A Special Dog Day for Your Devine Canine
A Professional Studio Portrait of Your Best Friend
Dog Training and Photography: Saturday 9th March 2024, 9am-1.30pm, Foulden (near Berwick)
Introducing Louise from Fellowship Dog Training
You have an old faithful dog, a little puppy, or maybe the most shy dog ever, and you want to capture your dog’s unique personality or their gorgeous green eyes - the problem is you try to take photos and they won’t move away from your side, you get blurry pictures, your dog hides, or they just run away!
I am super excited to introduce our new ‘Dog Day’ Photo Shoot in collaboration with Louise at Fellowship Dog Training in Foulden, a morning to make the doggy best friend in your life picture perfect!
Louise and her Furry Family at Fellowship Dog Training
Photographs taken recently for Louise’s Website Branding Session
The Freedom Field
What Happens at a Dog Day?
After working with your dog, alongside Louise at her dog training venue in Foulden we will create some drool worthy headshots of your super star pooch, this is a great way to bond with your dog whilst dipping your paw into professional pet photography.
All dogs must be fully vaccinated and comfortable around other dogs who will be in attendance.
How much does it cost and what is included?
The cost is £95 and for that you get:
A low pressure, fun morning for both yourself and your dog
Enjoyable rewards based training with Louise Birkett
Use of the Fellowship Freedom Field and Training Venue
Studio photography session with use of backdrops and props
A beautiful 12x8” print to treasure
If requested: A private follow-up appointment at Pictorial Photography where we can go over the photographs together.
A £50 voucher to put towards additional products/prints/frames from Pictorial Photography.
Limited slots available - hurry! Click here to book online and secure your best friend’s photo shoot today.
YOU’D BE BARKING MAD NOT TO GO FOR IT !
A Cherished Day at Coldingham Sands: A very trendy Granny and an Overcast Adventure!
Imagine this: a fashionable granny, her adorable granddaughter, and an adorable dog, coming together for a memorable day of shenanigans and giggles at Coldingham Sands. Oh, did I mention the charming overcast weather that added an extra touch of magic to our photos?
From the moment these guys set foot on the sandy shore, the air was filled with laughter and excitement. Together, we created unforgettable moments running around on the sand and indulging in ‘contraband’ Wham bars! Because what's a beach outing without a little sweet mischief, right?
The overcast weather added beautiful soft lighting which enhanced the vibrant colors of their outfits, and gentle shadows added depth and nostalgia to the photographs.
As a family photographer, it's moments like these that remind me of the magic my lens can capture. Witnessing the joy, love, and laughter between this trendy granny, her granddaughter, and thier lovable joog warms my heart. Coldingham Sands provided the perfect backdrop for the day.
Hazel chose a portfolio box of high-quality prints, a keepsake to proudly display at home. The pride and joy in her eyes was unmistakable as she imagined reliving those wonderful moments with a glance at those stunning prints on her walls.
You might imagine a bright, sunny day is ideal for outdoor photography, but that's not actually true. The intense light makes highlights too bright and shadows incredibly deep. Overcast days when the sun's light is diffused by the clouds can be much better, the entire sky turns into a big, soft light source which means that you get much more even lighting that casts softer shadows. It's much more forgiving to photograph with and is especially flattering for portraits.
What I Learned: Shooting Videography as a Wedding Guest in Umbria, Italy
I have an exciting story to share with you today, one that involves personal growth, unexpected discoveries, and a dash of humor. Over the past year, I've embarked on a bit of a learning adventure, investing both my time and resources into mastering the art of videography using my professional cameras. Why, you ask? Well, let me take you on a journey through my motivation and the experiences I've had so far.
It all began when some of my commercial photography clients started requesting short video clips for their social media and websites, I felt I needed to be able to capture these simple requests for them but being the perfectionist I am, I had to really master it before helping them.
When I started some of the training it made me think about working alongside videographers at weddings. They tend to pop up in the most heartfelt moments, brandishing massive cameras and making me worry about inadvertently intruding on their shots (which can’t be photoshopped). That's when I had an idea—I could offer something truly unique and valuable to couples by providing a hybrid photography and video service.
Picture this: couples receive the same exceptional photography service they've come to expect from me, but with an added twist. During the moments that usually constitute downtime, I would discreetly capture video snippets, allowing me to craft a professionally shot "highlights video" that encapsulates the essence of their special day. How awesome is that?
