Reflecting on a productive month - gratitude and anticipation.....

As the whirlwind of a busy month comes to a close, I find myself taking a moment to pause and reflect on the incredible month it has been. I have worked with some remarkable individuals on some truly creative shoots. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the opportunities that have come my way and the people who have made it all possible.

This also extends to those who help me behind the scenes. Without then and their support none of this would be possible.

I'm grateful for the lessons learned, the laughter shared. There is a huge power when you. work with other creatives and you experience the beauty of human connection. This past month has been a whirlwind of activity, filled with countless projects, meetings, and collaborations. Each day presented new opportunities to learn, to create, and to connect with remarkable individuals. Whether it was brainstorming innovative ideas with colleagues or collaborating with clients to bring their visions to life, every moment was infused with energy and purpose.

So this last mont has been really busy and as I bid farewell to this month and look ahead to the next, I am filled with anticipation for what lies on the horizon. The energy and momentum built over the past few weeks have set the stage for even greater achievements in the months to come. With each new day comes the promise of fresh opportunities, challenges to conquer, and dreams to pursue. I'm filled with excitement for what lies ahead. The challenges may be daunting, but they also present opportunities for growth and innovation. With each new project, each new collaboration, I'm reminded of the infinite possibilities that lie before us.

I approach the second half of the year with optimism and determination, knowing that every experience—whether smooth sailing or rough seas—will shape me into a stronger, more resilient individual. As I set new goals and aspirations for the coming months, I do so with a sense of purpose and passion, fueled by the belief that anything is possible when we dare to dream and work together towards a common goal.

Here's to a continuing year filled with endless possibilities, boundless creativity, and unforgettable moments. Together, let us make it a journey worth remembering.

Love Laura x April 2024

Capturing Moments: Your Window to Timelessness

Thanks for taking the timne to read my blog post….So I thought I would invite you on a journey through the lens of my camera, where moments are immortalized and memories are created. I am thrilled to share with you the heart and soul of my photography business, where creativity knows no bounds and every click tells a story.

At LauraAnne Photography, I don't just take photographs; I weave narratives. My passion lies in freezing those fleeting moments of joy, love, and laughter into timeless treasures that you can cherish for a lifetime. Whether it's a radiant sunrise casting its golden glow over a misty landscape or the spontaneous giggles of a family picnic, I believe in capturing the essence of life's beautiful tapestry.

What sets me apart? It's not just my knack for finding the perfect angle or mastering the technicalities of light and composition (although we do take pride in those!). It's my unwavering commitment to understanding your unique story and translating it into captivating imagery. Every client is a muse, and every session is a collaboration—a symphony of personalities, emotions, and aspirations coming together to create magic.

But let's talk about more than just the artistry—we're all about the experience. Picture this: a laid-back photo shoot where laughter flows as freely as the breeze, where you feel not like a subject, but a cherished friend. My goal is not just to capture smiles, but to evoke genuine moments of connection and warmth. So, whether you're camera-shy or a seasoned pro, rest assured that your comfort and happiness are my top priorities.

And the fun doesn't stop when the shutter clicks. With my personalized editing process, I will enhance colors, refining details, and adding that extra sparkle that transforms a good photo into a masterpiece. The result? A gallery of memories that leap off the screen, ready to adorn your walls, fill your albums, and brighten your day with every glance.

But enough about what I do—let's talk about you. Are you ready to embark on a visual journey that celebrates the beauty of life in all its forms? I can help you turn your dreams into stunning reality. So, grab your favorite outfit, dust off your brightest smile, and let's create some magic together!

Intrigued? Excited? Bursting with ideas? Don't hesitate to reach out and say hello! Whether you're ready to book a session or just want to chat about your vision, I’m always here to listen, inspire, and make your photography dreams come true. After all, life is an adventure best shared—and I can't wait to be a part of yours.

So keep smiling, keep dreaming, and keep making memories worth capturing. Because in the end, it's not just about the photographs—it's about the stories they tell and the hearts they touch. And with LauraAnne Photography the possibilities are as endless as the horizon.

Laura x March 2024

Navigating our way.....

Navigating our way through life's twists and turns can be both exhilarating and challenging. Along the way we make decisions that will shape our journey. Sometimes the path is clear, and we stride forward with confidence, embracing the unknown. Other times, we encounter obstacles that require patience and resilience to overcome. With each step, we learn to trust our instincts, and find the right path. As a photographer, I have the unique ability to capture the beauty and essence of these moments of navigation, freezing them in time for others to witness. Through my lens, I offer glimpses into the vast tapestry of life's pathways, inviting others to reflect on their own journeys, and in so doing capture moments they will treasure for ever. Navigating my way through life and photography is not an easy task. It requires more than just a basic understanding of the skills and techniques. It demands a deep-rooted instinct and an unwavering determination to push the boundaries. As a photographer, I don't merely capture images; I navigate my way through the challenges and uncertainties that present themselves at every turn. I adjust my perspectives, experiment with different settings, and push myself to find the perfect shot, whilst remaining creative and inspirational in my art. Navigating my way means constantly learning and evolving, finding that inspiration in unexpected places and pushing myself to discover new limits.

Life is a perpetual journey, filled with countless chapters; unlimited possibilities and endless adventures.

Pivotal moments in life deserve to be celebrated and preserved for a long time - be it engagement sessions, expectant parents - all new beginnings and part of navigating our way through life.

Each New Year is a time for reflection and this brings the opportunity for personal growth and time to envision a better version of ourselves. Each New Year I take stock of where the passing year took me and where the New Year can take me and how I can take those opportunities and pass them onto my clients.

Navigating our way is about adapting and evolving and stepping outside our comfort zones. With clients I try to get them to challenge themselves and step outside their comfort zone, so that I can capture their special moments in a way unique to them.

Laura Dec 2023

Change.......

