!

2008-05-20T18:36:00.000+01:00

Keeley, my model from last week, had so many of her friends checking out her pic on the blog that I thought I would share another one with you.

Here she is, striking a pose and having a great time!

Dolly Rocks!

2008-05-13T21:29:00.001+01:00

My best friend Joanna is always one of my most favourite models.

Here she is. In all her glory. In Grimethorpe (it's as sexy as the name suggests) Rockin' that dress!

Good Golly, Miss Dolly!

2008-05-08T20:23:00.000+01:00

Boudoir photography started off in America, I think. Brides wanted cheeky gifts to give their hubbies 'special' presents for their wedding nights. But slowly, and with the help of Gok Wan on How To Look Good Naked, the art of boudoir photography crossed the pond.

It's one of my fave things to do - because it is such a laugh and so great to see people's reaction when they see their photos (which have had the glam treatment with my post-processing secret recipe, yum yum!)

Sophie's Shoot

2008-05-07T20:48:00.001+01:00

Thankfully! No rain! I hate flash so I was pleased for a bit of sun!

Here are some examples of the fun photoshoot myself and my almost-neice Sophie had last week. She wanted some funky portraits, check her out busting her moves.

She was a little shy at first but once she got into it, we had a great time.

Who would have thought we were in sunny Barnsley?!

(Don't worry everyone, the railway line was closed!)