Final Wedding shoot of 2009 - Shugborough Hall - Katie and Simon

So I've survived 2009! And to finish off, as far as weddings go at least, I shot a cool wedding at Shugborough Hall last Saturday. Of course, England being England, it was freezing cold and for once I mean it wholeheartedly and literally! But the wedding party had hot chocolate, mini mince pies and brownies after the ceremony while everybody enjoyed the afternoon at Shugborough.

Thanks to the venue, and for their amazing compliment - They said I was "the nicest photographer they have ever had!" What a compliment! If you want to check them out for your wedding take a look at their site at this link http://www.shugborough.org.uk/weddings-190

Now I know a few great photographers that shoot there too who I'm sure are at least as "nice" as me, so I accept the compliment but won't get big headed! I guess it's because we choose to shoot the wedding mainly in an informal manner, stealth/ninja like ... and so we don't boss people around or try to control the day. I believe a wedding should be shot like that, I'm there to report on the day not to make it happen. This isn't 1985!

Right, so thanks to Katie and Simon for having me along.. it was a short session and one to remember. Couldn't have asked for better! So here are a few favourites, which I struggled to choose.

If you're interested in booking or know anybody who might be interested in my style of photography and working, then please say hello. Email me or give me a call. I can be found on twitter and facebook too.. click the links and say hello.

I'm off on my travels again this week, this time I'm being sent to Shanghai, China! I missed out on a wedding in Mexico in Summer 2010 by the way, because I was already booked up! So.. please... book me somebody in Mexico ;)

Right... Photo time:

I'm back... after a long ... long.. well I was busy, then I was away...

Sorry for the big gap between last posting! What's been happening? Well... I was very busy with the end of the season, still have another few shoots before the year is out including a trip to China later this month!

Most recently I was away in Jamaica. Spent a day or so in Spanish Town and then 10 days in Ochi (Ocho Rios) ... I loved Jamaica, the people, the food, the weather of course! Going from 30+ everyday to 3/4 degrees here is not fun! Where did I leave that bottle of rum again?!

So as it's been awhile here are a bunch of point n shoot snaps I took while I was away... the rest are on my facebook page if you're connected with me on there. If not... click and add me!

Remember, bookings are going well for next year and 2011 but please give me a shout if you need anything doing. I look forward to hearing what you thought about this years work as well!

Out with the disaster relief team... hauling a big piece of machinery up to the top floor.. no cranes involved... MORE MANPOWER!

This cat even passed by the place we went out for my send off on the last night... Spy cat?

As you can see Jamaica is full of amazing sights, people and food. I love how the majority live off the land, share produce, and create some great food. Go there, if you know people there or you know people who know people, hook up with them from day one and see the real Jamaica, not the safe all inclusive hotel boundaries Jamaica. Otherwise, do some tours... stay safe but enjoy yourself.

Oh if you're reading this and think I should practice my point n shoot technique, and would like to send me off travelling from time to time, then get in touch :D

Amy and Joma are now married!

I'm going to keep this short and sweet: Amy and Joma are a top couple, the wedding was good fun and a pleasure to shoot.

My day with them started at Amy's moms where Amy and the girls were getting ready, a whole two blocks away from where I live! Then it was off to Stockland Green Methodist Church and finally off to grade II listed Highbury Hall in Moseley.

I won't go into the typical four seasons in one day thing, the fact that Joma got an Everton FC cake as a surprise, and that I'd like to thank Joma's dad for the dessert.. so I better stop rambling and show you my highlights:

Mr Eric Roberson keeps it friendly in Brum.. his "second favourite city"...

Mine too ;)

Seriously, that's what he said.. Birmingham is his second favourite city. See.. not just locals can see the charm we have!

Anyway.. this was his second time playing in Birmingham and after a packed night at the Jazz Cafe in London, the turnout was a little smaller than expected but it didn't stop Eric Roberson blitzing the crowd with soulful, humourous, good positive energy for a nice long set.

Unlike other artists that have come and gone this guy and his band took time to chat with the fans, have photos.. never a problem. They were chilled and the crowd later repaid him with dancing, singing, good vibes.

I wasn't that familiar with his music before this gig but yep.. this guy can sing and entertain.. ably backed by a good band. Check his site at this link www.ericrobersonmusic.com

He has written for and collaborated with the likes of Dwele, Slum Village, Jill Scott (amazing live show), and so on.. and now for your eyes.. here he is. Oh first up is the support act.. (name to be added in a moment when i get the link..)

Seriously... don't pass the singer on the stage your bag... Sorry but Eric's face says it all!

I guess the main man singing into your camera phone whilst it's recording the show isn't so bad...