You see, back in 2015 when I tied the knot myself, my partner and I hired both a photographer and a videographer. While the videographer's work was excellent, he appeared in a lot of our photos and I must admit that we've only watched our wedding video a couple of times. Why, you ask? Well, let's just say it contained the ENTIRE ceremony (which was in Greek), speeches, and even people chowing down on their meals. It was a feast for the eyes, but perhaps a little too literal! A few minutes would have been more than enough and plenty to satisfy our grandparents who couldn’t make the wedding abroad.
My training journey so far has blended online and in-person courses, lots of reading and hands-on practice. I knew I had a family wedding to attend in Italy, not as a professional photographer, but as a guest! However, I couldn't resist the opportunity to test my skills. With only hand luggage I had to travel light so, just one camera, a single lens, and a trusty waterproof GoPro, I set out to create a short practice "highlight video" as a guest. Don't worry, I made sure to stay well out of the photographers' way!
Guess what? I ended up shooting not one, but TWO different short films. One was in a vertical format, perfect for mobile phones and social media sharing, while the other was in landscape format, longer in duration and ideal for the couple's afterparty celebration and for showcasing on TV screens to their proud grandparents. To add more zest to the films, I even recorded the heartfelt speeches, a touching reading, and the soulful live music on my trusty iPhone. As you can see, I also took a few photos (couldn’t resist!). My Dad took this one of me and Aaron.
Now, let me tell you some lessons I learned during this short and hot filmmaking adventure:
The GoPro turned out to be a bit of a letdown, providing footage that fell short of my expectations. Lesson learned: Stick to the reliable gear you know and love.
Primer is super important for make up in the heat, bonus points for one that contains SPF!
Surprisingly, the iPhone recordings exceeded my expectations, capturing voices with remarkable clarity. If I ever find myself in a pinch without my fancy recording equipment, I'd happily rely on my trusty smartphone again.
Stationary objects are simply not as captivating on film as they are in photographs.
Balancing the roles of guest and aspiring videographer was quite the challenge. I found myself torn between capturing the perfect angle and wholeheartedly immersing myself in the atmosphere. Nonetheless, I managed to enjoy every moment, even if it meant occasionally slipping into "work mode."
The hassle of coordinating sparklers for a few shots was absolutely worth it! The resulting footage added a touch of magic and excitement to the final video, making it an unforgettable moment for the couple.
Now, without further ado, I present to you my very first attempt at a wedding highlights video. I hope you're ready to experience the magic of an Italian wedding.
Click here to watch the 6-minute landscape version (on a computer or TV). (this one is my favorite of the two)
or
Click here to watch the 3 minute horizontal version (on a phone)
As I reflect on my new journey of learning and growth, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to record Hannah and Conor’s wedding and to the trainers who have given some brilliant advice, inspiration and guidance. It's amazing how investing in new skills can open doors and allow us to offer something unique to our clients.
If you're planning your own wedding or know someone who is, I encourage you to consider the possibilities of hybrid photography and videography. By seamlessly blending both art forms, couples can relive their special day through stunning visuals and heartfelt moments captured in motion.
Sarah x
P.S. The beautiful venue Hannah and Conor chose is a large stone farmhouse in the hills of beautiful Umbria, Italy, around 40 minutes from Perugia. It’s called ‘I Casali di Colle San Paulo Fontanelle’. Here are the details if you are looking for an international elopement or destination family wedding. www.collesanpaolo.it or check it out on instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/icasalidicollesanpaolo/
Check out my wedding services page if you are looking for hybrid photography and video, here is the link: Pictorial Photography Wedding Photography
Exploring Mill Pond Flower Farm: and A Journey into The Business Of Selling Flowers
I had the amazing opportunity to visit Mill Pond Flower Farm in Foulden, not far from Berwick but just over the border in Scotland. The flower farm, run by Paula Baxter is also the home of The Business Of Selling Flowers run by Paula, and two other dedicated, full-time flower farmers named Carol and Claire, who live elsewhere in the UK but the three come together now and again to help each other out and to discuss their work and have a photoshoot together. Join me as we delve into this charming farm, discover their online courses, and get to know the passionate individuals behind it all.
Mill Pond Flower Farm captivates me with its rustic beauty. The picturesque farm, with views of the Cheviots, offers a tranquil haven for flower enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Empowering Flower Farmers Through their online courses, Carol, Paula, and Claire's joint venture, The Business Of Selling Flowers, equips flower farmers and sellers with essential knowledge. They offer eight practical and comprehensive courses that cover topics like pricing, profit, selling, and the art of growing flowers. These courses empower individuals to become successful and profitable flower growers.