Embracing change means accepting that you cant keep everything under control - well thats what Google says. However, I think it is more about accepting those changes and owning them. In this way they can be liberating and can be a form or personal growth. If things never change, there is a danger that everything we do both personally and professionally can stagnate become mundane and boring. Change can be a way of resetting our lives, setting new goals and possibly taking a different direction.

Sound scary?

Well yes it can be but I feel that whilst we can embrace this change, I feel to move forward it is best to stay in control so you can move in the right direction.

Generally speaking, any change freaks me out and I tend to prefer the status quo.

Change is an inevitable part of life. It challenges us to grow, evolve, and embrace new beginnings. It can be exciting and scary, taking us out of our comfort zones. Change transforms us, shaping our thoughts and aspirations. Each wave of change gives us the chance to let go of the past and embrace the unknown. Through change, we discover our strength to adapt and thrive. It may be unpredictable and overwhelming, but change also brings possibility and greatness.

So scary as it is I am now putting in place some changes in my life both personal and professional.

The most major change personally is that I am looking to move and relocate my business and family life. Due to housing and the cost of living crisis this may not happen this year, but hopefully next year. It is all very daunting after living here for 19 years. And thinking of all the stuff to sort out throws me into a cold sweat.

So why put myself through this you may ask??

After all I have a beautiful home and a garden which is now mature and settled.

The honest truth, I have fallen out of love where I live. It is quiet and peaceful, but living here you have to rely on a car to go anywhere and do anything and being a sleepy village, we now feel the time is right to be nearer ‘the action’. How nice it will be to stroll into town, sit outside and have a coffee and watch the world go by, or walk out in the evening for a cheeky tipple.

After many houses viewed we haven’t quite found the one. Seen some lovely houses, but not ones we can see ourselves living in - but I know it is out there somewhere.

The quest to find that perfect place, can be both exhilarating and challenging. It is a significant adventure, and a new chapter in our lives. We have dreams and aspirations, visualizations of what our ideal dwelling looks like.

The process of finding the perfect home is not merely about bricks and mortar. It is about weaving our hopes, dreams, and aspirations into the foundations of a space that will nurture and inspire us.
Finding a new home is not solely about the physical attributes; it is also about connectivity. We think of the parks, and amenities that surround the area. It is an opportunity to be part of something greater, to find our place within a thriving community.

So that is life changes on a personal level - what about on a professional level?

Currently I am working on a new project called ‘Moments’ A bit of a personal journey and project but one I hope to roll out to clients in the near future. The idea is to be less focused on posing and standing in front of a camera, but being more free, candid, moving, ‘being in the moment’…….To create a story or narrative and being able to connect with the viewer. A bit more than lifestyle, with no real structure. Counter intuitive for me as generally everything I do is planned in meticulous detail.

I am enjoying the freedom of ‘being in the moment’; with my camera; I can create stories, art and capture fleeting moments…..post processing, images are converted to mono with the emphasis being on high contrast, deep blacks and pure whites.

It is everything that goes against the norms and rules of photography, but I do feel that fashion magazines are now moving in this direction as well - there is far greater emphasis on stories, locations, light and shade and creating that all important connection with the viewer.

Whilst I engage with this new direction for my work, how would this relate to you the client……

‘Being in the Moment’ for you the client……

In a world that seems to constantly demand our attention and keeps us caught up in a whirlwind of obligations, being in the moment has become a rare and precious commodity. The relentless flow of tasks, notifications, and distractions can easily pull us away from the present, leaving us yearning for those moments of stillness and deep connection. Being in the moment is an art that requires letting go of worries about the future and regrets from the past. It is about cultivating a state of mindfulness, where our attention is entirely focused on the here and now.

One way to experience the beauty of being in the moment is through photography. As a photographer, I can capture fragments of time, freeze memories, and preserve emotions. One way I can do this is to be aware and in tune with the ever changing light and shade on location. The way sunlight filters through leaves, or the genuine smile on a loved one's face. Each moment holds its own unique beauty and story.

Photography can be a gateway to mindfulness, enabling me to fully immerse myself in the present moment. Behind the lens, I become more attuned to my surroundings, more patient, and more appreciative of the fleeting experiences that make up our lives. Beyond the confines of photography, being fully present ‘in the moment’ has a myriad of benefits. It allows one to truly connect with others, to listen with undivided attention to the world around you. Being in the moment fosters a deep sense of gratitude for the present. As a photographer, I have a valuable skill that enables you to share moments frozen in time.

So change is in the air and I will embrace it as change is good. It will allow me to grow more, in a new home with a better quality of life, I can be more inspired and be more creative. Professionally I can develop new skills and a new way of working.

Change is scary and it is far too easy to stay as we are but how boring and unchallenging would our lives be if we didnt just change things up a bit.

Laura x July 2023

What is Photography?

Photography is the process of recording an image. It documents moments in time or communicates a message to the viewer. They can help create memories - what happened? where it happened? and when it happened? And using photography allows us to create records of these past events which may otherwise be lost forever.

Today in a more digital age and with huge advances in camera phones, thousands of images are created everyday. But are they just a snapshot of a moment or something we will cherish as a loved memory?

As I am a person of a certain age, photography played a huge part in my childhood, my children’s childhood and my grandchildren’s childhood. Many of us still have albums full of photographs and treasured memories and just looking through them can bring back a wealth of memories, emotions (sad and happy) and feelings as strong as they were when the photograph was taken. They communicate to us moments in time and moments in our lives. It is those family photos that become most precious.

In a digital age, unless we save them on hard drives or to the Cloud, they are in danger of being lost forever and if they are saved on these hard drives or the Cloud, the process of looking at those precious memories becomes harder. It will never be as easy as sitting down in a comfy chair and looking through albums.

