It's been a while since my last blog post, and for good reason. I've been immersed in a whirlwind of creative and entrepreneurial endeavours that I'm excited to share with you all. From filming an upcoming short film to acquiring a new business, Cinderella Dream Cars, my plate has been full. But the cherry on top? Two of my photographs have reached the final stage of The Great British Dog Photography Awards in both the Studio and Creative categories.
The Great British Dog Photography Awards
I am thrilled to announce that two of my photographs have made it to the finals of this prestigious competition. The categories? Studio and Creative, which are right up my alley.
The Studio Category
For the Studio Category I chose an image that many of my customers want me to take, and that is to be in the photograph with their dog, but not be in it, if you see what I mean! This is a very popular shot and it has worked well as this customer chose matching colours with the dog
The Creative Category
The Creative category allowed me to push the boundaries of conventional dog photography. Creativity is about breaking rules and this photograph has broken most of them!
Filming My Upcoming Short Film
In between setting up studio lights, editing photographs, and taking pictures I've been busy filming & directing a short film. The experience has been both challenging and rewarding, and I can't wait to share it with you all. My background in photography has been invaluable in understanding framing, lighting, and storytelling in a different medium.
Acquiring Cinderella Dream Cars
As if that wasn't enough, I've also ventured into a new business—Cinderella Dream Cars. This luxury car service is the perfect complement to my existing portfolio, offering unparalleled experiences that are as memorable as the photographs I capture.
What's Next?
So, what can you look forward to? More photographs, the release of my short film, and perhaps a chance to experience luxury like never before with Cinderella Dream Cars.
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So, here I am, on day one of filming my very first short film, "Shadows of Silence." Yes, it's a huge leap from photographing dogs to writing a screenplay and directing a movie. The transition hasn't been seamless. Directing humans, setting up shots, ensuring the story flows visually — it's all new and a bit daunting.
Yet, there's an excitement in the air. The thrill of venturing out of my comfort zone and trying my hand at something I've always been curious about is invigorating. "Shadows of Silence" is my attempt to convey emotions that often remain hidden, echoing the unspoken feelings we all harbor.
While the territory is unfamiliar, the essence remains the same: telling a story. Whether through the lens aimed at a dog or a film camera capturing an actor's performance, it's all about evoking emotion and connecting with the audience.
I'll be sharing snippets and behind-the-scenes moments from my filmmaking journey here - but fear not for I shall continue photographing dogs for the foreseeable - that is unless Paramount come knocking ;-)
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Today we are excited to share the release of a short documentary film created for us over the course of several days by Shakka Phillips, a young Indie Film maker based in Gloucester
But why does your dog need a professional photo session? You might wonder why professional photos when you can quickly snap pictures on your phone. Let's explore the reasons that go far beyond just getting a 'nice picture'.
Celebrating Their Unique Personality
Every dog is a character, complete with its quirks, expressions, and behaviours. These are the nuances that make your dog uniquely them. At The Gloucester Dog Photographer, our passion and speciality lie in capturing these details. Our professionally curated photography sessions don't just aim to click photos; they strive to narrate a story—the story of your dog. From the way your dog tilts their head when intrigued, to the bright spark in their eyes when they spot their favourite toy, our pictures are all about capturing these nuances that make your dog special.
Creating Timeless Keepsakes
Professional photos of your dog are more than just pictures stored on your phone or computer. They're tangible pieces of art, encapsulating the soul and character of your beloved pet. These high-quality images become a permanent fixture in your home, invoking warm smiles and fond memories every time you look at them. Every picture serves as a beautiful reminder of your pet's distinct quirks, unshakeable loyalty, and undeniable charm. They remind you of the unforgettable moments and the special role your dog plays in your life, offering comfort and happiness even in their physical absence.
Prioritising Comfort and Enjoyment
It's crucial to address the concerns some pet parents might have about their dogs feeling overwhelmed during a photography session. We understand that every dog is unique, with its comfort levels and pace. That's why at The Gloucester Dog Photographer, the dog's comfort is never compromised. We patiently wait for them to familiarise themselves with the environment before we begin the session. It's not merely about taking pictures; it's about ensuring your pet enjoys the process and feels at ease. We take the time to get to know your dog and work at a pace that suits them. Every session is an experience—a session dedicated solely to your pet.
