Wow! Photography

Prescriptive or descriptive?

2012-02-14T13:21:00.000-08:00

Welcome! Welcome! Come in, sit down and make yourselves comfy! An extra special welcome to new readers and those we've met recently at the wedding fairs.

Carrying on with our introduction from a couple of posts ago, I'd like to share with you our vision of wedding photography.

When Bob and I got married 26 years ago, wedding photography was largely prescriptive. You got what you got and everyone followed the same formula.

You stood and posed in lines, slap bang in the middle of the frame with various family members for 30 or so photographs. Then, just as the fun was about to start the photographer packed up his tripod (yes, it was always a bloke and he always had a tripod) and off he went. That, as they say, was that.

In due course you got your thirty pictures in an album, one picture to a page, with tissue paper between the pages. Your album looked the same as your Mum's and hers looked like her Mum's.

Then along came digital photography.

Once digital photography reached a standard as good if not better than film photography all sorts of doors opened.

Photography no longer needed to be prescriptive.

Now it could be descriptive.

Suddenly the rule was:

There are no rules, be creative and go with the flow.

(Imagine me singing for joy at this point).

Photographers now had the freedom to shoot as much as they wanted, allowing them to pick up on the mood, the feel and the sheer joy of a wedding.

Reportage was born.

For the first time we could photograph all of the details, the tiny but important items that make your wedding uniquely yours.

The garter that belonged to your grandma, the ring sewn into the lining of your dress or the antique lace that came from your Mum's wedding veil. We understand how important these things are to you.

They are your cherished memories, memories that you'll want to keep forever. By putting these photographs alongside and complimenting your main photographs we can tell the whole story of your wedding in your beautiful and unique storybook album.

Bob and I don't claim to be truly reportage photographers as experience has taught us that most people still like to have a few formal photographs and we're always happy to do those for you if you want them.

However, what we prefer to do is shoot very natural, unposed images, the ones that show you enjoying every single second of your wedding.

What do you think?

2012-02-10T09:24:00.000-08:00

If this is February then that means we are exhibiting at The Triangle Centre in Manchester this weekend, then next weekend it's the Wrightington Hotel followed by the Preston Marriot on the 26th the Dunkenhalgh on 4th March, Preston Masonic Hall 11th March and then last but not least, Kilhey Court on 1st April.

So many wedding fairs.

It's all becoming a bit of a blur at the moment, I'm really not sure where I am from one week to the next.

Of course doing all these wedding fairs means that all major dates are filling up fast so please don't delay if you're thinking of booking us for your wedding photography, I'd hate for you to miss the date because you weren't quick enough off the mark. It does all get to be a bit of a bunfight at this time of year.

I do love all the excitement of it all though and I certainly can't say that I'm bored.

Cake, fashion shows, jewels, shoes - and me!

What's not to love about a wedding fair? Get your self along and say hello! While you're in Manchester you can do a bit of 'market research' aka*cough* shopping. I think Bob's cottoned on to the fact that when i say 'researching the market' I actually mean shoe shopping.

We've got a new display banner for this year's shows.

Since our last banner came to an untimely end after Bob had a bit of a tussle with it at a wedding fair last year we decided to get a super duper new one.

Oh. Dear Lord.

It arrived today.

Millimeters are teeny little things!

I had no idea 1500 of them would be so very BIG!

At least you won't have any trouble spotting us.

Here's me in the office stood next to it two minutes after it arrived. I still have the shocked grin on my face. It's huuuuuuge!

Lynsey and Matthew's Album

2012-02-08T06:42:00.000-08:00

We love it when a couple's wedding alum finally arrives. In fact we probably look forward to it as much as you do.

Having spent ages designing it, and every one is totally unique, it's nice to see the finished article.

Lynsey and Matthew's album was the latest one to arrive. If you've been following us on Facebook you'll have seen that Lynsey was a bit excited about it's arrival. She was thrilled to bits with it - as we were.

Some of you will have already seen it as we were thrilled enough with it to get a copy made for ourselves to put on the display at the wedding fairs.

Talking of wedding fairs - we are exhibiting at Manchester Wedding Show at the Triangle Centre in Manchester on both Saturday and Sunday this week.

Po in and say hello, put your name down for the next prize draw, grab a spot of lunch and do a bit of shopping. You could make the whole day of it!

You have to love Manchester!

And the winner is......

2012-02-05T12:29:00.000-08:00

And the winner of our park hall wedding fair prize draw is...........

I'll just let the tension build for a moment as I rustle the gold envelope with the winner's name inside it *rustle rustle rustle*

Kate A!!!!!

Congratulations and well done, Kate!!!

I'll be contacting Kate by email to let her know she's the lucky winner of an engagement portrait shoot and a framed 8 x 12 inch framed print.

Thank you all for coming to chat with us and for entering the draw, sorry you didn't win this time but you can have another chance.

We' ll be at the triangle Centre in manchester on Saturday and Sunday next week for the manchester Bridal Show so pop in, say hello and you can enter again!

You have to be in it to win it - as they say.

Getting To Know You

2012-01-31T02:50:00.000-08:00

What can I say? I loved the wedding fair at park Hall on Sunday.
It was busy, lively and fun with lots going on and soooo many people stopped by for a chat. Thank you, we had a brilliant day!

As we met so many people, I thought it would be nice to introduce ourselves properly.

So. Who shall I start with? Well, me I suppose as I carry the title of,

'The Photographer'

*Takes a deep breath*

My name is Lesley ( can't think of anything else to say here so I'll move swiftly on )

Did I always know I was going to be a photographer?

No! It almost happened by accident. I always knew there was an artist inside me but I couldn't find the right medium to bring it out. I'm rubbish at painting and can only draw stick men, it was so frustrating! Eventually, someone shoved a camera into my hands and that was me hooked.

After attended lots of evening courses at college, I set up a darkroom in the upstairs toilet at home and soon friends were asking me to photograph their weddings - and then I realised.......... this is it! This is what I'm meant to do! I absolutely love weddings!

"Blimey" I thought, "If I'm going to do this I'd better learn how to do it properly." So, with amazing support from the husband, Bob, I sold my business and went to university full time to get a degree in photography. the rest, as they say, is history.

Off duty I like to borrow a dog, and get out walking.

not just any old dog, this particular dog. She belongs to my son, she's my best walking buddy,

Of course, while I'm out I still have a camera with me. here are a few of my favourite off duty photos from last year.

Yeah, I know, they're a bit odd. That's my job, you see, to notice what you won't necessarily notice and make a picture out of it. My absolute favourite in this bunch is the union jack photo.

Incidentally, who says you need a big, fancy camera to take photos? With the exception of the black and white shadow picture, these were all taken on my phone.

So, moving on: What about Bob, then?

Well, I fell on my feet when I found him, he's my soul mate and my best friend as well as my business partner and all round good egg.

This is us just before our 25th wedding anniversary:

He's a qualified videographer and techno wizard, anything to do with technology fascinates him.

Not a full time photographer like me, he runs our other business, the one that keeps the wolf from the door. He also comes along to weddings as my second photographer. While I'm doing the more formal photographs, he can usually be found lurking in a bush with a long lens on getting some stunning candid photographs, it's that videographer's eye, you see.

He usually comes along to the wedding fairs as well and he's the one who produces our amazing slideshows. Give him some photos and some music to work with and he'll produce a slideshow that will melt your heart. The man's a genius! (ok, I might be a bit biased on this bit).

It's also Bob who gets your galleries online and takes care of the website, in fact, he does most of the 'back room' work leaving me to concentrate on the photography.

When Bob's off duty he spends most of his time - on the computer.

Third, and newest member of the team is our daughter, Carla. You see, it really is a family business.

Assistant photographer and part time model for me, she always joins in enthusiastically when I come up with another bonkers ideas for a photo shoot. The latest one was for a Wonder Woman type shoot - except I wanted it to be slightly different and have her boobs shooting flames!

most people would have run, not walked, in the opposite direction. Carla just went for it even though she was terrified. What do you think?

It took us ages to get it all together. What you can't see here is all the fire extinguishers and fire blankets being held just out of shot. she was incredibly brave to do this one, even though she was terrified you'd never know to look at her.

I'm not even going to mention the 'Ophelia' type shoot we did. I'm sure she thinks I'm trying to kill her!

Carla has been involved in photography in one way or another since she was tiny. In her time she's been involved in all sorts of weird and wonderful shoots which gives her an amazing insight both into the business and the artistry of photography - and as an ex art student she has a brilliant eye for a photo. Like me, she's mad about weddings and is really enjoying her apprenticeship as a wedding photographer under my watchful eye.

So that's us. I hope you enjoyed our little biography.

Tune in again later in the week and to discover about our vision of photography and how that relates to you.

Bye for now!

Wow! We're at Park Hall!

2012-01-27T11:49:00.000-08:00

Hello and welcome to our new readers.

We're on the brink of the wedding fair season again. The first one is this Sunday at park Hall, Charnock Richard.

All day today I've been 've been busily getting everything ready, polishing, primping and preening - and that's just on me!

I'm really looking forward to chatting with lots of brides - and just a few grooms this weekend.

Drop by and say hello, won't you?

Wow! It's a pot pourri of news

2012-01-17T11:12:00.000-08:00

Well, golly gosh, is it that time again already?

We have our first wedding fair of this year on the 29th January. It'll be at Park Hall and I know that there's going to be a lot going on so if you're getting married n the next year or two get yourself down there for a lookie, you won't be disappointed - and it's always lovely to see you.

As for us, we've just taken delivery of another new silver package sample album to show you. The new album is from Lynsey and Matthew's wedding last year. Fabulous wedding despite the rain that lashed down on us for most of the day. Did the rain stop play? Did it heck, everyone had a ball!

It was getting time to replace the sliver package album anyway as we like to have current weddings to show you but we maybe had to get this one ready a bit quicker than we otherwise might have done due to the fact that the old one came to an untimely end at the last wedding fair when a light fell on it and burnt a great big hole in it.