As a photographer, my role is to help you preserve those memories in the best way I can. So for family shoots it could be in a more controlled space such as my studio, or it could be somewhere special to them on location. They could be wanting a photo shoot to celebrate an occasion, to record a happy event or to bring distant members of one family together.

WE TAKE PHOTOGRAPHS AS A RETURN TICKET TO A MOMENT OTHERWISE GONE.

This last year has seen me busy with client shoots who have chosen to record special family memories. One such family was where the American branch of the family came across to the UK to visit the English branch of the family, so for them it was a coming together of distant relatives to create a happy memory of the whole family together in one place, and I was very happy to be part of this occasion and take their photos for them.

Hopefully they will look back over the years and take pleasure and joy from those photographs and memories.

I recently attended a funeral of a much loved friend and as we celebrated his life at the service, many tears were shed as we watched his life play out through photographs. This is the power they have. We can connect with the images, remember him and his life and look back with fondness and love.

Lifestyle photography can be a powerful medium through which to record treasured memories. Maybe the day you bring your new baby home, your children playing in the garden or helping you cook in the kitchen. Could it be a teenager spreading their wings and leaving home, so you want a record of their time with you at home before they leave on their own big adventure. Or maybe you have grandparents staying and you want a memory of that time you all spent together. There are many reasons why it is important to have these precious memories recorded and it is my job to help you record and save these milestones in your lives.

Those memories can be looked back on over the years and if they were sad, hopefully in time through the images those emotions will become softened and you can reflect with joy.

If the images were to record a happy event then looking back over those images over the years can transport you back to that very moment, you can hear the laughter, feel the joy and experience the love.

What ever the reason you choose to have a photo shoot, the important thing is that you are creating memories, to be treasured and held in perpetuity for all to view.

Laura x

December 2023

Memories….

yours for the making……….

Naked v Nude

Social media can be the bane of our lives and can be detrimental to our mental health. However, it can serve as a useful tool when running a business, allowing us to connect with clients and to network with other groups and communities. Like I’m sure many photographers I have joined several groups/communities and often share recent work on them. Most of these groups can give helpful advice or critique if you ask for it, otherwise sharing my work and how I got the shot can be informative and educational for them.

I recently shared some art nude images in one group which is for female photographers only. I can and I do appreciate that nude photography is not for everyone, but I was not prepared for the backlash I received; the general view was I was exploiting the woman and sexualising her.

So this got me thinking on where do we all stand on nudes and are they Naked or Nude? Also is there a place for it in todays photographic world?

Naked or Nude????

exploitation???????

The naked human form has been depicted in art and sculpture for decades and today photography has become another art medium to be used especially by those who may not be able to express their creativity through the traditional methods of art.

But there is more to it than just having a naked person standing in front of you and taking a shot. To be that simple means it could become voyeuristic and there is little or no creativity.

To be at its best, photographers work with light and shadows to enhance the lines and the curves of the body. You need to build a rapport with your subject so you are both at ease and the creative process will put away any embarrassment. Using a camera means that unlike using a brush, the result is pretty instant and in that respect it can be more revealing and intimate.

It is because of the immediacy and its accessibility that nude photography has been abused and there are some who can and do use it to exploit their subject.

But there is a world of difference between creating art nude photography and simply taking a naked shot of your subject.

Human bodies are beautiful in whatever shape they come in and to photograph them sensitively and sensually can be that fine line between obscenity and vulgarity.

So is the argument “is it naked or nude”? Or “is it art or exploitation”?

Is it art???

To answer that would largely depend on your own perceptions and your views of naked/nude photography. We are all entitled to our own views and opinions and that is perfectly OK, but you should never put those opinions and views on someone’s work when they have not been asked for. If the subject matter is not for you move on.

In traditional art and sculpture we are viewing a representation of the human form so I suppose in that way we could argue it becomes acceptable to our ideals of nakedness. In photography it is real, so for some it then becomes unacceptable and exploitive. As photographers then who are creating art nude are there certain rules we should follow?

For me it comes down to the lighting, the posing, the narrative and the overall aesthetic feel of the imagery. In this way I feel I am creating art.

With the immediacy of photography and the rise in popularity in recent times of Page 3 glamour models, there can be a tendency to label art nude as glamour. For me here the distinction is that glamour photography is all about evoking a sexual response from the viewer and it then becomes salacious and gratifying for that viewer. Most are taken using high key lighting with titillating poses, direct eye contact to draw the viewer in and there is little about them that is art. Therefore do these become exploitive and sexualise the woman?

With art nude there is little or no eye contact so there is no drawing the viewer in - to put it simply it is all about the aesthetic quality and the beauty of the subject - and that subject could be male or female, it makes no difference.

Art critics hold the view that nude photography is a study of the human body and not the person and I agree with this to a point. With no direct eye contact and concentrating on the lines and the curves of the body, it becomes almost anonymous, not so much a person, but more a study of shapes using light. Portrait photography concentrates on bringing out the character of the subject and glamour photography is about the sexualisation of the subject for the gratification of the viewer. In some of my shots, I like some connection with the subject and the viewer, so sometimes I feel that eye contact is necessary for the narrative.

Taking it a step further, should the art nude image show female or male genitalia? If it does then surely this then becomes erotic photography with more sexual intent. (Breasts funnily enough are not erotic in that sense.)

While this discussion is going on let’s not forget the cultural implications of nudity and nakedness. By showing these images on social media we are further complicating the notion of the rights and wrongs of the image and that could be one reason that social media platforms have strict rules on what can and cant be seen. I may be in the UK but images I post could be seen via social media worldwide and anybody could happen on them accidentally. This is one reason my nude images are posted on my website. People can then choose to view or not.

So what does Wikipedia say about all of this?

“Fine art nude photography is a genre of fine art photography which depicts the nude human body with an emphasis on form, composition, emotional content and other aesthetic qualities….”