During my visit, I shared a memorable and lighthearted moment with Carol, Paula, and Claire. As I photographed them for their website and social media, they playfully turned the tables and captured behind-the-scenes shots of me. This experience shows their friendly nature and their desire to authentically represent their work.
Mill Pond Flower Farm, along with The Business Of Selling Flowers, brings together the beauty of nature and the entrepreneurial spirit. With their online courses, Carol, Paula, and Claire encourage aspiring flower farmers to thrive in the industry. My time at the farm was truly special, and I hope that these photographs serve not only as a useful illustrative branding portfolio but also as a testament to their dedication and camaraderie.
Tricks of the trade!
Taking payments in a rural setting.
Foliage for floristry
Cutting flowers
Potting table
Check out the Business Of Selling Flowers website for more info or check them out on Instagram
Enhancing the Buzz: Professional Studio Product Photography for Chain Bridge Honey Farm
Chain Bridge Honey Farm, located near Berwick upon Tweed, now takes center stage online as the harmonious blend of honey and bee products unfolds. In this article, we will delve into how professional studio product photography has enhanced the website presence of this already exceptionally popular Honey Farm. With a wide range of honey varieties including wildflower, heather, tweedside, and chunk honey, as well as exquisite beeswax candles, cosmetics, and gift sets, the Honey Farm's investment in professional photography has propelled their online brand to new heights.
At Chain Bridge Honey Farm, meticulous attention to detail and a dedication to quality form the very core of their operations. Recognising the significance of visually showcasing their products, the Honey Farm decided to invest in professional studio product photography. Their aim was to offer customers a more immersive experience that truly capture the essence and value of their offerings.
I collaborated with Frances from the Honey Farm and undertook a test shoot with some of the products and different backdrop ideas. We then embarked on a mission to present each item in its best light. Utilising expert studio lighting techniques, we ensured that every photograph exuded a clear and professional appearance while preserving the natural and wholesome qualities of the products.
One unique aspect of this project was the choice to use their wooden bee hives as backdrops. This creative decision established a visual connection between the products and their origins. The organic textures and warm hues of the hives serve as deliciously dark backdrops, fostering a consistent and authentic atmosphere throughout the product imagery.
For the website, we crafted flat-lay compositions for each product section, offering customers an intuitive navigation experience. These visually captivating flat lays now act as guideposts, leading visitors to explore the diverse offerings at Chain Bridge Honey Farm. We went on to capture seasonal shots for Easter and Christmas, showcasing alternative gifting options to chocolate eggs and highlighting the availability of gift hampers during the festive season.
Since they have started using the new professional studio product photography on their website, Chain Bridge has garnered glowing reviews from customers. Francis, the driving force behind the farm, expressed her delight to me at the uptick in online sales. While the impact on social media engagement is still being evaluated, expectations are high, as these captivating visuals are anticipated to attract and captivate a wider audience.
By faithfully representing their diverse range of honey and bee products, emphasising scale, and utilising bee hives as captivating backdrops, they have woven a visual narrative that deeply resonates with customers. The Honey Farm's unwavering commitment to excellence, coupled with our collaborative efforts, has resulted in a remarkable online presence that showcases its products in all their natural splendor.
22 Years in Business - An Interview with Sarah (by Sophie, Marketing Apprentice)
An Interview with Sarah, organised by Sophie (marketing apprentice, Pictorial Photography)
Sarah has been an independent photographer since 2001, growing her business over the years and adapting to life's challenges (such as lockdown). As Sarah's apprentice, learning the way her business works and seeing how much can change in only a year and a half, I asked Sarah some questions about the story of Pictorial Photography.
When did you start the business and why?
Sarah in 2001
I was asked by a friend to photograph her wedding when I was at university studying Contemporary Photographic Practice. I was only 19 but I knew this was what I wanted to do, so I thought up the business name, registered ‘Pictorial Photography’ with HMRC and got insured. Soon after that, colleagues and friends started asking for photos of their families and children. I also took on a few more weddings in Newcastle - shooting on film! I worked at Northumbria University by then so it was more of a weekend job for the first 5 years.
Leo and Stella, Sarah’s children
Over those first 5 years I grew the business and built my website, which meant that when I had my first child, Leo, I could work around him. Leaving employment was less of a choice and more of a necessary decision. Self-employment offers many opportunities and benefits like flexibility, so it was my only option. It was difficult at first, juggling childcare and working when they slept (when I was exhausted), but I have no regrets.