Thank goodness Bob was on the spot or it could have been a very nasty incident indeed.
Where was I while all this was going on?

Ummmm...ok I admit it, I was at the other end of the room sampling wedding cake. Well, I have to make sure it's good enough for you, don't I? Anyway, all's well that ends well and we have a lovely new album out of it.

*****

Big announcement coming up: TAAADAAAAAAAAA dada da da da daaaaaaaa!!!

AHEM * clears throat*

" We at Wow! Contemporary Photography are pleased to announce that we are now able to take credit card payments." Yaay!!

We've also taken a bit of time over the quiet period to redesign our company livery. It's just in the final stages now so I'm really looking forward to showing you all that when it's finished. I got the letterhead proofs through today and it's looking pretty darned smart!!

Things are a- changing here at Wow! Towers and it's all looking good.

*****

Nick and Jayne, one of our couples from last year, picked up their wedding album just before Christmas.

Well, I promised you that you could have a look at it after they'd seen it so here it is. Hope you like it as much as they did.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-04T03:45:00.000-08:00

I hope this year brings you everything you wish for yourself but mostly health and happiness ( a bit of wealth wouldn't go amiss either)

It's going to be a busy one, this year. So much to look forward to.

You know how you always see the 'round of up the year' programmes? Well, I thought I'd do a 'favourite photos of 2011' round up but I couldn't do it because there was waaaaayy too many favourites and I couldn't decide. It would have been a massive post with about 300 photos in it! Every now and then I'll pop a few in as I'm working on them so you can see what we've been up to.

The wedding fair season starts on the 29th January for us. We'll be exhibiting at Park Hall, that's always a good show so pop in to say hello, it's always nice to hear from you.

In the meantime, It's all about album design. Last year's brides and grooms have now mostly picked their album pictures so it's head down and get designing for me for the next few weeks. That should keep me out of mischief for a while - that and the New Year get fit campaign.

See you soon!

A very Merry Christmas to you

2011-12-23T00:23:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to you all.

Bob and me hope you have a lovely Christmas and that the new year brings you health, wealth but above all happiness.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

It's Christmas!!

2011-12-02T01:14:00.000-08:00

It's been Christmas for the last month really at the studio with a steady stream of elves and fairies passing through.

Yesterday we had a gorgeous little elf who goes by the name of Jangles. here she is in her elf outfit.

Autumn, Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness - and Steve and Tracey's wedding

2011-11-10T04:37:00.000-08:00

It was a bright, dry and unseasonably warm sunny morning when I set off in one direction to do the bridal preparation photos at Tracey's Mum's and Bob set off in the other to do the groom prep pictures at Steve's.

Having been to Tracey's Mum's a few days previously when I'd been to do a recce, as I always do when I'm not sure where a place is, and found the road closed because of roadworks I was glad that my belt and braces approach to navigation meant that I knew what to expect on the day.

On the day of the wedding the roadworks had all gone and I was there with the larks! Oh well, better early that late!

The house was a hive of laid back and relaxed activity. I discovered that Tracey's Mum is a genius. It turned out that she'd made Tracey's veil and it was stunning. All lacy, vintagey (is that a word?) and cathedral length. Flipping heck, if I'd have tried to make that I'd still be doing it now!

Tracey was in the conservatory having her hair and make up one as I was in the bedroom going "Oh My God! Jimmy Choos!"

Have you ever seen the perfect pair of shoes? You have now. Here they are, gold, sparkly and gorgeous.

The flowers arrived and Tracey's Mum set to again.

This time with some ribbon which tied in exactly with the colour scheme of gold and blue. Isn't the little flower girl's basket cute? I thought it deserved a photo to itself.

Meanwhile, back at Steve's house, one of the two cats had decided to make a run for it, the other one stood on the stairs wondering what on earth was going on.

I'm not sure he was quite as excited as everyone else, he looks totally unimpressed to me.

Bob and myself made our separate ways to the church, the parish church in Higher Walton and as normal we had a chat with the vicar to ask what his rules were regarding photography in church, often a heart sink moment for us.

This vicar wins the prize for being the most obliging vicar EVER!

His views on photography during the ceremony and ours were exactly the same. We are both of the opinion that the ceremony THE most important part of the day and therefore must be captured for posterity. Yay!!.

While it's vital that the photographer doesn't cause any disruption by moving about or by using flash during the ceremony I think it's that it's the one part of the day where we really should be able to take photographs and it's very often the one part of the day we get stopped. (I'm trying really hard not to get on my soapbox and start ranting just now) so moving swiftly on....

Tracey and her Dad arrived at the church. She looked radiant.

No sign of nerves, just a happy and excited bride who couldn't wait to get inside to marry the man she loves.

I think it's fair to say Steve wasn't looking quite as radiant, I do believe there may have been a small amount of nervousness about him.

The nerves soon dissipated when Tracey got to the alter and they looked into each others eyes. I have never seen a bride look at her groom with such a look of love in her eyes. I was getting quite emotional just watching them.

The little flower girl decided that she was bored halfway through the ceremony and decided to go for a little walkabout.

All too soon the ceremony was over and after a quick kiss on the steps of the church it was off to the beautiful Samlesbury Hall for the reception.

Oh how I love Samlesbury Hall. What a magnificent venue. It's reputed to be haunted but I never saw or felt anything. Tsk. Fancy myself as a ghost hunter (not!!)

The wedding breakfast was held in the Great Hall. The fire had been lit in the huge stone fireplace, the huge chandelier was glowing, the candles had been lit in the superb candlabras and the atmosphere was altogether lovely.

There was much hilarity during the speeches but I couldn't possibly tell you what was being said. All I can tell you is that the lady looking down from that huge picture frame above the bride and groom didn't look at all amused. That made me laugh behind my camera even more!

Is it wrong of me to enjoy the weddings we shoot so much?

Normally at a wedding there is a bit of a lull after the wedding breakfast and before the evening reception.

Not so for Tracey and Steve. They decided to get in a proper casino! Wow!

Here's Tracey's Dad deep in thought watching the proceedings. Maybe he's trying to work out a winning system. When you do, let me know, I'll be your new best friend!

Looks like these two have already worked it out. Loadsa money!!

The time eventually came for the first dance. A little bird told me that it may not have gone exactly as planned but it looked good to me and everyone in the room seemed to enjoy it. Especially Steve and Tracey.

Congratulations Steve and Tracey. I'm certain you're going to have many happy years together.

Thanks

2011-11-09T09:19:00.000-08:00

In among all the ahem, 'medical' emails that landed in my inbox the other day was one from the lovely Anthony and Kirsty.

Remember them?

We shot their wedding in the Marble Church at St Asaph at the end of May. We took along a couple of assistants with us as Bob was filming the ceremony and as good as I am even I can't be at the back of the church and the front of the church at the same time.

They picked up their wedding album last week, a big and beautiful black leather one with their details etched on the front. I was really pleased with it.

At every wedding we shoot I end up with one overriding memory, something about the day that reminds me about the couple in an instant. With these two my 'instant recall' memory is that at one point during the ' romantic' couple's shots I couldn't work for a couple of minutes because my eyes were streaming with tears and my legs were buckling with laughter!

I'm far too much of a lady to tell you exactly what was being said but the pair of them were full of fun and mischief and it was a complete joy to work with them.

Here are their album pages:

We were really pleased with it and I know Anthony and Kirsty were. Then this turned up:

Good morning to the most fantastic photographers!

We have been doing the rounds with our gorgeous album and it's a

massive thumbs up from everyone! The DVD is beautiful and definitely

brought a tear to my eye, the music and everything about it is

perfect!

Thank you all, (Carla & Ben included) for your amazing work &

leaving us with the happy & beautiful memories of our wedding day!

Regards, Kirsty & Ant.

What a lovely surprise.

Everyone likes a pat on the back every now and then and we were thrilled to bits. Thanks right back at ya, Anthony and Kirsty for being brilliant to work with and actually, just brilliant!

Christmas Photographs for all the family

2011-11-08T07:47:00.000-08:00

Wow! Christmas is Coming!

2011-11-05T09:25:00.000-07:00

can you believe it's November already?

Can you believe it's November and the temperature is still in the teens?

I love it!

The ideal scenario for me would be if it stayed warmish till Christmas week and then heaved it down with snow over Christmas and new year till we all had to go back to work and then get warm again. Asking too much? Ok then.

This years wedding are all finished now as are all the wedding fairs. Time to relax for a while then, maybe?

Nah! This is the time of year for album design. All the people who got married this year are jut coming back now to get their albums so I'm busily working on them at the moment.

I've been scratching my head over the last week or two wondering what to get friends and family for Christmas. It's such an expensive time of year and if you're anything like us you'll find most people you get presents for don't really want or need anything in particular and you end up spending loads of money for something that they aren't really that fussed about.

Then I had a brainwave!

I'll do a family portrait for my daughter's MIL, she'll love it!

Then I had an even better brainwave!

Well if I'm struggling to come up with nice, personal Christmas pressies for family and friends, so are other people. What about putting together a really good value offer on a set of children's portraits and make a nice little themed set? That could sort out all your parent's. grandparent's, pressies in one go! I was so excited!

In between the album designing I've been building a little Christmas grotto in the studio. Any excuse to get the toys out and have a play......Ahem...no, what I meant there was that I've been working really hard on serious business stuff. (Phew, think I got away with that).

I tested the set out on my own granddaughter. What do you think?

Hang on! How did the daughter manage to get herself on the shot? It's meant to be for kids!

She was so excited to be surrounded by all the lovely Christmas toys, we had a lovely time!

So. Here's the offer:

For only £50 I'll photograph your little elf (or elves) and you'll receive two 6 x 9 and two 7 x 5 inch prints.

That's an amazing offer, even if I do say so myself!!

The set will be up till the beginning of december so you need to book early as it's already proving to be quite popular.

Just drop me a line to book.

Ho! Ho! Ho!

Happy halloween!

2011-10-31T09:07:00.000-07:00

And the winner is...........

