It has sometimes been said that photographs should be black and white unless there is a good reason to use colour. Whether or not you agree with this, it's an approach that encourages the photographer to make a conscious decision before every shot. But why might we want to create only black and white photos?
A black and white bridal portrait © Paul Holland
Well, have you ever noticed that black and white photographs can somehow convey emotion in a way that colour images simply can't? When we view black and white photographs, we are guided to consider the story of the image without being distracted by elements of colour. Without those colour distractions, black and white photos emphasise composition, texture, lighting, and mood, allowing us, the viewer, to focus more on the form or shape of the subject, on the expression and the emotion conveyed in the image.
Take a look at the high-key black and white bridal portrait image I created at Danika and Freddie's wedding. If you look closely, you will see that I deliberately retained some texture in Danika's veil, but without any colour information the viewer's focus will be on the bride's (Danika's) face. So what secret power do black and white images have to make this happen?
A black & white studio portrait of Charlotte © Paul Holland
In life, we generally consider things in two ways: we either take a high level, abstract overview or a low level, detail-oriented view. There are several reasons why we do this and one of those is time. Imagine planning a wedding to take place in two year's time. Because the wedding is two years away, the way we think about it would be at a high level. We might consider which month to hold the wedding, which locations we would prefer, and how many people can be accommodated at each venue but we would be unlikely to plan the detail of the day minute by minute, at this point in time. That's because our hypothetical wedding is two years away.
Now imagine starting to plan the same wedding but with only a month to do so. Our planning would be at a much lower level with details such as the schedule for the day, the seating plan for people by name, transport arrangements for individual people, etc. In other words, the planning would be at a lower level now because the event is much closer in time.
Black and white studio boudoir portrait © Paul Holland
A man's studio portrait © Paul Holland
A high-key (light tones) black and white portrait © Paul Holland
So presenting images in black and white promotes a high level, more abstract way of thinking about what we see, compared to colour images which promote a low level, more detailed view. When we view a black and white image, there is none of the colour information usually associated with events we are experiencing in the present, in the 'here and now'. Without the colour detail, our brain takes a high level view of the image.
The photograph below shows one of the images I created for Grace during her head shot session. There's no colour detail to distract from the main focus of the image: Grace's face and hair. I have accented the hair highlights and the pattern on Grace's top. Clothing is important too (you can read my post about what to wear for a head shot session) but presenting the image in black and white is what encourages us to focus on the face when we see this image.
A black and white image from my headshot package © Paul Holland
Our tendency to view black and white photographs at a high level makes it very suitable for portraits and incredibly effective at creating drama and mood. This helps lend a sense of sophistication and elegance to the subject, resulting in more intimate and evocative portraits. There's a sense too that because photographs would traditionally have been in black and white (before colour film existed) modern black and white portraits exude a classic and timeless quality.Black and white outdoor portrait of a couple © Paul Holland
This is why black and white photography is often preferred not just for fine art portraiture, but also for editorial spreads, or historical documentation, while colour portraits may be more suitable for commercial work, lifestyle photography, or portraits intended to capture vibrant, real-world environments.
So, you may be wondering what approach do I take? The answer is that I photograph in colour but I think in black and white too. What I mean by this is that I can see when I am photographing whether the finished image will look best in black and white and so I think in terms of these tones when I take the shot. Later when I use the image to create a monochrome (black and white) photograph I choose tones that will suit the image best. Of course, on my Black and White-themed Photo Shoots, all of the images will be finished as black and white.
A black and white portrait in the studio © Paul Holland
On a typical photo shoot, I will take some shots that I intend to create as black and white and some as colour images. When someone books me to photograph them on their own, or with their partner, their children or their family, they usually want a mix of colour and black and white photographs. I will ask first because some customers want only black and white images and ultimately it's your photo shoot, you know which you prefer and so the choice is yours.
A black and white family portrait © Paul Holland
Black and white photography is versatile and can be applied to a wide range of subjects and genres. With its ability to emphasize composition, form, texture, and mood, it is a powerful tool for creating visually striking and emotionally resonant images. Oh, and it works well for pet photos too!
Some of my other posts:
Mums and Daughters photo shoots
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If you’re like most parents, you probably want to document the various stages of growth your children undergo with some professional photos. Yet at the same time, the mere idea of a photo session for your children may sound exhausting. As much as you would love to have beautiful portraits of your children, the idea of getting your children dressed for a photo shoot, keeping them clean and coaxing them into behaving throughout the session can seem daunting. It doesn’t have to be like that, though. At my Kendal photography studio, I have just about everything I need to create timeless portraits of your child. If you’re considering or preparing for a child photography session, here are my tips on what you can bring to the photo shoot to help your children's portrait session go smoothly.
Children have an ability to get messy at the most inopportune time so it’s always a good idea to have a backup outfit for each child. If you find that you can't decide between two or three different outfits, feel free to bring them all and I can help you decide based on my experience of what will suit your child best for their photos. Try to have all of their outfits picked out before the day of the photo shoot so you are not adding any more stress on the day itself.
For outdoor children's photo shoots, dress with the weather in mind. You want to make sure your child isn’t too cold or hot. Coats can always be worn to stay warm and then slipped off for a few minutes each time the photos are being taken.
When children get irritable during a photo session, a quick snack or drink can usually help keep them happy, so it pays to be prepared with some of their favourites.
Be sure to feed your child enough before attending the shoot, as a handful of crisps or died fruit probably isn’t going to be enough to help with an empty stomach.
Try to stick to snacks and drinks that are unlikely to create a mess, such as crisps that don’t have dyes or colourful coatings, dried fruit, mints, clear juice or water, and so on.
Avoid anything that could make a mess if it gets spilled, or for very young children, dribbled. Things to avoid are chocolate, which is messy when it melts, crisps with bright coloured coatings that can stain faces and clothes, orange juice, and dark fruit juices such as blackcurrant which can stain around the mouth as well as clothes if it gets spilled.
For young children, remember to bring some of their favourite things from home, like a stuffed animal, a favourite toy, and so on. Your child's favourite toy can comfort them when they’re in unfamiliar environments such as a photography studio. They also work well for getting your child’s attention toward the camera or encouraging a smile.
If you’re having portraits taken for multiple children, I will usually take some photos of the children together and some individual photos of each child. In this case, it’s handy to have a book or something else to entertain one child while the other is having their photo taken.
Most of my child photography sessions take around an hour to an hour and a half because that’s about as long as most young children can maintain attention, so your child might not need a nappy change. If they do need one, though, you don’t want to be left without the essentials, so bring whatever you may need. Wipes are useful after drinks and snacks have been consumed for a quick clean up before we continue with the photos.
My final piece of advice is to relax and have fun! Happiness is contagious, and children are very impressionable. Your children will pick up on your mood so try to relax and enjoy the experience. If your child sees you smiling and happy, it’s very likely that he or she will soon be smiling and happy too.
As a photographer, I do more than just take your child’s pictures. I’ll chat with you first so I have a plan for a beautiful photo session giving you the specific look you want, whether you’re looking for fine art or contemporary photography.
Contact me at the Kendal photo studio and let’s start planning your dream portraits!
If you like the idea of having regular photo shoots to capture and document your children's development then you may want to consider my 'Studio Passport' 12 month plan. It's great value, and it gives you as many studio photo shoots as you want throughout the year for no extra cost. It removes a lot of anxiety for parents because with unlimited photo shoots, it costs you nothing to repeat a session. It's not limited to children either, your photos can be of Mum, Dad, grandparents, siblings, cousins, and friends. If you have a family pet they can come along too or even have their own photo shoot session!
I have already written an overview of my choice of photo products but here I wanted to focus on one specific product: my hand-framed photographs. These are my premium wall art products. While I offer archive quality wall canvases at a lower price and they can be set in an outer frame, it's my traditional, hand-framed photographs that I believe will become the family heirlooms of the future.
There is a lot of choice when choosing how you would like your framed photograph to look so I wanted to briefly go through some of the choices on offer for you to consider.
There are several parts to my traditional framed photographs. Here's a quick summary of what goes into my framed photographs and how everything fits together. Note that not all frames are made like this - some framers may cut corners; more on this later.
I recommend having a mount around your photograph. This doesn't need to increase the frame size unless you want to keep the photograph size the same. The important measurement is the frame dimensions which are measured inside the frame.
The frame dimensions are measured internally because this is the size the wooden frame moulding, the glass and the outside of the mount are being cut to. After that, the overall size on your wall will be down to the width and style of the frame you selected. If you are trying to match the size of a new frame to one you already have on the wall, let me know the outer overall size and I will work out the internal dimensions of your new frame so it closely matches in size.