Capturing Every Stage of Their Life
Dogs grow up fast, and while we cherish each moment, it can be hard to remember every stage of their life. Professional photos offer the chance to immortalise these precious moments, capturing your dog in every phase of their life. From the mischievous puppy years, the adventurous adolescence to the tranquil senior years—each stage is unique and deserves to be celebrated. A professional photograph serves as a touching memoir, a frozen moment in time that highlights your pet's journey through life.
Superior Quality and Expertise
While smartphones have indeed come a long way in terms of image quality, they still fall short of what a professional camera with expert handling can achieve. A specialist pet photography session brings together high-end equipment, professional lighting, a controlled environment, expert handling, and advanced editing techniques. The result is a stunning, high-definition image that truly mirrors the love and bond you share with your pet.
An Emotional Connection
Finally, there's an emotional depth that professional pet photography offers. It's about seeing your pet in a new light, discovering aspects of their personality that you've never noticed before. It's about appreciating the beauty of their soulful eyes, the curve of their smile, and the playfulness of their demeanour. It's about capturing moments of pure joy, quiet contemplation, and everything in between. These images are not just photographs; they are connections—links to the depth of the emotional bond between you and your pet.
In conclusion, a professional photo session for your dog is more than just capturing a well-behaved pet on film. It's about celebrating their life, showcasing their unique personality, and creating a lasting tribute to the love they represent. Our team at The Gloucester Dog Photographer is committed to helping you etch these memories in the form of high-quality, professional images. Book a session with us today because every dog deserves a session filled with love, attention, and, of course, a bit of the limelight.
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Fame is a funny thing, isn't it? One moment you're just another young rook struggling with life, and the next, you're a feathery sensation backed by none other than the Oscar-winning star, Russell Crowe himself.
You see, Russel (single 'l' for the avian superstar, mind you) was born with a deformity. The little champ found rescue in the arms of a Cheltenham charity, where he received the care he needed to spread his wings once again, literally and figuratively. If you think the celebrity lifestyle is all about glam and no heart, this feathered fellow's tale might just change your mind.
A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of making Russel's acquaintance at our studio, as he hopped and pecked his way around, getting acclimatised. His task for the day was simple: get familiar with the hubbub of a working studio before his big media rounds at the BBC and ITV. After all, as a feathered celebrity, public appearances and live interviews are all part of the job description.
But here's where the plot thickens. A real-life Hollywood connection turned this avian adventure into a headline-grabbing story. Russell Crowe, the Gladiator himself, is a sponsor of his almost namesake. When the rook needed a crucial operation recently, it was Crowe who stepped up to cover the costs. Clearly, Gladiator fame and Aussie charm aren't the only things Crowe possesses; a heart of gold also beats beneath that tough exterior.
This tale of a rook and a Hollywood A-lister proves that every life has intrinsic value, no matter how small or feathery. It also teaches us about the power of unlikely connections - even between a celebrity and a bird thousands of miles away.
In the end, whether you're a rook named Russel Crow, or an Aussie actor named Russell Crowe, it seems the world isn't as vast and disconnected as we sometimes perceive it to be. After all, even a bird with a deformity from a little English town can end up flying high, making headlines, and touching hearts.
Now, whenever I see Russel Crow, the rook, I can't help but smile at the peculiar yet beautiful connections that bind us all. And as for Russell Crowe, the actor? Well, it seems he just gained a whole flock of new fans.
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The Great British Dog Photography Awards, in its very first year, aims to unite talented dog photographers from all walks of life in celebrating the incredible bond between humans and their canine companions. The competition showcases a diverse range of heartwarming, funny, and creative images that capture the unique essence of our four-legged friends. To have not one, but two of my images selected for the final award ceremony is nothing short of a dream come true.
For the Creative Image category, I submitted my new 2023 dog reflection photograph titled "Canine Reflections." This innovative image features a dog's reflection on a perspex surface, creating a visually captivating and thought-provoking piece. The photo invites the viewer to contemplate the depth of our connection with these loyal companions, and I am thrilled that it has been recognised in this prestigious competition.