2011-10-17T01:59:00.000-07:00

Many, many thanks to all those who entered our prize draw to win an engagement portrait shoot and a framed 8 x 12 inch print.

It's been lovely meeting you all and hearing about all your different plans for your weddings.

There are going to be some very special weddings in the next year or two, my eyes were almost popping out of my head as I heard what some of you are planning! All I can say is, 'Wow!

Yes, yes. Enough of all that I can hear you shout. Get on with the prize draw!
Ok. Ok. Where's the hat? (rustle, rustle, rummage)

FANFARE! Ta da da da da da daaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!

And the winner of the 2011 huge prize draw giveaway is...............

LISA CARTER!!!!!!!!!

YAAAAAAYYYYYYYY!!!!

Well done, Lisa. I look forward to hearing from you.

Wow! It's wedding fair season

2011-10-11T12:04:00.000-07:00

So here we are at the end of the wedding fair season for another year. This Sunday we are at the Dunkenhalgh Hotel for the last one till January.

Aaah, I think I might miss them.

There's no denying that they are hard work but I just love meeting so many of you and hearing about your wedding plans - that and getting to scoff all the leftover cake and chocolate fountain leftovers (tell me again why I'm not a size ten!).

This season we have met some proper characters, some have made me laugh, some have made me gasp with amazement and just one or two had me almost begging "Pleeeese let me photograph your wedding - it sounds amaaaaaazing!" I'll learn to be cool one day (maybe).

It's been mostly fun all the way. Some of the other exhibitors have become friends over the years and it's quite the little social club for us. And there was you thinking it was all hard work, it's far from it!

Major dates have booking up fast for next year and 2013 so please don't hang around booking if you want a bank holiday or peak date as they really won't be free for much longer.

It's the last week before our big prize draw as well, it's not too late to enter. If you'd like to go into the draw for a chance to win an engagement portrait shoot and a framed 8 x 12 inch framed print then just drop me a line with your email address and I'll put you in the hat with the rest.

I'll be drawing the winner at random next Monday morning and announcing the winner on here, on the website and on our Facebook page, so go and 'like' us - we need all the friends we can get.

See you Sunday at 'The Dunk'.

Wow! It's Wrightington!

2011-10-04T00:17:00.000-07:00

Wrightington Hotel wedding fair this Sunday.

It's going to be fab! cake, dresses, cake, pretties, cake, photographs and cake. What's not to love about a wedding fair?

Come along and say hello - and have a mooch through our gorgeous new albums.

Wow! New albums!

2011-09-27T06:32:00.000-07:00

Bob and me have been so busy running round the whole of Lancashire and Greater Manchester in the last few weeks exhibiting at loads of wedding fairs that I completely forgot to tell you all about our lovely new album range.

They're called Bellissimo and they just knock spots of anything else we've seen.

They made their debut a couple of weeks ago at the Manchester wedding fairs and the feedback has been phenomenal!

As normal, we've kept the design in house so your album will be totally unique and not just created from a template that five hundred other photographers also use. It's no secret that I love designing albums, it gives me a chance to get all creative ( and stops her from redecorating the house every five minutes - Bob).

The wedding that I chose to showcase for this new range is the lovely Oliver and Helen's wedding.

What do you think?

Triangle Wedding Fair

2011-09-18T13:16:00.000-07:00

BRILLIANT weekend at The Triangle Centre wedding fair in Manchester this weekend. Many thanks to everyone who came for a chat. I'll be posting the full story very soon.

My feet hurt. I've been stood on 'em all weekend. Any chance of a foot rub? Anyone?

Proud Mum

2011-09-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

We're bang in the middle of the wedding fair season again, hence the reason for me being unusually quiet on here recently.

I'm specially enjoying these wedding fairs for two reasons. Firstly, because I actually really enjoy wedding fairs and we've just got some fabulous new products which we're really proud of and can't wait to show everyone but secondly because our daughter is now modelling for the fabulous Halo and Ellis.

They have wedding gowns, mother of the bride outfits, bridesmaids dresses, prom dresses - every one of which I look at and think Wow! I love that!! of course I may be a bit biased but I think that the dresses look so much better for having my daughter in them.

With a figure to die for ( I don't know where she got that from, certainly not me!) long red hair ( Ok, that might have been my doing) and a natural elegance - definitely not inherited from me, she and Halo and Ellis gowns were a match made in heaven.

Tonight we're all at Garstang Golf Club. The fair starts at 6.30 and the fashion show is on at 8.00 pm. See you there! I'll be the one watching the fashion show all misty eyed and telling everyone, "That's my daughter."

Matthew and Lynsey's Wet Wedding

2011-09-03T03:14:00.000-07:00

People often ask us how we cope when it's raining and we have a wedding to shoot.

My answer is always the same. As a wedding photographer in the north of England we have more than our fair share of wet weddings. Rather than wring our hands and complain bitterly about our bad luck we are more inclined to say. "Wow! We're going to get some lovely shots today. Bring out the brollies!"

We have a little stash of brollies that we always take with us when it wet so we are more than prepared to have some fun in the rain without ruining anyone's outfit (except ours).

Puddles, reflections, umbrellas and a good dose of creativity all help to give us photographs that are not only lovely but just a bit different to everyone else's.

Rain? Bring it on!

Matthew and Lynsey's day started off very wet. It was that really fine, summer rain, you know the one, the one that soaks you through.

Rainy as it was, it was still a warm day so Bob and me were stood out in it catching the guests as they arrived at the church, St Mary Magdelene's in Burnley. Not a lot to look at outside but stunning inside. The priest was lovely, warm friendly, welcoming and very photographer friendly as most Catholic priests are.

"Five second photo call!" Most of the guests were happy to stop for a five second photo call on their way into the church. I think they felt sorry for us with the rain dripping off the end of our noses.

I loved the blue umbrella with the pink dresses.

The groomsmen were on hand to help anyone who was brolly-less.

Eventually, all the guests were safely in the church and Lynsey arrived. I don't think the rain did much to spoil her day. She was radiant. She never stopped smiling.

Her dad was working really hard to keep that gorgeous dress off the ground though. While all this was going on, the bridesmaids watched from a safe distance.

While a groomsman peeped through the curtain to see if it had stopped raining.

The service started. I got in position at the front of the church, as normal keeping as low a profile as possible. To my horror, I realised part way through the service that I was actually steaming! Oh my gawd! That's attractive! Must have got wetter than I thought. Luckily, all eyes were on Lynsey and Mathew.

Aaawww, look at Lynsey's face. She's almost beside herself with joy. How lovely.

The picture below is my favourite one from the whole wedding. How I wish I'd taken it. Bob took it from the back of the church with his super duper long lens. I love this photo.

After the ceremony we set off to Mitton Hall for the reception and formal shots. You'll never guess what happened next.

The rain stopped!

Put the brollies away!

We managed to get all the formal shots done in the gardens. Wow! That was unexpected. I'd been mentally arranging all the wedding guests inside in the hall that was the main part of the old house. I was almost disappointed (almost).

We got some cracking shots outside.

I think Lynsey liked that car, she wasn't letting go of it!

Yay! It's not raining!

During a lull in proceedings, Bob came across Lynsey's dad having a quite moment of reflection. "You look deep in thought. We could have some fun with that." Between them they cooked up an idea for a photo.

Bad Bob, naughty Bob, cooking up schemes is wrong!

Hehe. Funny Bob.

While Bob and Lynsey's Dad were plotting and scheming in the garden. Matthew, Lynsey and me were in the hall on the gallery.

Lynsey's dress was stunning, as Lynsey is. I shot a few detail shots just as they were ready to go in for their wedding breakfast. This type of shot is one that only I can get away with, being a woman. Bob would get a slap (from me) if he did it.

The detail on her dress was amazing. I could have spent half an hour just photographing that. I didn't though, that would have been really boring for them - and it was time to go in for the wedding breakfast.

The room sparked, It was light, elegant, pretty and had an lovely ethereal feel to it. As normal, the staff at Mitton Hall had worked really hard to make sure everything was absolutely perfect.

Congratulations, Lynsey and Matthew.

Wow! Photography at Mitton Hall, Whalley

2011-08-25T09:05:00.000-07:00

Remember the 31st July? It was the day of the Iron Man UK competition.

More importantly, it was the day of Andrew & Sarah's wedding.

What was the connection between the two things?

They were going on in the same town at the same time.

"Be prepared for traffic delays and closed roads." *Gulp* "OK."

Traffic delays and closed roads? Nightmare scenario. We set off about 2 hours earlier than we needed to just to make sure we wouldn't be late.

The sat nav was having to work overtime to get us to where we were mean to to be roads were closed left, right and centre. However, after a loooooooooong wait in a traffic jam caused by a policeman on traffic duty giving priority to the bikes in the Iron man event going through a major junction, we were eventually waved through with shouts of "Go! Go! Go! There's another bike coming!"

Apart from hopping down a road that had been closed off and skipping round a corner we weren't supposed to go round, the rest of the journey passed by fairly uneventfully. Hahaaa geddit uneventfully? Heh, I crack myself up sometimes! Anyway, we got there with bags of time to spare.

Luckily, the groom's house, bride's house and church were all in very close proximity to each other so once we were in the area it wasn't too difficult to get from A and B to C.

Bob popped off to see the lads who were having fun with a few little scene stealers. Bless 'em. they were lovely - the scene stealers, not the lads though they were alright as well.

While all that was going on Carla and I were with the girls:

The colour scheme was blue, ivory and silver, very elegant, very pretty. Sarah had freesias in her bouquet, my Mum's favourite flower. Every time I smell them it reminds me of my Mum and that can only be a good thing.

It was peaceful, almost serene at the bride's house. That is until about half an hour before the cars were due to arrive then all the serenity evaporated into a mad flurry of activity. I thought it had all been a bit too laid back. Sarah however, took it all in her stride and was calm right up till the moment when she and her Dad clapped eyes in each other all in their wedding finery. Then it got emotional, even I was at it ( must have been the freesias!).