“Glamour photography is a genre of photography in which the subjects are portrayed in erotic, or sexually suggestive poses ranging from fully clothes to nude…”

“Portrait photography is a genre of photography aimed towards capturing the personality of a person or group of persons by using effective lighting, backdrops and poses…”

Naked or Nude??? What you think is down to your own personal views, cultural background and/or preferences and that is fine - we all have our own opinions and views on any aspect of photography in general.

Me personally, I am happy with what I am doing and there are many top, successful nude photographers who share the same view as I do but we do understand the fragility of the genre and allow people to scroll past and move on if they do not wish to see it.

One last point is that of exploitation - surely that means I am taking advantage or coercing the subject into levels they are not happy with?

Nothing could be further from the truth. Nude models do so willingly and cooperatively and creatively working with me to create art. None are under the age of consent and most are professional models who earn a living from doing so. They sign a model release form and know and understand where I will be using the images - is that exploitive?

And finally, here in the UK we have the Royal Photographic Society - a well renowned and respected establishment and if you look on their website they run course on Art Nude Photography…….

Laura x September 2022

Nearly half way through another year......

So for most of us the last few years have been challenging whilst being worrying and we have all had so much to deal with on a personal level and on a work related level. We have had to find new ways of doing things and some of these new ways will be entrenched with us all for years to come.

Now things are getting somewhat easier, it is time to pick up the reins again and get our businesses moving. I have had a few shoots now and I am back in the studio working again which I love. That said though it is still worth remembering that Covid is still around and probably will be for a long time, so it is always worth being mindful of not only the health and safety and welfare of those we work with, but also ourselves as well.

Moving forwards, I am planning future shoots and welcoming new clients. However, it is inevitable that there may be cancellations due to Covid so my work cancellation policy has had to be amended. Now all bookings that are made and deposits that are taken will be honoured if the client cancels due to Covid and a rescheduling date will be offered. There will still be no refunds, only rescheduling. I am also offering more location shoots as well which I love as natural light can bring something else to a narrative shoot. But of course this is not without it’s challenges as we now have to be aware of rising fuel costs. I have kept my travel costs at the same government recommendation of 45p/mile.

I am now trying different genres of photography and one of the most recent ones I have been very excited about is Photojournalism Style - it is real, candid and organic in that the whole shoot just evolves and develops at its own pace - quite unlike my usual military style way of shooting. I am also very much in love with narrative photography - this requires more of a cinematic approach and style and the whole shoot will revolve around a story. The beauty of both of these genres is that they work best in monochrome, which is timeless and has a unique element which allows you to capture mood and feeling.

‘Lady on the Rocks..’

A recent shoot with Tess on Portland, to capture the essence, the mood and a story.

‘Photojournalism’

Shot in Poundbury which lends itself well to this style of photography - modelling is Kate

So in preparation for this blog, which is long overdue, I asked on my Instagram stories if anyone had any questions they wanted to ask me……..https://www.instagram.com/lapearce

One question was - what photographers inspire me the most……….

There are a few really depending on what I am shooting and what the style of the shoot is or the concept. But my three most loved and inspirational photographers are:-

Lara Jade https://www.larajade.com

Peter Coulson http://www.peter-coulson.com.au

Lindsey Adler https://lindsayadlerphotography.com

Lara Jade is wonderful for fashion editorial inspiration and her work has been published in many high end glossy magazines worldwide. She has a great online following and she runs course online as well which if you are aiming to get into this industry are well worth subscribing to. Her work ethic is very professional and the quality of her work never diminishes but only gets better.

Peter Coulson is my go to photographer for inspiration for more edgy moody mono shots with attitude. He is a lighting guru and his You Tube channel is worth a visit as he has loads of video tutorials to watch where he breaks his shoots down making them achievable for us mere mortals. He shows his lighting set ups and his gear and offers tips on post processing. His videos are so entertaining as well and feature his sidekick Becs.

Lindsey Adler is really a combination of the other two - she is also a lighting wizard and shares many clips and BTS on her website showing how she got he shot. She openly shares her post processing and again this makes it achievable for us all. Most of her work is beauty/fashion concept based, but she is well worth a visit.

Another question was - where do I get my inspiration from…….

A great question - generally I start with the concept or the location, or sometimes it could be the model herself and the look she has. I then develop this initial thought into something more tangible by looking at magazines, pop videos, literature, adverts, sometimes even a piece of music. I am in the process of planning a 70’s inspired shoot with a contemporary feel and the inspiration for this came from an online shopping company where I saw the most fabulous jumpsuit. I then combined this with a model who I feel has the look I am after and then it is case of putting the studio together to colour balance the outfits and set the scene. So although it won’t be all out 1970’s, there will be elements of, so pop back to see the final results of this in a few weeks.

‘Lindsey Adler inspired…’

Lindsey loves red on red so this is my nod to that - modelled beautifully by Dominika.

‘Peter Coulson inspired…’

Mono at its best, moody, edgy, dramatic - modelled by Evski

‘Lara Jade inspired…’

Beauty, fashion with style - modelled by Coralgaga

Let's raise a glass to 2022....

These last couple of years have felt a bit like treading water and sometimes it feels like we are paddling like mad and not getting anywhere. I am sure many small businesses feel the same, and as we move into 2022 there is still some degree of uncertainty.

Commercial work

with Jess

Christmas is done now and during the time between Christmas and the New Year, I reflect on the past year, the highs and lows and formulate plans for where I go from here. January can be a difficult month as we often feel we have run out of steam ; the weather is grey and cold, and it is still dark and dreary. As part of my future planning I look into my ideas box and see what I still have left that I want to complete. There are still some hanging around, but I have now pulled one out of the box and got it booked in for a few weeks time, so that will be my first shoot of 2022 ( unless something comes in before then)……so fingers and toes are crossed that there will be no more restrictions. 