What was your goal for Pictorial then and now?
At the start the weddings were something fun to photograph at the weekends, then my photography grew into a flexible job to be able to work around my babies. I used to photograph a lot of children when mine were young and it fitted in well with school times. Now they have grown into teens, I focus more on business and branding photography, aiming to work less at weekends.
Our old Quayside studio
I guess my business has followed the flow of my life to an extent. I find I have a lot in common with my clients so I must be attracting people at a similar stage in life. I’m very into marketing and business development now and this year we have been working on a better CRM system and a much-improved customer journey for clients. It feels more professional and saves a huge amount of time on a day-to-day basis.
What did you do before?
I used to work at Northumbria University’s Design School, helping students create their vision in the studio and learn Adobe software. I was an Apple Mac demonstrator and a part-time lecturer. I loved working there and although they were flexible and accommodating employers, even after going half-time the long commute didn’t work for me when my children were little.
What was your biggest learning curve?
Sarah working in our new studio and office at the Ramparts
It took me a really long time to feel happy and confident with studio portraits, getting lighting to look natural and flattering in the studio was a challenging skill to master. I used to call myself a ‘natural light’ photographer but that was a total cop-out because I just wasn’t confident with studio lights.
I’m so glad I worked on those skills because I can now shoot with flattering and consistent light in a warm environment at any time of year. Being a ‘natural light photographer’ used to mean that my sessions were often cancelled last minute due to bad weather.
How do you spend your spare time?
Sarah and Marley
Spare time, what’s that? But seriously, I enjoy walking my dog Marley when it’s not windy or raining, I love a bit of DIY, but I’m usually driving the teenage kids around in Mum's Taxi! When we get the chance I love to travel with my husband Aaron, and sometimes the kids. I feel like I have to completely leave the country to properly unwind from work.
What changes have you made to your marketing strategy?
22 years ago, things like having a listing in the ‘yellow pages’, newspaper ads and putting posters up around town were key to getting business. Nowadays most of our marketing activities happen online.
How much time do you spend working on your business each day?
Probably a couple of hours each day, even when I am at home I listen to business podcasts and have a large library of photography books and business training and I love to tweak the website! I sound like a right saddo but I adore it!
Do you remember your first day?
Yes! I remember sitting in my little flat thinking up the name, phoning to ask my mum what she thought about it, and registering it on HMRC, thinking that was all a bit scary. Then I started making a physical ‘mood board’ for my logo. No such thing as Pinterest back then! I remember sticking things on it like a Tunnocks tea cake wrapper and labels from ice cream cartons.
Over the years have you used any exceptional professional services for your business?
Gosh, so so many. I’m a huge advocate for getting help with the things you don’t enjoy or things that aren’t in your skill set. When you are self-employed you do take on a lot of things which push you out of your comfort zone and you have to be quite adaptable. There are certain things that are downright awful to do, for example, I find working with numbers totally mind-numbing so I’ve always had a good bookkeeper and accountant to make sure everything is right in that department. I’m also not a fan of cleaning and would much rather be taking photos, it’s something that I feel is definitely worth paying for and a nice clean environment certainly improves how I feel.
One of the earlier versions of our website
In the early days, I enjoyed working with creative website designers but it was very expensive for such a small business and I knew that it would be something I would enjoy so I learned the skills to create and update my own site. I do get help with SEO (not in my skill set) from online SEO gurus like Lee Fletcher and Menekshe Stewart, whose training is quick, clear and easy to understand.
For the website, I have commissioned local proof-reader Trudi Morrison to check over my words.
I’ve had various headshots taken by lovely photographer friends - Caroline, Alex, and Amber, never an easy task!
I love attending Business Northumberland and Rural Business Growth Service events and still go along to their training days to stay up to date with new business-y things. There’s always something new to learn!
There are a few amazing online services I couldn’t work without now too: my website is built on Squarespace; our new (amazing!!) CRM system is Studio Ninja; and our photo hosting platform is Pic-Time.
How has your job changed?
My first few weddings were shot on film and at the start the competition was mostly older men. That changed when everything went digital and a lot of them retired instead of learning the new technology. Nowadays there are lots more women in photography and it’s a shared market, probably because self-employment ties in well with family life.
Customers know a lot more about photography and take photos every day on fancy mobile phones now. They also have access to constant amazing imagery online which means they have much higher expectations than they did in the past.