All to soon, it was time to set off to the church - with an escort

Well, we've never done a wedding where we've had to be escorted to the church. Thanks, Iron Man for that.

We arrived at the church in plenty of time, Sarah was back to being her serene and calm self. here she is having a quiet minute before walking up to the church with her Dad.

I'm told it looks like a really, really long church when you are standing at the door waiting to walk up the aisle.

The service was lovely. I'd been given instructions by the vicar that I could sneak through the side door and take a few photos from the doorway. "No more than one or two. Ok, maybe five." Better make them good ones then.

The vicar turned round part way through one of the hymns to catch me, out of sight of everyone, I hasten to add, singing and swaying along to 'O Jesus I have promised' He looked a bit shocked for a second and then smiled and carried on with the service.

While the register was being signed in the vestry, it all got a bit giddy. The atmosphere in the room was lovely. I do love it when everyone is enjoying every moment of the day.

Then came the confetti. So much confetti. I thought it would never stop! the little kids were scooping handsful of it up off the floor to throw again and again.

Then it was into the cars and off to one of my favourite venues, Mitton Hall. Why is it one of my favourite venues? because in our experience they pull out all the stops to make your wedding everything you want it to be. Not only that but they are very photographer friendly and that always helps. David, the toast master is Brilliant with a capital B.

Pimms, anyone? Although the weather was threatening to rain, it didn't. Warm enough to be out in the grounds, everyone had a lovely time.

Pimms, anyone?

We went down to the lower garden for the group shots, lots of space and very, very pretty.

After the formal photographs I asked the bridal party to walk across the lawn for me. Easy enough? It was hysterical.

Once the formal shots were all done we went for a stroll round the grounds. The shot above is one of Bob's signature shots, in a bush with a long lens on. He'll be arrested one day for that, I'm sure.

The reception room, as ever looked stunning. It almost glows with those lovely candelabras.

Time for the speeches. Very emotional and very touching. There may have been a few more tears from the Mums.

Followed by, "you're not too old for a smacked backside, you know!"

Time for a breather after the wedding breakfast while the guests checked in to the hotel or relaxed on the the patio and then it was straight into the evening reception.

First; cake cutting. I was very relieved to see the cake cut and out of the way. It had been in the middle of the dance floor and looking a bit precarious as the little kids were dancing round it. We breathed a sigh of relief when it was moved away. Mind you, if it had gone over we were ready to get some good shots of it.

Aw. The first dance. So romantic. The lights are low, the atmosphere is electric and the stage is set for a nice smoochy number. What's not to love about your first dance as husband and wife?

Hey! It's been a while..

2011-08-20T09:42:00.000-07:00

So. How have you been? Keeping busy? Good. Good.

Us? Really busy.

All over the country for weddings, seminars and preparing lots of luverley goodies for the next wedding fairs which are starting again soon.

As you already know, me and Bob are always keen to keep up to date with what's going on in the industry and with that in mind we have been busily updating our wedding packages as well as getting new products to show you and changing the proof books and albums.

In fact, we've pretty much had a total spring clean and everything is all sparkly and new now.

This week we took ourselves off to Chester for some professional development, it's always good to keep the skills honed, and spent a few hours with some other professional photographers learning a few new tricks and comparing kit.

Honestly, we photographers are such geeks, we see a new bit of kit and decide we can't live without it even though we've been very happily managing without it up till that point.

The seminar was brilliant. It was all about using the flash off camera. A posse of photographers and a trio of models worked our way round Chester city centre on Wednesday, stopping every minute or so with a cry of "Ooh, this looks fab, let's shoot here."

What? That was just me? Oh.

Anyway, moving swiftly on.

It was a perfect day out, nice of you to ask. Even better because we turned it into an excuse to spend the night at the lovely Queen Hotel, one of our favourites.

This morning, being a non work day, was just crying out for me to get out shooting. Carla modelled for me and we went to a location I've had my eye on for quite some time. Of course I had to try out the new flash techniques. I used my new talking light stand aka Bob to position the flash in the correct place for me.

I also had to quickly perfect the technique of leaping out of the road as cars sped by every five seconds. Many of them tooting their horns, shouting and waving, at Carla, not me. I always thought that was a quiet road. How wrong can you be! Carla of course loved the attention, can't accuse her of being shy.

The last three were shot in the barn at home. For those of you who don't like urban locations you might find them a bit easier on the eye.

Wow! Photographs rainy wedding at Stirk House

2011-08-06T05:05:00.000-07:00

It's been a funny year, weather wise for this year's weddings. There has been a pattern of lovely weather all week and then on the day of the wedding the heavens have decided to open and drop millions of gallons of water on us from a great height.

I once shot a rainy wedding years ago when I worked for another company. Well actually, I shot dozens of rainy weddings but this particular one stays in my memory.

The bride stormed into the reception venue, snatched a glass of champagne off the tray and stropped off upstairs to the bedroom! She stayed there till it was time for the meal and then later complained she didn't have all the photos she wanted. Oh dear.

Luckily for Bob and me, we only have lovely brides and grooms who's attitude to their wedding is that it is a declaration of their love and a commitment to spend a the rest of their lives together. And the rain?

"Rain? Pah! We laugh in the face of rain Hahaaaa! It's not going to get in the way of our wedding!"

Much nicer attitude in our opinion.

Bob and me have noticed that our vestigial gills have started to develop though - not a totally unexpected occurence for an English wedding photographer, I suppose.

Carla came along with us again on this wedding, she's really getting the hang of it now and has the makings of a good photographer and like us she loves all things 'wedding'.

Helen and Oliver are our couple in the spotlight today. Gorgeous inside and out.

The day started with Carla and me going to Helen's for the bridal preparation while Bob went to see the lads. Do you girls want to see Helen's shoes? Carla's eyes nearly popped out of her head. Oh. My. Lord. They were to die for. Mind you, I probably would have died if I'd tried to wear them!

The girls were showing no signs of pre wedding jitters, in fact they were having a ball. Getting the garter on under all those layers was proving a bit tricky:

As were the boys. Word reached me that Oliver did a great job of getting all the lads dressed and organised in time. Here's a quick lesson in hairdressing:

Bob, meanwhile was outside photographing the beautiful rings.

Carla and I photographed the beautiful flowers. Details are so important. They are the bits you forget as time goes on so we make sure we get lots of detail photos to keep those memories alive.

There just was time for a last check that everything was in order and a quick cuddle with Dad ( Helen, not me! ) before setting off for the church.

Still the rain lashed down.

Did they care? Did they heck!

The wedding was at the gorgeous St Peter's Church at Salesbury.

Helen and her Dad arrived exactly on time.

The music started and

the ceremony got under way.

Sigh. It was lovely.

I wasn't allowed to the front at this church so all the ceremony shots were taken from the back of the church.

We've done it!!

After a few group shot sin the church because it was still pouring down we made our way to Stirk House for the reception. Helen and Oliver enjoyed a quiet few minutes in the car.

The bridesmaids got cheeky now they'd done the hard work of the day. Time to chill! Carla sat in the limo with them on the way to Stirk House. She got some amazing shots.

What?

Can you see them?

Ohhhhn noooooo!!!! Not suitable for a family audience!! Very funny though, here's one to give you the idea.

Once we got to Stirk House the party soon got into full swing.

Everyone just decided to throw themselves straight into it all and have a wonderful time. Of course that means we have a wonderful time as well! There were times I couldn't shoot for laughing!

Dinner time!!

So much confetti in one go. I thought it would never stop!

Aaaww. Aren't they gorgeous. They'd give Posh and Becks a run for their money, wouldn't they?

Cheeky!

Coo-eee! Cheers!

Fabulous cake, so detailed. It was studded with crystals! It was absolutely gorgeous. Carla was walking round saying,"Mum, this is my wedding. Helen's done it exactly the way I'd want it." Praise indeed, Helen.

The speeches were just right. There was a lot of laughter,

just a few tears (actually, quite a few tears)

and a couple of cringes!

All too soon it was time for the first dance.

I don't think they were aware of anyone else being in the room at this point.

Then: PARTY TIME!!!

Congratulations, Helen and Oliver. We wish you many, many happy years together.

War of the Roses?

2011-07-18T02:59:00.000-07:00

Working on the basis that I'm not a born and bred Lancastrian I thought it would be fairly safe to take a job that involved me going over the border and into Yorkshire.

The job in question was the wedding of Steve and Lauren. Nice couple.

I first met Lauren at a wedding fair, as I tend to meet most of my brides but on this particular occasion we hadn't even got the display up properly when Lauren arrived.

The result was that Lauren and me stood and had a lovely long discussion about the dangers of large boobs and strapless wedding dresses while Bob got on with assembling the display and trying not to listen.

Shortly after that we met Steve at their home and we got on like a house on fire.

It seemed like the wedding was so far away then but before we knew it it was here.

Where does the time go?

Bob, me and Carla, this was her second wedding as a rookie, jumped into the car and set off for York where the wedding was to be held, in the Merchant Adventurers' Hall to be exact.

It's a fair trek to York from where we are so we left plenty of time for a leisurely journey and lunch on the way.

Oh, the best laid plans and all that.

After a clear run all the way we hit a wall of traffic (not literally) outside the city and from there it took us over an hour to drive two miles. AAAARRRRGGHH!!!!! So much for a leisurely lunch. Thank goodness we always allow a ridiculously large amount of time for journeys. Darn you, York races!!

We popped into a pub and tried to get a sandwich and a coffee. "No food or hot drinks till 5." Ho hum.

On the barman's advice we parked the car and walked the rest of the way to the hall. Good advice as it turned out, it was only a few hundred yards away and we probably couldn't have parked any nearer anyway. Luckily, there was a cafe right next door so we managed to get our leisurely lunch after all.

Thank goodness for that. You really wouldn't like me when I'm hungry.

So. What can I say about the Merchant Adventurers' hall?

It's STUNNING...... and hidden down an alley between two shops.

What else can I tell you? It's gone straight into the top five on my list of favourite venues. I. Love. It.