I offer a range of solid wood frames in a choice of sizes, styles and colours. Although my frames are all solid wood, you can choose from a selection of wood, metallic, black, white, silver, gold or colour finishes to give an appearance that can range from ornate to traditional or contemporary.
I don't use cardboard, plastic or composite frames. They are cheaper but they don't last. All of my frames use genuine art glass too so there is no cloudiness, scratching or deterioration associated with cheaper frames that use an acrylic sheet instead.
Your photograph can be printed on a choice of paper types including fine art paper. The standard photographic paper shows vibrant colours and detail well and is the most popular. Your photograph is mounted to a back mount board which isn't visible in the frame. This is a step that some framers will omit doing to keep the cost lower, however it's important because it can prevent the photograph from rippling in the future. All my framed portrait photographs are mounted onto a back board first.
The mount is the part that physically and visually separates the photograph from the frame. The mounts I offer are all high quality, designed so they won't damage your photograph over time. Using a mount means that the frame size will be larger than the size of the photograph on it's own. I can make the mount any width. If there are multiple photographs being displayed the mount is the part that will separate them from each other.
There is a big choice of mounts which can be made to any size © Paul Holland
The size and colour of the mount can have a big effect on the overall appearance. I have a wide selection of mount colours (jncluding several shades of white) to compliment the colours in the photograph and the colour of your frame. There are other options too such as having double or triple mounts (a narrower mount over the top of a wider mount so they are all visible) and grooves cut into the mount around the photograph.
The finished mount will have my signature on it, written discreetly underneath the photograph.
The completed frame is supplied in a protective presentation box. The frame is fitted with a cord hanger so it can be hung on the wall as soon as it's removed from the box. A nice touch here, too, are the soft felt pads that are fitted to protect your wall where the frame comes into contact with it.
It's a very high quality product that I selected not only because it looks good but to last too. Here are a few examples of my wedding and portrait photographs framed.
Couple's portrait in a black frame with a black mount © Paul Holland
Horse and rider equine portrait in a walnut frame © Paul Holland
Individual Portrait set in a cream coloured frame © Paul Holland
Fine art portrait in a large grey frame © Paul Holland
Outdoor family portrait in a light oak frame © Paul Holland
Ballet Portrait in a black frame with a triple mount © Paul Holland
As you can see, there is a large choice and the combination of a well-matched mount and frame can really enhance the photograph and help display it at it's best.
Do you have a favourite framed photo above? Let me know with a comment.
If you would like me to create your own family heirloom framed photograph, it all starts with a wedding or portrait photo shoot. Use the links above or see my full range of portrait photo shoots here. If you would like to know how much other people enjoyed their photo shoot, take a look at my customer testimonials.
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Not sure what to wear for your new head shot? Paul's seven expert tips will help you out.
One of the most common questions I'm asked by my customers is “What should I wear for my head shot?”. Deciding what to wear (and what not to wear) is a big part of preparing for your professional headshot session. My headshot photo shoot sessions (in fact, all of my photo shoot sessions) are relaxed, but feeling comfortable with what you are wearing will be one more thing to help you feel positive and confident in front of the camera.
I’ve compiled a list of 7 easy tips to help you select what to wear and help you prepare for your session. When you step in front of the camera you'll know that the end result is going to be headshot photos you will love.
I have written this for anyone considering having professional headshot photography but that actually covers a wide range of people from actors, dancers, and musicians to corporate business employees and individuals. We live in a visual world and so high quality images can be useful to help you stand out whether it's for your social media profile, a corporate web site, a dating site or a casting agency.
So, my advice is to think about your personal brand and persona. What persona and tone would you like to project? For traditional business and corporate head shots you may want to convey an air of formality, expertise, and trust. For start-ups or creatives you may want a look that is friendly, creative or trendy. For acting, singing, dance or modelling agency headshots, you want to be selected for a role. If you need to send your photos to an agency, they may have rules about the type of photos they will accept (for example a white or black background, head and shoulders plus ¾ length photos etc).
Decide on the look and tone you’re going for before your photo shoot so you know what you’d like to convey. Your new headshots are your first step in projecting your persona and I will work with any requirements you may have to create exactly the look you want. This is what I was able to do when I was approached by author Eliza Harrison for images to support her new book launch. Eliza had a specific requirement for a mottled grey background in her images.
"I went to Paul Holland Photography for a set of photos that could be used on my company's website which was being updated. I was a bit apprehensive but Paul's relaxed and thoroughly professional manner made it easy. The finished photos were excellent - it was me, only on a good day! Based on my experience, I would highly recommend Paul to anyone wanting a quality photographic service."
Your choice of outfit will play an important role, however the most important part of any headshot is your expression and connection with the camera. Your headshots need to convey the right message for you. I will guide and direct you through your headshots session so your body language, eye contact and expression show you in a way which looks like the genuine you, at your best.
Your clothes should support this so that they strengthen your image rather than drawing the attention away from your face. So, what should you bring to wear and what shouldn't you wear?
Before I mention what to bring, it's important to say make sure the outfits you choose are something you love and that you will feel comfortable wearing. You need to be comfortable with the way your clothing fits as well as being comfortable with the style. If you are not sure, there's nothing to stop you bringing several different outfits and I will help you choose which ones will look best in your head shot photographs.
I recommend bringing a variety of tops.
For women, tops with different neck lines are a great way to ensure you have a wide choice of headshots. Scarves are a great way of adding variety and texture into your image.
For men, different shirts (with a tie if you want to wear one) will give you a good variety of images.
Bring a jacket! It’s a quick and easy way to create two different looks. A blouse or shirt by itself will give you one look that works well and slipping a jacket on is a quick and easy way to create more variety.
Glasses - It’s fine to wear glasses for your photo shoot. If you normally wear glasses all of the time, then they need to be included in your photos. Remember to clean them so you don't have fingermarks or dust showing in the final images. If you wear them at your desk or for driving but won’t be wearing them for the photos, try to make sure that you take them off at least half an hour before your shoot so you won't have indentation marks on the side of your nose. The same goes for wristwatches too if you normally wear one and intend removing it before your photo shoot.
Often, when customers wear glasses all the time, I get asked if I will take some photos without their glasses and I'm happy to oblige, just let me know during your headshot session.
When it comes to jewellery, a simple pair of earrings can work well. If you wear a necklace, it should compliment the neckline of your top. Some poses may include your hands and arms so a bracelet or bangle could also be worn.
You don't need to spend a lot of money on new clothes but it’s important that the clothes you bring to wear fit well and don’t look old. I recommend trying your clothes on a week before your headshot session to check how they feel and fit. Suitably fitted clothes (avoid anything too baggy or too tight) will always be the most flattering.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with textures and layers. A scarf can be an easy change between a summer look and a winter look. It will also change your neckline and add volume and texture to the photos.
Well-fitted clothing will enhance your headshots but whatever you bring, make sure you feel good wearing it.
Safe colours to bring include mid tone colours. These colours are deeper than pastels but not as saturated as bright colours. Colours such as greys, greens and blues are flattering. Dark, earthy colours and and neutral tones work well too.
If you know which colour palette works best for you, bring options in those colours, or try hues which bring out your eye colour and flatter your skin tone.
Avoid strong or very bright colours as these will dominate your photographs and the colour may reflect onto your face and neck under studio lighting or bright sunlight.
When pastel colours such as beige or cream are similar to flesh tones they can give an overall effect that's washed out with very little contrast. This will give you images that just don't stand out so try to avoid too many pastel colours.
Black can be a popular choice but you need to consider if it suits the persona you want to project. Black clothing suits darker backgrounds and with the right lighting it can create a moody effect. That may be the look you are going for but if you would prrefer an alternative darker colour, try dark brown, maroon, or dark green.
If you bring a selection of clothes I can recommend which outfits will look best, based on your skin tone, hair and eye colour.
Tip 5: Things to avoid
I have already mentioned that the feature of your headshot images should be your face so it's best to make sure that your clothing supports this aim rather than making it more difficult! Here are some things to avoid:
Avoid sleeveless tops if possible, as bare arms can look too bright and create lots of contrast with darker clothing.
Colours to avoid are anything too strong, such as bold red, fluorescent yellow or bright pink, as these tend to draw the attention away from the face. Bright colours may also reflect onto your face and neck and affect your skin tone in the image. Neon green skin is not a good look!
Patterns: In general, plain solid colour clothes work best, as patterns can be a distraction (remember the focus of the portrait should be your face, not the clothes). Smaller patterns can work but larger ones are best avoided.