In the Studio Based Image category, I submitted my signature style black background profile shot, aptly named "Elegance in Silhouette." This image showcases a stunning side profile of a dog, with the black background accentuating the canine's features and capturing the essence of the dog's spirit. The simplicity and grace of the composition truly highlight the beauty of our furry friends.
As we eagerly anticipate the final award ceremony at the end of the year, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the judges of The Great British Dog Photography Awards for recognising these two images and sending them through to the final.
Fingers toes and paws crossed !
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About The Great British Dog Photography Awards
The Great British Dog Photography Awards was established to honour and promote the incredible work of dog photographers throughout the UK. This competition provides an opportunity for professionals to gain exposure, connect with like-minded artists, and engage in friendly competition, all while celebrating the powerful bond between dogs and their owners.
A Collaborative Initiative
The Awards were conceived as a collaboration between several specialist and award winning dog photography studios, including The Gloucester Dog Photographer. This joint effort is a testament to the spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect that exists within the dog photography community. Together, we aim to create an event that not only showcases the exceptional talent within the industry but also fosters growth and learning for all participants.
Judging and Prizes
Our esteemed panel of judges, comprised of renowned photographers and industry experts, will evaluate the entries based on creativity, technical excellence, and the emotional impact of the images. Entries can be either Studio, Location, or within a special Creative category. The winning studio will be awarded the prestigious "The Great British Dog Photography Awards" trophy, while the owner of the dog featured in the winning photograph will receive a beautiful framed print of the image as a special gift.
It has been quite a while in the making, but I'm very proud that we have got it off the ground, which wouldn't have been possible without lots of hard work from some amazing photographers.
Now I'm off to upload my entries as closing date for the first round of judging is tonight!
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Entitled, "A Night of Summer Magic" this was to be Queen's final show.
Some 37 years later, having dabbled with music writing over the years I decided to write my own take on Bohemian Rhapsody - being a dog photographer it was only right that it was written about a dog photographer - and so this is called - Bohemian Woofsody!
Verse 1:
Is this the real life?
Or just a dream in my sight?
I'm a dog photographer, with a passion to ignite
I take pictures of pups, capturing their light
Chorus:
Woof woof, it's time to shoot
Capturing canines, so cute
With my camera, I'm never mute
Oh, the joy of dog photography, it's such a hoot
Verse 2:
Mama, just snapped a pup
Put my camera up to its head, and took the shot
Mama, life had just begun
But now I've gone and left my old job behind
Chorus:
Woof woof, it's time to shoot
Capturing canines, so cute
With my camera, I'm never mute
Oh, the joy of dog photography, it's such a hoot
Bridge:
I see a Corgi, I see a Pug
I see a Husky and I can't get enough
I snap away, the time just flies
I'm living for the moment, with every shot, I rise
Chorus:
Woof woof, it's time to shoot
Capturing canines, so cute
With my camera, I'm never mute
Oh, the joy of dog photography, it's such a hoot
Outro:
So you think you can't smile for the camera?
So you think you can't wag your tail for a shot?
Oh, pups, can't do this to me, pups
Just gotta capture them all, just gotta capture them all, right now!
The book, which was first published in the UK in 2021, has been making waves in the literary world. Its unique perspective on man's best friend, showcased through stunning photos of dogs standing on a glass table and captured from underneath, has captured the hearts of readers everywhere.
And the excitement hasn't stopped there. The book was recently published in the USA, bringing its message of creativity and individuality to a whole new audience.
Talking about the book on BBC Radio Gloucester was a fantastic opportunity to share my passion for photography and my love of dogs with an even wider audience. Anna King, the host of the show, was a great interviewer. She asked insightful questions that allowed me to delve deeper into the creative process behind the book, and to share some of the challenges I faced while capturing these unique images.
Appearing on BBC Radio Gloucester was an unforgettable experience. The publication of "The Underdogs" in both the UK and the USA is a testament to the power of creativity and determination, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share my work with a wider audience. I hope that this book will inspire others to pursue their own passions and to see the world from a new perspective.
For a limited time you can listen to the recording on BBC Sounds website, direct link to show here (I start approx 75 minutes in)
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