When my children were little I worked from the kitchen table (into the wee small hours after they went to bed). Now I only work from my studio and my work/life balance is much better (not perfect, but better).
Why do you think Pictorial Photography has stood out from other businesses and been successful?
I think it’s customer service and trying to think about everything from the clients’ point of view.
I’m always learning and keep up to date with new technology, I love going on courses. I’m currently learning video to create short but beautiful films for websites which I’m really excited about.
What is your proudest business achievement of the last 22 years?
Moving from the kitchen table to my first studio was a really big moment but my proudest achievement is the day I got the keys to my (current) new, bigger studio and was able to start growing the business again after covid. When it seemed like other businesses were shrinking back, we were expanding and optimistic for the future with a lovely new space from which to do it.
The entrance to our lovely new studio and office at the Ramparts Business Park
Where do you see the business in 5 years?
Hopefully still doing what I do but with more branding and product work in the studio. I love working with small business owners. I’d also love to get back into a bit of teaching so have been looking at starting that online too.
If you would like to take a look at our branding and product work, check out the business pages HERE.
Amplify Your Brand: The Impact of Personal Brand Photography
What is Personal Brand Photography?
For small businesses, personal branding is creating an identity for yourself to help your potential clients to get to know you and become familiar with you and your work. Aligning your image with your brand is essential, especially if you provide a personal service where people interact with you 1 on 1 (like me!).
Building trust and relationships online is important, but how do you do that?
Having clear and consistent well-lit professional portraits that you feel happy with and confident to use allows you to create a more personable brand and build trust with your audience online. Using your headshots alongside consistent behind-the-scenes and detail shots can strengthen that trust and provide extra content to really illustrate what you can do.
How many personal brands do you trust where you can’t picture the owner’s face?
The first thing I do when I find a new company is to scroll through their socials or go to the about page on their website. I want to know who I’m buying from or working with.
Let your audience see you and engage with your personality by peppering brand photos through your website content and social media. Consistency creates familiarity with a brand which increases engagement and connection. The more a potential client connects with and gets to know you, the more likely they are to book you.
Finding the right personal brand photographer for your business is essential. Having a good connection with the photographer you ask to take your brand photos means you can be honest when discussing things like your brand’s weaknesses, your ultimate goals and aspirations, and how comfortable you usually feel in photos.
Check out my About Me page to see if you think we would work well together to elevate your business and online presence.
Three-Generation Family Photoshoot in Berwick upon Tweed, a Perfect Birthday Gift Voucher Idea
This photoshoot, a perfect birthday gift for Liz, beautifully captures the love and warmth shared among her family members.
Preserving these moments in photographs means that the joy and love at the time of this special occasion will be cherished for years to come. Consider gifting a personalised birthday voucher for a family photo shoot with Pictorial Photography, providing a unique and sentimental gift that will create lasting memories and treasured keepsakes.
Contact us today to book your session and celebrate your family's beautiful bond against the captivating backdrop of Berwick upon Tweed's town walls.
Capturing Professionalism: Greaves West & Ayre's Headshot and Team Photo Sessions
In the era of digital marketing and relatable online presence, companies recognise the importance of visually representing their team to establish trust and professionalism. One such company, Greaves West & Ayre, recently asked for my photography services to capture new headshots and team photos for their upcoming website rebrand, their brochures, social media, and emails. I was eager to bring out the unique personalities and expertise of each team member whilst maintaining consistency throughout.
I particularly like how the ‘Our People’ page turned out.
Prior to the photoshoots, I collaborated closely with Lynne from the marketing team at Greaves West & Ayre to understand her vision and objectives. We discussed the desired style and tone that would align with their brand identity. It was important to create a cohesive look that showcased the team's professionalism while keeping their individuality.
I began by focusing on the individual headshots. Each team member took turns in front of the camera, and I provided guidance to help them feel at ease and project their professional image. I paid close attention to their body language, facial expressions, and overall confidence. By providing gentle direction and encouragement, I aimed to bring out their unique qualities and ensure their personalities shone through.
Following the individual headshots, we moved on to capturing the team photos. The objective here was to showcase the unity and collaboration among Greaves West & Ayre's team members.
It was easy to see the true sense of teamwork as the team members interacted and shared their expertise, reflecting the firm's commitment to providing exceptional client service. Through a combination of candid and posed shots, I looked to capture images that conveyed both professionalism and approachability whilst giving the viewer an idea of what to expect when visiting the office.