The guests arrived, the groom arrived, the sun (not the newspaper) arrived, the bride arrived, everything was perfect. I really liked their choice of decor, it fitted the venue brilliantly, very simple and natural in lovely, neutral colours.

Lauren arrived. I'm not sure who was more nervous, her or her dad.

Steve on the other hand looked as relaxed as.....a..... relaxed thing. Maybe he just hides it well.

All nerves disappeared when they met at the front.

The ceremony was lovely and very dignified as befits a venue like this one.

Or so they thought at the back. I could see what was really happening when the ring wouldn't go on.

'Eeeeeee. We're married!!!'

The gardens at the Merchant Adventurers' Hall are a bit odd, that is to say the road beyond the walled garden is about 20 feet higher than the garden itself. All the passing tourists on foot and on the tourist buses stopped to take photos, watch and offer their congratulations. I'm not used to working with an audience behind me but we managed. Here's everyone sharing a toast with the onlookers hanging over the walls.

Even Napoleon dropped by for a look

Here they are sharing a cheeky kiss when they think no ones watching. Love your hair, Lauren.

Time for a walk in the garden

and a moment of reflection.

Many congratulations, Steve and Lauren.

Home sweet home

2011-07-12T00:20:00.000-07:00

It seems like ages since I last popped on here for a chat. Have you missed me?

What do you mean, have I been away?

Bob and me have been globe trotting - kind of. Actually, we went on a cruise round the Med. Very nice it was too. We landed back in Blighty on saturday morning and had a nice leisurely drive back up north so we didn't end up back home as tired as when we left.

All I have to do now is run round lot to get rid of the excess weight that somehow managed to attach itself to me while we were there.

June was an incredibly busiest month - the busiest ever, in fact. Business is booming - thank you all for your support, Bob and I really do appreciate it.

'Yeah, yeah', I can hear you say. 'That's enough of that just show us the photos.' Ok then.

June started with Nick and Jayne.

Their wedding day was on that hot day, remember the one? It was the 3rd June and it was a scorcher.

I popped over to Manchester for the bridal prep while Bob popped over to the Dunkenhalgh for the lads.
I know which group were the most relaxed:

There seemed to be a bit of monkey business going on:

They didn't forget about the rings though so that's ok.

The girls on the other hand were too busy getting on with the important business of looking gorgeous for the big day to be monkeying around:

The dress was a stunning Ronald Joyce number with an amazing amount of intricate detailing on it. Proper fairytale stuff. Loved it.

Yup, I loved the shoes as well. Sparkly, just how I like them!

Jayne's Dad was lovely. He was almost bursting with pride, you could see it in his face. It made me all emotional just watching them.

Finally, the time came to make the long, long journey from the house to the church. It took all of fifteen seconds on foot, it was literally just across the road. As they arrived at the church they stopped for a little breather to calm a few wayward nerves before going in. It did cross my mind that they must have painted that door behind Jayne to coordinate with her ensemble, it was such a perfect match!

Ready? Take a deep breath and.....

Before you know it, it's all over and it's time to sign the register.

Then outside for a sneaky kiss when you think no-ones looking.

We did it!!!!

The church and the service were beautiful and it was all over far too quickly. It's a good job we are there to capture those memories for you or it would all just be a blur, it goes so fast.

After the ceremony we made a quick dash back to the brilliant Dunkenhalgh to get on with the serious business of the day; the reception.

Since the weather was so gorgeous all the guests were able to sit out and enjoy the sunshine, it was a lovely, relaxed affair with a of of laughing going on.

While we were doing the group shots we had to wait for one person to arrive to complete the group. As we waited I sang everyone a song. I think they liked it.

What song was it?

'I've got a luverley bunch of coconuts' Ever the professional *sigh*

The table decorations were gorgeous.

As were the flowers. It's been a popular colour scheme this year, fuchsia, black and white.

Jayne just looked more and more gorgeous as the day wore on. Being married obviously suits her.

Eventually it was time for the first dance.

And time for Bob and me to leave.

Many congratulations to Nick and Jayne.

Poochie Portrait Night

2011-06-27T00:51:00.000-07:00

I survived it then! Apart from a rotweiler decided to have a munch on my arm I managed to get through the whole 'school portrait for dogs' without any major issues.

School portrait for dogs? Yup.

You may or may not know that me and my son's dog, Mrs Woofy, are bezzie mates. We're often to be seen wandering round the moors and countryside of Darwen in all sorts of weather.

In addition to our daily (ish) walks we attend agility and obedience classes together. It keeps us both out of mischief and we have fun.

The committee at St Thomas' dog club asked me if I'd shoot a few portraits for the other club members. There was talk of cats and rabbits as well which brought me out in a cold sweat as I had visions of all sorts of mayhem and bloodshed going on.

Luckily, all that turned up on the night was the dogs, all scrubbed up nicely for their school photos.

Here are a few of my favourites:

Mrs Woofy isn't here. She got a special photo shoot all of her own:

And my personal favourite:

weather watching in Blackburn

2011-06-24T14:15:00.000-07:00

I'm keeping a 'weather eye' out tonight. I don't know why because it's not that I can change it if it doesn't do what I like, can I?

Still, I can do a little sun dance in my living room and hope that it stays dry for Oliver and Helen who are getting married tomorrow in Blackburn. You can join in if you like (with the sun dance, not the wedding).

Many congratulations to them, I'm looking forward to this wedding. Ok, I know I say that about every wedding but I really do look forward to them.

This will be our new assistant's, aka our daughter, Carla's third wedding. She's getting the hang of it now and she's showing all the signs of loving it as much as we do. here she is helping out with a bit of a dress drama at her first wedding.

She looks scared to death. Mind you, taking a pair of scissors to a bridesmaids dress on her first day in the job, I'm not surprised she looks scared, I'd be petrified.

I once had to sew a bride into her dress an hour before the wedding. I did a very good job of it as well, she's probably still wearing that dress as there was no way it was coming undone, ever!

We won't be having any dramas tomorrow, I'm sure. It's going to be perfect - and with wall to wall sunshine.

Now if you'll excuse me I have to go and do a sun dance.

Back from honeymoon

2011-06-21T13:47:00.000-07:00

Anthony and Kirsty are now back from their honeymoon in the Maldives.

We spent a very pleasant this evening with them at the studio tonight sipping bubbly and watching the slideshow of their photographs while we reminisced about their wedding day.

*sigh* I love my job.

Here are a just a few of my favourites.

This was the wedding at the marble church in Bodelwydden. A fabulous church. It took my breath away when I first saw it.

As much as I like the church I wasn't totally impressed at having to drive all the way back to Wales the following day because my new assistant left a kit bag behind. Never mind, it's always nice to go back to Wales, land of my fathers - or in my case my mother.

You didn't know I'm genetically Welsh, did you? I know I sound like a born and bred northerner but I'm really an imposter!

The ceremony was lovely, very moving. You think I'd be used to it all by now but it still gets to me.

This wedding wins the prize for the most confetti so far this year - it just kept on coming!!

You have to have the reservoir dogs photo!

"Show me your socks!" Do you know what? They did - without question! I can't remember why I said it but it made a fun photo.

What a gorgeous bride, inside and out. It was pleasure to work with her and the families on both sides who had obviously all just decided that this day was going to be perfect from start to finish - and it was.

A lovely, laid back crowd of people who made my job soooooooo easy. Thanks, guys.

Aaaaawww, sweet.

The speeches were a hoot, as you can see it all went down well.

I daren't tell you what Anthony was saying but it made me laugh - and blush, and I don't blush easily! Cheeky!

The first dance was lovely, don't they look so much in love?
I'm not even sure they were aware that there were other people in the room at that point.

That's exactly how it should be.

Many congratulations, Anthony and Kirsty.

We still have a few dates left for 2012, if you're getting married why not give us a call on 01254 761761?

It's been a woof couple of weeks

2011-06-21T03:02:00.000-07:00

Hahaaa!! Geddit? Woof?

Oh, ok. I'll get my coat.

There have been an abundance of dog owners wanting poochie portraits of their four legged friends recently.

The trend hasn't finished yet.

This Thursday I'll be working at our local dog club, you know, the one I go to every week with Mrs Woofy, 'the dog that isn't mine' (but that's another story).

I don't know if they already knew I was a photographer or if it was just a coincidence but they asked me if I knew anyone who could take photos.

" I might be able to help you there."

Now, the 'Poochie Portrait Night' has evolved into a general menagerie night. I know at least one person is thinking of bringing her rabbits along. There was even talk of cats and parrots being brought along.

Oh. Dear. Lord.

I'll let you know how it goes.

In the meantime, here are some photos from my last two poochie portrait sessions.

Lassie the border collie, small, feisty and very, very fast.

There's always time for a cuddle.

Diesel and Jet, the Belgian Shepherd brothers. Aren't they cute?

I flippin' LOVE apples, me!

2011-06-15T09:21:00.000-07:00

I've been going through the photos from yesterday's photo shoot with the little girl and the apple and I thought I'd share a few more with you as they are just so darned cute!

An apple a day

2011-06-14T00:24:00.000-07:00

This little girl's Mum had a specific photo in mind when this shoot was arranged.

"I want a picture of her sideways and taking a huge bite out of the apple." She's been decorating the kitchen and thought that the finishing touch would be a big canvas picture of her daughter eating a nice juicy apple. What a lovely idea. Wish I'd thought of it!

"Ok. Let's do it."

It's nice to have free reign in the studio and I usually just let children who come to me relax and play with our toys and dressing up equipment so we get nice natural shots of them but every now and then it's nice to do something a bit different as well.

It could have gone either way, this. If the little girl had been a bit fractious when she came in it most definitely wouldn't have worked but as it was - she was a delight. I think a bagful of nice, juicy green apples played their part in that to be honest. It didn't seem to be difficult for her when I directed her to, "take a big bite."

There are so many nice photos from the shoot that I couldn't choose between them all. The Mum decided that she didn't want a side on one after al, even though it was exactly as she'd imagined. She, like me, fell in love with this one:

Lancashire Photographer goes over the border to Yorkshire

2011-06-11T03:08:00.000-07:00

Today is a wedding I've been waiting for.