For this shoot I will be working with someone I have worked with many times and this can help with the creative process. It is a step away from my normal work, becoming more art than straight fashion photography, but that is good and challenging and it is always great to step outside your comfort zone. It will be interesting to see how it all comes together.

2021 brought challenges with working conditions, but I did manage to tick over and work with some amazing people - I also managed quite a few magazine publications so that in itself is rewarding. 

So forwards and onwards into 2022 - my plans are to book more clients, build new relationships with potential clients, models and commercial businesses. I have a few personal projects I want to work on and these are great for creativity and for trying new things. 

One aspect of my business I have been working on and which unfortunately is regrettable is my pricing structure, and for 2022 there will be some price increase. My prices have remained the same for many years but now with rises in other spheres of my business which affect me, I have no alternative than to raise mine. I think I still offer good value for money and that I am competitive so it is a necessity of running a business and remaining viable. 

My diary is now open for 2022 so should you wish a portrait shoot, make over shoot, fashion shoot, then why not get in touch and we can discuss your requirements and I can arrange a shoot bespoke to you. No two shoots are the same; studio or location; either is fine.

Fashion work

with Sam

I will also be looking to work with more commercial businesses in 2022 and again offering them a bespoke service to showcase their products or to help with their branding.

So as we move into 2022 there are exciting things to come. I still have some workshops planned for January and February with possibly more later in the year. 

Why not stay in touch and pop back to see what is happening.

You can also keep up to date with my Facebook page and my Instagram page. 

Happy New Year to you all and many thanks to all I have worked with and supported me in 2021.

Laura xx

Beauty work

with Coralgaga

Tough times; but it is a mere pause.....

It has been a tough year, but let’s think of it as a pause in our lives, and now it is time to hit the reset button and get things back on track. Let’s not forget the tough times and the sadness that went with it, we can take time to reflect and remember, but all businesses are now trying to get back to where they once were, and my small business is no exception.

I have struggled to keep motivated, but with brighter prospects on the horizon, I am moving forwards with an optimistic mind.

Studio work is about to start - my studio has had a total re fit while on Lockdown and I have painted some new backdrops, and I am pleased to say that the diary is filling up nicely. Through these bookings I hope to build positive relationships and hopefully this will lead to new doors opening and new opportunities.

I really feel that the last year has been time to take stock and I have practiced self-care leaving behind those who dragged me down. I have improved my health by walking and running and this helps create a healthy mind.

So with all that has gone in the last year, for me I feel the time is right to draw a line under it and progress onwards and upwards. I am reviewing my portrait, beauty and fashion photography and in 2021 I want to include more diversity in my portfolio. I want to work with various age groups, ethnic groups and those with darker skin tones. I am planning more location shoots as this is something that magazines like and so hopefully this will lead to more magazine publications.

So let’s not forget 2020, but let’s park it now and move forwards into 2021, pick up the pieces and help each other get out businesses going again, though working together and building relationships.

Laura x

April 2021

a glimmer of hope.......

So we now have a glimmer of hope on the horizon with the easing of Lockdown. And with that I can begin the process of getting my business back off the ground. There are so many in a similar situation and the future looks incredibly tough and daunting. It has been a long road but we are getting there, we just need one last push…..

For me it is about shooting new work for my own portfolio, but also about finding those clients who can benefit from the services I can offer. I know I have a clear style so it is about researching and finding clients who like that style and who feel it will promote and enhance their business.

Potential clients could be businesses wanting corporate headshots of their employees; now businesses are re establishing themselves, this is a great way to help them create an identity for their business and make their employees more approachable. Or it could be ordinary people who want a photo session for themselves, something to boost their confidence and self esteem.

Working with non-professional models can be just as rewarding as working with professional models. You have to put them at their ease, they may be nervous or anxious and it is my role as a photographer to make it a pleasant experience for them and one they will enjoy. It is about directing them into flattering poses and showing them they can smile and that it is ok to do so. Lord knows there hasn’t been much to smile about this last year, but things are getting better…..

Shoots can be on location at a business, a favourite place, or it could be in my lovely studio in Somerset. This does have the advantage that the light is more controllable and I can set build to make it more relevant to them and what they are wearing. This means that the styling and using colour will create a set of cohesive, balanced and personal images. Generally in these shoots I would be looking to shoot 4-5 looks and it is always good to discuss this with the client first. We can talk outfits, styling and colour and ensure the whole shoot is individual to them.

It may be they only want a beauty shoot and these are usually just head and shoulders. They can be a celebration of who you are, your personality and your style, and often for these shoots I work with a hair and make up artist as well to ensure everything is spot on.

Some clients want to do a boudoir shoot, sometimes just for themselves; sometimes for their partners. Often these are done in a room setting as this creates more of a story or a narrative. In this way I can make their shoot stand out, it can be personal to them and the images produced can be showcased in a bespoke coffee table book.

So there is lots happening and going on and I relish the challenge of getting going again. It has been a long road for all of us and it will be good to be back to some form of normal.

As from the 12th April my studio will be open for business again, but in the meantime there are opportunities for location shoots.

So if you feel you or your business need a make over photo shoot, a boudoir shoot, corporate shoot, then do get in touch.

It an be personal to you, whatever you want and I can guarantee you will have fun, have a laugh and if it is for you your confidence and self esteem will have a huge boost and you will receive images you can treasure for a lifetime.

Laura March 2021

2021 - A New Year....???

2021 arrived with a bit of a splutter and became a non event, no celebrations, no get togethers, the day just rolled into another year. So what do we do? Do we make New Years resolutions? In these uncertain times, maybe not as none of us know how long this will go on, so long term goals, aims, and plans have to be put on hold. Short term is probably more realistic.

So with another Lockdown we are faced with huge challenges in how to keep maintaining our creativity. I am busy planning future shoots, judging camera club comps via Zoom and doing talks to clubs via Zoom. I have also embraced technology and found new ways of doing things and I have recently completed my first remote shoot.

