Weddings: My New Approach

As the wedding season unfolds, I find myself embracing a different approach to my craft. Gone are the days when I sought to capture an abundance of weddings, valuing quantity over quality. Instead, I have chosen a path that allows me to fully immerse myself in each cherished occasion. With intention and care, I have set a goal to photograph no more than ten weddings per year, and this shift has brought newfound joy to my work.

Weddings still hold a special place in my heart, and my passion for capturing these beautiful moments remains unwavering. However, my focus has evolved, and I now prioritize the pursuit of excellence and the expression of my unique artistic style in every photograph I create.

By embracing this refined approach, I am able to invest more deeply in the storytelling process. I diligently observe the intricate details, the raw emotions, and the fleeting moments that unfold throughout the day. With every click of the shutter, I strive to encapsulate the essence of the couple's love story and preserve it for eternity.

It is within this intentional space, where quality takes precedence over quantity, that my creativity flourishes. Each wedding becomes a canvas for me to paint with light and emotion, weaving together a tapestry of memories that will be cherished for generations to come.

I feel grateful for the opportunity to partake in these intimate celebrations, to witness the joining of souls, and to be entrusted with capturing the magic of love. It is through this refined approach, embracing the pursuit of quality and infusing my unique artistic style, that I find my greatest fulfillment in wedding photography.

Embracing the Toughness of Business: A Journey of Resilience and Reflection

As I advance in my career and experience greater success, I can't help but notice how much tougher I've become. The world of business is undoubtedly challenging, and navigating its ups and downs can test one's mettle. Clinching some deals and losing others can be emotionally draining. Moreover, witnessing my competitors secure deals that I had my eyes on is a tough pill to swallow. Even embracing new business opportunities, though exciting, often requires a fierce battle within. And when it all plays out on social media, it adds another layer of complexity to the toughness.

Navigating the Ups and Downs

The journey of success in business is rarely a smooth ride. It involves facing numerous challenges and uncertainties. While securing a successful deal brings an incredible sense of accomplishment, experiencing losses can be disheartening. However, I understand that each deal won or lost offers valuable lessons, shaping me into a more resilient and adaptive professional.

The Sting of Missed Opportunities

Watching my competitors gain deals that I had hoped to secure can be both frustrating and humbling. It's natural to wonder what could have been, but dwelling on missed opportunities does not serve my growth. Instead, I choose to channel that energy into self-improvement, analyzing where I can enhance my approach and strategy for future opportunities.

The Battle of Embracing New Business Ventures

Taking on new business ventures is an exhilarating experience, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. It demands a tough mentality to tackle uncertainties and risks. Yet, it is precisely in these moments that I find my resolve and determination to push forward.

The Impact of Social Media

Social media plays a significant role in today's business landscape, offering both opportunities and challenges. While it provides valuable insights and connections, it also exposes me to the achievements of others in my field. The constant stream of updates can sometimes add pressure and amplify the toughness of my journey.

Understanding the Value of Real-World Connections

I can see why some business connections prefer to limit their engagement with social media, choosing instead to focus on real-world interactions. Building strong personal connections and nurturing professional relationships in face-to-face settings can offer a sense of authenticity and direct engagement that social media often lacks.

Embracing Growth and Reflection

Amidst all the toughness, I understand the importance of continuous growth and self-reflection. Each experience, whether challenging or triumphant, contributes to my evolution as a business professional. Celebrating successes and learning from setbacks allows me to approach future endeavors with a wiser and more experienced perspective.

In conclusion, the toughness of the business world is an inevitable part of my journey toward success. I embrace the challenges, knowing that they shape me into a more resilient and determined individual. While social media can add complexity to the mix, I recognize the value of genuine connections in the real world. Ultimately, I choose to navigate the toughness with grace, using each experience as a stepping stone toward greater accomplishments and personal growth.

Embracing the Uncharted: My Journey with Experimental Photography

“In the realm of photography, there exist two worlds: the ordinary and the extraordinary. I, as an artist, firmly belong to the latter. Each dawn, a passionate yearning awakens within me, urging me to create and traverse uncharted realms of light. My soul is entwined with aesthetics and the allure of visual beauty.

