Several years ago if someone had told me I’d be training in photography I’d have said no way! Over the years however photography has been my absolute passion in life, and in recent years I have specialised in flash photography. It’s only now on reflection over the years that I realise from talking to other hobbyist, enthusiast and even full-time photographers that I have gained a level of knowledge that I can pass on to people who were in my position a few years ago, those who may have more limited flash experience in their photography. At first I was quite possessive of the knowledge I’d gained, but then I thought why should I be, and I’m happy to share my experience in flash with anyone.
I’m in no way a self proclaimed expert in matters of photography and I know there are many methods and styles within photography which use different ways than I do. However, I do produce photographic images to the very highest quality that I can.
Having been into photography for over 20 years now, I found myself becoming deeply involved in the technical side of photography over recent years, more especially all aspects of flash photography, and it’s interplay with natural light. During this time I have experimented, read books, experimented more, and most importantly when those methods were exhausted I sought advice on a practical one to one basis from the best in the business in the UK. In the end I can conclude my fascination was and is with light and how truly wonderful it can be, how we as photographers can manipulate it to our will, restricted only by our own creativity.
It appears there are many photographers who are where I was a few years back, and at the beginning of the journey with flash photography. In fact all training days I have had came about only because I was approached over and over again by photographers. Many of these photographers weren’t just in search of more knowledge about flash, but were perhaps seemingly intimidated by flash in their photography to the point where they just simply didn’t use it.
Here’s a few images, including a selection of behind the scenes from a recent off-camera speed light flash training day.
This was a great group of people, all of mixed ability, all keen to develop flash in their photography, and I am confident all left at the end of the day having succeeded on overcoming any mysteries that flash had previously held for them.
We started off in the studio with a comprehensive coverage of the technicalities of how to trigger a flash off-camera, and then discussed in great detail the simple principals of flash and its relationship with natural light. At the same time our model for the day, Ria was having full bridal hair and makeup application. Hair was perfection as per usual by David Graham Hairdressing, as was makeup by Catherine Fleming Makeup. A beautiful bridal dress was kindly granted courtesy of Carla from Bonita Bridal of Moy, Dungannon. Flower bouquet was with thanks to janice of The Flower Studio, Dungannon.
Here’s some pictures…
