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
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.
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.
Interview with author Sarah Jackman on moving to Berwick and her new Creative Energy
Interview with author Sarah Jackman on moving to Berwick and her new Creative Energy
Can you tell us about yourself and what inspired you to come live and work in Northumberland?
I am a freelance writer, project facilitator and author. I work with individuals and organisations on their writing needs and creative projects. I am the author of four novels and my short fiction has appeared in a number of anthologies.
I have moved many times in my life but more recently thought, until the pandemic, that I was settled. My plans had to change, but so did my perspective. I came to Berwick-upon-Tweed to be closer to family and to live by the sea again. It has surprised me how quickly I have felt at home - I love it! - and living here has given me a new creative energy too.
Which part of your job do you feel most passionate about?
Writing fiction feels essential to me and I think lockdown really showed that creativity is important for everyone. For our well-being and for connecting to others.
I love working with individuals and organisations on their creative journeys and projects. Supporting them to move forward or helping to bring creative ideas into being is exciting and a privilege.
What tips would you give to someone starting out in fiction writing?
Read as widely as possible and keep writing. There is no right or wrong so just be yourself.
What is the best feedback you have ever had?
When a reader says they have re-read a novel of mine, there is nothing better. For me, fiction has always been a way of navigating the world and if one of my novels helps someone else do that, I couldn’t be happier.
Who do you admire most in the world and why?
I admire anyone who, despite dealing with their own challenges and struggles, still finds the time to be kind and offer hope to others.
Do you have a favourite quote that you turn to for inspiration?
The American poet, Mary Oliver, is always good for a quote. This one helps me get through those moments of self-doubt:
“The most regretful people on earth are those who felt the call to creative work, who felt their own creative power restive and uprising and gave to it neither power nor time.”
And for those tricky moments in life, writer Haruki Murakami’s:
“And once the storm is over, you won’t remember how you made it through, how you managed to survive. You won’t even be sure whether the storm is really over, but one thing is certain. When you come out of the storm, you won’t be the same person who walked in. That’s what this storm’s all about.”
What is the biggest challenge you face in business and in being an author?
Writing can be a very solitary business. That is why I like working with others; it is inspiring, often fun, and helps restore my creative energies.
How will you use your headshots and how do you feel they have or will benefit your business?
I wanted the images to look approachable so that people would like to work with me! I also wanted them to reflect my creativity and values. Sarah really understood what I was hoping for; the fact that she made the experience enjoyable was a bonus!
What does a typical workday look like for you?
I dedicate a block of time to fiction writing (usually in the morning) and in the afternoon I work on writing and projects for others as well as my research and marketing. If I take a break in the garden at lunchtime and a walk on the beach in the evening, that is a perfect workday!
What are your future plans?
My most immediate plan is to finish my next novel before the end of the year! During 2020, I took a printmaking course and my current passion project is creating an artists’ book using images and text.
The creative sector has been hit hard by the pandemic and I am hoping I can soon be part of some creative and community projects as organisations ‘open up’ again.
Finally, where can people find you online?
My website and LinkedIn are:
www.sarahjackman.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-jackman-writer/
Headshots: Cameron Robertson, Conservation Photographer
In the ever-evolving digital landscape, a compelling website is a gateway to success for professionals across various domains. One crucial element that often goes unnoticed is the power of captivating headshots.
As a headshot photographer, I had the honour of collaborating with Cameron Robertson, an exceptional conservation and research photographer. Through a series of carefully crafted headshots, we aimed to showcase Cameron's unique personality and his love of the history of Berwick upon Tweed.
Cameron’s remarkable work in conservation and research has not only conserved local history but has brought back to life some of the compelling stories of the Berwick people.
These photographs were taken in a space where Cameron had been completing a project documenting the restoration of a group of Georgian properties in Berwick upon Tweed. He worked on this ‘Cockle Cows’ project over a period of 3 years, you can read more about it on his website or by visiting Berwick Archives.
