Events Archives - Richard Spurdens Photography

Highlights of 2019

As we reach the end of year it is time to put some highlights of 2019 from my photography year together.

In January I worked with Stephanie Dubois a uk based freelance model. Stephaine had been on my list of models I want to work with for a while. So it was good to get to work with her.

Highlights of 2019 images:

Portrait photographer - Portrait photography - colour portrait of Stephanie for highlights of 2019

Fine Art Nude Photography - Fine Art Nude Photographer - smonochrome fine art nude image of strephanie for highlights of 2019

January also gave me a chance to shoot some Ski racing in the Ski resort of Tignes. The European Alpine skiing cup was taking place the week we were there. Unfortuately the final parallel slalom races took place in heavy snow. So not easy conditions for the racers or photograhers.

Sports photography - Sports Phoptographer - colour image of dual slalom competitor racing for the line

I also got a visit to the Black country living museum in Dudley which gave the chance for a few location portraits using natural light.

Portrait photographer - Portrait photography - colour image from the black country musumn of the motor cycle shop gaffer- highlights of 2019

Portrait photographer - Portrait photography - colour image from the black country museum of the general store assistant- highlights of 2019

Walters wardrode productions, opened it doors with two events which I attended. One in April and the other in early October, both of which were great. Good models and high class fashion designer outfits to shoot in fantastic locations.

Walters Wardrobe images:

Fashion Photography - Fashion Photographer - colour image from a fashion shoot at western park featuring the designs of Dress designer bowen-dryden -highlights of 2019

Fashion photographer - Fashion photography - colour fashion image shot on location at Prestwick hall - designer house of sheldon hall a black polka dot dress

Electric Dreams

Another fashion shoot but with a very different look and styling was the Electric Dreams themed shoot – Styled by Ivory Flame. Featuring designers Yummy Gummy Latex, MUA Gemma Howell and hair by Even Huang

Fashion photographer - Fashion photography - colour image from electic dreams model wears a clear plasticmack and shor using neon lights - highlights 2019

Fashion photographer - Fashion photography - colour image from electic dreams model wears a orange plastic skirt and red top and shor using neon lights - highlights 2019

A new model to work with this year from the Midlands we had an enjoyable shoot in April.

Fashion photographer - Fashion photography - colour image of model wearing a black lace body, looking back to the camera over her shoulder

I also found two other Aerialist to work with Fanny Müller who is a dancer as well as an Aerialist. Allegra who is a trapeze artist and instructor. I created some great and different images with both of them.

Dance Photographer - Dance photography - Image showing a dancer on pointe, wearing a red dress and holding a red balloon is it seems to pull her to the sky

Allegra on the trapeze

Aerial Arts photography - Aerial trapize photographer - Aerial Arts photography - Aerial trapize photography -colour image of trapeze artist and model allegra

It is good to look back at the highlight of the year and the 2018 highlights can be found here.

Events, News, Photography

Printing Images

Having just spent the last two days preparing and printing images for an couple of upcoming exhibitions, I thought I would do a short blog post on why I enjoy seeing the final image in print form. It’s alright seeing the image on the computer screen but you can’t beat seeing the final printed image…

…knowing that it is going to go into a frame and be hung on the gallery wall. to be viewed.

It’s worth all the work in preparing and printing and then mounting the printed images. I always print from Photoshop and once I have sized the image on the canvas I apply some sharpening as the final output stage. The amount can vary but I always check to see the effect the amount of sharpening to the image is having at 100%. Its not easy to know the exact amount but with practice you can usually judge what is the right amount.

Before I do any printing, I always set my monitor to a print calibration profile which I have stored. Having done a lot of research and testing I find that these settings give me the results of what I see on the screen matching what the print output produces. These settings are White point: D55 and intensity: 90 cd/m2

My current printer is an Epson P800 and I am very pleased with the output I get from it. When printing monochrome images, I use the Epson black and white print driver which gives great results for monochrome. (Don’t forget to turn off the “Photoshop manages the colours” setting in the print dialogue).

My current paper choice is Epson Traditional Photopaper Soft Gloss. This has a Fiber Photo Paper Base of 300 gsm. The results from this paper are really good and it produces great results both in colour and also black and white.