These have been around since the first Lockdown in March and over the last few months things have become more refined and the process easier.

So how does it work?

Well it relies on a good internet connection, the power of Zoom and a model who has the right equipment and know how to pull it off.

For my first remote shoot my model Kate was in Hull and I was at my desk in Somerset. She sets up a Zoom session which we log into and discuss my shoot plan and ideas. (I had sent her a moodboard previously; she had sent me images of her shooting space, which in this case was her bedroom.) She then connects her camera (a canon) to her computer and selects through camera software , the remote shoot option, she then shares her screen with me via Zoom. I then see what you would see on the back of the camera if you were shooting in Live Mode. I have full control of all of the camera settings and the shutter. So in respect of copyright - I own that as I press the shutter button as copyright is with whomever presses the shutter. So we did a quick light test and ran through the controls. In her bedroom there was a large window which provided lots of natural light, but we both felt that we still needed to fill in the shadows with a light and soft box. After a few test shots to check everything was working we got going on my ideas and my moodboard.

The whole process was easy and good fun and we chatted and laughed the whole way through. It does rely on the model having to move the camera and tripod as necessary and the lights.

That said though and as good as it was, it is something you need to get your head around. You can see her as though you were looking through the viewfinder, but you also get another image of her as the computer sees her through Zoom. So in effect you get 2 perspectives. You do have to rely on the person the other end to relate to you the light in the room and the overall feeling of space and they have to have an understanding of what you expect from the shoot.

Once you get to grips with it all, the possibilities are endless. You can be in the comfort of your own home but connect to someone anywhere in the world. You do have to relinquish some of the control of the shoot over to the model.

The advantages are there is no travelling for either, she has her whole wardrobe to hand but you do need someone who knows how to operate the camera and the lighting equipment as well as the intricacies of the technology used. The next day she then sends all RAW files to me via Wetransfer and depending on your internet connection this can take some time.

I don’t think it will ever replace ‘real’ shooting, but it is a good alternative in these challenging times and we can continue to be creative.

Would I do it again?

Yes- definitely…..

It is a great way to get new content for your portfolio, keep editing and keep your skills up to date. You can meet new people and challenge yourself.

So it gets a thumbs up from me and I am sure as technology improves it will continue, with the method becoming more refined and easier to use.

So as they say the world is your oyster and the possibilities are huge…….If you haven’t tried it then give it a go. The quality of the images will be as good as the camera and lenses that she uses so again there is huge potential.

What a year.......

This last year has been unprecendented and one which we hope we will never see again in our lifetimes. As we move into 2021 it is time to reflect and allow ourselves, the country and the world to heal. There have been many challenges during the year and on a personal level, how to be creative has been hard. With down days and dark days keeping motivated has been difficult. I tried as much as possible to walk/run every day and this at least clears the mind and releases those all important endorphins. Over the year we have had to find new ways of doing things. I am still judging for camera clubs albeit via Zoom. But this does have the advantage of being able to go further afield ‘virtually’. I have also started doing talks via Zoom and again this has had a wider reach. Shooting has been challenging but I have managed a few in the studio and some on location, all socially distanced. I also collaborated with an exceptional team in which we produced a music/fashion themed video. So this year has been all about thinking outside the box, embracing a new way of doing things and having the confidence to try new things whilst being adaptable and flexible.

So what will 2021 bring -

Well it means preparing for change as we enter a new and different world.

We can use 2020 as a reflection on where we have been and what we have gone through and use those reflections to spur us on, keeping everything in perspective and managing your own personal expectations. I have some personal goals that I want to achieve but more of those as the year unfolds. I have shoots planned and more videos but planning these will be largely down to how the Covid guidelines pan out. 2021 will for me be planning either monthly or 3 monthly as longer goals and plans are as yet uncertain due to changing times, so I want to ensure that everything I plan is achievable in these constantly changing times.

Winding down now for the festive season which is going to be very different for many of us this year, I will be using the Xmas holidays to plan and finalise a new venture and this will be announced soon. Something I hope that will keep photographers motivated and engaged in their creative endeavours but using the power of Zoom and www interaction.

Thank you to all who have supported me this last year - to those I have worked with - to those who have helped on my journey and here’s wishing you all a Happy Xmas and a much better 2021.

Laura 2020 x

being left handed......

Being left handed means that you are right-brain dominant and this means that you follow a creative flow of information or processing. Left handers have that creative spark, gut reaction and inspiration.

I am left handed………….

Does that make me more creative - well possibly, but you may have to ask those I work with for confirmation. I do certainly love the creative process of planning a shoot, from the initial idea; which can often be a light bulb moment - to the moodboard, styling , lighting, concept and location. Then when I actually get to shooting I often , if things are going well, get an adrenalin rush which continues as I edit the images. There is a heightened sense of excitement, and reverence as to what I have accomplished. Then after the edit and the shoot is over, done and finished, there is an inevitable crash and burn and a sense of grief that it is finished. So in a way I spend my life as a photographer on creative highs and lows.

It has been documented that lefties can suffer more with mental illness - maybe that explains my crash and burn after a shoot. There can be a sense of loss and despair after a shoot so I need to get back to planning, researching and thinking about ‘what next?’ so that I can experience that high and adrenalin rush again.

For centuries lefties were considered unlucky, weak and often accused of witchcraft. The word ‘sinister’ comes from the latin word for leftie……….

Am I any of those - I don’t think so…..I just live to create…….

Lefties are often very good at dealing with challenges as we live in world designed for rights. Some ordinary household things like scissors, can openers etc, are aimed at rights. Writing can be a challenge as you can smudge the ink - and don’t get me started on cheque books, (although most of us don’t use them now!). Spiral notebooks, I use upside down so the spiral is on the other side.