It's Steve and Lauren's big day and they're getting married at the Merchant Adventurers' Hall in York.

It's a fabulous venue in one of my favourite towns. Tune in for the lowdown and a sneak peak soon.

Lancashire Wedding Photographer Races for Life

2011-06-08T01:07:00.000-07:00

It's today!! I can't believe it's been a full year since I last did the Race for Life.

I hope it stops raining just long enough for me to get round the course. I may not wear my fairy wings and tutu this year, they'll only get soggy!

Many thanks to those who have sponsored me, it's not too late if you haven't done it already, just click here. Thanks.

Here's me with my daughter in law at last years Race for Life:

Wish me luck!

A grand do at 'The Dunk'

2011-06-06T01:02:00.000-07:00

Friday morning, the day of Nick and Jayne's wedding, dawned bright and clear.

Amazing when you consider how bad the weather's been lately.

I'd been checking the weather forecast all week and doing my little sun dance round the living room, it obviously worked as the sun blazed down on us all day!

Bob and me went our separate ways for the bride and groom prep. I went to Manchester and Bob went to the Dunkenhalgh, meeting up,later at the church which was about fifty yards from the bride's house.

The atmosphere at the bride's was laid back and relaxed. The bride in her 'Bride to be' tee shirt sat back, enjoyed having her make up and hair done as she sipped champagne. Now that's the way to get ready for a wedding.

The bride's Dad was a lovely chap. As soon as he saw her in her dress he filled up with tears, which of course made me fill up with tears as well. Honestly, you think I'd be used to it all by now.

The church was lovely.

As were the flowers, not least because all my favourite flowers (nearly) were in there, gerberas, freesias and roses.

The colour scheme of black, white and hot pink worked a treat but I'll save all that along with the rest of the story of the day for later, after Nick and Jayne have seen their photos.

Incy Wincy Spider

2011-06-02T12:51:00.000-07:00

Aaahhh, I was looking through the archives and found this photo. It's one of my all time faves.

She didn't look quite so serene when she saw Incy Wincy spider.

Heehee I laughed so much I nearly fell off my ladder!

Lancashire Wedding Photographer at Wonderful Welsh Wedding

2011-06-01T08:40:00.000-07:00

So. Did you miss me while I was gone?

What do you mean, 'Have I been away?'

In the last few days I've travelled all four corners of the British isles. Well, maybe not all four corners because I haven't been to Ireland but I have worked in England, Wales (twice) and Scotland, all since last weekend.

First was Anthony and Kirsty's wedding at the fabulous Marble Church at Bodellwydden. When we first met this couple eighteen months ago and they mentioned where the ceremony was to be, Bob's jaw dropped open with amazement and delight as he knows this church well since he used to practically live on the doorstep. He spent most of that meeting raving about this church and how beautiful it was.

It is indeed a very beautiful church and we were thrilled to be able to shoot a wedding there (that's another tick on the list of things we have to do before we pop off).

I'll save the full story of their amazing day for later when the bride and groom are back from their honeymoon and have seen their photos. For now I'll give you just a little taste of their wedding.

The colour scheme was beautiful, the pew ends in the church looked gorgeous, of course I had to stop and get photos of them. Shades of purple and hot pink. Yummy!

They had the reception at the Faenol Fawr Hotel in Bodellwydden. There is a prize of a small amount of kudos if you know how to say "Faenol Fawr'

As I leapt out of the car, camera in hand to grab photos of the bride and groom as they arrived I was stopped in my tracks by the sight of a peacock strolling across the car park like it owned the place, actually it probably did!

Peacocks!!! Oh, wow!

The room was gorgeous, the staff were brilliant and everything was perfect. Even better than all that: the food was to die for. While the wedding party had their meal, Bob and I sat in the bar and tucked into mozzarella stuffed chicken. We all know I like my food and this place made it just how I like it: tasty and plentiful ( I wonder why I'm not a size 8?).

There was a rather nice Bentley. I did see Bob looking at it longingly a time or two. We may have used it as a prop for a photo or two.

That's it for now, folks. I'll be back with the full story, including how I had to make the 3 hour round trip back to Wales the following day, later.

Animal Magic

2011-05-17T07:15:00.000-07:00

There has been a larger number than normal amount of people wanting their dogs photographing recently. Funny that, I've never advertised as an animal photographer but somehow all these pooches and poochettes have ended up on my doorstep.

They do say never work with children or animals but I've had the best fun in the last couple of weeks. Here are a few of my favourite shots:

I mean, seriously, how cute?

Two minute photo shoot

2011-05-09T06:35:00.000-07:00

I've become the proud new owner of a lovely set of continuous lights for the studio - which means that I don't need to use flash anymore when I'm photographing small children and animals.

I'm sure that using flash always bothered me more than it did them but even so, anything that makes the studio photography even better had to be investigated.

My first model for the new lights was my youngest grand daughter. She seems to have the attention span of a gnat so we had to work quickly
.
The entire shoot lasted about a minute. It's amazing what you can achieve in just one minute.

What do you think? I love my new lights!

Gina and Thomas win the prize

2011-05-06T01:19:00.000-07:00

Gina and Thomas got married in March of this year.

Their venue, Stanley House in Mellor. Now it's lost that 'new' look and has started to develop some real character it's fast becoming one of my favourites,.

The day was as perfect as we could have asked for in the middle of March. The rain held off just long enough for us to do the group shots outside and have a little stroll round the grounds taking photos as we went. All in all it was a great wedding.

Normally when brides and groom get their proof images of the wedding on their return from honeymoon, which in their case was in the Maldives, I tell them they have 6 months to pick the images for their albums, and they take every day of it. After all, it's an important job and you have to know that it's right.

Gina and Thomas came back from their honeymoon and within one week had all the images picked for their album.

Crikey!

Not only had they picked all the photographs, they'd done a really good job of it and chosen photographs that were very representative of their day. Good job, chaps!

So now their album has been designed and sent to Italy for printing, less than two months after the wedding. They most definitely win the prize for the quickest ever picking of photos.

Here's a sneak preview of their album. I can't wait to see the finished article when it comes back.

That's all for now, folks. I've been doing a bit of animal photography over the last week or so. I'll be posting the photographs for you soon. What's that saying - Never work with children or animals?

David & Charlotte

2011-04-07T08:38:00.000-07:00

Things are getting busy at Wow! Towers.

The wedding season is now well under way and the studio has never been busier. This weekend and next weekend we have family portrait sittings and following that it's playtime for me and the daughter!

I've been mulling around an idea for a few weeks now, we are going to give it a trial run after I've finished work on Saturday. It should be a lot of fun, watch this space!

The latest news is that we now have the client galleries all up and running as well as the e-commerce sorted it it's possible for you to buy prints directly from the website. Technology, eh? Where would we be without it?

While Bob's been getting on with all the techie stuff which leaves me colder than a cold thing, I've been doing what I enjoy almost as much as photography - album design.

I've just finished David and Charlotte's album, here are a few of my favourite pages from it:

Their daughter is such a little cutie, I could hire her out as a professional bridesmaid. She very nearly is one anyway. Just a few months after David and Charlotte got married, Charlotte's Mum got re-married as well, guess who was a bridesmaid? Got it in one.

Bob and me were honoured to be chosen as the photographers on the day. Of course it was all the same people at the second wedding, it was like meeting up with old friends. It was at the same venue as well so there was more than a bit of deja vu on the day.

Hope you like the album pages, I'll have more for you next week. Bye for now!

Good news!!

2011-04-01T02:46:00.000-07:00

Bob has working really hard for the last few weeks upgrading the website and giving you your own password protected galleries. As well as that he has set it up so that you can buy prints direct from the website.

I'm really pleased to tell you that it's now all up and running like a dream. Hasn't he been a busy boy?

Well done Bob!!

Back from Paradise

2011-03-30T14:23:00.000-07:00

Not me, I haven't been to Paradise recently. I'm talking about Gina and Thomas who have just arrived back from their honeymoon in the Maldives.

It's quite nice there by all accounts (notice how cool I'm being. I'd actually sell my own Granny to get there).

I wouldn't really. No, seriously, I wouldn't. It was only a joke, Gran, relax. I'm not going to sell you.

Moving on: They had a wonderful time and the only thing that made it worth them coming back was the excitement of seeing their photos and reliving their wedding day all over again. Many congratulations to you both.

Here's a little preview of their day. I'll post more more later. Enjoy.

Oh, you must have been a beautiful baby

2011-03-27T00:51:00.000-07:00

I bet most of you won't have a clue where that title came from, have you?

Oh, y'see now I just feel so old!

It's from a song called, 'You Must Have Been A Beautiful Baby' released in 1961 by Dean Martin. I don't actually remember it, my Mum used to sing it to us all the time when we were kids.

I was reminded of it when I was downloading the photos of this gorgeous little 5 week old boy who arrived at the studio last week with his Mum and Dad.

We shot the 'bump' photos before Christmas and he was a beautiful 'bump' but, Baby, look at him now!

Congratulations!

2011-03-11T12:38:00.000-08:00

Many congratulations to Gina and Thomas who are getting married tomorrow.

Bob and me have the honour of photographing their wedding. I love weddings. That's actually not a bad thing in my line of work.

It's going to be fabulous!

Not only are this couple exceedingly easy on the eye they are also exceedingly easy to get on with. The venue is gorgeous (not giving anything away yet) and from the details I've been given it's going to be a very glamorous affair indeed.

Today has been spent, as is customary the day before a wedding, checking all the kit, charging the batteries and praying for the rain to stay away for them.

It seems to have worked as well!

The almost hurricane force winds have finally dropped, the rain has stopped, the sun is set to shine.

Sounds like a plan!

I'm really looking forward to it.

Michael Buble? Wow!

2011-03-04T08:37:00.000-08:00

I'm told that at our last wedding fair of this season at Park Hall, Charnock Richard, in addition to the numerous goodies you expect to find at a wedding fair there will be a Michael Buble tribute act on!!