Greaves West & Ayre's decision to update their branding images for their new website is proof of their commitment to staying relevant online.
By working with the marketing team and maintaining a relaxed atmosphere, we were able to create a series of cohesive headshots and team photos that represent Greaves West & Ayre's expertise, trustworthiness, and dedication to their clients. These visuals will undoubtedly enhance their online reputation and leave a lasting impression on their audience, setting them apart from their competitors.
Are you looking for business branding for your own company website? Check out our website for more info by clicking the button below.
Top 5 photo printing places reviewed, I was shocked at these results!
Lots of our clients buy digital files from the Christmas shoots to print themselves and I really care about how my photographs look when they are out and about in the world and on granny’s mantlepiece.
I put a bit of research into the printing options available, and after running a poll on Instagram, I’ve compared the most popular places people said that they usually print their digital files.
I chose 3 photos from different sets and used exactly the same file to print from at each ‘consumer lab’.
I knew there would be slight differences in the printing quality and prices but I was quite shocked at HOW different the colour of the prints came out, below I will go through them all alongside our own ‘control’ (Pictorial Photography) lab print for comparison one by one.
I chose a common size of 5x7” and a paper stock of matt rather than gloss where the option was available. I personally prefer matt; it is easier to judge the print quality and has less reflection or glare when photographing the prints for the purposes of this blog.
I photographed the prints under controlled studio lighting so what you see on the screen is as accurate as I can get it (your own screen calibration may affect the colours but you will still see the differences)
Firstly, Freeprints, this is an app which seems to be used by a lot of people. The app offers a certain amount of free prints to each customer every month at 6x4”, hence why this print is smaller than the control print. They only charge for postage and any prints or upgrades above what is offered for free. I felt that because the prints being free is Freeprints main selling point, it would be fairer to use the free option as we also have a price comparison for each consumer lab.
This print looks quite washed out and has lines in the darker areas, like the sky and the girl’s trousers. Below is a closer photo so that you can see the lines.
I took a USB to Boots to print these but found that I could have printed from my phone, an iPad or even the cloud by logging into a source like Dropbox from the machine which is rather handy. The first Boots I went to was at Kinnaird Park in Edinburgh but all 6 of the machines were out of order! I went to Berwick the next day and their machines were working.
I thought the Boots print was okay but a little more yellow than I would have liked and it has cropped a bit off the bottom of the image so overall it is a passable 3/5.
The colour was very off in the Photobox prints; the girls have a rather yellow complexion, and although the paper quality (fujicolour professional) and thickness was good, I am very unhappy with the colour of this print. See below for another Photobox print that is also extremely yellow.
The Max Spielmann print was from Asda Tweedmouth, although I tried Asda Dunbar first and after going through the whole process it turned out that there was no paper left in the machine which was very annoying!
There is also a Max Spielmann in Timpsons on Hide Hill in Berwick and it looks like the same kind of machine. I would *presume* that the same company calibrates and looks after these machines and if that is the case then it is great as these prints came out best for colour and print quality. The print is glossy, there was no option for matt, and it has to be printed with a white border which is slightly annoying if you don’t have a steady hand for cutting, or a paper trimmer.
The Snapfish prints arrived quickly but the paper is thin, the printing looks faded and has been cropped top and bottom which has chopped off the girls feet in this photo.
Below is a price comparison chart for the photo printing places listed, I printed 10 photographs at each place and if postage was required it has been included in the price shown as total cost.
In conclusion: The two local printing machines I used in Berwick surprisingly had the best results for colour quality, with Asda (Max Spielmann) coming out top in colour quality even though it has a white border and is a glossy print. The Asda (Max Spielmann) price was middle of the range so this is where I would advise printing this year*
Out of the three online labs Snapfish came out best but I would not recommend them based on these results.
*Please note, consumer printing machines / photographic lab colour and quality can change depending on many factors, i.e. whether they have been calibrated recently, paper type used etc. This blog is meant as a helpful guide and information as to what to look out for when choosing where to print your photographs.
If you are looking for beautiful, vibrant images of the very best quality - as your photographer intended them to look, skip buying the digital files and order professional prints directly from your photographer. This way your images will be checked by a highly experienced colour technician as they are printed. Our professional photography lab does not use any machine auto-correction or print your files without them being visually checked by the trained eyes of lab staff. We guarantee this care and attention on every single order.
I hope this has helpful and that everyone is delighted with the prints they receive on Christmas Day.