In the digital era, where attention spans are fleeting, headshots play a crucial role in leaving a lasting impact. Through our collaboration, I had the pleasure of capturing Cameron Robertson's true essence and showcasing it to the world through a series of headshots. These images show his passion, professionalism, and expertise, while also enhancing his website's visual appeal and overall user experience. By investing in high-quality photography, Cameron has harnessed the benefits of headshots to forge a deeper connection with his audience, solidify his brand, and amplify the impact of his remarkable conservation and research photography.
Interview with illustrator Lizzie Vaughan-Knight: the Tartan Trailburner
After a personal branding photography session we did at St Abbs back in December I caught up with Lizzie (The Tartan Trailburner) to ask some questions about her new illustration and art print/product business was going.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what inspired you to set up your business?
I’ve been working as a tour guide around Scotland since 2017 and love showing off the stunning landscapes this country has to offer. When the pandemic hit I was unable to continue my job, so instead began making art inspired by Scotland. I have a passion for colourful landscapes and historic landmarks; and by sharing my artwork and stories through social media, I have been able to reach out to people who can't be here in person. When people began to engage with my work and ask about buying it, I saw an opportunity to grow it into a business. I now have an online shop selling prints, postcards, and original paintings worldwide.
So what does a typical workday look like for you?
There’s no such thing as a typical workday for me! The advantage of running a business from home is that I can fit it around my family life, but I’m still finding the balance. I love a checklist and try to carve out time for creative work and product photography early in the day while leaving admin tasks until the kids are in bed.
Which part of your work do you feel most passionate about?
Connecting with people around the world and helping them feel closer to Scotland is something I’m very passionate about. It’s humbling that people care about my artwork enough to bring it into their lives and put it up on their walls. I don’t think I’ll ever get used to that feeling!
What tips would you give to someone starting out?
Ignore the self-doubt and just keep on going, you’ll pick things up as you go. Also, try not to compare yourself to other people's success; you don't know their whole story.
What is the best feedback you have ever had from a customer?
A customer recently left me a glowing 5-star review that ended with “Such an unusual design, I was pleased to find [the Scottish Kelpies], even if they do give me the willies”. It made me laugh out loud!
Who do you admire most in the world and why?
I admire anyone who uses their creative energy to inspire and motivate others. One example is the Good Ship Illustration crew led by Katie Chappell, Helen Stephens, and Tania Willis. They use their combined artistic experience to offer support and encouragement to creatives and I know I wouldn’t be making art every day if it wasn’t for them!
Where do you turn to for inspiration?
I love to get outdoors and draw from real life in my sketchbook, especially when my kids are with me. They never keep still and it forces me to be in the moment and draw without overthinking.
What are your future plans?
To keep creating! I am working on some exciting projects at the moment and can’t wait to see the finished result. The last year has been full of uncertainty yet opportunities have come along, so I’m going to keep going with the flow and see what happens.
Why did you commission the headshots?
One of my favourite things about small businesses is getting to know the person behind them and great photos help to tell that story. Sarah really understood what my brand is about and helped to create a visual narrative for my website and social media. I would absolutely recommend Pictorial Photography to anyone looking to strengthen their brand or to celebrate a landmark moment in their business or life; It’s great fun too!
Check out more of Lizzie’s work @tartan_trailburner on Instagram and on her shiny new website www.tartantrailburner.com
Also, check out our Personal Branding photography service by clicking the button below.
5 Things to Consider before Hiring a Commercial Photographer
Cooperative funeralcare staff, friendly, approachable, professional
1) Insurance
Most professional photographers will have full liability insurance cover for commercial work but it is certainly worth checking with them how much this is for and that it is all up to date before you decide to hire them. Large businesses and most public sector companies require the cover to be at least £5 million for liability.
2) Contracts
A photography contract protects everyone from unexpected surprises as it allows you to understand in detail what you can anticipate from the photographer’s services and exactly what they expect from you. A contract can be provided by either side as long as both sides agree.