Did you think Im meant the real thing? Aw, sorry, put your clothes back on, there's a good girl.

See you there!!

Another wedding fair

2011-02-25T10:53:00.000-08:00

This weekend we at exhibiting at the gorgeous Preston Marriott. This is a new venue for Bob and me and I'm very, very excited about it.

Have you seen it, it's beeee-yootiful! Echoes of a more elegant age altogether, methinks. Sigh.

So, *shakes self* back to reality. As promised here is a preview of Katie and Toby's wedding album.

Everyones asks me where the lovely tower is, it's in Shropshire. It was well worth the journey, what a stunning location.

Katie and Toby requested a very simple and clean look to their album design and as their ( and your ) wish is my command, that is what I created.

It always seems really obvious to me that we all have different tastes and ideas so how could a 'one size fits all' approach to designing albums work? It needs to be as individual as you are.

I spend many an hour creating individually designed albums that I know our couples are going to love and cherish forever. It's a labour of love and I wouldn't change that for the world.

Album Design

2011-02-24T11:43:00.000-08:00

Just like with the seasons of the year, a photographer's work changes with the seasons.

At this time of year we are kept busy with all of the wedding fairs, meeting with brides and grooms to be and planning for the year ahead.

This weekend is no exception to that formula, we are at the Preston Marriot this Sunday, pop in and say hello.

Another thing that keeps us busy at this time of year is designing wedding albums.

This week I have finished Dan and Joanne's album and Toby and Katie's album.

Here is a sneak preview of Dan & Joanne's album for you, I'll post some from Toby and Katie's wedding tomorrow.

Wrightington

2011-02-19T14:05:00.001-08:00

We're at the Wrightington Hotel wedding fair tomorrow. See you there.

More of the same

2011-02-16T13:37:00.000-08:00

Bob and me are still ploughing our way through the wedding fairs.

This weekend we are at The Wrightington Hotel which, funnily enough, is in Wrightington.

It starts at 11.30 till 4pm As usual there will be loads to see and a fashion show with some beeeeeeyooootiful gowns.

Next weekend we are exhibiting at the Preston Marriot and then the week after we are at Park Hall at Charnock Richard.

We have recently made a few changes to the wedding packages on offer.

Do you want to know what they are?

Ok then.

We have introduced a new cd only package. It's superb value for those on a tight budget and there is also the option of buying the album later on if you want to.

On our bronze package we have introduced the option of a digital storybook.

The gold package now comes complete with a set of parents' albums.

WOW!! Ahem, I mean jolly good!

There's never been a better time to get married!!

We have spent a lot of time over the last few weeks meeting you and hearing all about your wedding plans, some are just amazing. We are shooting a James Bond themed wedding in a few weeks, I can't wait for that one!

I've been practicing "Martini. Shaken, not stirred."

Seriously though, we have met with a lot of people over the last few weeks and the most popular dates are filling up fast for next year and even for 2013 so please don't hang about too long to get your date booked, you really haven't got as long as you think.

It's not only the time of year for wedding fairs, it's also the time of year for album design. All the couples from last year have now chosen their photos for their albums so I'm up to my ears in album design at the moment. That's one of my favourite jobs, it gives me chance to get creative and produce a totally unique album for each couple, one which brings out their personalities and the feel of their own weddings. Now what could be better than that?

I'll be posting a few pages on here for you as soon as the b's and g's have given their approval. Obviously you can't see them before they do!

Well, that's it for now. See you Sunday.

The Dunkenhalgh

2011-02-06T00:41:00.000-08:00

It's the morning of the wedding fair at The Dunkenhalgh. Just a few last minute jobs to do before we get going.

The weather is appalling but don't let that put you off. It may be blowing a gale, raining and cold but there is a very warm welcome waiting for you at the wedding fair.

We've got some lovely new pictures for the exhibition stand, come and take a look.

In the meantime:

Here are a couple of photographs of a little boy who came to see us recently. This one went right off the cuteness scale.

I might be wrong but I get the feeling we might have a budding footballer on our hands. I loved his little Blackburn Rovers kit.

Did you know that we do portrait sittings for only £25? Why not book a sitting for your little one - or even for the whole family?

Spring cleaning time

2011-02-04T00:59:00.000-08:00

Shortly after I started to photograph children I realised that when a small child comes into the studio we usually get the best photos by just relaxing and letting them do their own thing.

This little girl wasn't interested in the toys in the baskets, or in posing nicely for the camera. She decided instead that the studio need a sweep and she was going to be the one to do it - and who was I to stop her?

The little girl had fun, I had fun and got the photos I wanted, Mum nearly burst with pride and the studio has a nice, newly swept floor.

Last week's wedding fair at Garstand Golf Club was mobbed! Bob and me hardly had time to draw breath all night. Many thanks to all of those who came, and even waited patiently for a chance to chat with us. I hope you found the fair as good as we did.

This weekend we will be exhibiting at the Dunkenhalgh at Clayrton le Moors. We like the Dunkenhalgh, it's always a busy venue with lots for you to see and do ( and usually some yummy wedding cake left over for we exhibitors to take home with us - every job has it's perks!)

It's been a busy, busy month for wedding fairs and as a result the major dates for weddings for this year have already been taken.

Next year and even 2013 are filling up fast so please; come and see us and get your date booked in, you haven't got as much time as you think.

Good Grief!

2011-01-26T09:16:00.000-08:00

What a busy, busy night at Garstang Golf Club last night! We ran out of everything!

Many thanks to all those who came for a chat, it was lovely to meet you all and hearing about your wedding plans.

There were plenty of big, sparkly diamonds on show last night, most of which were delivered by Santa, I think. The fashion show was......well, actually, I have no idea.

I'd been told to make a point of watching it as it was a bit different and very special but Bob and me hardly had time to draw breath never mind stand and watch the models. We were still chatting to folks when everyone else had packed up and gone!

We made it home about 11.15 last night, it wasn't many minutes before I was in my bed and snoring my head off, I can tell you.

The next wedding fair will be at the Dunkenhalgh on the 6th Feb. See you there.

Gorgeous Babe

2011-01-25T08:23:00.000-08:00

This gorgeous babe turned up at the studio for a photo shoot yesterday.

It all looks very cool and relaxed on this photo doesn't it? I can assure you it wasn't a bit like that. More like an episode of Keystone Cops if you ask me, lots of running around and crazy antics.

Laugh? I nearly bought a round!

Another Wedding Fair

2011-01-24T03:45:00.000-08:00

This Tuesday evening we are at Garstang Golf Club, then on Sunday, 6th February we will be at the Dunkenhalgh.

I've got loads to tell you and photos to post, as soon as I get a spare minute I'll catch you up on all the latest gossip in Wowland.

Wedding Fayre Time

2011-01-18T01:20:00.000-08:00

The first wedding fair of this season (for us, anyway) will be at Haighton Manor tomorrow evening. It's a pretty venue and I've always enjoyed it there so I'm quite looking forward to it. Why not pop in and have a chat?

It's been a busy few weeks her at Wow! Towers. Babies, bumps, families and kids have all been popping along to the studio for photos. here are a couple from just before Christmas.

I was told that this little girl was shy. Really? She hides it well!

I may have done a little bit of work on this photograph. If you'd like something a bit different and totally unique then give me a call and we'll have a chat about it.

Another shoot I really enjoyed was with this little munchkin, she was only a few days old and flatly refused to wake up. So sweet.

I've got loads more to show you, as soon as I have them ready, I'll post them for you. In the meantime: have a nice day, hope I see you tomorrow at Haighton Manor

It's Christmas!!

2010-12-24T11:51:00.000-08:00

Christmas, that very special time of year has raced round again.

Can it really be a full year since last Christmas? By my reckoning it should still only be about May or June.

It's been a busy year one way and another, Bob and me have had a ball at the various weddings we've photographed. We've met Belinda, Melinda, Melissa and Miranda this year so we did get our our names fuddled a time or two!

The studio has been working overtime photographing all your bumps, little cherubs and angels - and one or two little demons if I'm honest!!

The studio has also had a bit of a revamp, why not pop in and take a look at the new gallery?

We have some lovely new designs and if your looking for something unique for your wall then you really need to see our new range of acrylics. They are AMAZING.

Anyway, back to Christmas:

The decorations are up:

The table has been set:

The crackers put out:

The napkins folded (what a faff that was!):

The glasses are ready for filling:

All that remains to be done now before putting our feet up and eating mince pies is for Bob and me to wish you all a very happy Christmas and a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year.

Happy Christmas!!

Now. Where did I put those mince pies.....?

John and Fleur

2010-11-08T23:51:00.000-08:00

Here are a few photos from John ad Fleur's recent wedding in York. I was delighted to be photographing this one as York is one of my favourite places, Bob and me made the most of it and decided to stay for the whole weekend.

The wedding took place in the gorgeous St Olave's church, after the ceremony we all walked round in the late autumn sunshine to the museum gardens. It was just about perfect.

We're back!!

2010-11-07T14:24:00.000-08:00

Did you miss us? Didya? Didya?

What do you mean, have we been away?

Bob and me have just been on holiday with the family, the reason we went was to celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary by re-taking our vows, big pair of hopeless romantics that we are.

I'll post you some photos and tell you the full story as soon as I have got organised.

The Dunkenhalgh

2010-10-13T03:42:00.000-07:00

This Sunday we'll be exhibiting at The Dunkenhalgh, Clayton le Moors.

Why not pop in for a chat? We've got lots of new stuff to show you from this years weddings.
See you there!

Happy families

2010-10-08T10:02:00.000-07:00

back all nicely refreshed after our hols I kicked off my return to work with a brilliant photo shoot this afternoon with a little boy and his new baby sister.

York

2010-09-18T13:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday me and Bob went off to York to shoot the wedding of John and Fleur. York has long been a fave of ours as we spent many a happy hour there a few years ago so it was nice to go back.