A few of the images going to the exhibitions

Dance Photographer - Dance photography - a colour image of dancer alya rose with bent legs and leaning back on her left arm with her right reaching up towards the light — Richard Spurdens Photography – Studio Session with Ayla Rose at The Loft Studio, …………Camera Data……….. Model:Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM 1/125 sec @ f-4.5 / ISO 100

Fashion Photography - Fashion Photographer - an interior shot of the model wearing a white trouser suit and floral head piece in the white stair way — Richard Spurdens Photography – fashion images from a Walter’s Wardrobe location shoot at Ragley Hall Stylist: Jen Brook Production: Walter’s Wardrobe …………Camera Data……….. Model:Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: EF24-70mm f/2.8L II USM 1/80 sec @ f-4 / ISO 320

artistic nude photographer - artistic nude photography - a tonned monochrome image artistic nude model Micshkan she is posing in a rock opening, her arms are pushing at the sides and she is nearing on one leg and the other is pointed into the opposite corner. shot on location Guys Cliffe. — Richard Spurdens Photography – Micshkan in the rock opening -Model:X-T2, Lens: XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR

Events, Fashion, General, News, Photography

2018 review of the year

As the final few days of this year are upon us I thought it was worth taking a bit of time to put together a 2018 review of my year in photography.

A few highlights for the 2018 review of the year were a trip to Rome to join the Fashion Artwise team at a location shoot; a trip toSouthern Ireland to visit the Dingle peninsula; a visit to the Island of Crete to work with Zoi Morgan and her Sirens of Crete event and meeting Rankin.

Also finally getting the chance to work with Ivory Flame, Elle Rose and Nicole Rayner together at a location shoot.

Image from the Fashion Artwise event.

fashion photographer - fashion photography - colour image from a fashion shoot at villa giovanelli near rome - the model is crouching down surrounded by hte crimpeleen skirts of the white dress she is look towards the window ltight — Richard Spurdene Photography – fashion image – fashion artwise series – Model: Fuji X-T2, Lens: XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR, 1/60sec @ f-2.8

Dingle

artistic nude photographer - artistic nude photography - colour image from location shoot on the island of crete the setting sun light the models figure against a twisted tree model is topless and is wearing a long red skirt lifted to her knee on one leg — Richard Spurdens Photography -Sirens of Crete 2018 at Various Locations, …………Camera Data……….. Model:X-T2 Lens: XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR 1/60 sec @ f-6.4 / ISO 200

Studio wise, my studio lease came to an end in October. Trying to find a new studio is a job for next year. But for this 2018 review of the year I have had a productive time in the studio. I have also done quite a number of location shoots too, which offers a different challenge to working in the controlled enviroment of a studio. I have enjoyed the challenges of working on location and learnt a few things too.

There have been chances to work with a number of new creatives again this year and I have enjoyed working with them and together we have created some great images, and also had good fun playing with different light approaches.

New Dancers

New Dancers this year have included: Ayla Rose and Geraldine Bell.
I have also worked with a number of others from previous years including: Elle Beth and Gem as a duo pair, Ivory Flame, Ella Rose and Nicole Rayner and Em Theresa, Pippa Doll and Nicky Philips.

Dance Photographer - Dance photography - Ayla seated on the floor reaching up towards the light from a studio session with Ayla Rose at The Loft Studio. — Richard Spurdens Photography – dance photography series – Model: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM 1/125 sec @ f-5 / ISO 100

Richard Spurdens Photography – Model:Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: EF50mm f/1.8 II 1/125 sec @ f-5.6 / ISO 100

I have continued to enter a few of the uk photo exhibitions focusing on supporting exhibitions running print sections and have gained a number of acceptances into these exhibitions. I’ve also picked up a few awards as well. I was also invited to be a judge at this years PAGB Inter Club Projected Digital Image Championship, which was enjoyable.

I have also supported Walters Wardrobe (Jen Brook) and her couture themed shoots at some great locations. This year I only managed to do two of these great events. The first was a shoot at Belvoir Castle in Leicestershire, (Still I Rise), which featured the designer: Joanne Fleming , with styling by Jen Brook, and MUA: Shara Gray and Livvy Morewood. The models were: Bethany Bennett, Liv Free, Stefanie Nieuwenhuyse, and Ceci Zhang,

Fashion Photography - Fashion Photographer - colour image of model and the pompom rose head piece — Richard Spurdens Photography – fashion Image from a Walter’s Wardrobe location shoot at Belvoir Castle Stylist: Jen Brook Production: Walter’s Wardrobe …………Camera Data……….. Model:Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: EF50mm f/1.8 II 1/40 sec @ f-2.2 / ISO 250

fashion photographer - fashion photography - colour image from a fashion shoot at Belvior castle this shot shows the lace design on the cream and white wedding dress — Richard Spurdens Photography – Images from a Walter’s Wardrobe location shoot at Belvoir Castle Stylist: Jen Brook Production: Walter’s Wardrobe …………Camera Data……….. Model:Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM 1/30 sec @ f-4 / ISO 400