The same applies to logos; avoid wearing anything with a distracting logo.
Make sure that your clothes are neatly ironed before the shoot. If your top is wrinkled in real life, it will appear wrinkled in the photos.
I suggest to clients to get changed once they arrive at the studio to avoid any creasing that can happen when travelling to the studio wearing your outfit.
Being well groomed is essential preparation for your photo:
Hair - If you want to vary your hairstyle during the shoot, please do!
We can try some shots with your hair tied up and some with it down. Don't forget to bring a hairbrush for last-minute adjustments.
Hands and fingernails may be visible in some of the photos so if you wear nail varnish remember to reapply or remove before your photo shoot.
Keep your makeup simple and natural looking. For actors it’s essential that you look like you do in your headshot photos. Remember to bring your makeup with you so you can reapply it if required.
Recently cut or styled hair is a good idea, and don’t be afraid to take a few moments to check everything in the mirror before the session starts.
In essence, it’s all about wearing clothes that feel right and that will have you feeling positive and self-assured. This will shine out in the photos and you’ll be excited to upload and share your new headshot images.
I hope this guide has helped prepare you for your headshot session. You can always contact me at the studio if you still have questions.
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Few gestures are as intimate and meaningful as presenting your significant other with boudoir portrait phoptos. Beyond the aesthetic allure of Paul's carefully crafted images lies a profound expression of love and trust. If you're considering having a boudoir portrait photo shoot to create images for your partner, here's my comprehensive guide to ensure that the experience is as memorable and meaningful as the images themselves. If you like the idea of having a photo shoot (boudoir or otherwise) but you feel a bit anxious about it, you may find this helpful.
Choose the Right PhotographerSelecting the right photographer is paramount to the success of your boudoir portrait session. Look for a professional photographer with experience in capturing intimate moments with sensitivity and artistry. Take the time to review their portfolio, read client testimonials, and schedule a consultation to discuss your vision, preferences, and comfort level.
I only show boudoir images with permission and so you can see some examples of my boudoir portraits and testimonials here. Contact the studio if you would like to arrange a friendly, no obligation discussion to find out more about a boudoir photography session with Paul.
"Paul is very friendly and professional, he makes you feel comfortable
and he understands what you're looking for.
The images are perfect and more than I could have hoped for."
Image © Paul Holland
Plan and Prepare
Collaborate with your photographer to plan the logistics of the photoshoot, including wardrobe and styling. I recommend too that you consider incorporating elements that hold personal significance to you or your partner, whether it's a favourite piece of lingerie or an item of jewellery. Take the time to pamper yourself in the days leading up to the session, ensuring that you feel confident, relaxed, and ready to shine. Don't worry if you are not sure about what to bring, I will discuss this with you during your consultation.
"A boudoir photoshoot was something I wanted to do for a long time even though it was a little outwith my comfort zone. I was a bit nervous on arrival but after meeting Paul and chatting about what I wanted to achieve I felt much more comfortable and confident. His polite, friendly manner made the whole process liberating and enjoyable".
Embrace Authenticity and Vulnerability
The essence of boudoir photography lies in its ability to capture the beauty and also the power and vulnerability of the human form. Embrace authenticity, allowing your true self to shine through in each photograph. We will have discussed your preferences for your boudoir photo shoot beforehand so on the day you can trust in my photographic expertise and guidance to make sure you get images you will love.
Image © Paul Holland
Choose the Perfect Presentation
Once the portraits are captured, consider the presentation of your images as an integral part of the gifting experience. Explore options for albums, or prints, or wall art, choosing a presentation style that reflects the preferences of you or your partner. Like all my photo shoots, I offer the boudoir shoot with a complimentary print (so you can decide later if you you want additional photo products) or you can opt for a package consisting of the boudoir shoot with a fine art print set. Whatever photographic gifts you choose, consider adding a personal touch, such as a handwritten note or heartfelt message, to accompany your gift and make it even more special.
"I was delighted with the images and the product choices on offer. If you were thinking of doing this I can thoroughly recommend booking this with Paul."
Fine Art Print Set. Image © Paul Holland
A Gift for Yourself
Many of my boudoir customers wish to celebrate their own beauty, strength, and uniqueness. Choosing a boudoir portrait for yourself is a wonderful, liberating experience and the perfect way to capture those emotions so you will always have a reminder of this time in your life. One of the things I discuss at the consultation meeting is who the images are for because this informs my style of photography.
"A truly wonderful experience, I felt a bit nervous at first but was soon put at ease and enjoyed the time spent and came away feeling really special. I would have no hesitation in recommending Paul."
Image © Paul Holland
The gift of boudoir portraits transcends mere physical photographs. It serves as a tangible expression of your beauty and love. By approaching the process with respect and open communication, I will create a personalised photo shoot experience for you that celebrates your power and beauty.
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A definite trend over recent years has been the increasing popularity of having wall canvases framed. This is an option I offer too for my own range of Kendal and Lake District landscape photography and portraits so I thought it might be helpful to look at the choices available when considering whether to have your wall canvas framed. For portrait customers I offer a range of photo products in addition to a choice of wall art.
So what canvas wall art choices are there at Paul Holland Photography?
The first decision is to choose between an unframed canvas or a framed canvas. In the realm of interior design and art curation, the decision to display artwork unframed or within a carefully chosen frame is a nuanced choice that can significantly impact the overall aesthetic appeal of your wall space. There is no right or wrong but there is a strong visual difference so it's worth consdering which look appeals to you most.
My unframed canvases are available in a choice of two depths: either 20mm (3/4in) or 40mm (1½in) approx. Photo canvases originally were only available in the thicker depth but slim canvases have become very popular since their first appearance, and it's the slim canvases that can be framed if you wish.
Unframed canvases actually have an internal, hidden frame which the canvas material is stretched over to make it taut. When I talk about framed canvases, I'm referring to a visible outer frame as you will see later.
My Spice Spoons canvas, perfect for brightening up a kitchen © Paul Holland
Unframed canvases, with their raw and unembellished presentation, exude a certain organic authenticity. This approach harks back to the roots of modernism, embracing the essence of the artwork itself without the perceived constraints of a frame. The absence of a frame draws attention to the texture of the canvas, fostering a clean and contemporary visual language and offering an unfiltered connection between the viewer and the photographic artwork.
My canvases are printed on a heavyweight, archival quality, 100% cotton canvas which adds to it's visual appeal. You will see polycotton or thin cotton canvases available elsewhere but I don't use those.
Stockghyll Canvas. The colours work well on a light coloured wall © Paul Holland
Unframed canvases are also effortlessly cool and budget-friendly. They exude a laid-back, effortless vibe, perfect for those who want to keep things informal and they can be a wallet-friendly option when you are on a budget but still want that gallery-worthy look.
A feature of an unframed canvas is that the canvas sides are visible so I offer a choice of options for this. The photographic image can go around the side edges (so some of the image is only visible at the sides) or the entire image can be shown on the front of the canvas so all details in the image remain visible. I can advise on the side edge choices available if you want your canvas unframed and I do all of the work for you when your canvas is ordered.
Framing introduces a deliberate and curated element to the display of your wall art. A carefully selected frame can contextualize the artwork while increasing its visual impact and contribution to the overall design of a room. The frame guides the viewer's perception and imbues your artwork with a sense of significance. In short, it can turn your canvas into a bona fide work of art that demands attention.
Frames aren't just for show though; they can also provide extra protection to the edges of your wall art, shielding your art from dust, scratches, and the occasional accidental bump.
I offer my wall art in a choice of frame styles so you can select a frame that will enhance both the photographic canvas and suit your room setting.
My most popular range of frames offers a choice of a textured black, white or dark brown frame. Despite being very budget friendly, these frames add a real sense of impact to your artwork. I also offer a second range of frames which has a more textured appearance. You can see both frame ranges at our Highgate Photography Studio in Kendal.
A choice of black, brown or white frames. I offer another range with a
stronger texture however this range is my most popular © Paul Holland
The slim canvases are the ones that can be framed. The canvas is made as normal before being set into the outer frame.
So, what does a framed canvas look like? Your choice of frame is visible around the outside edge. There is no glass between the viewer and the artwork and so the canvas texture remains visible while the photo canvas remains a lighter weight than a traditional framed print. A small gap is left between the frame and the canvas edges which adds to the appeal.
Dr Manning's Yard black & white canvas
shown with a white frame © Paul Holland
In the end, whether you go for the carefree vibe of an unframed canvas or the polished charm of framed artwork, it's not just about what looks good - it's about what makes you feel good. If you are looking for wall art with a Kendal or Lake District theme, be sure to see my full choice of wall art images.
I often wonder what has made someone think this way. Is it because of the prevalence of mobile phones with cameras? In a time when everyone has a camera in their pocket there is a lot more opportunity to create photos of our family, friends, colleagues and strangers. Being able to capture a spontaneous moment is a positive side to this but the photographs we often see that show someone's embarrassment or difficulty is something entirely different. This creates occasions when you might have good reason to wish your photograph hadn't been taken!
When you arrange to have your photo taken professionally, there is a (often unspoken) pact between the person being photographed and the photographer: You want great photos where you look good, and as your photographer I want to achieve that for you. So what makes a great photo?
For this to happen there are lots of factors which need to come together at the same time: technical skills such as composition and lighting are definitely important. Good lighting doesn't just illuminate the subject of the photo, it can set the mood too. Good composition helps too and new or unusual compostions can also make a photo stand out from the rest.
Studio Photoshoot for One Person © Paul Holland
I believe there is one thing more important than the technical skills though and that is the person being photographed. Allowing someone to relax and become their true self in front of the camera is the single most important part of taking a portrait photograph.
I like to chat to people before I start photographing them as well as throughout the photo shoot. It's partly because I'm interested in what people have to say but it's also an opportunity for people to relax and to think about something other than having their photograph taken. I always find that after a few minutes of being photographed people are more relaxed and by the end of their photo shoot they have enjoyed the experience!
Here is some feedback I got after a children's photo shoot. It was a few years ago but writing this brought it to mind:
"Paul made the experience a special and thoroughly enjoyable experience for all. My teenage sons were reticent to attend a photo shoot but came away having had a brilliant time! Beautiful photos...very impressed and thrilled with the results. Thanks Paul for giving us some special memories of our family to treasure."
- Kirsty [studio portrait photography]
Couple's Outdoor Location Photo Shoot © Paul Holland
After all, it is your photo shoot - so what's not to like? You get time to relax and unwind and your photo shoot is all about you.
It's a time to be yourself, to be natural and I do my best to create an environment where that can happen. It's a great feeling for me to achieve this. A week or two after the photo shoot when I see people excitedly choosing their favourite images for a hand-framed photograph to display on their wall or to create a photo album, I know it's because they love the photos I have created. You are choosing photos you'll love looking at for years to come. They are photos that show the real you.
If you like the idea of having a photo shoot but still have questions, you can call the studio, send me an email or leave a comment below.
]]>I recently photographed the wedding of Freddie and Georgie. The wedding ceremony was at Kendal Register Office with more wedding photos to be taken at their holiday cottage in Crook, a few minutes drive from Kendal in the Lake District National Park.
It was a small, intimate wedding with just Georgie and Freddie (the bride and groom), their son Eddie and their parents. After a rainy start to the day the weather improved so that after their wedding photography the family could enjoy a picnic in the garden.
It is always an honour to witness and capture the raw, unfiltered emotions that unfold throughout the day. As a wedding photographer, I understand the importance of blending seamlessly into your wedding day and my unobtrusive approach to photography ensures that you and your guests can be yourselves while I capture genuine emotions. I want my wedding photographs to tell the story so I focus on the small details, stolen glances, and heartfelt exchanges that make your celebration unique.
If you are planning a Lake District elopement wedding or a small wedding with a few friends and family, I have a wedding photography package just for you.
Here's a small selection of my photos from Freddie's and Georgie's day, and here's to celebrating love in its purest form - intimate, timeless, and everlasting.
All images © Paul Holland
A few years ago I visited New York and as you would expect, while I was there I took loads of photographs. Like many other people, in my mind I had a list of the sights that I wanted to see, and now having done it I decided I would share my top 10 tips on how to photograph New York if you are planning a vacation or break in NYC.
If you are planning to trip to New York, you may be wondering how to make the most of your journey to get the best photos. I certainly was before my trip so I have put together my top ten tips to help you photograph New York like a pro. So here are my top tips with all the essential information if you want to photograph the sights of the 'Big Apple' …
The more research you can do before your vacation, the better. Before my trip, I bought a guide book for NYC which included a street map. There are lots choose from but I got the Rough Guide to New York City because it had a detachable map and the no nonsense style appealed to me. It’s actually really easy to find your way around because of the street grid system so start by marking on your map all of the locations you want to visit. Next, check out entry costs and opening times. Many places are completely free to visit or offer free entry on certain days of the week. More about the free stuff later.
Before you visit NYC, try to make a list so that you know where things are, when they open and how much they cost. With this information you can plan your own New York photo safari to include all the sights you don’t want to miss.
Be aware that some attractions will need to be booked ahead. This definitely applies to the ‘Top of the Rock’ the Rockefeller Centre – the views from the top are stunning but very popular so it’s best to decide what time you want to visit and buy your ticket earlier in the day.
Make sure that you start with a charged battery and at the end of every day get your phone or camera ready for the next day’s photo adventure. If you are using the camera on your phone things are a bit simpler but you will still need battery charge to take pictures.
One of the best times to photograph New York is early in the morning. Many attractions are busy by late morning so if you aren’t there early, you may have to spend time queuing to gain entry. We visited the 9/11 Memorial and Museum and we arrived just before 9.30am. There was no queue to get in and because there were very few visitors at that time of day it meant that we could reflect quietly as we viewed the exhibits.
You will fit more sights in if you start early as well. You can pre-purchase tickets that include entry to multiple attractions but we found that we would need to visit about three a day to make them worthwhile compared to the individual attraction entry prices. They can often get you entry without the queue though. If you don’t like to spend too long at each attraction then these could be perfect for you, but if like me you prefer to take your time or you only want to visit one or two places each day then I would recommend buying the tickets at each venue. You can buy express tickets for places such as the Empire State Building but if you are visiting late at night (say 11pm) or out of season such as mid-January then they may not be necessary as the queues aren't likely to be too big at those times.
It’s easy to find your way around in Manhattan but the grid system of streets means that you need to cross the road every 75-100 yards and it can be time consuming waiting at the crossings, so one of the best ways to get around is by bus. We found public transport to be cheaper than in the UK and there are plentiful hop on-hop off bus tour services. There are a few services to choose from. We found that the Red Big Bus suited us the best for routes, times and frequency of buses.
A bus is a great places to photograph NY from and the hop on-hop off services usually include a tour guide or prerecorded information so you learn lots while seeing and photographing the sights of New York. The bus services, like the popular tourist spots themselves, can get busy at peak times of the day so it’s another good reason to travel early in the day and to plan your return time in case the last bus of the day has no seats available.
Boats can also provide a good way to photograph sights from a different viewpoint. There is a free ferry to Staten Island that offers a great view of the waterfront buildings and there are plenty of boat trips of varying distances that include a tour guide as well.
There’s nothing worse than seeing something and then having to spend time getting your camera out and by the time you have done that what you saw has gone. Make sure to keep your camera or phone ready all the time. Use a lens cap or protective camera bag if you have one to protect it and keep the camera around your neck or in your hand. If it’s too well tucked away you’re not likely to use it much. We found because the tourist areas of Manhattan are so busy, even at night, that we didn’t need to worry too much about camera security. Just be sensible about where you are and what’s going on around you.
The Manhattan skyline at night is magical but you need to keep your camera still to avoid ending up with a blurred image. One way to do this is find a viewpoint with a rail, ledge or wall where you can position your camera. Set the camera up on the wall or rail to include the view you want to photograph and use the self timer facility on the camera. Using the self timer means that the camera automatically takes a photo a few seconds after you have pressed the button so you don’t need to hold the camera while the photo is being taken. Doing this helps to reduce the camera shake that causes blurred images. Just remember to keep hold of the camera strap (without nudging or moving the camera) so that your camera doesn’t fall or get knocked off whatever you have placed it on! If you are using a phone that has a night photography mode (it will take multiple picturess and then combine them automatically) then this is a good time to use it.
New York is not just about the big iconic attractions and sights. There are plenty of things you will find that just don’t exist back home and photographing the unique details helps to tell the story of your trip. Look out for things like fire hydrants, street signs, huge display screens in Times Square, fire trucks, police cars, building name plates, yellow cabs, traffic lights and modern art sculptures. There is plenty different about New York in the small details as well as the main attractions.
If you do travel by bus or boat you have a unique viewpoint compared to travelling on foot. Remember to look up too, there’s a lot to see above because of the shortage of real estate so take some photos. There are good views from the Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Centre) and from the Empire State Building. The High Line (a high level walkway using a converted railway line) also offers good views of city life from above. It doesn’t even need to be an attraction – we got a window seat on the top floor of McDonald’s in Times Square (not easy, but possible) which was great for photographing the crowds below. McDonald's has now closed it's Times Square restaurant and reopened a new branch a short distance away at 45th and Broadway.
I always like to look around and photograph something slightly different to the norm, so my recommendation here is to photograph the famous landmark and then start to look at what else interests you in the same vicinity. You can do the same if you are photographing from a bus or boat – just take photos of what interests you while you have the opportunity. You can always decide later whether you want to include it in your holiday photo album or slideshow.
There’s loads more free things to see in New York, these are just the ones I can personally recommend but there’s more information on the Internet. Just search for ‘free attractions in New York’.
If you get to make the trip to New York you won’t be disappointed and I hope the information above helps you get some great photos to remember it by. If you have any of your own recommendations for the best places in New York, let me know!
It was 17th July 2013 when Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and Her Royal Highness Princess Anne visited Kendal, Cumbria. It was a warm, sunny day and hundreds of people lined Stricklandgate and the Market Place in the town waiting to see the Queen and Princess Anne.
They travelled together and arrived just after 10:30am in one of the Bentley State Limousines.
Painted in claret and black, the car is one of a pair of official state cars which were manufactured by Bentley as a gift for Queen Elizabeth II on the occasion of her Golden Jubilee in 2002. The vehicles are modified versions of Bentley's Arnage R and are more powerful, longer, taller and wider than a standard Bentley Arnage. Both cars are kept in the Royal Mews.
A Fijian soldier, Sergeant Rusiate Bolavucu, representing the Burma Company, part of the 1st Battalion Duke of Lancaster Regiment confused onlookers by briefly sitting down after meeting the Queen. The act is seen a mark of respect in Fiji. Princess Anne met with members of the regiment too.
The Queen was presented with flowers from some of the school children and she joked with one young schoolgirl that she hoped her new great grandchild would hurry up and arrive before she went on holiday. (Prince George, the first child of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge was born five days later on 22nd July at St Mary's Hospital in Paddington, London).
On their tour of South Lakeland the Queen and Princess Anne later visited The James Cropper paper factory in Burneside, Bowness Pier and Brockhole Estate as well as being given a boat tour of Windermere.
Are you looking for things to do while in the Lake District? I have a suggestion...click or tap here to read my blog post and find out more.
All images ©️ Paul Holland. Tap here to see the full range of Paul’s outdoor and studio photo shoots.
]]>The school prom (or promenade) originally began in American colleges and universities in the late 1800s and has become increasingly popular in the UK with most schools offering separate prom evenings for Year 11 and Year 13 students.
While the word ‘Prom’ is likely to be on the lips of most students at this time of year, with lots of planning and preparation currently taking place to get the perfect look, they also offer a break from the stress of exams. The glamour of the prom evening with it’s limousines, spectacular dresses and accessories and guys in their suits, all combine to create an event to remember. The prom provides a great ‘send-off’ for school leavers and is the perfect reward for all that hard work during term time.
While there will be lots of prom photos taken at home and throughout the evening, it can be reassuring to have professional photographs of your prom to capture the look.
I have put together a special prom photo studio offer to celebrate the prom and help you get prom photos that you will enjoy looking at in years to come. Choose between one person or any number up to six people to attend your prom studio photo shoot. There's a free print for every person in the prom photo shoot too! If you would prefer to have an outdoor prom shoot, either on your own or in a group, please contact the studio and we can arrange this.
Your prom portrait shoot can either take place a few days or weeks before your prom, on the day itself or shortly afterwards. Early booking is advised if you want your photo shoot on the day of the prom as these times can be very popular. I often get asked to take prom portrait photos after prom events if students or parents are not keen on the prom photographs they have from the evening. Wearing the dress or DJ after the event can be less stressful and more relaxed too. Whether you choose the studio or an outdoor location, having a prom photo shoot is a great excuse to wear your dress or suit more than once!
]]>If you like the idea of having portrait photography of your family, children, grandchildren, your pet dog or cat or just yourself then this is the thing for you. Using the voucher, you can book as many photo shoots as you like in the studio and pay nothing for each session. Literally nothing, each session is free when using your Studio Passport voucher. Each studio photo shoot can be worth up to £50.00 so over the year you can make a huge saving compared to individual prices.
It doesn't have to be bought as a gift of course, you can book as many studio sessions as you like just for yourself or with a few select friends. Why not enjoy some quiet time being the centre of attention knowing you will get stunning professional photos that show you at your best. No interruptions, just time for yourself.
Are you wondering if there's a catch? There is no catch; with the voucher you can book as many FREE sessions in the studio as you like with nothing to pay. There is even a complimentary free print of your choice with every session.
A fine art style portrait of Lilly © Paul Holland
Use your voucher to book a free photo shoot for a special occasion such as a birthday, Valentine's Day, School Prom Night, wedding anniversary, engagement announcement, family get-together or a new arrival in the family. Or book yourself a photo shoot at any time without an occasion to celebrate. Book as many sessions as you want, whenever you want (subject to studio diary availability). There is no limit.
So how much does a Studio Passport voucher cost?
For a whole year of unlimited free photo shoots in the studio. I told you it was the best value!
Here's a quick summary of what's included:
Here are a few ideas of how and when your voucher might be used. Once you have purchased the Studio Passport, all of these are free, as often as you like:
Now there is a six month Studio Passport voucher too!
Have you got ideas for how you would use your Studio Passport voucher? Please let me know in the comments and if you have any questions about the Studio Passport voucher feel free to phone or email me.
Paul
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So what's the ideal height to show your photograph at it's best?
You should hang your photographs so that the centre of the image is at eye level. Of course, not everyone is exactly the same height but a good rule of thumb is get the centre of the photograph around 60-63 inches (152-160cm) from the floor. This will give you a good starting point and you can make final adjustments from there.
Here's where you need to measure:
If you are displaying several photographs on your wall, you may want to look at a post I wrote previously about wall layout ideas and how to group several photos together. I hope these help you to display your photographs at their best.
If you are reading this because I have created wall art for you, I would love to see a photo of how it looks in your home!
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Want to find out more about the images?
Let me know your thoughts!
A beautiful, hand framed photograph or an album tailored to your own specification where you select the type of photographic paper and which cover material to use is a much richer, deeper experience than viewing images on a screen. It's an experience where you can appreciate the craftsmanship in the product as much as in the image itself...
]]>Well, to be more precise I should say physical photo products. Digital images are popular because you can view them on a phone or tablet but what happens if that gets lost or stolen?
Even when you still have access to the images, viewing them digitally is not the same as having a physical photo product to hold, look at, display and pass on to future generations. A beautiful, hand framed photograph or an album tailored to your own specification where you have selected the type of photographic paper and which cover material to use is a much richer, deeper experience. It's an experience where you can appreciate the craftsmanship in the product as much as in the image itself.
So, I thought I would showcase some of the photo products we offer. I have hand-picked every item and I selected them for both their quality and value. You can see examples of every product at the Paul Holland Photography Studio in Kendal. In fact, every image and design you see in the studio has been created by Paul. So, here's what's available to show your photographs at their very best.
Fine Art Prints
The fine art print box is one of our most popular products. You can choose 12 or more of your favourite images and they are printed on a heavyweight fine art paper and presented in a beautiful linen-covered box. The fine art paper stock has a very slight texture while the printed image has no sheen at all. The print quality is amazing, with vibrant colours and deep blacks.
Fine Art Album
You have a choice of several paper types in the fine art album. The fine art pages are the same as my fine art prints so you get all the same benefits: gorgeous colours and tones on fine art paper stock. The other popular choice is Fuji Silk paper with it’s vibrant colours. There are other paper types available too but these paper types feel so lovely that they are by far the most popular choices. There's a wide choice of cover materials including one to match the linen box that the fine art prints are supplied in. You choose the photos for your album and I design the page layouts for you so I can incorporate any preferences you may have for your favourite images. There is a choice of album boxes available too, including boxes in the same cover material as your album. If you would like to find out more about my range of albums, you can read my article about the choice of photo albums.
My range of wall art products includes frames, canvases, contemporary art panels, wood panels and box frames. Here’s a brief description of each one:
Hand-framed prints
I offer a wide range of frames in a choice of sizes, styles and colours so you are sure to find one you'll love. Whichever frame you choose, you can be assured that it is made of solid wood. We don't use cardboard, plastic or composite frames. All of our frames use art glass too so there is no cloudiness, scratching or deterioration associated with cheaper frames that use acrylic sheets.