The wedding was in St Olave's church and we all trotted off to the beautiful museum gardens round the corner for the photographs. As soon as Fleur and John have seen their photos I'll put some on here for you to enjoy. The lucky things are touring Europe for a couple of weeks before rejoining the real world.

Actually, now I come to think of it, there are loads of things to I want to share with you - and I am aware I've been neglecting you lately, it's just been so very very busy!!!

I'll bring you up to date with all the gossip and goings on at all our recent weddings, along with a few photos as soon as I can catch my breath. Speak soon!!!!!

Haighton Manor

2010-09-07T03:17:00.000-07:00

Have you missed me? No? Tsk, oh well.

It's been full steam ahead getting wedding albums designed and out of the door before the Christmas rush starts (yes, really, so early).

Many thanks to this year's brides and grooms who all seem to have chosen their album photos in record time!! Big round of applause for them!!! Yay!!!!

We're exhibiting at a wedding fair at Haighton Manor tomorrow evening, the first of this season. Why not pop in and say hello? We've got some fabulous new stuff to show you.

See you there!

Toby and Katie

2010-09-02T03:59:00.000-07:00

What a fantastic wedding this one was. Unusual in oh, so many ways it really kept Bob and me on our toes the whole day through. Unusual in a good way, I hasten to add. A more relaxed and laid back bride and groom I have yet to meet. Although.......

Toby, the groom, was feeling the nerves a little bit before the ceremony.

Miles away from home, we'd travelled to Leysters in Herefordshire for the wedding in a gorgeous little church hidden down a country lane.

After the wedding we took the bride and groom off to Rapunzel's Tower for a few photos.

The bride and groom stopped for a chat on a nearby tree before we headed off back to the reception.

Which was held in the village hall, where there was all kinds of silliness going on. During the group shots a woman's face appeared in a bush and asked us if we'd like to take photos in her garden. I nearly had a heart attack!!

All in all it was a great day with a lovely couple. the added bonus for me and Bob was that we spent the rest of the weekend pottering around Wales and having a lovely time.

Madison Appeal

2010-08-21T08:46:00.000-07:00

Have you missed me? It's been a funny old week. My no1 computer had a nervous breakdown this week due to over work so it had to have a few days holiday while we found it a new graphics card.

It's feeling much more like it's old self now and working flat out to catch up on lost time.

What have I been doing while the computer was down? Revamping the studio, that's what. It looks FAB!!

I've put a few new pictures on the wall, added a few spotlights and cleared away some of the massive pile of props that was threatening to take over the entire space. It really is looking good now, I'm really pleased with it.

Scotties Snack Bar which is placed so conveniently (rather too conveniently if you ask me, no wonder I'm not a size 10) across the road on Olive Lane in Darwen is holding a fundraising open day event to raise money for the Madison Allen Fund. She's a little girl with a particularly aggressive type of cancer and her parents are trying to raise enough money to send her to Germany for treatment that may save her.

The event is tomorrow Sunday 22nd August from 9.00 a.m till 2 p.m. There will be stalls, food, raffle, tombola - all the usual stuff. I'm told there will be a few surprises as well.

Bob and me are opening the studio for the day, it's directly across the road so why not pop in and take a look at the new surroundings, try your chances at winning a free portrait sitting and framed print and help to raise some money to save a little girl's life.

See you there!

BBe Inspired

2010-08-14T11:15:00.000-07:00

That’d be my own trumpet. I’m feeling a bit pleased with my little self at the moment because this magazine dropped through my letterbox the other day:

BBe Inspired

Hang on a minute, I thought. That’s one of my photos on the front cover! I’d forgotten about that. Taking a quick flick through it, looking for my own pictures of course, I soon came across this page and felt even more pleased with myself. Full page! Yeah baby!!!!

Whalley Abbey

Ok, I know it’s not Italian Vogue, but it’s a start!

Calming down now......deep calming breaths...... and relax.

I'm nearly famous!!

2010-08-06T05:01:00.000-07:00

Well, not really but a copy of the latest 'BBe Inspired' magazine has just landed on my doormat and one of my photos has been used as the front cover as well as a full page inside. I haven't done too much editorial work but I really enjoy it. It is the antithesis of wedding photography which is so fast paced.

Which do I prefer?

It's impossible to compare them as they are so very different and after all, any type of photography is enjoyable in it's own right.

It's a busy, busy weekend this weekend as we are off to shoot a wedding in Ludlow, Shropshire. I'm really looking forward to this one, not least because the weather forecast is so much nicer down there than up here!!

This wedding is the second of three for this particular family, the next daughter gets married in September. Bob and me are starting to feel like one of their family now. I'll post some photos for you when we get back.

In the meantime, many congratulations to Toby and Katie.

Pretty in Pink

2010-08-02T02:48:00.000-07:00

"What about...." I said. "Oooh, that'll be nice." Said the baby's mum, my daughter.

We love it, what do you think?

Wow!! Newsflash

2010-07-21T00:31:00.000-07:00

Ok, now I'm excited!!!

Peter Jackson the Jeweller, the best jewellers in the area, are running a fantastic promotion at the moment and have asked Wow! Contemporary Photography to get involved with it.

Peter Jackson the Jeweller and Wow! Photography in the same sentence! Wow! Err ...I mean...well, you know.

The promotion is a superb package of all sorts of lovely free goodies when you buy you engagement ring from them. It includes, among other things, a complementary ( and complimentary) engagement photo shoot with yours truly and a framed 8 x 12 inch print.

It really is an amazing offer from the best jeweller in the area and Bob and me are really excited to be a part of it, can you tell?

Click here for a link to Peter Jackson's website.

Horse of the year show?

2010-07-20T10:52:00.000-07:00

In all the years I've been photographing weddings I've never photographed one with a horse and carriage in attendance - until this year. Just like corporation buses, nothing for ages and then two arrive at once.

This is from Lee and Miranda's wedding at Haigh Hall in Wigan. The day was glorious, the venue magnificent, the bride beautiful and the horses incredibly well behaved.

I loved how they had their little crocheted 'ear gloves.' I'm certain that's not what their called but in the absence of their proper names it'll have to do.

If you know what they are called or can think of a fab new name then you can leave a comment and the best answer gets a prize.... of my unending awe at your vast pool of knowledge.

Dan & Joanne

2010-07-08T11:05:00.000-07:00

As promised, here re a few pics from Dan & Joanne's wedding. It rained a bit on the day...... WHAT AM I SAYING????!!! It heaved it down all day long!

Did that stop everyone having a lovely time? Did it heck. They enjoyed every minute of it all.

The whole day was lovely and Bob and me were thrilled to be involved in it.

The bridal prep was lovely, everyone was excited and happy. If there were any last minute nerves they were certainly well hidden.

It rained and it rained and it rained. I did feel sorry for the poor carriage driver. If you look closely at this photo you can see the rain lashing down.

After the ceremony, a short carriage drive to one of mine and Bob's favourite venues, because they take such good care of everyone, including us, Sparth House.

A few quick shots outside while we had chance. The cars were gorgeous - but not as gorgeous as the bride and bridesmaids, obviously.

In the chandelier room at Sparth House just before going in for the wedding breakfast.

Cheeky Monkeys

2010-07-05T03:37:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that I love to photograph babies and small children. I just love the way that their every emotion is shown on their face and they haven't yet learnt to edit their feelings as adults do.

These two little munchkins came to see me within a few days of each other. The little girl had learnt to crawl the day before she came to see me so as soon as we sat her down she was up and away!! I had to work at the speed of light to get a photo of her before she disappeared out of the frame for the umpteenth time.

This little boy has the most expressive face and the biggest eyes I've ever seen. he was lovely. A little but unsure of himself at first, he soon relaxed when we gave him a few toys to play with. After a little while he was having the time of his life - until that is his parents decided they'd like to be in the photos as well, then all hell broke loose till he got the set back to himself again.

A future model in the making, I think.

Both of these images are from our bespoke range. The images you choose are individually designed by me to give you a unique piece of artwork for your wall. No two are ever done exactly the same so they are as individual as your baby.

Ask me for details.

summer weddings

2010-06-27T07:17:00.000-07:00

Weddings always have a certain charm to them no matter what time of year it is. The changing of the seasons gives each wedding it's own special character and I love seeing how the colour themes and flowers change as the year rolls round.

I must admit though, I really, really love summer weddings. They always conjure up visions of peonies, Kath Kidston style fresh colours, Pimms and lovely, balmy receptions on the beautifully manicured lawn of a country house.

It is very rarely actually like that but whatever it's like, you have to love an English summer wedding.

Here are a few of the flowers from our last wedding. I'll post more later.

Ok, I know this next one isn't a flower photo but I really liked the pretty colours and the depth of field in it.

I've got loads more to share with you over the next week or so but I have to wait til all my couples are back from their honeymoons and have seen their photos before I post them on here.

See you soon.

Sorting out.

2010-06-16T01:43:00.000-07:00

I've been having a sort out of my personal photos from last year. I came across this one which was one of my absolute favourites. I know it's not topical at all since it's 25 degrees outside and blazing sunshine but, hey ho. It's a beaut.

Race for Life

2010-06-03T11:49:00.000-07:00

Well, I did it. Yesterday was the Cancer Research Race for Life in our neck of the woods. Daughter in law Gemma, friend, Penny, Me, Twitchy the dog and 1697 other women entered.

Friend Penny set off like a hare and jogged the whole course. me and Gembolina completed it by doing a brisk walk - this body wasn't built for jogging - in 40 minutes. Since the dog came along as well and completed the course with us she also got a medal. Sweet!

Many, many thanks to all those who sponsored me, I not only reached my sponsorship target but exceeded it. We've all already put our names down for next year.

Here are a couple of pics, first: DIL and me all ready to race.

Next: this is us after the race and looking a more than a bit flushed, with us is our friend Penny and the dog, who's proudly wearing her medal - as are we.

Yes you're right, they are tutus and fairy wings we're wearing. Well, you know, one has to dress for the part and we didn't want to look silly or anything.