So with all the challenges we face on a daily basis, we are better able to deal with creative processes and challenges as we often have to find alternative ways of doing things. Lefties are great problem solvers.

You only have to look at the world of celebrities in acting and music and you will find lefties - acting and music are creative industries -

Tom Cruise

Angelina Jolie

Robert De Niro

Lady GaGa

Eminem

Paul McCartney

Jimi Hendrix

……and what of our most celebrated philosophers and thinkers -

Leonardo de Vinci

Albert Einstein

Marie Curie

…..so I feel I am in good company.

My photography is my creative outlet and although I go through a process of highs and lows, the highs far outweigh the lows and the adrenalin rush keeps me going - striving onwards to create better and more exciting photography and for me my images become an art form, a creative process, made from my thoughts, my desires, my rush of excitement.

x Laura Nov 2020

be inspired.........

And so it goes on but that doesn’t mean losing focus on where you want to be or who you want to be. There may be times when you find it hard to be inspired or motivated, but don’t give up……

Look for sources of inspiration. I constantly aim to be the best I can, and yes I have down days. But I look at where I want to be and what my end goal is and I keep working towards it. I take my inspiration from everything around me and everything I see. There is inspiration all around us and from everything we can take nuggets away to use ourselves to keep us motivated and inspired.

Now is the time for us all - we may need to give ourselves an extra push and so lauraannephotography have launched their ‘beinspired…’ campaign. This is all about taking you out of your comfort zone and trying a genre of photography that is - well, let’s just say - a bit more saucy!! Take it as far as you dare; show as much as you are comfortable to do; but be confident and be inspired…..

Trying something new can allow you to refocus and reset yourself. It can allow you to break away from the rut you may be in, and see things more positively.

Working together in my small, intimate studio, we can create images just for you, for your own self-esteem, your own confidence and we can create images that will inspire you to carry on to bigger and better things.

The possibilities are there and I can help you try something you have always secretly wanted to do. In the time you are with me and we are creating images, remember that it is all about you so leave everything else at the door.

Do something today that your future self will thank you for……

Laura x

September 2020

Onwards and Upwards.......

Lockdown has been hard, but for some it has had a positive effect, allowing us to spend more time with our families, changing our normal daily routines and engaging in a better work/life balance. Some of us have gone back to old school entertainment and started to play board games and do jigsaws, and some of us have been creative through arts and crafts.

It has been a time for reflection, thinking about the past and planning for the future. For myself I have been focusing on getting my photography business working more productively. My website has had a revamp and I can now offer training and commercial work for businesses wanting to get their businesses back on track after Lockdown. I have also been updating my portfolio and I have worked with some amazing models, studio and on location, all Covid Safe. It is a different way of working but with planning it can be done. I also recently finished a Bridal Campaign that I started in January and I am pleased that some of these have been published.

Goal planning is important but these goals must be achievable - if you don’t know where to start, try weekly goals. In this way achieving them gives you a sense of fulfilment and we can then progress forwards.

However, never lose sight of the fact that you need to live life for the moment and there are times when you just need to act on impulse and do what feels right for you at that time.

My plans for my next shoots are continuing and I am looking forward to completing them. I will be expanding on my training and I will be offering couple lifestyle shoots, something I am very excited about. AndI have some personal projects I want to do for my own portfolio.

Planning is important for development but you must invest in yourself and what you want; that is why alongside my business planning I still embark on personal projects.

Live every day at its best; but have a game plan and some idea of where you want be in the future.

Laura x

no more sitting around procrastinating……..

'baby steps....'

These have been a few hard months and many of us have suffered with our mental health and missing our family and friends. It is a known fact that creative people can and do suffer with mental health issues - it is something to do with how the brain is hot-wired; so to be starved of a creative outlet during these times can be vey difficult. We have all been struggling and we must thank those who have kept things going. I have tried to maintain some form of creativity by doing some self portraits and some some virtual shoots but now the Prime Minister says we can take ‘baby steps’ and move forwards.

‘soon be back to normal…’

We can now exercise more and we can meet another as long as social distancing is maintained. I therefore aim to get back to some form of shooting on location and beginning to create again. The Prime Minister calls these ‘baby steps’ and we should all be mindful that we still need to take care. There will be certain levels of anxiety but we need to do what is right for us to maintain a healthy state of mind. For me that is about being creative. It becomes a coping mechanism enabling me to move forwards and focus on the future. I am already looking further into the future and compiling client lists ready for when I can meet clients, and preparing the way for how my business can help theirs. This current crisis will end but we may emerge into a different world and a different way of doing things so it is important to plan and be ready. Mental health and anxiety is something many of us live with daily so we need to manage it and control it and as the PM says lets take ‘baby steps’ and get the ball rolling on a future of creativity.

Laura x

'modus operandi.....'

modus operandi = a particular method of doing something or in these difficult times it is a new way to find how to do things. No longer do we have the social gatherings and meetings of friends and family - instead we have to resort to Zoom, FaceTime etc. In this way we can all stay connected and that is important for our health and well being.

Being a photographer is being a creative and as such and as so many other creatives we can find it frustrating if we cannot fulfil our creative needs. So in these Lockdown times we can find it hard to keep our creativity stimulated. We have still life, the garden, self-portraits or when we are on our allocated exercise, and in these we can find some outlet.

I, however, having been trying something new, and being having a go at virtual shoots using FaceTime Live. The quality may not be as good as you would get with a DSLR but there is a sort of rawness to them.

I have found that doing these keeps my creativity satiated and the images can act as a reference point for future shoots. Working with a model I have worked with for years helps as there is already that rapport and an understanding of how we work. Together you can be creative and create some amazing images.