For some, the label of "photographer" serves as a means to a monetary end, but for me, it is a mantle of artistic dedication. I am an artist who delves into the very essence of shape, form, and light, seeking to unveil the secrets they hold.

If you seek a mere photographer, peruse the realm of my competitors. However, if you crave an artist who breathes life into every frame through the profound study of light, I implore you to reach out and connect with me. Together, we shall embark on a journey through the realm of artistry and creation!”

Ray Jone, Visual Artist

As a photographer, my online galleries showcase a diverse range of subjects - from enticing food captures to captivating portraits. However, amid these well-trodden paths, there exists a concealed realm that holds the key to my creative soul - my experimental photography.

While I openly share my general work, it is my experimental endeavors that stir a deep nerve within me. This hidden treasure trove fuels an insatiable hunger to explore uncharted territories, to dance with light, and to unlock the mysteries of form and aesthetics. It is here that I find liberation from the constraints of tradition, and authenticity flourishes.

Amongst the cherished captures that remain tucked away, one image stands out with mesmerizing allure - a captivating bust adorned with dramatic illumination. This photograph emanates a sense of mystery and emotion, touching my creative core in ways words fail to express. The marble canvas springs to life, whispering untold stories yearning to be revealed.

The sanctuary of experimental photography is my haven, where vulnerability and raw emotions intermingle, and the essence of my artistry truly blossoms. Here, I dare to challenge norms, delving into unexplored territories to craft an intimate dialogue between myself and my creations.

Driven by an unwavering obsession with aesthetics, I transform each frame into a canvas for storytelling. The interplay of light and shadow becomes my language, inviting viewers to step into a world where the familiar intertwines seamlessly with the extraordinary.

The allure of experimental photography lies not only in the final image but also in the process leading to its inception. Each capture bears witness to the intimate dance between my creative spirit and the elements, culminating in the birth of genuine artistry.

While I may choose to keep these precious gems private, their impact on my creative journey is immeasurable. They kindle a fiery inspiration, urging me to pursue authenticity, aesthetic excellence, and the profound ability to weave captivating visual narratives.

In a world brimming with visual abundance, my experimental photography stands as a testament to the spirit of artistic exploration. This hidden realm is where my passion for aesthetics thrives, and the essence of storytelling with photographs finds its purest expression.

As I continue walking this uncharted path, I extend an invitation to fellow artists and enthusiasts. Embrace your experimental spirit, venture into the unexplored, and let your creativity soar. For within these undiscovered territories, the true soul of photography unfurls, and the magic of artistry flourishes in its most authentic form.

Getting The Lighting & Colour Just Right With Interiors & Properties

I’ve written this post because I find it frustrating and annoying seeing interior images shared on social media that are of a poor quality.  They are often posted by property investors and estate agents and interior designers who don’t have an understanding of photography and lighting and colour.  I’m here to educate and help.

The first image was taken using available light only. The colors are washed out, and the windows are blown out, causing a haze and bloom that is very unattractive. Sometimes the owner requests I don’t show the outside space and in that case I will leave the windows blown out.  I use this image as a blend with the flashed image.  This is the main type of image I am seeing being posted on social.  It’s extremely poor and doesn’t do justice to a smart property! It shows inexperience.

The second image was lit solely by flash. It has that flash light look but I take it because flash corrects colors within the room.  Look at the image again.  It may well be a flat flashy image but colours are corrected.  White flash was bounced off the ceiling which neutralises any colour casts from the outside and indoor furnishings.

The third image you can see a correctly exposed and color-corrected living room interior.  I combined the first image for tones and the second image for colour in photoshop which is a common method used by professionals in the property photography industry.

I'm a member of many different property groups on social media, and I see lots of images there and on estate agents' pages that are poorly lit, often using photos like the first image.  It seems estate agents don't understand the importance of showing properties in a pleasing way.  Quite a few seem to think it’s enough to just whip out their phone and do it themselves but they’re not photographers and it unfortunately shows.