P.S. I’d love to know what you have done with your digital files, have you created any bespoke printed gifts? Let us know in the comments, you never know, you might inspire someone looking for gift ideas!
Dan and Rachel's surprise engagement shoot at Bamburgh Beach
A few weeks before this shoot, Dan contacted me to photograph his surprise picnic engagement to Rachel on Bamburgh beach. It was a wonderful moment they will both look back on in the future.
The candles in jars, the picnic basket, and the simple blanket all added to the atmosphere and with Bamburgh Castle in the background, it was just the perfect place for such a special moment.
Dan and Rachel are both teachers from Yorkshire but love visiting Northumberland and have stayed in Bamburgh before, making this location even more important to them both.
On this visit they actually stayed at a beautiful accommodation, The Walls B&B in Berwick, a short drive away from Bamburgh.
Once he had proposed and she said yes (phew haha) we did some portrait shots to mark the occasion (and to send to grandma)!
I had to work fairly quickly as dusk was approaching and I didn’t want to loose too much light.
If you scroll down you can see the light changing from day to night in the photos.
Charlton Hall wedding photography with a serious pink and sparkly party vibe!
Holly and Mike’s wedding at Charlton Hall in Northumberland was the epitome of a party wedding, from start to finish it was all just fun fun fun, the interiors are so cool, it’s such a pleasure to photograph here!
Holly’s dress was from SJ Bridal and her hairpiece by Glorious by Heidi.
The interior decor at Charlton Hall is amazing, something unique and eye catching in every room, a photographers dream!
“Till death do us party”
The girls did a great job posing!
Archie the dog just had to get in on some photo action, what a bari joogle!
You have got to love this reception room, what views!
Holly and Mike chose the amazing balloons from Balloonilicious. Their discoball-themed tablescapes, flowers and styling were by The Whole Schbang and the Illuminated lettering was from Coco Luminaire Prop Hire.
The speeches are one of my favourite parts of a wedding day. I love learning little bits about the couple, especially when I already know the family.
I babysat for Holly when she was a toddler!
Geoffrey the Giraffe is a barrel of laughs.
It’s so much fun to work with interiors like this!
A long awaited wedding photography at Le Petit Chateau, Otterburn
Le Petit Chateau is a stunning hotel and wedding venue in Otterburn, Northumberland. The old hotel has been made to look like a beautiful French chateau inside and has vast dreamy gardens and a lake outside too.
Jade, Matt and their girls waited through covid and a lot of stressful reschedules for their big day but the sun shone for them and boy was it worth the wait.
Here are a few photographs from the getting ready and the ceremony part of the day, check out the gorgeous bridal suite (it has a huge free-standing copper bath!) and the huge French mantelpiece in the ceremony room.
As this was in June 2021, masks still had to be worn during the ceremony. The masks were coordinated with the bridesmaid’s dresses which made them blend in nicely, and luckily the masks could come off when everyone retreated to the gardens.
I spent the whole day at Le Petit Chateau, from Jade getting ready right through until after the dancing.
After the ceremony there were canapes and drinks for the adults, then ice creams and candy floss which were very popular with the children.
I still managed to prize them away from the ice cream for these quick shots!
The afternoon teas were served with edible flowers, they were so pretty and tasted amazing!
Matt gave a great speech to everyone then we went outside for some couple’s photographs of just Jade and Matt.
There was a fire pit in the water?!
The beautiful gardens seemed to go on forever. Lots of the guests took a nice peaceful, romantic walk after their dinner too.
Everyone was back in time for the dancing in the ballroom!
Intimate and Colourful Wedding Photography at Paxton Boat House
Grace & Tom’s wedding was held in early July at the Boathouse which is on the grounds of Paxton House, down by the River Tweed.
With a copper flower arch made by Grace’s father Amos and beautiful flowers supplied by Grace’s friend Liz Ellis, who runs The Meadow Bothy, the wedding had a natural and relaxed feel to it.
Grace made a lot of the decorations and favours, she even baked her own cake!
There are lots of different spots for great photos down at the Boathouse. There are old rustic doors and walls, the salmon fishing boats, the inside of the boathouse with the fairy lights and paper lanterns, beautiful woodland which looks great at every time of year, and the River Tweed itself.
After the ceremony, all the family and friends returned to Ayton Bowling Club for some tasty food by Stewart Brown Catering, drinks, sweeties and dancing into the wee small hours!