Starting indoors we made use of natural light and converting them to mono created some stunning images with a raw beauty to them.

model: Laura Caitlin

model: Laura Cailtin

The next time we moved into the garden. Slightly more tricky as I am directing the model, the person holding the phone and checking out the location all from my computer. The light was tricky as well, but working together it can be done and again using a new modus operandi we created images with that sublime realness and rawness.

model: Laura Caitlin

model: Laura Caitlin

It is about finding a new modus operandi - a new way of doing things and for the time being the only way.

Things will change, we know that - the when we don’t know and even then there may be a new normality.

In the meantime………..

Normal times: strange times.......

Life is not normal at the moment and it can be hard to stay positive and motivated. We all deal with these things in our own way, but it can be important to keep a positive mindset. Negative thoughts and anxiousness can mean our brains narrow our view of the world and as such it can be hard to see better things. Positive views, thoughts and emotions can help the brain consider more possibilities and can increase mental productivity. So with all that is going on at the moment the one thing we do know is it will not be forever. And based on that, even though I miss shooting I can still plan my shoots for the future when all this comes to an end.

As a creative I often find I have too much going on in my head at any one time, so this is a great opportunity for me to get the thoughts and ideas down on paper. I can plan shoot ideas, design sets and work out styles. I can search and source potential models. I can search and source potential new clients. And I can practice. I am lucky to have my own studio so I can do self portraits, and work out new lighting set ups. However, self portraits are not easy. The tech side is OK - it is being a model that causes me a problem. My resting face looks like I am sucking a bumble bee, so I resort to a smily face - not easy when you ar the only one in the room and you have to laugh at your own jokes! Still needs must and it is a good way to test new lighting set ups.

I am also revisiting some old images and trying new edits on them and I am going through and rereading some of my many photography books to get ideas and inspiration.

So life is not perfect at the moment, I do have down days when I am anxious, but I take myself off for a walk, a bike ride or do some relaxation in the form of Pilates.

Soon this will all be a thing of the past and it will come to an end and when it does I shall be ready to hit the ground running, be well prepared and motivated and get back to shooting.

Stay safe. Stay sane.

Working on a collaborative Boho themed jewellery shoot....

This week I was lucky to work on a collaborative Boho themed Jewellery shoot working with some amazing people. What is a collaborative shoot you ask? Well this is where we all work together to produce content for our own portfolios and we all give up our tine for that shoot. As the photographer for that shoot it is my responsibility to get the shots required to satisfy all concerned and after the shoot I edit the images and each participant will receive a selection of the shots for their portfolios.

So who were the people on the day? Well most important was the jewellery designer who brought the most gorgeous ethnic jewellery and accessories for us to use.

https://foragedesign.com This is what they say on their website about their products…

“Unique, hand-crafted jewellery and accessories aren’t just gifts for you, they have stories that go much further than that. When you choose to shop ethically at Forage, you empower the artisans who make them.

Join us in the fight against fast fashion. It exploits workers in the supply chain and causes damaging carbon emissions. Instead, we source our own materials and ask our makers to set the price we pay, meaning our business operates in a way that works for everyone. “

We also had a Make Up Artist who did the looks for the models https://www.chrissiebricknell.com and working together we came up with the styling as well.

And of course the shoot would not have worked without our two lovely models. Having two models means we can mix up the looks and also it does not become too onerous a day for one model so the work load is shared. I chose two models with much different looks but each had that underlying boho style we were after. Louisa https://www.instagram.com/louisawxoxo/ was our blonde model so for her we chose a more natural fresh faced make up look with her hair done in beach waves and plaits. Hannah https://www.instagram.com/hannah_rbf/ was our darker haired model and she had more smudgy darker make up and we dressed her hair in a variety of headscarves all in keeping with the Boho/Festival vibe.

It was a long day and refreshments were on hand for everyone to ‘graze’ throughout the day.

Collaborations are a great way to increase content for portfolios and a great way to network with others. All gain from it and we all had fun on the day.

What is the secret of Success?

Success is the achievement of desired visions and planned goals. It can bring peace of mind and a sense of well-being and it can be a driving force to propel us onwards to achieve more goals. So in that way it becomes self perpetuating. To be successful is about getting rid of negativity and focusing on the positive and working persistently towards your goals. For me success comes in how I accomplish my goals, but those goals need to be realistic and have a suitable timeframe. By having positive and likeminded people around me and whom I work with can make my goals achievable.

I have been very fortunate in the last few weeks to work with such people, those who have the same vision as me and those who strive to be the best they can. Last weekend saw me in a very cold part of the Kingston Lacy Estate, Wimborne doing a Runaway Bride shoot. The idea came to me in a light bulb moment but I think was instigated by the purchase of a very voluminous wedding dress which was cheap as chips on the Facebook market place. I knew who was going to be the model as I have worked with her for many years and she is one of the most dedicated and hard working people I have had the pleasure of working with. With her Mum on board we set about planning, from the location, the time of year, and the way the shoot was going to work. Laura (the model, yes we have the same name!) had the dress for several months so that she could ensure her modesty remained intact as she would be running in the dress, and due to the weight of the dress she had to be at ease with it. I did a long range weather forecast and we chose last weekend as it had the most favourable, if very cold, conditions. So armed with the model, the outfit, her mum to assist with the outfit, my long suffering husband to watch for traffic we convened at the location and with Laura wrapped in a duvet to keep warm between takes we set to work. The mood board was already in place so everyone knew what they were doing and 2 hours later we had nailed it. For me this is success, working with positive people, working as a team, bringing it all together and getting those shots.

For me also my success is measured by how appreciated my images are. I have been lucky so far this year to have had 2 magazine publications and a third due out soon. This for me does make all the hard work worth it and spurs me on to the next thing.

With January moving into February and further into March, I have more projects planned and I am super excited to get started with those.

In between all of that I do have some health issues to deal with and more surgery, but this is a hiccup and will not drag me down.

“The Key to Success is to Focus on Goals, not Obstacles”