As a property photographer, it's essential to gather relevant information from the property owner before starting the photography session. Here are some key questions you should ask:

1. What are the main features of the property? Ask the owner to highlight the key selling points, unique features, and any renovations or upgrades they want to showcase.

2. Are there any specific areas of the property they want to emphasize or avoid? Inquire if there are particular rooms, views, or exterior areas that the owner wants to be the focus of the photos or if there are areas they prefer not to include.

3. What is the target audience for the property? Understanding the potential buyers or renters can help you tailor the photography to suit their preferences and needs.

4. Are there any specific angles or shots they want? Ask if the owner has any specific preferences or ideas for how they want the property to be portrayed in the photos.

5. Will the property be staged or cleaned before the shoot? Ensure that the property is presented in the best possible condition for photography. Discuss staging or cleaning arrangements with the owner.

6. Are there any time restrictions for the shoot? Check if there are specific time frames or days that work best for the property owner, especially if they need to prepare the property or coordinate other activities.

7. Is there anything in the property that should not be photographed? Some owners may have personal belongings or sensitive items they prefer not to include in the photos.

8. Will there be access to all areas of the property during the shoot? Confirm that you will have access to all the rooms and spaces needed for the photography session.

9. How will the photos be used? Discuss the usage rights and permissions for the photos, especially if they will be used for advertising, listings, or promotional purposes.

10. What is the deadline for delivering the final images? Establish a timeline for delivering the edited photos to meet the owner's needs.

By asking these questions, you'll ensure that you have a clear understanding of the owner's expectations and preferences, allowing you to capture the property in the best possible way and provide a satisfying photography experience for the property owner.

I often work with a home stager, Judith Todd owner of https://homestyle4u.com who stylises properties before I photograph them.

Food Photography Tips: Lighting

As a professional food photographer, I cannot stress enough how important lighting is when it comes to capturing beautiful and enticing food photos. If you're using available indoor lighting to photograph food, you're setting yourself up for disappointment. The lighting in most indoor spaces is not controlled and comes from all directions, which can lead to unappetizing and unattractive photos. In fact, using indoor lighting can often taint the colors of the food, resulting in a lackluster final image.

I've seen so many food businesses try to take their own photos using the latest mobile phones and indoor lighting, and the results are almost always disappointing. These photos look unappetizing, and they're a major turn-off for potential customers. The truth is, indoor lighting is often designed to make a room look attractive, not to photograph food. If you want to capture mouthwatering photos of your dishes, you need to take control of the lighting.

One of the best ways to do this is by using artificial lighting. I use a combination of softbox lights, ring lights, and other types of lighting to create the perfect environment for each shot. By using these tools, I can adjust the light to create the perfect balance of shadows and highlights, and I can manipulate the light to highlight certain aspects of the dish. This allows me to create a controlled environment that brings out the best in the food, resulting in stunning and appetizing photos.

In summary, if you want to capture beautiful and enticing photos of your food, you need to invest in proper lighting equipment. Using available indoor lighting is a recipe for disappointment, and it can result in unappetizing and unattractive photos. Instead, take control of the lighting and bring out the best in your dishes. Your customers will thank you for it!

Your Investment In Me

Here are 20 reasons why you should invest in me and my photography business:-

1. I bring a unique perspective to commercial photography, drawing inspiration from my background in fine art and my passion for capturing the beauty of food, hospitality, branding, and interiors.

2. My approach is highly collaborative, working closely with clients to understand their vision and bring it to life through stunning and compelling imagery.

3. With years of experience in the industry, I have a deep understanding of the needs and expectations of clients in the food, hospitality, branding, and interiors space, allowing me to deliver exceptional results every time.

4. I have a keen eye for detail, capturing the small nuances that make a big difference in the final product, whether it's the texture of a dish or the intricate design of a hotel lobby.

5. I am passionate about storytelling through photography, creating images that not only look beautiful but also communicate a message and tell a story.

6. My background in fine art gives me a unique perspective on composition, lighting, and color, allowing me to create images that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also emotionally resonant.

7. I am dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in the industry, ensuring that my work is always fresh, innovative, and relevant.

