Absorb and observe...Hindu Wedding

It's almost every girls dream to put on that white dress, feel like a princess for the day and walk an aisle to be re-united with the man that has chosen her to marry. That is how Christian weddings go but over this last weekend, I saw two weddings with a completely different arrangement and culture and that was simply fascinating. 

I have stepped up my work experience to assist some Hindu weddings over the next few weekends. Going back 3500 years, many marriages were arranged and the groom would not meet his bride until they were about to be wed. The tradition follows in the same line but with a more relaxed approach where the couple can choose each other, but will be separated by a white sheet until the bride reaches the groom under the Mandap. This is a small covered area held up by pillars where the ceremony takes place (image below taken before the ceremony) It is considered very holy and therefore people under Mandap must not wear shoes, showing their respect to Lord Vishnu. The ceremony is spoken in Sanskrit 'the world's most ancient surviving language' (according to the wedding programme given out on the Sunday ceremony.)

Mandap

Not only is this arrangement different but rather than taking half an hour going straight to the vows and 'I do's', there can up be to thirteen different stages that consist over two hour period.  

Var Agaman (welcoming of the groom)

Stage 1: Var Agaman

The ceremony begins with the welcoming of the groom. In the image above you will be able to see a wooden arch way which is known as the Marriage Pavilion, where the groom is surrounded by his family and friends. The grooms mother then welcomes him by lightly dusting him with red power called kum-kum and rice, which symbolises luck. The groom is the then led to the Mandap for the main ceremony to begin. 

Stage 2: Var Puja

The honouring of the groom - before the bride arrives, her parents honour the groom with offerings of Panchamrit (yoghurt and honey) These ingredients represent purity. 

Stage 3: Ganesh Puja

All Hindu ceremonies begin calling upon Lord Ganesha. This is done through a prayer to rid of any obstacles that may occur during the ceremony or later in married life. 

Stage 4: Mangalashtak 

In English this term translates into 'Request for blessings' that includes a eight versed prayer which requests all the gods, goddesses and planets to bless the couple with a harmonious married life. 

Stage 5: Kanya Agamanand Puja 

The bride now arrives, being escorted to the Mandap. 

Stage 6: Jayamala

The white sheet is removed and the bride and groom exchange garlands of flowers. 

Stage 7: Hasta Melap

Also known as the 'Joining of the hands', the bride is now given away. The brides father places her right hand on to the groom's right hand which symbolise the respect, responsibility and the love that he has towards her. The brides parents then ask the groom if he accepts their daughter's hand in marriage. In the Hindu culture, this is the greatest gift a person can give. 

Stage 8: Vermala

The 'Sacred Thread' is made up of threads of cotton that are placed around the shoulders of the bride and groom. This symbolises the sacred bond of marriage, blessing their happy lives together. 

Stage 9: Mangal Fera

'Circling of the sacred  Fire' symbolises  illumination of the mind, happiness and knowledge. The circuit  includes four rotations:

Dharma/Duty

Artha/ Prosperity 

Kama/ Love and Family

Mosksha/ Engligtenment

The first three rotations are lead by the groom symbolising his lead to achieve the first three goals. The fourth rotation lead by the bride, shows willingness to achieve the last goal. Once the final round is complete they couple are officially man and wife. 

Stage 10: Satapadi

The couple now takes 'Seven Steps' to begin their life together. Each step is a vow:

- To achieve prosperity and help one another fulfil their dreams

- To be lifelong partners and walk through life's obstacles together, to grow in strength

- To preserve each other's wealth

- To share a lifetime of fun and laughter, sorrow and happiness

- To raise a family, to be strong and healthy in mind, body and soul

- To always be honest and faithful to each other

- To be loyal and true to each other, and remain the closest of friends

Stage 11: Mangal Sutra and Sindoor Daan

The groom gives the bride black beaded necklace that symbolises their sacred love union. He now places stindoor (red powder) onto the parting of the brides hair which signifies that they are now married. 

Stage 12: Akhanda Saubhagawati

Married women from both sides of the family whisper blessing into the brides right ear, before the rest of the immediate family and friends.

Stage 13: Vidai Ceremony 

Family and friends bid a farewell to the bride as she embarks on her new life with her husband. This is also known as the "Crying line"

If I have made any errors, please do let me know and I shall change them.  

This was a perfect opportunity to explore a different culture. 

Midsummers day thinking

Burano, Venice
2012

It felt like I was writing one of my early posts, when I wrote this one. There weren't many of my pictures, but only the thoughts of photography that were going through my mind. I have plenty planned for this blog as I continue to upload 35mm work and discuss the difference of snap shots and real works of art. I also have a few weeks worth of my Hipstamatic 365 project to upload and justify why I haven't been keeping up with it as much as I should have done and how I have been trying to promote my blog to the industry and realising that this blog is more of a personal documentation of my photographic journey rather than a showcase of my work. This blog is a mixture of things of photographs and words that I want to share with the world and I'm grateful for all the views that I get. Thank you. 