I loved the vibrant flowers adding a pop of colour to photos at this wedding, especially the wild strawberries on the groomsmen’s buttonholes. Check out more flowers on her Instagram @themeadowbothy.
Click the button below for more information on our Wedding Photography service.
Don't Upload Any More Photos to Your Website Without Reading This First!
Choosing the best image size and format for your product photos can easily double the speed of your website!
When it comes to choosing between jpeg and png files for your website files and photographs, there are technical pros and cons to consider.
Product pages of an e-commerce website need clear but enticing pictures of the item, and you want it to load fast online, right?
Image Formats
.jpeg
In general, jpegs are widely used online because jpeg images load quickly as they have small file sizes compared to other formats. If you want to use large images on your website you will need to compress the jpeg file. The larger the image in ‘weight’, the slower it loads. Jpeg files use ‘lossy’ compression which means that some of the data is lost each time you save it. Usually you can’t tell, but if you go too far with compression it may end up looking like a poor quality image. Lossy compression is permanent so you can’t get the quality back in a file after it has been compressed.
lifestyle product photography in jpeg format - fire bellows by https://www.firebellows.co.uk/bespoke
.jpeg files:
Have small file sizes
Have faster web loading times
Loose quality with compression
Don’t support transparency
Are great for websites with galleries and e-commerce catalogues, mastheads, banners and hero images
.png
They hold more data than a .jpeg and .png compression is ‘lossless’ which means that you can reduce the size of a png image while maintaining the quality. If you use png files online, you may notice longer loading times. png files are good for ‘cutout’ product photography online because the background of a .png file can be completely transparent. This means that you don’t get that dreaded ‘white box’ around your image if you have a coloured background on your website.
Here I used some padding inside the tank top to make it look 3D, the colours are matched to the garment and it is flat lit to ensure the customer can see the complete detail of the knit and the colours of the wool. This is a .png image with a transparent backgound.
.png files:
Support transparency
Have larger file sizes
Are slower to load
Are clear, high-quality images
Are used for logo files, illustrations, small images that need transparent backgrounds, and images with text as part of a graphic.
Other Popular Image File Formats
.svg
SVG or scalable vector graphics file type is built by mathematical formulas that establish points on a grid which means that you can decrease then increase the size as many times as you like without it becoming blurry.
.gif
GIF files use 256 RGB colours and like PNG files they are lossless so do not lose quality. The colour limit is not ideal for saving photographs but solid colour graphics like logos can work. As you probably know GIFs support animation but it’s not a video you are seeing, more of a flipbook.
.ai and .psd
Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop files don’t render on browsers. You will need to convert these files to something like a jpeg or png to use them on your website.
Free Online Image Compression and Optimisation Tools
You can buy or subscribe to a software that will enable you to resize, compress and optimise your photographs which is great if you are doing this all the time as you can set up presets for different sizes and uses but if you just need to change a few images as a one-off, these websites do the job and are quick and free.
Tiny PNG: https://tinypng.com/
Optimizilla: https://imagecompressor.com/
JPEG Optimizer: http://jpeg-optimizer.com/
Resize Photos: http://www.resize-photos.com/
F.A.Q’s
What is the best image format for my website?
jpegs are best for file size but if you need to have transparency in your image, use png format.
What type of photography would be best for my business website?
Here is a link to an article that shows several different examples of professional photography from one shoot. All of them have the power to elevate your business's online presence and website, but which one would you use?
What are the ideal file sizes for photos on my website?
Use images 500 KB or less to help your site load quickly. The smaller the better! (As a guideline, I try and get my photographs under 300KB)
What file type should I use for my logo?
It depends on your logo. I use a png as I like our logo to have transparency when it is over a coloured background like this.
png file which has a transparent background
jpeg file which is ‘contained’ in a box
Can I use both png and jpeg on the same page?
Yes! I’ve used both formats on this very page!
I hope this guide helps you decide on how to format your website photography. If you have purchased product or commercial photography from Pictorial Photography, you will have received your files labelled HIGHRES and another set labelled LOWRES.
HIGHRES photographs are high resolution and ‘print ready’, these are for use on brochures and physically printed materials.
LOWRES photographs have been optimised for use online. Ready for use on your website and social media channels, we usually aim to keep them under 350KB so they won’t slow your site down. Please let us know if your web designer has specific requirements and we will export them to your preferences.
Did you know that we have a free website photography consultation service?
We can advise you on what images you need to increase your online sales or bookings. Schedule a free, no-obligation call with Sarah below: