Eye Dream
Photography
How and why you
began your photography?
My father and grandfather were
photographers and I have grown up with experience of both ends of the
camera. Some of my earliest memories are of my father locking himself away in
the dark room with the smell of the chemicals emanating from the room and then
excitedly showing me his finished images.
Photography really peaked my
interest when digital photography started to appear as I loved the fact you
could instantly see the image as soon as it was taken. Initially I took it up
as a hobby, but found the whole aspect of the creative side captivating and
wanted to learn more and more, not only about the equipment I was buying but
also about the technical side, particularly lighting as it affects a picture
dramatically and is the difference between a good and bad shot.
How would you
define your style?
I have a varied style and can
create classical images as well as very contemporary and creative ones. I
like to be able to look at a scene and a couple and adapt to what the situation
calls for. If the couple is quite quirky and wants something different that’s
great, it allows me to let my imagination run wild! Even when all you have to
work with is a brick wall next to a main road.
What do you find
most challenging as a photographer?
Trying to fit everything in. I do
all of my photography myself as well as the editing side, so balancing that
with marketing and family life can be a challenge but I love what I do
and wouldn’t change it. My 2 year old son is already showing an interest in
photography so hopefully he will join me when he’s older and we can share the
workload!
What would be
your best piece of advice to the bride and groom on the big day?
Relax! The build up to a wedding
can be very stressful and there is a lot of pressure to have everything perfect
on the day. If you have picked your suppliers well then it’s their job to make
everything perfect and the bride and groom should be able to relax and enjoy
their wedding day. I like to offer my couples the opportunity to have a
pre-wedding shoot so we can get to know each other and this lets them see how I
work and helps them understand how I give gentle direction to create the images
I take on their wedding day. The last thing anybody wants is to be ordered
around on their wedding day. I’ve found that by giving suggestions rather than
orders, creates better images because they look more natural and relaxed.
Whose work has
influenced you most?
Jerry Ghionis is a favourite. His
control of lighting and the use of locations is phenomenal. Other
big influences are Yervant who has the ability to create powerful images with
very little kit; Dave Nunn has a very classic style and his images are very
elegant; and Iain Gomes, who is excellent with his use of light and creates
some very dramatic contemporary images.
Website:
www.eyedreamphotography.co.uk