It's usually the big things that we like to put off and sometimes that is because it may scare us. Many people have finished their exams this week or perhaps left school, or like me, finished university for the year. If we are not working, then we have a summer holiday. I remember back in the day six weeks would go on forever and the colours of these summer memories were highly saturated with echoes of laughter and pretend games in the garden with a the water sprinkler. As a got into my teenage years I realised that I didn't do those things as much anymore and I would sit around watching TV, which then moved onto sitting around at my computer all day. Looking back, it kind of feels like I wasted that time, those few summers but I wanted to relax, chill and do nothing for change.

With the 'Freshman' year over, the reality of what summer is until you are getting on sixty-five, is that you have to work. As a growing photographer, work experience is extremely important. It gives you an idea of where you want to go and what you want to achieve. I have an Industry Experience module next year which can begin at any time from now. I've been gathering my ideas and looking at possible opportunities and writing that all important CV. There is so much to do, as well as organising yourself and planning your work placement independently and that feels really grown up.

I have been on my summer holiday abroad this year already and there was definitely that sense of relaxation and freedom from life back home, but I always find that I am a home bird. There comes a time in a holiday where I am ready to get back because there are things that I need to do and people that I care about, and all that builds up as a stress and anxiety. It drizzles away once I work through each to-do but this is what life is going to be like. It is going to be busy and it's going to be full of decision-making and working through summer. I get more time off being a student than I ever did a school-student but somehow with much more work, the less time I really have off.

The future is unknown and that is probably the scary part. If you believe in yourself, you will go where you need to go. It's not always so straightforward and sometimes you will have to double-back on yourself and re-think your options but it's much better to say you have achieved something than sitting around wasting your time.

Most people have a dream, some people may have not recognised this yet but if you want something, you should go and get it. Go with that dream as far as it may take you. It won't be a waste of time.

Bunkfest [Day 3 of 3]

Finally the third day...

I sound like I didn't enjoy it, but the thing was I really did. It has been a long day and after taking photos and editing as many as I can before I goon holiday tomorrow is stressing me out a little. I am feeling negative.

Before I go on about the festival today I will show you how I felt this morning and my opinions about yesterdays photos.

"I'm going over and editing the photos. It is always a long process especially if you

have shot them in RAW. One thing I'm finding annoying is the same mistakes I have been making in

some other the pictures, now i can really see them. there may be a blurred hand or I hadn't

checked thed depth of field or when I have been focusing on taking a picture of one person, I've

cut half the guitar of another person. I'm feeling dissapointed with myself. I felt so happy

and proud yesterday I'm missed out some of the major details. I'm worried what the oraganiser

will think but I'm trying to use as many of the good ones as possible. Oh well, this what

pracice and learning is all about.

I just hope I can do better today and remember the details and check my camera. "

Yeah, I didn't feel too confident about how my photos would turn out today and I had some mixed views about my progress. I basically filled in any of the gaps I hadn't done yet, such as visiting live bands in pubs, I hadn't yet been to etc. I kept a close eye on my camera settings and made sure there wasn't any blurry pictures. I felt a did a good job as I was aware of those things. I even visited more of the interesting workshops that were set on my list and met some friendly people, who weren't at all photo-shy.

By all the means the experience was exciting and if I wasn't so tired then I could probably go on and on about my day. I think if you are not used to working it can be very over-welming and hard work on your body. I still think photography is what I want to do right now, the photo-editing though and just get a tad boring at times.

Want to visit my Flickr photostream with the featured photos in my blog and more then click the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/brown_eyed_dreamer/

Bunkfest Festival...familiarity and contentment [Day 2 of 3]

It has been so refreshing this weekend, taking my own pictures with my own camera. I feel so at home.

Today was the second day of the Bunkfest festival and arriving this time made me feel more confident with what I had to achieve because of the familiarity I'd been met with yesterday.

I focused more on the afternoon and evening events as my main job was to capture the live bands in the pubs. No I didn't tie them to chairs, but you know what I mean from a Photography point of view.

There are many pubs around Wallingford so I knew there would have to be a bit organising going on. I am not the best organiser but before I headed out today I got a highlighter and underlined the things I needed to do and the pubs I needed to visit. Ha my job sounds so easy, but no alcohol was involved, sadly.

I began at the George Hotel, as there were workshops I had to take pictures. First off there was a music and song workshop, with a group of three people singing operatically with their soprano voices and telling the audience what there journey was to be a singer. To be honest I wasn't that interested and that comes from a person who sings everyday because she enjoys it so much. I was really expecting little children or early teens working together, writing and performing songs, hmm not so much. I didn't stay in there very long and got enough shots to prove evidence and then I headed out to the courtyard where the supposed to be dancers. (I saw no dancers) Instead there was a man dressed in Medieval attire with an unusual instrument - the name has slipped my mind. He was quite a character in himself and I found his music and comedy more intriguing than the previous workshop, as I got many photos of him.

Next there was a theatre group who told a story through change of costume etc. The acting was okay but I managed to get better photos.