I will probably write another post about the frames as there are so maby choose from that I can't really do them justice in this article. I have just shown a few example frames here.
Your chosen photographic print(s) will be mounted onto a backboard to stop the print from rippling before being set inside a frame mount and then sealed to the glass to prevent dust from entering.
The completed frame is supplied in a box and with a hanger cord already fitted, your frame can be hung on the wall as soon as it's removed from the box. Our hand-crafted frames simply ooze quality.
Canvas
The canvases I selected to offer are a high quality solution and they are our most cost-effective wall art product. They have a lower production cost than frames however they still meet my quality criteria by using wood for the stretcher bars and a thick, 100% cotton canvas. Archival quality printing in vibrant colours completes the product.
Art Panel
The art panel is a modern, contemporary style wall art product. Your chosen image is printed and mounted to the front of a slim panel and then a protective, silk laminate is applied over the top of the print.
The panel has a slim black edge to the sides and sits about 1cm off the wall when hung.
Wood panel
Wood panels are a unique, natural product. They consist of a ply wooden panel onto which your photographic image is printed. Only the highest grade of laminated wood is used to create each item and with a wooden hanging frame fitted at the back, the panel sits about 2cm off the wall. Whites and lighter colours in the photograph such as highlights in the background, white clothing etc can either be printed as white or these lighter areas can be allowed to let the natural wood to show through.
Allowing the wood grain to show through the image can really make a difference to some photographs and it gives a lovely warm, natural look to the finished piece.
Box frame
The box frame is a classic product that has long been popular. Your image is printed and then bonded to a board. A protective laminate is applied over the top of the photograph and then the photographic board is set inside a deep frame.
You can choose from a range of box frame colours including black, white and several styles of wood.
So, that’s the choice. They’re all high quality products designed to showcase your photographs while protecting them. Which one is your favourite?
]]>Our Mothers and Daughters photoshoot session is now available! Time is precious and your portrait session will give you time together in our studio in Kendal while you enjoy...
]]>Our Mum and Daughters photo shoot session is now available! While it makes a unique and thoughtful gift for Mother's Day, our Mother and Daughter photo shoot is available all year round.
Time is precious and your portrait session will give you time together in our studio in Kendal while you enjoy your own Mother and Daughters Photoshoot. A week or two later you can choose your favourite image as an 8” x 6” print which is yours to keep forever.
When you arrive at the studio, you will receive a consultation with Paul so he can get a good idea of what sort of image you would like to capture.
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It's a rule I am happy to break and I often photograph both pets and children together.
I love my job, photographing children, families and pets and whenever I get asked by clients if they can bring their pets along for a combined...
]]>It's a rule I am happy to break and I often photograph both pets and children together.
I love my job, photographing children, families and pets and whenever I get asked by clients if they can bring their pets along for a combined photo shoot, I know it’s going to be fun.
Animals and pets are very much part of the family so no family portrait can be complete without them being included too and the bond between children and their pets can be so endearing it will often make for some great photographs.
Photographing animals can have its challenges though. They don't always follow direction for photography and they often prefer to move about the studio rather than remain in one place. This is something I am used to when photographing, however I also offer outdoor photography as well which you may consider more suited to your own animal's temperament.
As with people, getting a great portrait is always easier when the subject is relaxed, so if you’re planning on bringing your pet to the studio in Kendal, make sure they come fed, exercised and alert. If it’s a dog, don't forget to bring along their favourite toy or treat to hold their interest. I previously wrote a blog article with some useful tips about preparing your dog for a photo shoot, which you can read here.
My job as a professional photographer is to be ready to capture a look or fleeting movement that can create a great portrait such as the one below of Bazil and Abi. It was a very brief moment but I have captured it forever and I think that with the other photos of Abi and Bazil together it will make a lovely reminder of Abi's childhood in years to come.
If you like the photos here, why not book a photo shoot for your own children and pets? There are full details in the Portraits section of the shop or feel free to get in touch if you have any questions.
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As much as I enjoy the creativity of photographing in the studio with everything to hand, I love photographing outdoor portraits on location in the Lake District too. It's a beautiful area with a variety of landscapes, ideal for portrait photography.
I offer outdoor lifestyle photo shoots for individuals, couples and families, and with plentiful space and natural features, my outdoor shoots are popular for anyone that wants their dogs and horses photographed too.
It’s always lovely to be commissioned for portrait photography 'just because'. Often the first professional photographs we have of ourselves as adults are when we get married, or have a family. I think it's important though to have portraits of ourselves at any age, to celebrate our lives as they are, and to look back on in years to come. That's where my outdoor photo shoots come in.
The photos I have shown here are of individuals rather than families or couples. Like all my portrait sessions, a portrait photo shoot for one person is available as a gift voucher and it makes a popular and unique gift for 18th, 21st, 30th and 40th birthdays or simply as a gift to yourself.
I'm always scouting for suitable locations for my outdoor portrait photography and living on the edge of the Lake District there are plenty of great places to choose from. Within a short drive we have access to hills, lakes and woodland as well as several towns for more of an 'urban look'.
The images in this collection of portraits were all shot within the Lake District National Park. I love the variety of locations and what they offer. Bridges, stiles, walls, stairs and rustic looking doors can all enhance a photo and show the surrounding environment.
I allow plenty of time for each of my shoots so your session is relaxed and unhurried, with as much direction as you need. Having this time means there is plenty of opportunity for me to achieve a variety of looks for you. I find that even just walking a very short distance from one location can present a lot of opportunities for a different set of photos.
Being outside, pets and animals such as dogs or horses can be included too.
Sometimes a location can suit being photographed in black and white. This is often the case when there are a lot of strong colours in the scene which can overpower the result I'm looking for. I always edit each individual image when I am converting to black and white so that the style I choose suits the image itself rather than having a 'one size fits all' approach to black and white conversion.
Have you ever thought about having your own location portrait shoot in Windermere, Ambleside, Kendal or one of the many beauty spots nearby? Perhaps you are looking for a unique Lake District holiday activity? If so, or if you would like to buy a Lake District photo shoot as a gift for someone else, there are more detail and images in the online shop. Please contact the studio if you would like more information. If you are unfamiliar with the area I can always suggest suitable locations for your portrait photoshoot.
Occasionally 😉 we get rain in the Lake District and I wrote about portrait photos on rainy days in this article which looks at the options for both outdoor and studio photo shoots.
]]>If you don't mind a few...
]]>If you are holidaying in the Lake District, the chances are that rain may be forecast for one or more of the days. There's no getting around it, the Lake District can be a bit wet sometimes! However it's not all bad news. You could consider doing something you may never have done before, the perfect rainy day activity - having your own photo shoot. It's a great experience for families, individuals, children and couples!
If you don't mind a few scattered showers throughout the day then an outdoor photo shoot on location in the Lake District is a great way to capture images of your stay. It can often be sunny between rain showers and the rainfall actually makes the grass appear greener in the photos too. Perfect for capturing that romantic break for just the two of you or to capture the activities of the whole family.
A dry activity for when the rain is set to last all day is to book an indoor studio photoshoot. Our photography studio in the historic town of Kendal is just a short drive away from some of the most popular Lake District locations; Windermere: 15 minutes, Bowness: 20 minutes, Ambleside: 25 minutes. We can accommodate individuals, couples, accompanied children or family groups. We love dogs too so they are welcome to come and have their photo taken with you or in their own photo shoot.
Kendal offers a great day out and boasts historic buildings, plenty of cafes, restaurants, pubs, tearooms and other attractions. Your studio photo shoot will last for around 1-1½ hours so there will be plenty of time to explore the local area afterwards, should you wish to.
All photographs are taken by Paul and there is a wide range of photo shoots to choose from. How about one of these for a wet weather activity in Bowness, Windermere, Ambleside, Kendal, Grange-over-Sands or the surrounding area?:
All portrait photo shoots need to be pre-booked so that we can secure the time for you, however we can sometimes accommodate studio bookings at short notice so it is always worth checking with us. Contact the studio and we would be happy to discuss options with you to help make the most of your visit to the Lake District.
]]>First, we take a copy of your original photograph or a copy of your image if you send us a digital file. We can then digitally enhance and repair the digital copy, leaving your original photo or digital image file intact and unchanged. Some of the work undertaken in the past includes repairing tears where the original print has been torn into separate parts, removing spots and scratches, and restoring colour to faded photographs. It's not uncommon for images to need several or all of these things correcting.