8. I understand the importance of branding and how imagery plays a crucial role in communicating brand values and messaging to customers.

9. I have a deep appreciation for the art of food and drink, and I am passionate about capturing the beauty and intricacy of these subjects in my photography.

10. I have a keen understanding of the unique challenges of photographing in the hospitality industry, from working with tight schedules to capturing the right ambiance in a hotel or restaurant.

11. I am committed to delivering exceptional customer service, always going above and beyond to ensure my clients are happy with the final product.

12. I have a strong network of contacts in the industry, including chefs, restaurateurs, and hoteliers, allowing me to provide valuable insight and connections to my clients.

13. I am dedicated to using the latest technology and equipment to ensure that my work is of the highest quality and meets the demanding standards of the industry.

14. I am passionate about supporting local businesses and using my photography to help them succeed and grow.

15. I am committed to sustainability and ethical business practices, minimizing waste and always striving to reduce my environmental impact.

16. I have a deep understanding of the power of visual storytelling and how it can be used to create emotional connections with customers.

17. I am passionate about capturing the unique personality and character of each brand, creating images that reflect their values and messaging.

18. I am dedicated to delivering results that exceed expectations, always striving to push the boundaries of what is possible in commercial photography.

19. I am committed to ongoing learning and personal growth, always seeking out new techniques and approaches to improve my craft.

20. I am passionate about creating imagery that inspires, delights, and captivates viewers, using my unique art influences to set me apart from my competitors and deliver exceptional results to my clients.

Raymond Jones Images

Nan’s Summer Trifle

As a food and product photographer, I'm always on the lookout for new and creative ideas to incorporate into my work. In the past, I relied heavily on platforms like Pinterest to help me generate ideas before diving into the process of editing and post-production. However, ever since I discovered Midjourney, my workflow has completely changed.

One of my recent projects involved creating a medieval-style trifle with dramatic lighting, a shallow depth of field, and candles. I wasn't quite sure where to start, so I turned to Midjourney for inspiration. I simply typed in my desired keywords and within seconds, I was presented with a range of stunning images that perfectly captured the aesthetic I was going for.

The top two images and bottom left image caught my eye and helped me to visualize the direction I wanted to take with my own photo shoot. I was particularly drawn to the use of lighting and the way the candles created a warm, inviting atmosphere. Armed with this inspiration, I set to work creating my own version of this medieval trifle.

While the bottom right image was ultimately my own creation, it was heavily influenced by the ideas and inspiration I gleaned from Midjourney. It's amazing how a simple search can lead to such a wealth of creative ideas and possibilities. And while I know AI isn't perfect, what matters most to me is that it's given me a powerful starting point for my work.

I'm grateful and excited for the role AI has played in changing my workflow and helping me to achieve my creative vision. I look forward to continuing to use tools like Midjourney to push the boundaries of what's possible in my work as a photographer.

#inspired #commercial #photography

Food Photography Tips

Here are some tips on food photography based on my experience as a photographer:

1. Lighting is key: Good lighting is essential for any type of photography, but it's especially important for food photography. I prefer natural light, and I try to shoot near a window during the daytime. If you're shooting indoors, you can use artificial lights such as a softbox or umbrella to create a similar effect.

2. Use a tripod: A tripod is a must-have for food photography. It will help you keep your camera steady and ensure that your photos are sharp and in focus. It also gives you the flexibility to adjust your composition without having to worry about holding the camera steady.

3. Pay attention to composition: Composition is an important aspect of food photography. I like to think about the rule of thirds, and I try to create a balanced composition that draws the viewer's eye to the main subject of the photo.

4. Play with depth of field: Depth of field can be used to create a sense of depth and focus on the main subject of the photo. I often use a shallow depth of field to blur the background and make the food stand out.

5. Experiment with props: Props can add interest and texture to your food photos. I like to use simple props such as wooden boards, linen napkins, and cutlery.

6. Don't be afraid to edit: Editing can be used to enhance the colors and overall look of your photos. I like to use Lightroom or Photoshop to make adjustments such as adjusting the exposure, white balance, and saturation.

7. Practice, practice, practice: Like any skill, food photography takes practice. Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things. The more you practice, the better you'll become.

#food #photography #tips

We Are Becoming Celebrities In Our Own Right

I've always been fascinated with the idea of celebrity culture. Growing up, I was always drawn to the famous people on my TV screen or in magazines. But with the rise of social media, I've noticed a shift in the way we view and interact with celebrities. Now, it seems like we all have the potential to become mini-celebrities in our own right.

As someone who works in the business world, I've found that many of the people I look up to and admire are those who have made a name for themselves on social media platforms like LinkedIn. I've connected with numerous business leaders online, and have been able to learn from their insights and experiences.

Recently, I had the opportunity to meet one of these business leaders in person. It was a surreal experience, as I felt like I already knew so much about him from following his posts and updates on LinkedIn. But meeting him face-to-face allowed me to see the person behind the profile, and to gain an even deeper understanding of his perspective and approach to business.

As I reflect on this, it strikes me that social media has truly changed the way we view and interact with celebrities. It's no longer just about the famous people on our screens, but about the individuals in our own communities who are making a difference and inspiring us to be our best selves. And in a way, that's even more exciting and empowering than the traditional celebrity culture of the past.

Food Photography: Home Cooking

As a food and hospitality photographer, I'm always looking for ways to improve my skills and try out new techniques. However, when I'm on a shoot with a client, there isn't always time to experiment and play around with different lighting or composition ideas.

That's why I've found that home cooking is such a valuable tool for me. Even though I'm not a professional chef or cook, I know what visually looks appealing and can use that knowledge to create dishes that are not only tasty but also aesthetically pleasing.

When I'm photographing my homemade meals, I have the freedom to try out different lighting setups, experiment with composition, and play around with backgrounds and props. It's a low-pressure environment where I can take my time and really focus on honing my skills.

And the best part is, I can use these images in my portfolio or show them to clients as examples of my work. They may not be professional shoots, but they still showcase my abilities as a photographer and demonstrate my creativity and attention to detail and they are authentically me.

Home cooking has been an invaluable tool for me as a food and hospitality photographer. It allows me to practice and experiment in a low-pressure environment, and helps me to continue improving my skills and impressing my clients.

#homecooking #food #foodphotography #foodphotographer #authenticfood #foofiefeature #cheshire #northwales

Food Photography & Soft Lighting

It’s Pride month. A month to celebrate diversity and difference.

As a photographer, there's nothing I love more than capturing the perfect shot. One of my favorite subjects to photograph is food and products, especially under soft lighting. There's just something about the way the light falls on the subject that creates a dreamlike effect, especially during the summer months.

I find that using a shallow depth of field really helps to enhance the mood of the photo. By blurring out the background, the focus is solely on the subject, and it creates a sense of intimacy and closeness. It's almost like the viewer is right there with me, experiencing the beauty of the food or product firsthand.

To achieve this effect, I like to use natural light whenever possible. I find that it has a softer quality that really brings out the colours and textures of the subject. Of course, this can be a bit tricky during the middle of the day when the sun is at its brightest, so I'll often wait until the early morning or late afternoon when the light is a bit more subdued.

When it comes to composition, I like to keep things simple and clean. Sometimes, I'll even add a few props to the shot, like a sprig of herbs or a small vase of flowers, to add a bit of interest and depth.

At the end of the day, it's all about capturing the mood of the subject. Whether I'm photographing a delicious meal or a beautiful product, I want the viewer to feel like they're right there with me, experiencing the beauty and magic of the moment. And with the right lighting, composition, and technique, I know I can create a photo that truly captures that feeling.

Let’s connect to discuss your photography requirements for a no fee chat and personalised quotation. Call 078377 888 74 or email me ray@raymondjonesimages.com or click here

#pride2023 #food #photography #commercial

Putting Other Businesses First

Running a business is not easy. It requires constant effort, dedication, and persistence in the ever-changing market. As a business owner, you need to stay on top of the game, constantly pushing your business forward with advertisements, networking, and other marketing strategies. However, one of the most significant yet overlooked aspects of running a successful business is putting others first.

The traditional mindset of most business owners is centered around getting work for their own business. While this is important, it is equally important to think about other businesses and try to find them work. This shift in mindset is vital for any business owner, as it can help build strong relationships with other businesses, generate goodwill, and ultimately lead to more success.

Putting others first is not just about being kind or charitable. It is a strategic move that can help you build a strong network of contacts and referrals. When you help other businesses succeed, they are more likely to return the favour, either by recommending your services to their clients or by collaborating with you on future projects. This can lead to a steady stream of business opportunities, which can be a game-changer for any business.

Moreover, putting others first can help you build a reputation as a reliable and trustworthy business owner. When you prioritize the needs of others, you demonstrate that you are not just in it for yourself, but that you genuinely care about the success of others. This can help you build a loyal customer base, as people are more likely to do business with someone they trust and respect.

In conclusion, putting others first is a crucial aspect of running a successful business. It is a strategic move that can help you build a strong network of contacts, generate goodwill, and build a reputation as a reliable and trustworthy business owner. So, the next time you are thinking about your marketing strategy, consider how you can help other businesses succeed, and watch your own business thrive as a result.

It Is All In The Condiments

As a food photographer, I take pride in my ability to capture the essence of a catering business and convey their desired image to their existing and potential clients through my photographs. One aspect that I always pay close attention to is the use of condiments such as salt, pepper, sauces, and the containers they are served in. These seemingly small details can have a significant impact on the overall aesthetic and image that a catering business wants to convey.

I've noticed that lower-end gastro pubs and restaurants often prefer to use sachets for their condiments. While they may be more cost-effective and efficient, sachets can give off a less professional and refined appearance. On the other hand, higher-end gastro pubs and restaurants tend to use higher quality salt and pepper grinders, and for sauces, they use ramekins. These options are more upscale and create a more sophisticated image for the business.

When working with a catering business, I always make it a point to investigate and understand their desired image and branding. This includes their choice of condiments and containers. By understanding their preferences, I can make recommendations based on industry standards and best practices that will help them achieve the desired image.

Ultimately, the choice of condiments and containers will depend on the specific image and branding that a catering business wants to convey, as well as their target audience and budget. As a food photographer, my job is to work closely with the business to understand their vision and preferences, and to help them achieve their desired image through my photographs.

In conclusion, paying attention to even the smallest details such as condiments and containers can go a long way in creating a cohesive and visually appealing image for a catering business. As a food photographer, it is my duty to understand the desired image and convey it through my photographs.

For Quality Purposes, What You Should Look for in Property Photographs

It can be quite daunting looking at photographs of your property and thinking that you’re not sure if the photographs are of a good professional quality or not. Once you know the questions to ask yourself when viewing them, can make all the difference.

1. Determine the Purpose of the Photographs: The first question to ask is what the purpose of the photographs is. Are they intended for marketing purposes, such as for use in a property listing or brochure, or are they for personal use, such as to document the condition of a property before or after a renovation?

2. Ask About the Equipment Used: It's important to ask about the equipment the photographer used to take the photographs. This can include the camera, lenses, and lighting equipment. A professional photographer should be using high-quality equipment to ensure the best possible results.

3. Check for Image Quality: When viewing the photographs, pay close attention to the image quality. Are the images sharp and clear, or are they blurry or poorly lit? Make sure the images accurately represent the property and its features.

4. Look for Proper Composition: Composition refers to the arrangement of elements in an image, such as the placement of furniture and the use of space. Proper composition is essential for creating visually appealing and effective photographs.

5. Check for Colour Accuracy: The colours in the photographs should accurately reflect the colours of the property. Make sure the colours are not oversaturated or too bright, as this can make the property look unnatural. If colour accuracy is important, your photographer should be using flash. If flash isn’t being used the images will appear washed out and polluted with colours from furnishings, outside sunlight. Using flash corrects colours.

6. Ask About Post-Processing: Many photographers will perform post-processing on the images to enhance their quality. Ask the photographer what post-processing techniques were used and how they were applied.

7. Are vertical lines vertical? Unless they are purposely not vertical. All verticals should straight.

8. Are there window view details? Some properties have beautiful garden spaces so it’s essential to have a nicely exposed window. However, if the garden space is unattractive it may be desirable to leave the window blown out.

9. Consider the Overall Impression: Finally, consider the overall impression the photographs give. Do they make the property look appealing and inviting? Do they accurately represent the property and its features? If the photographs don't meet your expectations, discuss your concerns with the photographer and work together to come up with a solution.

By asking these questions when viewing property photographs, you can ensure that you are investing in high-quality images that accurately represent the property and its features and you’ve made a wise investment

I often work with interior designers and home stage specialists. If a property looks good it will photograph great.

I’ve worked with Judith Todd, homestager based on the Wirral. Judith’s website is https://homestyle4u.com

#proprtyphotography

Playing With Colours

As a food photographer, I always strive to capture the essence of the dishes I shoot. One way I love to add visual interest to my photographs is by playing with colours. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing some freshly picked asparagus on a vibrant blue background, and the results were stunning.

The contrast between the green asparagus and the blue background created a striking visual effect that really made the dish pop. I love how the blue background made the asparagus look even fresher and more vibrant, almost like it was still growing in a garden.

Playing with colours in food photography is a great way to add depth and interest to your images. It allows you to create a mood and convey a feeling that complements the dish you're photographing. Whether you're using bright, bold colours or more muted tones, experimenting with color can help you create truly unique and captivating images.

Of course, it's important to remember that colour is just one element of food photography, and it should always serve to enhance the overall composition of your image. But when used effectively, colour can be a powerful tool that helps to bring your dishes to life and create a visual feast for the eyes.

#foodphotography

I’ve Deleted Multiple Social Accounts

As a photographer, I've always believed that social media is a powerful tool for building my brand and showcasing my work. Over the years, I've created multiple social media accounts to reflect the different areas of my photography business. However, I've recently come to the realization that managing all these accounts has been exhausting and overwhelming.

Trying to feed these accounts with content has been a constant challenge. I found myself struggling to create unique content for each one, which ultimately led to a decline in the quality of my posts. I realized that this wasn't sustainable, and I needed to make a change.

That's why I made the decision to delete six of my social media accounts, leaving just one on each platform. This has been a difficult decision, but I believe it's the right one for me at this point in my career.

I've decided to refocus on my passion for food and restaurant photography, as well as interior design. These are the areas where I feel most inspired, and where I believe I can make the biggest impact. Although I do offer other photography services, I've decided to make food and restaurant photography and interiors my main focus.

I’ve also adjusted my rates in line with this new focus.

By streamlining my social media presence in this way, I can now devote more time and energy to creating high-quality content that truly reflects my passions and interests. I'm excited to see where this new focus takes me and my business.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by your social media presence, I encourage you to consider consolidating your accounts. By focusing on the areas where you feel most passionate and inspired, you'll be able to create content that truly reflects your unique vision and style. Don't be afraid to make difficult decisions, as they may ultimately be the key to your success.

#refocus

Taking Back My Life

These late spring mornings are a source of pure delight to me. They have the power to transport me back to my childhood days by the River Alyn in Hope, where I would spend hours exploring and enjoying the natural beauty around me. The memories of those carefree days are etched into my mind, and they bring a sense of peace and contentment to my soul.

In this world of constant commercialism and noise, I wanted to take a moment to share a simple, non-commercial post. It's a reminder to myself and others that sometimes, the most valuable things in life cannot be bought or sold.

Recently, I received some wonderful news about a health scare that had been weighing heavily on me. This experience has given me a fresh perspective on life, and I am committed to enjoying every moment to the fullest. As part of this new outlook, I am planning to reduce my social media presence and focus on quality over quantity.

I know it won't be easy, but I am determined to make the most of my time, and to spend it on the things that truly matter. I want to savor each moment, to appreciate the beauty around me, and to cultivate meaningful connections with the people in my life.

So here's to these beautiful sunny mornings, to the memories they evoke, and to the new beginnings they inspire.

Ray

Taking Time Out

We've come to realize that being good in business doesn't just mean working hard and making money. It's also about taking the time to enjoy the things we love and the people we care about and like being with. Today was a perfect example of this.

We started our day with a visit to St Helens church in Tarporley. We've always had a fascination with churches and exploring their history and architecture. It was a beautiful experience that reminded us of the importance of taking time to appreciate the beauty around us. We love architecture.

After our visit to the church, we met up with our friends for afternoon tea in their Georgian styled garden. The garden setting for tea was like like from Tea With Mussolini. The food was delicious, the conversation was lively, and the atmosphere was simply magical.

As we sit here in our own little paradise, we can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. It's a reminder that to be successful in business and in life, we need to make time for the things that bring us joy and fulfillment. Today was a beautiful reminder of that, and we're so grateful to have experienced it.

#dowhatyoulove

I Won The 60 Second Presentaion

Winning the 60 second presentation at my network meetings was always a challenge for me. No matter how much I prepared, I just couldn't seem to capture the attention of the audience. That's when I realized that I needed to do something different if I wanted to stand out and make an impact.

Just like my photography, I strive to be different in everything I do. I believe that being unique is what sets you apart from the crowd and helps you achieve success. So, I decided to take that same approach with my pitch and wrote a poem about my business.

At first, I was hesitant to take such a creative approach. I wondered if people would take me seriously or if they would think I was being unprofessional. But I knew that I needed to take a risk if I wanted to achieve my goals, so I went for it.

To my surprise, my approach paid off. Not only did I capture the attention of the audience, but I also won the presentation. It was an amazing feeling to know that my unique approach had worked and that I was able to stand out from the crowd.

This experience taught me a valuable lesson about business and life in general. It's easy to get caught up in doing things the way that everyone else does them, but sometimes, taking a risk and doing something different can lead to great success.

So, I encourage you to embrace your creativity and strive to be different and celebrate themin everything you do. You never know where it might take you or what kind of impact it might have on your life and your business.

Preparing the Food & Team in Preparation for a Photoshoot

Preparing food for a photography shoot requires a different approach than preparing food for regular service. To ensure that your catering business's dishes and team look their best in photographs, here are some tips to consider:

1. Use Quality Knives and Forks: A good quality knife and fork set can make all the difference in how your dishes look in photographs. Ensure that the cutlery is clean and polished, and avoid using disposable cutlery as it can look cheap and unprofessional.

2. Clean Plates: Clean plates are essential for food photography. Make sure that the plates are free from any food debris or stains and are not chipped or cracked.

3. Quality Napkins: The napkins you use should be of a high quality and in good condition. If the napkins are stained or frayed, it will detract from the overall look of the photograph. Alternatively, you could consider removing the napkins altogether if they do not add to the presentation.

4. Less is More: When it comes to food photography, less is often more. Avoid overcrowding the plate with too many elements, as it can look messy and unappetizing in the photograph. Focus on presenting only the key elements of the dish.

5. Presentation Matters: The way you arrange the food on the plate can make all the difference to how it looks in the photograph. Avoid simply plonking the food on the plate, and instead consider the presentation of each element. Take the time to arrange the food in an attractive and aesthetically pleasing way. Your chef will have been trained on presentation and plating. If you have a cook in the kitchen consider employing a chef with plating skills for the shoot.

6. Book the photography shoot outside of normal business hours. If possible, consider booking the photography shoot when the business is closed. This will allow the chef and staff to focus solely on the presentation of the dishes and not be distracted by regular service or orders.

7. Use fresh and vibrant ingredients which are essential for creating visually appealing images. Fresh herbs like basil, coriander, and parsley not only add flavor to dishes but also provide a pop of color and texture in photographs. When herbs or other ingredients start to wilt or lose their color, it can make the dish look unappetizing and unappealing in photographs. For this reason, it's important to use fresh ingredients and replace them as needed during the shoot.

Remember! Remember! Remember! If the food on the plates looks good, so will the photos. If the foods a mess…

By following these tips, you can ensure that your catering business's dishes and team look their best in photographs. With careful preparation and attention to detail, your food will not only taste delicious but look beautiful too.