A good contract should include:
The anticipated start date of the contract or shoot date
A summary of what each party will deliver: what will be delivered and when by the photographer; the financial total, and payment schedule
A cancellation policy
Copyright ownership and transfer of use rights (permission to use the photographs for a fixed length of time is most common in commercial photography)
Details of property and model releases required
Liability limitations
Post-production, editing, file format, and expected turnaround time
Any extra fees
Co-op Funeralcare Vehicle Range
3) Photography brief
Create a really clear brief. Photographers are amazing in many ways but telepathy is not one of our superpowers. A good creative brief can save everyone a lot of time and ensure you get the very best out of your marketing budget. Outlining and giving as much information to your photographer on the brand, your buyer personas, target audience, project goals, and USP is invaluable. You get bonus points for including visuals (we are photographers after all).
I have created a detailed explanation of what to include in each section and a free photography brief template to help you out and get you started with this.
4) Model releases for commercial publication
A model release is a written form of permission allowing you to publish a person’s image online and in marketing materials without the worry of liability and licensing claims that may arise down the road.
Model releases are not just for ‘models’. Anyone who can be identified in photography used for commercial purposes should be asked for, and give, express written permission by way of filling in a model release form. Yes, that includes happy customers, passers-by in the public domain, your staff, and even your own family members.
Model releases are also needed to use a recognisable part of the person being photographed. (For example a tattoo, a scar, or even a silhouette of someone if they have a recognisable stance or posture.)
Property releases may be required from a property owner if land or property is recognisable in the photography.
Unfortunately, putting a post on social media and sticking signage up to tell people that photography is taking place is not enough; although it is a good idea to make people aware of what is going on on the day.
An impressive fleet
5) Child models
If you are paying professional child models from a modelling agency to be in the photographs, take into consideration that you will need a chaperone to be available and extra time before the shoot to acquire a performance licence approved by the council where the child resides, even if the work is out of school hours.
Every council seems to be different in how they handle these requests but in my experience, the turnaround time is never less than a fortnight and the paperwork and evidence required can be extensive. For more information on child employment permits see here: https://www.gov.uk/child-employment/restrictions-on-child-employment
Funeral home interior
Please be aware that the information provided by this blog is subject to change. We recommend that you do not take any information held within as a definitive guide to the law or the relevant matter being discussed. You are advised to seek legal or professional advice where necessary rather than relying on the content supplied by the author of this blog.
Due to the nature of the matters discussed on this blog, the information contained within it and any pages linked to it are clearly subject to change, without warning. The law, regulations and other forms of legal governance are constantly changing and adapting to meet the needs of the modern world and it is impossible to comprehensively detail the nature of such within the confines of a blog in a concise, up-to-date manner.
Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions about the free photography brief template.
2020 Vision Project: A Tribute to the Heroes of the Covid-19 Pandemic
Jeremy Evans GP
I was delighted to have been chosen as one of the photographers to take part in this UK-wide project creating a tribute to honour the NHS workers and heroes of the Covid-19 pandemic.
My brief included showing the individuals ‘behind the mask’ so after a bit of research, I found 2 NHS workers who also choose to save lives in their spare time. Jeremy and Claire both work for NHS and volunteer for the RNLI which is an essential service for those who live on the coast.
I am now able to share some of the work that I created as part of the ‘2020 Vision Project’ as their 'Behind The Mask' showcase exhibition was held in London at the weekend.
Claire Mabon Ward Clerk
A Great Blend of PR, Headshots, and Product Photography for Innovative Local Firm, Silvery Tweed Cereals
Over the last few years, we have completed quite a variety of photography work for Silvery Tweed Cereals, from Headshots of lab technicians and managers to new machinery and facilities, and large fleet vehicles.
We have also covered events and charitable activities for STC who have been celebrating their 175th anniversary. One event that sticks in my mind was a great summer fete for their staff. The fete raised £1500 which was donated to local charities; Berwick Lifeboats, Berwickshire Riders for the Disabled Association, The Grove School, and Berwick Cancer Cars.
Another charitable activity we covered was the new ‘Silvery Tweed Technical Centre’ at Berwick Middle School. STC funded a school kitchen refurbishment, which included six new ovens, pasta machines, a barbecue, UV bacteria lights, chopping boards and utensils, nutritional analysis software, as well as a new lighting system and painting. https://www.silverytweedcereals.co.uk/News-and-Updates/
More recently we completed a project with Silvery Tweed and Fords the Bakers who tested out 6 new blends for artisan bread. You can read about it here on the blog, or on British Baker Magazine or in the local press, Northumberland Gazette.
These are the beautiful breads made from the blends by Fords the Bakers. I spent an afternoon photographing the loaves of bread in the studio with technicians from STC. These photos will be used: to advertise the new blends; as product photography for their brochures and website; and in sales catalogs.
9 Easy Peasy Tips for Non-Cringy Conference Calls
How to Stop Cringing through your FaceTime, Zoom, Google Hangouts and Skype Team Calls
Whether you are working from home and chatting with your colleagues, doing professional client meetings, or just meeting up in Houseparty with friends, I have a few simple and easy tips to help you look and feel your best on screen for little or no cost.
You might be wondering with all that is going on in the world right now, is looking your best on camera really so important? Well, I think it is and, especially for work, if you look and feel your best you will feel confident and perform at your best.
Just a few small tweaks can give you that confidence and you will no longer be distracted by that little awkward thumbnail in the corner with your face on.
Light: The most important thing is light. Natural light is always best so try to schedule your calls during the day and have the window in front of you (behind the camera). Switch off room lights as they can create a colour cast which is that awful yellow glow lights give.
Evening Calls: If there is no natural light available, you can use small LED lights or buy a cheap desktop ‘ring light’ from Amazon for around £20.
If you are working from a desktop PC, a free alternative is to turn up the screen brightness to full and make your desktop background white then shrink the video call window and place it in the middle of your screen. This will act like a big white light right in front of you!
Plain white desktop picture with brightness up
Normal desktop picture
Filters/Make-up: There are filters on video apps but they can make you look fake, blurry or like a potato! It’s more professional and honest to just look naturally well-lit and like yourself. If you don’t want to look tired, make-up is recommended. You can wear more make-up on camera than you usually would for a meeting as it doesn’t show up as much as in real life; blusher or bronzer are good as they give a warm and healthy look.
I’m no expert on make-up, so I spoke to Jenny Ross, a professional make-up artist. She said: “A touch of concealer under the eyes and on the lid will waken up the eye if it’s been a long day, then just some mascara to open up the eyes. Lip balms are great for just adding a soft sheen to the lips without it looking like you’ve gone overboard with makeup but still need some hydration on your lips. Warm up the face with bronzer on the cheeks and forehead. Powder any shiny bits if you are using lighting in the evening. A tiny bit of pressed or loose powder will do for the nose, cheeks, and forehead.”
Wardrobe: Wear what you would normally wear to meet your client, colleagues, employer or friends. Unfussy collars, block colours and large print work well. Small patterns or checks can make the camera go fuzzy so it’s best to avoid those. When the warmer weather starts, be sure to avoid strapless tops as you run the risk of looking naked on camera!
Camera Position: If you are using a laptop, pop it on a stand or use some books as you will find the angle unflattering. I’m sure you don’t want clients looking up your nose! Desktop PCs usually have a good camera position. If you are using a mobile phone, try and prop it up at slightly above eye-level height. A small mobile tripod or clamp can help since hand-holding causes camera movement which can be distracting to the viewer and will get tiresome for your arm very quickly.
Orientation: Phone users tend to use portrait orientation and PC or laptop users tend to use landscape orientation. Look at what the others on your call screen are using, and if you are on a phone when everyone is on a desktop, think about turning the phone to the side to fit in with the rest. Most people will be new to this so don’t worry about changing it up; practice makes perfect.
Distance: Think about how far away you would usually sit from a client or friend. Too close to the camera feels over-familiar and uncomfortable but too far away is distracting and can affect your audio.
Background: Your background will depend on where in the room you are positioned for the best light. Declutter your background as much as possible; less is more. Make sure nothing is moving behind you (like a fan) and close doors to deter pets and children from entering and running around behind you.
One last thought; make sure you are not too far away from your internet router. After all this set up, the last thing you would want is for the call to drop out.
That’s it! 9 top tips for non-cringe video calls. Please let me know in the comments below which of these tips has helped you the most. Enjoy your chats!
Written by Sarah
Craig Connor, Social Media Influencer and Model
Craig popped up to Berwick today to update his modelling portfolio. Craig is a social media influencer and is represented by @buzz_talent_ and managed by @my.influencers.
We needed to get a range of shots for his portfolio; full length, mid-length, some different expressions and in various locations, including the studio.
I’m really excited to see how far he goes, follow @craigconnor on Instagram to follow along with me!
Interview with Madelaine: Pinny Princess
Madelaine contacted us with a very specific 'look' that she needed for headshots on her new updated website Pinny Princess. It's nice to do something different; I don't usually shoot in black and white for starters!
If you are on Instagram, you may have already heard of Pinny Princess with an impressive 20k+ following. Alongside working from her home workshop near Morpeth, she is also super mum to her two young boys and manages to effortlessly bring glamour and style to the farm.
Can you tell us about yourself and what inspired you to work in Northumberland?
I'm Madelaine from Pinny Princess, I was born and bred in Northumberland. I am greatly passionate about the area and love working here. I try my hardest to build a creative and flexible environment in our rural home for my kids, as my parents did for me.
Which part of your job do you feel most passionate about?
I feel the most passionate about my loyal customer base. I still pinch myself every day when someone from around the globe purchases something from Pinny Princess in little old Northumberland.
What tips would you give to someone starting out in your industry?
I would say focus on your ideal customer!
What is the best feedback you have ever had?
Great customer service. I pride myself as a small business to be as friendly as possible.
Who do you admire most in the world and why?
My mother. She has brought me up with the mindset that I can achieve anything I want, even with huge obstacles.
Do you have a favourite quote that you turn to for inspiration?
"Life's not fair"
My dad always said this to me so it has stuck with me and always grounds me!
What is the biggest challenge you face in business?
Being dyslexic is always a challenge. I am great with numbers but reading and spelling are difficult on a daily basis.
How will you use your headshots or how do you feel they will benefit your business?
I will be using them on my new website & social media platforms, I have never had them done before, so I am hoping they will create a professional look.
Headshot for Alistair Birkett, Farmer and Minister
Alistair popped into the studio on the off chance of getting a headshot done for the about page of Rural Ministries of which he is a pastoral support director. We went for a casual look so that his headshots could also be used for his farming business in Norham and for some of his social media pages like LinkedIn and Twitter.
Landscape Magazine Commission: Northumberland’s Dramatic Coastline
I was commissioned by Landscape Magazine for the third time. I’m so excited to have my work published in Landscape again; I love this magazine!
Working with journalist Angie Aspinall, I created images to illustrate her article ‘Where Sea Meets Shore’. The article was published in the June 2019 edition and spanned 13 pages of the magazine so a lot of images were needed.
I met some great folk with my camera and enjoyed a day around the dramatic Northumberland coast.
Firstly I met Mary, who set up Barter Books in Alnwick. https://www.barterbooks.co.uk/
Then Trevor, the head gardener at Alnwick Gardens. https://www.alnwickgarden.com/
Across in Craster, I found Neil Robson of the famous Craster Kippers. https://www.kipper.co.uk/
Neil happens to be based right along the street from Mick Oxley in his stunning art gallery. https://www.mickoxley.com/
Julia Linstead exhibits her glasswork in Mick’s gallery but I photographed her separately in her own studio. https://julialinsteadglass.com/
I then travelled to Seahouses and met up with William Shiel for a quick shoot in the harbour. https://www.farne-islands.com/
After that, I visited the Grace Darling museum to meet Marleen the heritage development manager. https://rnli.org/grace-darling-museum/
Last, but certainly not least, I went to Bamburgh Castle to photograph Karen, the events and marketing manager. https://www.bamburghcastle.com/
What a day! Enjoy more photography from the day below!
Professional Headshots for Adam Douglas Legal LLP Alnwick and Berwick
Recently I took headshots for Adam Douglas Legal in their Alnwick and Berwick offices. They were all really friendly, approachable people and I was impressed with the high percentage of women in the legal team too.
Check out their lovely new website with ‘our team’ page here https://www.adam-douglas.co.uk/our-team.html
The website is by Sue Rudge Design http://www.suerudgedesign.com/
Written by Sarah