Once the image has been digitally repaired it can be printed again and you aren't limited to the original size or format! Your restored photo can be reprinted in a larger size, you can get duplicate copies for sharing, have your photo made into a jigsaw puzzle or into canvas wall art, to list just a few suggestions for what can be done. Here are a few examples of photo restoration work Paul has done recently.
Have you got old photographs you would like restoring? Perhaps it is for a family project or maybe you would like a photograph repaired to give as a gift. You can buy this inexpensive photo restoration service at the studio or from our online shop.
If you would like Paul to inspect your photograph first and provide advice about what's possible then please get in touch for a free, no obligation assessment of your photo. Just email your image or call in to our Highgate studio in Kendal with your original print to see how we can help.
]]>The primary thing is to choose a location where your dog will be comfortable. If your dog is outgoing and confident in new locations then a studio photo shoot will be fine. I have posted previously about how I photographed Benji, a dachshund in my Kendal studio.
If your dog is anxious or nervous then they may prefer to be photographed at home or at an outdoor location they are familiar with.
I offer both studio pet photo shoots and outdoor location (or at home) photo shoots.
A few months ago I photographed Winnie, a Shih Poo dog outdoors at her home near Cockermouth which I wrote about in a previous post. You can read about Winnie's photo shoot here.
If your dog needs regular grooming you may wish to do this before the photo shoot appointment. Being groomed and photographed on the same day might be a bit too much for your dog, however you could book a grooming appointment a couple of days ahead of the photo shoot. If your dog is very active then it also minimises the time you need to try and keep them clean!
If you have a breed of dog that is 'scruffy' around the face, you may want to trim some of the hairs so that the eyes are more visible in the photos. Nails should also be trimmed so that your dog is presented at their best when it comes to the photo shoot.
All that is left is to relax and enjoy your dog's photo shoot! You can see more examples of my dog photography and find out more about my pet studio photo shoot or location pet photo shoot. If you have any questions about booking a pet photo shoot please contact the studio. I hope the post was useful to you. If you have any comments or questions I would love to hear them.
]]>Have you ever tried photographing your dog in the garden and weren't sure where to start? I thought I would explain what I do on a pet photo shoot when I am photographing on location.
I was recently commissioned to create some photographs of Winnie, a very cute Shih Poo dog, as a birthday gift for Winnie’s owner. The photos were to be taken at Winnie’s home near Cockermouth. It was about an hour and a half's drive from my photo studio in Kendal so with all my camera gear packed I set off early for the appointment. The weather forecast for the day was fair, not sunny but no rain either :-) so all good.
I always like to take a look around when I arrive somewhere new to take photographs. I am looking for locations that will help me to create great photos and I wanted to show Winnie in her home environment as I wanted it to be a meaningful gift for Winnie's owner. Winnie's home had a large garden at the front which extended to the side and gave lots of opportunities for a variety of photos. There was plenty of space for some action shots of Winnie running so I got a few of these before moving onto other photos.
You can see more examples of my outdoor pet photography here.
If you have great photographs of your own pet, these can always be printed on a variety of items such as canvas wall art or small jigsaws. Contact the studio for more information if this is of interest or if you would like to arrange a professional photo shoot portrait for your pet please get in touch.
]]>Available in a choice of colours, the mug is only available from Paul Holland Photography. It's Paul's own design so it is totally unique.
The mugs are available from the studio or from our online shop. What's even better is that there is an option to buy two mugs so not only do you save a bit but you can give one as a gift and keep one for yourself. What's not to love about The Lakes? See the full range of mugs here.
]]>You have probably got thousands of photos on your phone and you may have decided that it's now time to print them so that family, friends and visitors to your home can see them. The problem you now face is how best to display them on your wall. There are many different photo products such as canvas, framed prints, and contemporary wooden or metal photo panels however rather than looking at the various types of photo product, this post looks at how you can layout lots of different photos to create a pleasing wall display - a picture wall.
In this post I have collated all of my ideas for you, to help you get the best picture wall layout to suit your photos and your home.
If you have any questions or if you can add to the ideas with suggestions of your own, please post in the comments below.
Before you get started on making a picture wall with your favourite photographs, there are a few important things to consider:
Choosing the best layout
Now for the fun part! If you have lots of photos to choose from (and we know you have thousands on your phone!), it can take a while to decide which ones are going to make it onto your picture wall but the finished wall display will be worth the time and effort it takes to choose the ones you want to use. When you have chosen your photos, you need to decide on a suitable layout for them on your wall. What makes the best layout? Your choices will depend on the shape, quantity and size of your photo frames, as well as the colours in your photos and the location in your home.
A good tip when planning your layout is to lay all of your picture frames or panels, face up, on the floor and try different arrangements to see which looks best. You can get a better view of what your finished photo wall will look like by standing on a stool or step ladder and looking down at your arrangement of pictures.
An alternative to this is to use large sheets of paper (wall lining paper is ideal) cut to the same size as each of your picture frames. Label each piece of paper so you know which picture it represents and then stick the paper sheets to the wall and rearrange them until you find a layout that you prefer.
There are a couple of tips here that will help you get started:
Here are some of the most popular layout choices:
A row of photos
If you are going for a simple row of photos in a line, there are three techniques that work well especially when your pictures or frames are all different sizes: you can align all the top edges of your picture frames, all the bottom frame edges or all the centres of your pictures. Which one you chose is a matter of personal preference and will depend on the shape and size of your photos.
Symmetrical shapes
Making a symmetrical shape with your frames or photo panels can work well when creating photo gallery walls. Four rectangular frames of the same size, with two of them upright and two of them horizontal can be hung so that the overall shape they make is a square. If your frames aren't all the same size, you can still achieve a symmetrical shape but you will probably need to spend more time planning the layout. See the end of this post for more example layouts.
Different sized frames
If all your frames are different sizes, it takes more planning time but if you get it right, it can lead to a really eye-catching picture wall display. The trick is to start with one large important piece and add the other frames around it. Use the techniques described earlier to plan the layout before you start fixing your frames to the wall.
Having a common theme for the display will help to make the frames sit well together even if they are different sizes and styles, so for example, having all of the frames in the same colour (such as white, black or the same shade of wood) or having all of your photos in black and white can help to bring the display together into one single collection rather than simply looking like lots of different frames placed next to each other. See the picture wall layout examples at the end of this post for some layout ideas.
Picture shelves
Picture shelves are ideal if you have lots of photos and you like to change them frequently. The shelf needs to be fixed to the wall first but after this has been done, you simply rest your frame on the shelf so that the photo frame leans against the wall. Picture shelves usually have a groove and a front lip to prevent your photo frames from slipping.
Changing your picture wall is as easy as picking up one frame from the shelf and replacing it with another. As well as placing pictures side by side, you can overlap them to add a bit of depth to your display. If your images have a mount (giving a blank space between the image and the frame) then you can overlap picture frames and still keep the whole of the image visible.
The shelf has to support all of the weight of your pictures so consider what size and weight they will be before you choose a picture shelf and don't forget to check the maximum load (weight) that it can support. If you like DIY and don't mind making your own picture shelves, I saw an ingenious low-cost shelf solution recently where the picture shelves were made from decking planks. Ingenious because they already have the grooves on the top surface when you buy them, and painted or varnished, they looked very professional!
Photos next to stairs
Staircases are a great place to create a photo picture wall but it takes a bit more planning and measuring to make your display look right. For the best effect, try to make sure your pictures follow the line of the stairs. If you can't visualise where this line would be, you could use thin cord or string and attach it to the wall at each end using drawing pins. Your line needs to be parallel to your stairs or your banister hand rail if you have one, so you may need to measure the height of each end to make sure that the distances are the same. The centre of your photos should still be at about eye level.
Next, think about where your larger pictures will go along the line. The larger frames should be hung first and then you can fill in the gaps with smaller pictures. Using sheets of paper to plan the wall layout (see earlier) works well here. You can keep rearranging the papers until you like the layout. Then it's just a matter of replacing each sheet of paper, one at a time, with the photo frame it represents. Remove the line (if you attached one to the wall) when you have finished.
Fixing pictures to walls without tools
3M produces a set of high tech adhesive strips in it's Command™ Picture Hanging Strips and Hangers range. They support picture frames and canvases without the need for screw or nail holes in the wall. Claimed to be good for painted walls, wood, tiles and metal surfaces, the special adhesive grips strongly yet the stretch release technology should ensure no surface damage is caused when you want to remove it.
The strips come in different sizes and each has a stated maximum weight that it can support. You will need to use a few for each frame so it's not a cheap solution in my opinion but it does enable you to hang pictures without any tools and to change the pictures quickly. If you fix the strips in the same place on the back of each frame you plan to use then you can simply remove one frame from the wall and swap it with another, leaving the wall strips intact.
I have used these myself and they work well so long as any wall paint isn't too new. If you've just redecorated and painted your walls, it's probably best to leave the paint to set for a couple of weeks first as I've found that the adhesive doesn't work well if the paint's only recently dried.
I have no affiliation with 3M, I have mentioned their Command strips because I have used them and they work well as an alternative to hooks or nails. If you don't like the idea of hammering nails into your walls then these are a good alternative, the only downside is the cost.
Lighting your photos
Once your photos are on the wall, adding lighting can bring them to life. Spotlights are perfect because you can focus the viewers attention on the main photographs or to a specific area such as a face on a large photo. During installation, make sure that you follow the manufacturer's instructions so that if your light source gets hot it isn't too close to your pictures or anyone that views them. Photo prints are best preserved under glass (for example in a glazed frame) as this helps to reduce fading that may be caused by intensive light. I prefer warm white LED because they give a warmer light and I find that other LED colours look a bit stark.
Some of the wall display photo products that I sell in the studio are designed to create a shadow around the photo when they are spot lit and I can't emphasise enough what a difference it makes when you light your photo wall.
Photo Wall Layout Examples
To finish, I thought I would provide some examples of picture wall layouts that will hopefully give you more ideas and inspiration.
I wanted to show the classic lines of the car and it really looked great from every angle so I took a lot of exterior and interior photos. This image shows some of the period detail in the interior.
I loved the symmetry of the front grille too so I chose to isolate that detail in my image. You can see the classic V8 shape picked out in chrome.
If you are not sure about the quality of your own photos, we will check your image for you (free of charge) and let you know if it's suitable for creating a jigsaw. Photos taken on a mobile phone in the last few years are likely to be suitable.
For personalised jigsaws we offer a small 120-piece jigsaw that is supplied in its own smart tin with the photo on the lid. A personalised photo jigsaw puzzle makes a completely unique and special gift, why not give one a try?
If we have created portrait or wedding images for you, any of those images can be used or you can supply your own photo. If your photo is on a phone or tablet then you can email it to us or if you have a photo print or images on a USB flash drive just bring it along to the studio and we will produce your jigsaw puzzle for you.
Some time ago I photographed food dishes for Lee Rogers, a very talented local Cumbrian chef. All of the food dishes Lee creates are beautifully and artistically presented so they are not only a gastronomic delight but also a visual treat too and my job was to show that in the photographs I created.
One of the many dishes I photographed for Lee was halibut served on a bed of savoy cabbage with an almond sauce. It looked stunning and I asked Lee if he would mind sharing his knowledge and his recipe so you could make this yourself. Here it is:
The dish can be created in under 30 minutes and the ingredients shown below are for 2 people.
Preparation time 30 minutes.
Cooking time 6-7 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients for Lee's halibut, savoy cabbage and almond sauce recipe
Two 6 - 8oz Halibut fish steaks
100g of savoy cabbage, sliced thinly
30g unsmoked streaky bacon, cut into lardons
1 shallot
3 - 4 sprigs of thyme
20g unsalted butter
1 tbsp of rapeseed oil
60ml chicken stock
salt and pepper
For the sauce:
75g flaked almonds, save a sprinkle for garnishing
200ml double cream
50ml fish stock
½ tsp salt
To prepare the sauce, preheat an oven to 180c. Place the flaked almonds onto a baking tray and toast for approx 5-6 minutes until they turn a golden brown colour. Place the fish stock and cream in a heavy base saucepan and bring up to a gentle boil, toss the flaked almonds (keeping a few aside) into the hot cream and simmer for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, turn off the heat and leave the sauce to infuse, season it with salt and then place cling-film over the top for 20 minutes.
Next, finely slice the shallot, savoy cabbage and the streaky bacon, place the oil in a pan on a gentle heat and start to cook the bacon until it becomes slightly crispy, add the shallot and cook for a further minute. Next, add half the butter, thyme and the savoy cabbage and sauté for another minute. Lastly, add the chicken stock and cook until the cabbage is tender (the consistency should be slightly moist but not wet). Check the seasoning and set aside.
Once the sauce has infused, strain through a sieve and check the seasoning to your taste. You should now have your cabbage in one pan and the sauce in another pan ready to be warmed up.
Finally, heat up 1 tbsp of rapeseed oil in a non-stick frying pan, bring it up to a moderate heat and season the Halibut with salt. Place the fish into the pan and cook on one side for 3-4 minutes.
When the fish has turned a nice golden colour, turn down the heat, add the remaining butter and baste the fish. Place in the oven for a further 2 minutes until the fish is tender. Heat up the sauce and cabbage then garnish the plate with the cabbage first, place the cooked fish straight from the oven onto the cabbage and pour the hot sauce onto the plate. Sprinkle with the remaining almonds and serve.
Lee Rogers has over 18 years experience as a chef at prestigious kitchens around the world including the five star Madinat Jumeirah Hotel in Dubai and the Michelin star restaurant The Vineyard, in Berkshire, as well as in 3 Rosette kitchens such as Longeville Manor, Jersey and Hipping Hall, Cumbria. Lee is passionate about cooking and wine and his recipes are known for their creativity. He likes to source the best local ingredients for the dishes he creates.
He lives in Cumbria with his wife and son.
You can see more of Paul's commercial photography work on the web site and if you would like professional photographs to advertise your own products, services or business, that is something we can do for you. Call in, phone, or email us at the studio so we can discuss things with you and find out more about what you require. You may also wish to consider having professional headshot photos too.
Are you planning to use this fish recipe or perhaps you have recently tried it? Let us know! We would love to hear your comments.
Every fine art portrait I create is different to what I have done before because I try to show the true nature of person being photographed.
These photos in this post are from a fine art portrait photo shoot I did with Lilly.
There are more example of my fine art portraiture here. Do you have a favourite? Which do you prefer?
]]>John Spilsbury, a British cartographer and engraver, is credited with creating and then commercialising jigsaw puzzles around 1766. Spilsbury served as an apprentice to King George III's Royal Geographer, and his early jigsaws, known as dissections, were produced by mounting maps on sheets of hardwood. The hardwood sheets were cut along the map boundary lines, creating puzzles that were used to teach children geography.
The first commercial jigsaw puzzles were also created by painting or mounting a picture onto a flat piece of wood, and then hand cutting the wooden picture into small pieces. It was some time before manufacturers began to use cardboard rather than wood as the base of the puzzle pieces. Most modern jigsaw puzzles are made out of cardboard as the puzzle pieces are easier to produce than the original wooden models.
Laser cutters are available but most jigsaws are currently produced using a machine press. The photograph, or any flat piece of artwork, is first glued onto a cardboard sheet. When the glue has dried, the cardboard sheet is fed into a press and the press forces a set of hardened steel blades, known as a die, with the desired jigsaw pattern through the cardboard until it is fully cut. The procedure is similar to making shaped biscuits with a cookie or pastry cutter but the forces required are much greater. Machine presses for cardboard jigsaw puzzles can typically generate 100 - 700 tons of force to push the blades of the puzzle die through the board. This is how our range of 1000 piece jigsaw puzzles is created. We select a heavyweight sheet for our puzzles so they are thicker, and being of a higher quality than many others found on the high street they should last longer.
People love the challenge of putting together jigsaw puzzles and more than 250 years after the inception of the jigsaw, producing jigsaw puzzles is still a thriving industry.
]]>A couple of months ago I had the enviable job of photographing Benji in the Kendal photo studio. Benji is a very cute Dachshund dog and he was so well behaved that his dog photo shoot lasted a little longer than normal. I always have everything prepared for pet photo shoots - items such as toys, treats, spare leads, towels and a water bowl are all essential to have close by. None of those things were really needed though as Benji was perfectly content for me to carry on photographing him with a variety of props including an old suitcase (pictured) as well as several chairs, boxes and other items.
I like to create a variety of images and I ended up with loads of photos but this is one of my favourites because I just love his pose and expression! In the end, it was a close up head and shoulders shot that Benjis' owners chose.
I had the print mounted and set in a solid wood frame that matched the colour tones in their chosen image. A high quality, hand framed photograph always looks amazing and makes a real statement when it goes on the wall for family and visitors to see.
I love photographing dogs and if you would like to see more examples of my work, you can find more examples of my studio and outdoor Lake District pet photography on the portraits page.
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