Mid-way through the performance I decided I had enough and moved onto my next venue - the Old Post Office. To be confusing, it is now a pub, hence why it is called the "OLD" post office. There were a couple bands playing and as I was inside I had a practice at changing the ISO and figuring out the depth of field and aperture ( I still need work on that, where's Stuart when I need him?) Anyway, some of the shots came out a little blurred, due to the focus but after a while I got the hang of it and started moving around to get some interesting angles.

After the two bands, I continued on to the next pub (on the pub crawl), where me and the family had some burgers and chips for our dinner - yeah I brought them along to.

Soon after eating some groups were performing on the live stage outside in the garden. It was a lovely atmosphere and I started to feel really comfortable moving around, capturing the artists expressions and hardly a blur insight. I think the "press badge" is really working to feel more like a real photographer and I'm looking forward to showing the Stuart the photos once I have edited them.

The day ended when the battery of my camera went flat and the sun had just gone down. Now I have the happy job or cropping and tweeking.

I'll put some photos on again once they are done.

Want to visit my Flickr photostream with the featured photos in my blog and more then click the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/brown_eyed_dreamer/

Bunkfest Festival...not quite a fancy wedding [ Day 1 of 3]

It is sometimes natural for me to think, because it is September, the weather should be over-cast, trees should be shredding their leaves and the atmosphere of England has generally headed out of Summer.

Instead it was a surprisingly warm day, perfect for the Bunkfest Festival in the historic town of Wallingford. I'm not going to go into the history of it (much like my mum would) but it is a really beautiful old fashioned town combined with its modern English elements.

I was there today as part of my work experience. It was the first time without Stuart, but he was busy at a bigger festival so he suggested the job to me. I felt that he trusted me enough to do a good job on the photos, which felt like big step for my career. Bunkfest is an annual event and Stuart has gone for a few years now, being included with photographers to capture the feeling of a festival and it's community. He got in contact with the orangisers, which sent me anemail with their desired Photo-wish list. There were about five other photographers listed with different jobs.

The event is set over three days which gives us the oppertunity to go all around the venues in Wallingford and support them with photos for their website.

Today was the warm-up day - the putting up of stalls etc. Though all the photographers had their jobs, we were able to go around and take pictures of visitors and the stalls. I was able to get some head-start practise for the weekend ahead.

As I am not a driver yet my parents accompanied me on this trip and made some effort to help me find my way around a suggest things to take pictures of. We went to one of the pubs where the some of the music acts were held, for a bit of lunch, andwe managed to bump into the main orangiser of the festival who allowed me to take his photo. After finishing my fish finger sandwhich, a group of three people arrived at the pub, playing music with violins and accordions. I managed to get some shots of them, which I was pleased with and it helped me see what I needed to capture over the coming days.

It is hard sometimes writing, recording what you have done over a day. Your mind remembers the main parts or the exciting parts and then it forgets the tiny details that connects one section of your day to another. Therefore I'm sorry if I jump from one thing to another.

I met some more people in the afternoon, running stalls and who asked to have their photos done. As well as learning how to use a camera properly and using techniques this work experience is helping me build my confidence with people. I can be very shy around new people and I know that photographers talk to people a lot. They have to be demanding and initiate conversations. There was one stall in the arts and crafts tent who had an interesting story about how they are recycling old things they don't want into new things. There was one bag that caught my eye. It was made out of old Whiskers packets (cat food) and had been weaved together which I thought was a very good idea for people who like cats. My mumhad previously been saying to me to talk to people and ask if they want their photos done for the Bunkfest website. I kept replying with "No, they don't want to talk to me, I don't want to bother them" but then I remembered that I had been given a "Press" pass when I arrived, which meant it was what they would have expected from me - this was my job. And with this stall the people were so friendly I managed to pluck up some confidence and they allowed me to capture them. It doesn't sound like a big thing to all you extraverts out there, but for an little introvert like me, it's a breakthrough.

I retired gently into the warm afternoon and felt like there wasn't much to take photograph until tomorrow. I will be based in the pubs with the music acts, but I'll go into more detail later.

What a way to spend a day at work... here are some photos from the days events.

Want to visit my Flickr photostream with the featured photos in my blog and more then click the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/brown_eyed_dreamer/

wet and rainy on the fifth...

Photographing weddings can be very tiring though the day goes very quickly. I did another one today at Wokefield Park, which housed a 17th century mansion as the wedding venue. The weather was quite promising though it looked cloudy. Towards the end of the day it did rain, but I'll get to that bit later.

I met up with Stuart at 12 and took some photos of the room where the wedding was being held. We also set up the tri-pod for the ceremony and then went to find the bride. She was in her hotel room and panicking over her make-up. She was such a character (from Liverpool and had travelled far) and it was surprising to find a bride who didn't like make up. The norm of the female world love it and to find someone who doesn't like it that much came as a surprised. I'm not a fan myself. A touch of eye-shadow,mascara and lip gloss is enough for me

We briefly took some pictures of Jenna in her A-line swishy dress before we went downstairs and waited for the bridesmaids to come. There were some really nice stairs that Stuart shot of the girls which looked really nice in the soft window light. The ceremony then began.

Of course I stood in my place (at the back) and snapped at the usual. I managed to take in what Stuart had said earlier about yesterday. Yes, he definitely noticed that I was off centre. That was fine as I was prepared for it. There was a red carpet to define the aisle so I managed to find the center of the that and shot from there. I managed to focus where I had to position the camera before I took any pictures. I was quite proud of my effort as I took a good sequence of the "I do kiss". I hope Stuart liked them, as I don't think he has seen them yet.

The guests then had their drinks and we good the newlyweds to their private photoshoot location. It was different and exciting today as we were to go on a golf-cart to the lake. The mansion has huge gardens and a golf course so the cart was the best way to get around. The weather was turning for the worst with wind blowing in all directions. We got few pictures of the couple but making sure the dress didn't blow about was a problem. Not long after we started it began to rain and we ran back to the golf cart. It was such a shame because the wedding yesterday was so sunny and Emma and Matthew had such a good photoshoot in the trees and grass.

Jenna and Kevin were of course unlucky which un-balanced the order of plan. We were to do the group photos next to finish off. The rain got heavier which caused a problem. After discussing with the venue organisers we managed to move the wedding breakfast forward so the group photos could be after. The sun came out and we managed to fit in the main group photo and the sides of the families. Jenna stood on a red carpet as she didn't want her dress to get any muddier.

It had just gone 4 and it was time for me to go. Stuart on the other hand had to go home and get some equipment before going back to the venue to finish of any other photos.

It was a good day and I was worried it would have been too much like yesterday. It wasn't which was good. The couples were different, so was the weather.

You think that just because it is someone's wedding, it should be sunny. It won't always be.

Want to visit my Flickr photostream with the featured photos in my blog and more then click the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/brown_eyed_dreamer/

on the way 'four'ward....

Almost a month later and I have completed my fourth wedding. It took place at Silchester and was a pleasant day.

The weather this week has been all over the place, raining cats and dogs, and Stuart and I were wondering if the weekend would be nice and sunny. For most of the day it was, which was good.

I met Stuart at his house at noon, with only some biscuits I ate in the car for a lunch, though I took some sandwiches with me. I didn't take my camera today as there hadn't been much point as I had been using Stuarts. When he saw me without it, he agreed, which was good because I imagined him saying just to bring it incase.

We firstly drove to the church where the wedding was being held in Swallowfield not too far from the reception venue.

The church was beautiful; flint work on the outside and a warm cream, statue carved interior. Maybe it is not exactly as elaborate as that but if you ever go there your expectations will be raised. We arrived early so we could get some pictures of the groom, best men and ushers. Naturally this was done round the back of the church with the men leaning casually on the wall and looking like good pals. I took in to account how, though it was a wedding how casual and relaxed poses and help reduce nerves and create a calm atmosphere.

All the brides posse arrived on a Horseman coach and there were a lot. The brides maids came in a car and were dressed head to toe in baby pink. I observed Stuart as he took their picture and the bride as she arrived in her ribboned BMW. Meanwhile I was to set up the tri-pod at the front of the church. Some guests had already come in and I felt proud that I was part of the setting up and made me feel like I was doing a useful job. Cheesy?

The service was on it's way and as normal, I stood at the back to capture any key moments. I also had a go at taking some photos of the bride as she came into the church - she was in focus, her dad wasn't...ahhhh ooops. Maybe pulling a face and biting my lip wasn't a good idea for the odd guests who were generally watching.

I managed to take some better photos during the ceremony but looking back I could have stood to in the centre of the aisle rather than cutting out half the left side. I felt like a real amateur photographer then, I wondered what Stuart would have thought once he got home and uploading the pictures. I still felt a bit embarrassed but how can I improve if I don't make mistakes? There is a lot of pressure to be that gets piled on with wedding photography. I was thinking this morning if this is really what I thought it would be. It's hard word. I have probably mentioned this before, but every job is hard, but I still feel I wouldn't enjoy a job quite like this.

There is huge nerve build up before the service - there is the bride to capture as she arrives, the groom and best men, the guests, making sure you have everything you need, there is plan, you are on time and so much more. Fortunately, Stuart was giving a few tips about this and was agreeing how there is a lot to think about. With three Canon's there are different set ups and they can easily be disrupted and changed, so there is that too think about as well.

He was also mentioning in the car, on the way to Silchester that it is best to give couples a realistic expectation of what they have ordered for the day. When a wedding is fairly local to Stuart he is able to take the photos, go home and then edit and give the couple one of pictures as a sample of the finished albums. If he were to set a high bar, then there would be more pressure to keep that status.

The day has been similar to all the weddings I have been to of course and I never want to repeat myself in a way that totally bores the mind. On a short note, there was a private photo shoot for the newlyweds (as normal). Stuart likes to experiment and try unique things such as on the outskirts of the ground there was some long grass, which we asked the bride to stand in and looks as if she was blowing in the wind. It was very elegant.

To finish off the day there were group shots and my mind wondered over the day and what I had learned. It was more theory than practical. Any practical aspect was already mentioned but we had a long talk about settings, editing and just being organised. You don't want to feel like you are bullying or nagging away to guests or the bride and groom to make them do things. You still have to be firm and direct in a polite and reasonable manner otherwise people will never do anything. That is what you are being paid for.

I'm still not being paid but I don't think I'm good enough yet. On the other hand there is a festival in Wallingford that I have been asked to do over next weekend(still unpaid). Stuart told me he can't make it as he is going to a higher paid festival on the same days. This will hopefully give me a chance to relax a bit and go at my own speed, taking photos of interesting and exciting things.

I am to look out for happy people, interesting stalls, music acts and basically illuminate the a village festival feel. I also need to remember to change my camera settings too at least ISO 1000 to get enough light for the night time acts.

That is pretty much what I have to say today, as I will be going to my fifth wedding shoot tomorrow.

Want to visit my Flickr photostream with the featured photos in my blog and more then click the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/brown_eyed_dreamer/

Wedding at number 3...

Yesterday I went to my third wedding shoot. As it is Summer and it's warm as it's ever going to be in England; it is a popular time for weddings.

The wedding took place in Ufton Court, where there were beautiful gardens and a decorated barn for the ceremony.

Stuart and I started at his house and drove down to see the bride prepare herself, and take some pictures of her dress and accessories. I always get a buzz because everyone in the house is always in a good mood and the bridesmaids look forward to wearing their dresses. For a moment you feel like you are apart of the family and it's special to feel like a witness to the bride and grooms special day.

Though I didn't take any pictures at this stage, I paid a close eye on Stuarts photography and he again helped with the tips.

At 12.15 we needed to get to Ufton Court so we could set ourselves up for the wedding. The barn was absolutely gorgeous with it's beams covered in ivory and fairy lights. The chairs were covered in the classic white sheeting and caressed with royal blue ribbon.

My first job was to set up the tri-pod that Stuart was going to need during the ceremony. Like the first wedding, I was to stand at the back and take a few shots, while Stuart would take the main ones. He informed me to not to take so many photos but to pick out the key moments, where they kiss and exchange the rings.

After the ceremony, the guests went to have their champagne, and Stuart and I went around the crowd taking candid shots. I thought of taking a really nice one of the band as Stuart hadn't taken one and he requested for me to do one, just before I told him I had already taken it.

The tips I was really given this time, was to be more swift, such as when the bride is having a photo taken, I should straight away arrange her dress and get the reflector prepared etc. This came in useful when he took the newlyweds to their white ribboned car and had a few photos at the front of the house.

Next we took them to the back of the house and gave them their mini photo-shoot, again I tried to incorporate the efficiency of each element I needed to do. I was getting used to knowing which equipment comes where during the day. There always seems to be a main tree where the bride and groom and asked to lean on and I know then that I have to hold the reflector up and use the silver side as that reflects more light than the gold.

Stuart used his panorama group photo again, where he had said that I could help arrange the people into the line, but by the time we got round to it he just wanted me to set up the tri-pod and unknot the string. I was slightly disappointed at that because I thought it would boost my confidence a bit talking to people I don't know. I think he must have felt I wasn't ready for that as I have quite a quiet voice at times. I just hope that I will be louder in the future.

We were due to finish at 4, so the guests have the wedding breakfast and that was how much the bride and groom had paid for.

It was a good day, though it was long and hot but I did enjoy myself.

Want to visit my Flickr photostream with the featured photos in my blog and more then click the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/brown_eyed_dreamer/

Angle and Position...wedding take 2

Is work ever suppose to be easy? I don't think so. I guess having a dream job is like waiting for the right person to come along into your life. You may have a vision of what you want to achieve when you first meet them and how you would spend your lives together. Whatever happens it is always going to feel like hard work,even at the best of times.

Nothing is perfect of course and just as I was observing Stuart on my second Wedding shoot, it came to me that there is a lot more to the job than you think. Obviously that was bound to happen, but not in the way that it struck me today.

He wanted to make my experiences in Photography more interesting, than just watching and taking the odd photo or two. He started feeding me all these tips and techniques and the realization hit me, that Photography is not just point and shot, its composing a piece of art that gets treasured for lifetime. It sounds as if I had known nothing about Photography but sometimes the things you thought you did know, are not quite what they seem.

Todays Wedding was at the 16 century Abbey in Great Missenden - somewhere in South East England. It was odd day that started mid-afternoon with the ceremony beginning at 4.30, complete with photo shoots that ended at 6.

Now, when I think of a Wedding, it usually begins, say around 12 or 1 and continues for the rest of the day and night. Well today I appreciated the uniqueness and the bride and groom were very friendly.

Everything was all in one place which was nice. There was a mini chapel in the building, where Emma (bride) would walk down some stairs and then down the isle. I was in charge of getting a few shots, here and there, though I'm not sure how they turned out. It felt a bit alien using Stuarts cameras. Although they are Canons' like mine, they have different buttons and settings and its just to confusing for me. As we didn't have much time to prep, it was pretty much;here is the camera, use the flash when she walks down the stairs, then off in the ceremony and off you go.

Err, right, okay, sure I'll just do it. Also what was odd, was when I looked through the lense everything was blurry. "Oh my God, what have done?!", I panicked in my head and I couldn't ask Stuart anything because he had another camera with him standing on the other side of the room - the ceremony had started. I came to realize, however in the middle of the Wedding that once a photo had been taken it was then preview itself back, all in crisp condition. My worry was over.

After some readings and the " I do's", we took the bride and groom around the grounds for their special photo shoot. It was nice to know this time what was going on (from the first wedding) and predicting the poses Stuart asked them to do. Again I had to lay out the train of the brides dress and hold up the metallic disk of torture. Okay, not really torture, that just sounded like a dramatic word to use. The reflector is light and easy to use, as long you can get the light right - often Stuart directs me.

Next we took some group photos and Stuart did his wide angle technique with his piece of string. I think I mentioned this before, but it is a really genius idea.

It had been a cloudy day and then sun began to shine through by the time the photos had been taken ( bit of a shame really). Then it was time for me to go home.

So it was only a couple of hours but least I got some more experience in behind the scenes at weddings and the main important thing the photography, but what did I learn.

I learned today:

- When working with wedding photography there are three main modes.

*church mode: uses ISO 600, that gives a good balance of aperture and depth of field.

*central mode: uses ISO 200

*outdoor mode: uses ISO 800

- When using a subject outside (ie. tree) make sure the light is even on both sides, as one side will be darker than the other.

- Plan your composition.

-You don't always have to point and shoot.

- Change angle and position( you can move around)

- When taking candid group photos, either take a wide scene of everyone or

focus on a small group of two or three.

So yeah, they were the main things. Hope these tips have been useful for any photographers out there.

Want to visit my Flickr photostream with the featured photos in my blog and more then click the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/brown_eyed_dreamer/

Behind the camera - the first Wedding (22.5.10)

Yes, I have finally gotten round to do my first Wedding Shoot.

Thank Goodness it was a sunny day yesterday, as it made me more enthused to starting snapping. The wedding was based in a small chapel on the other side of the road to Stuart's house, so it was easy just to pop over when we needed to be of use.

11.30 am

I arrived just before half eleven and was informed about the itinerary of the day. Unfortunately I didn't use my camera as Stuart had three Canons set up for different focal lengths and depths of field. About five minutes away was the brides house, which was our first stop. Here we were to take photos of the bride getting ready; makeup, bridesmaids dresses and the brides dress. For most of the time I was holding reflectors and lamps to provide a natural light for the subjects. It was exciting watching everyone get ready. I felt like I was going behind the scenes on one of those bridal programs. I have been to three family weddings so far and it was interesting to see the day go by from a different point of view.

1.30pm

It was only once we had got to the church that Stuart allowed me to shoot with his camera. I was set at the back of the church and knew when the highlights of the ceremony were, so I took that to my advantage and Stuart was impressed with some of my pics. This gave me more of a confidence boost and helped to motivated me. He took most of the photos previously and outside the church. There were some really quirky photos of the groom and the best man. The brick wall provided a good backdrop and they used the shape of the wall to create relaxed but interesting poses.

3.00pm

After transporting the camera eqipment back to his car, we drove down to the reception. It was a lovely hotel/restaurant called the Mill House, with a gorgous garden and a peaceful abode for the newlyweds. As we arrived first we waited for the white 1952 wedding car to pull up before we could take some shots. We then went out back and took the couple behind the reception canopy and got them to stand by a tree, dressed head to toe in ivy. These poses were more cheeky and romantic compared to other photos of them during the day. It was lovely having the swishing of a stream as a backdrop and provided us all with a calm environment as we were getting hot under the sun. For this part of the day I was only observing but I held the reflector to capture the light gleaming in the couple's eyes. I learned a lot in this section as I'd never had the experience to see exactly what photographers do with the couples as it remains very secretive and special to the congregation.

4.00 pm

Now was time for the group shots. Stuart had a very interesting way of handling the families and friends by using some string and a wide angled lens. He position the camera infront of the bride and groom and then attached one end of the string to the camera. He then took the other end and asked the congregation to stand in one long line while he brought the string up to the people to make sure they were securely in line for his panorama shot. At the time I didn't realise what he was trying to do but I knew the string was used as a measure. Once he said "panorama shot " I remembered when I went first talked to him in January and he showed me in his studio a panorama wedding photo he had taken. I recall feeling inspired by its unique approach and that I would like to accommodate that in my own work. So yes, I have been going on about how I remember this technique, but I havn't told you what exactly it is - unless you have guessed already.

The camera is supported on a tripod but is able to pan from the left side of the congregation to the right. He split everyone into groups, separated by invisible lines. Even if it wasn't a persons turn they still had to smile incase the camera caught shot of them. Stuart then took four simple photos of the groups before working on the individual groups.

Just before the Wedding Breakfast began I went into the canopy where the meal would be held, and was allowed to take some photos. I knew this would easy for me as I work a lot with still life. It's a great way to start off when you are an amateur because you don't have to tell anyone what to do and you can feel confident before being interactive. There were two pictures I took that caught Stuarts eye. As I was snapping around I remembered what my college tutor Joe said about lines and diagonals. I remember thinking that they were unintentional and I must be a natural at it. Ever since, I have been aware of it and I captured the head table at an diagonal angle. There was also an impromptu moment where the bride had left her bouquet roses against a white chair. I just randomly chose this opportunity to experiment. Stuart seemed impressed my photos because he didn't think of taking them himself. "It's good to have another eye on looking at things..". I'm starting to feel like my photography could be worth something one day.

[If I hopefully receive the images and I will post them on my blog on a later date]

As it was an absolute hot rare day in England I was boiled and starting thinking about heading home after the group pics were done. Stuart and I went to sit down for bit and had a chat about how I found the day so far and what I had learned. He did give me the chance to go home but then I would miss out on the rest of the night and in the end proved important.

5.00pm

We were now just about to head back to Stuarts house to review some of the photos we had taken, while the congregation ate their meal. The photos were edited on Photoshop but as they were taken on RAW, Stuart had a compatibility pack so he could create effective edits. We started with one pic from outside the Mill House and we richened the blue sky before adding a Gaussian Glow effect. Those of you familiar with Photoshop or edit tools you will know how this effect makes colours bolder and adds depth to the final piece.

6.00pm - 700pm

We headed back to the Mill House where we had to sit through the boring part...the speeches. Yeah, sure they are entertaining when they are told by family and friends but this became the part of the day were you felt a little out of place. Nevertheless I was able to take some shots of the reactions of the congregation.

7.30 onwards

It was now getting on eight and Stuart and I hadn't had very much to eat or drink. He kindly let me have dinner with him and his wife before I was picked up to go home. We reflected over the day and I was happy, thinking that I really would like to do this as a real job :)

So a long day but what have I learnt...

I have learned that:

-At every wedding you will find at least five different people with their big cameras snapping away. Its a bit off putting for the professional photographer who is actually doing his job. When we were editing one of the photos I realised that its not about what camera you have and what picture you take of the bride and groom etc, but it actually how you edit it. I assume most people with these cameras only use JPEG, well in fact RAW provides a true image that isn't flattened and dull. If you want to take fancy wedding pictures then learning the professional tips will get you there.

- Reflectors and portable lights are useful for creating a subtle natural light. They also bring out a sparkle in the brides eyes.

- Create an plan of the day to structure and organize yourself.

- Setting the ISO to 1600, 200 and 1800 are the best settings to set your camera for a wedding.

- Have fun and improvise with the poses, the result could be a new interesting selling point.

Want to visit my Flickr photostream with the featured photos in my blog and more then click the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/brown_eyed_dreamer/

a taster for the real world....I really did feel like an amateur

Today is the day after the night before, where I attended my first Photographers Event, as part of my work experience and general experience for my Photography Career. In my last post I mentioned how it was going to be a Wedding Event, so I was getting all excited...but the plan changed slightly. Stuart had been given two offers for Friday night and guessing that this other event paid him more he chose this one. This one meaning a Staff Awards Ceremony. It didn't sound too interesting, also adding to the fact it was Reading Town Hall. To my surprise when I turned up at six pm, after waffling down my Shepherds Pie dinner, I found the town hall had a modern decor and was actually presentable.
Stuart asked me to turn up early, so we could talk to the event organizer about the Photography plans of the evening. We began capturing some snaps at the awards rehearsal to make sure people where standing in the right position and the light was suitable for the photos. As part of this task Stuart asked me to go up onto the empty stage and stand on a white line where the award winners would stand. He gave me a colour chart to hold up against my top to make the sure colour would stay the same each time depending if the light changed. This is a tool that is used to correct colour during editing, to make a sequence of photos match.
After capturing some photos,guests began arriving and we headed to the bar [not for a drink but to get more pictures.] We had to make sure that people where animated before we took a photo. This is to make the environment seem more vibrant and exciting. We then moved back into the main hall, where guests were taking their seats and started going round the tables taking more photos. We did this before and after their starters, so there weren't any images with people eating, therefore us being intrusive. There was a forty-five minute break before the awards began so I was able to call it a night. It was a really good first experience, and a good insight how the photographer becomes part of the evening. I feel though that I still don't know my camera enough but there are some things that I did take away with me, listed below.

What I learnt from the event:

- I used a soft-box flash [Stuart kindly let me borrow for the night] this evens out light and makes it appear natural.

-Built-in flash is terrible [try to avoid it if you can]

-Shoot in RAW [most SLR's have this setting somewhere on the camera]as the file quality is higher and the outcome will be more accurate to what you actually see through the view finder. JPEG only compresses the image, creating a fake appearance.

- When capturing crowds, try to focus on two or three people in a group and use a wide angled shot, so this can be cropped later if it need be.

- Round the table shots: again focus on two/three people as you shoot round the table. [Sometimes the table numbers get in the way so make sure they don't in the way too much.

Hope these tips have been useful to other amateurs and photographers, like myself and I'll keep you updated on anymore Photography happenings.

Want to visit my Flickr photostream with the featured photos in my blog and more then click the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/brown_eyed_dreamer/

My first Photographers Assistant job....

It's disturbing how in life we all have many aspirations or general things that we want to do. Half the time when we think about these things we are either at work/school/college and we don't have the time to do it. Eventually when we do have some free time on our hands we would rather just slouch on the sofa,watching tv or playing on the internet. I live on the internet, I really do. Google is just so useful its all I need sometimes, but there is a world out there. We don't want to be cooped up inside all the time, we have our lives to live.
Sometimes we get a lucky break in life and it finally opens the door to what we really want to do.
The photography is going well so far. Stuart has contacted my family about some work that he would like some help with. Despite the fact I was in an exam when he called. I have no contacted him by email agreeing that I accept this offer. It is a wedding, so my Mum told me and it will be my first one. Of course nothing much will happen, I am there to assist, not to run the photography shoot. The event will be this Friday so it is very short notice, but I'm excited. I never thought so quick that I would be able to start work in just under a year of deciding that I wanted to become a Wedding Photographer, but who's complaining.
I know I mentioned in my last post about my work experience actually starting in May, which then would have been a year since my dream was born. It was a pleasant surprise to know that I will get paid for working on this Wedding Shoot, when originally I wouldn't start getting paid until another year or so. I am very very happy. Hopefully I won't mess up and the experience will help me on my way.
assistant



Want to visit my Flickr photostream with the featured photos in my blog and more then click the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/brown_eyed_dreamer/

Falling into place...

Yes! It so uplifting when everything feels like it is falling into place. Just got the conformation from Stuart about the work experience. I begin in May and I will be learning all the beneficial skills that I need in Photography. Three weddings planned already for me to go along and assist. So excited, my dream is coming true.


Want to visit my Flickr photostream with the featured photos in my blog and more then click the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/brown_eyed_dreamer/

clouds with a silver lining...

I haven't been feeling to motivated to do anything recently. Too much pressure has been pressed against me, with animation projects and final deadlines. The photography front of my course has been a bit in the low light, which is disappointing in some form, but then it's not a photography course. Now I finally finished my work which had to be handed in this week I can concentrate on the more important news.
It had been exactly a month yesterday when I went to visit the photographer.The work experience organizer from my college contacted me informing me that I would be able to do the work experience with him and that now major checks need to be run. I am so pleased, but hoping after contacting Stuart the go ahead is still in tact. On the 24th of April he is holding a photography course for amateurs and that will also count towards my work experience.
I have been lacking in confidence at my photography. I see so many great images on Flickr and that I'm slowly dragging along behind. As photographers, everyone will be at different levels and no matter what job or person we do/are, we are constantly comparing ourselves to the next person. I got my monthly magazine: Practical Photography, flicked through and thought woah, yeah I would love to be able to do all this stuff and all these step to step guides, but they don't seem to help. I think this is where Stuart comes in. He will be able to teach me the basics and the true meaning of being a photographer and then maybe my career will set off. It will be a while away of course until I am shooting my own shoots but its reachable, so i hope.
Despite the fact I'm a first year at college, we have been told to start looking for uni taster days. I am currently thinking of a vocational photography course, which will lead on to a degree, but where? I don't know for sure yet...



Want to visit my Flickr photostream with the featured photos in my blog and more then click the following http://www.flickr.com/photos/brown_eyed_dreamer/

An Almost Dream...?

When you want to achieve happiness it doesn't always come easy. You may be blessed with that once in a life time chance to live up to your aspirations and dreams.

On Saturday the 23rd, so two days ago, I was given that opportunity. My Dad knows a photography, and we had a family portrait done four years ago. Back then I wasn't interested in Photography, I didn't know a family friend would be able to give me the chance to make my dream come true.

My Dad and I went along because I needed a new passport photo and Stuart provided this in his home studio. After the mini shoot, we sat down and had a cup of tea and chatted about my interest in becoming a photographer. As I haven't been around to update my blog lately I haven't mentioned that a ten day work experience is required in my course. In our tutor session we wrote down what area of work we would like to work. I of course, chose a photographers studio. At the time I had no idea that just within five days I would get an offer and a one day Photography Course that goes back the basics and covers the essential skills you need. This sounded like a dream come true, and the tiny condition could cause a problem was the least out of our minds on our way home.

The thing is checks may be acquired such as health and safety. I received a reply to my email that I sent yesterday about thanking and interesting in working for Stuart temporarily. The reply was one of those heart-sinking, loss of hope kind of emails. Something along the lines of that if the checks have to go through then it will cause a hassle and the work experience not probable.

So I am stuck in that stage at the moment and lost as to whether I should keep up the optimism or lay low and be patient.

I will have to wait and see what happens.


Want to visit my Flickr photostream with the featured photos in my blog and more then click the following link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/brown_eyed_dreamer/