The second event was (In Bloom) This was with Designer: Rosie Red Corsetry and Couture, with styling by Jen Brook, and Headpiece: CC Millinery Creations Set Desing by Donna Graham, MUA: Sophie Battersby, Olivia Morewood, Rebecca Cordell, Sophie’s MUA/hair assistant: Rachael Doig. The Models for this event included: Lauren Rose McGee, Jaye Hicks, Olivia Harriet, and Leela Tikadar.

fashion photographer - fashion photography - colour image from a fashion shoot at wentworth woodhouse model wearing a pale blue full length ball gown with flowers and leave embriobery on the bodic and sleves she is shot through the room doors — Richard Spurdens Photography – location fashion shoot – Model: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM 1/60 sec @ f-4.5 / ISO 400

Fashion Photography - Fashion Photographer - a head shot of the model wear a floral head piece. — Richard Spurdens Photography – fashion images from a Walter’s Wardrobe location shoot at Ragley Hall Stylist: Jen Brook Production: Walter’s Wardrobe …………Camera Data……….. Model:Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM 1/80 sec @ f-4.5 / ISO 100

Events, Photography, Tips

More Dragon Boat racing

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For the forth year the Bradford Dragon boat festival was held on the river Aire at Roberts Park Saltair. It is the only three day festival for Dragon boat racing in the country. I have covered it of the last few years. as it is a good opportunity to get some different type of sports action images. It can give you some good colourful images too.

Over the last few events I have taken a number of approaches to photographing the Dragon boat racing. If you want the standard freeze the action shot then a high shutter speed does the job. However for me the approach I really perfer is using a show shutter speed together with a panning action to get the background blurred.

I usually start with my shutter speed set at around 1/30 sec ( but it can vary downwards to get the really blurred colourful shapes). I also add an on- camera flash unit, with the output dialled down. (-1 is a good starting point ). But check the images to make sure that you can’t tell that there is a flash being used. This helps to freeze the water droplets spray that you get from the paddlers paddles as they work to propel the boat forward.

Show here a few of the images from this years event:

sport photography - sport photographer -colour image of dragon boat racing on the river aire at roberts park saltaire, a slow shutter speed was used together with panning to give a feel of the speed in this one the boats are all very close in the reave and there is lots of effort going into the paddling by all the crews — Richard Spurdens Photography – Dragon boat racing series – Model: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM 1/30 sec @ f-13 / ISO 100

sport photography - sport photographer -colour image of dragon boat racing on the river aire at roberts park saltaire, slow shutter speed was used to give an abstract effect with a flash firing to captured the water spray droplets — Richard Spurdens Photography – Dragon boat racing series – Model: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM 1/30 sec @ f-14 / ISO 100

Events, Fashion, General, News

A new Rankin book

A new book found its way on to my bookshelves late last month. When I had the chance to go to one of the launch events for the new V&A photographic gallery.

This particular event was a talk by the photographer known as Rankin.

fashion photograher - fashion photography - image captured of the title screen of an evening with the photographer rankin for the launch of his new book — Richard Spurdens Photography – Images from a visit to London on October 15 2018. Photo: Richard Spurdens …………Camera Data……….. Model:X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R 1/60 sec @ f-2 / ISO 400

If you are interested in photography around the fashion and arts then you will have come across the works of the Rankin. He was always a portrait photographer (and still is) but when he helped co-found the magazine Dazed & Confused back in 1991 with Jefferson. His work then help defined the aesthetics and attitudes of the 1990s and 2000s, Rankin’s work has featured in leading publications worldwide.

From this vast portfolio of work Rankin has issued numerous books, of which I have a couple “More” and “Painting pretty pictures”. More was a retrospective of his portraiture work, which has always inspired me.

This new one is a retrospective of his full career in fashion photography and charts 30 years of Rankin’s work in this area of the industry. It is edited by the Rankin himself, and it shows the hard commercial side and also the not so glossy side of the fashion industry.

The images are presented in reverse chronology, Unfashionable moves from Rankin’s recent work with images from Hunger and then on back to his earliest Polaroids as he was starting out.

fashion photography - fashion photographer - the book cover of rankin book titled unfashionable book — Richard Spurdens Photography – rankins new book cover

The event

Rankin’s presentation was based on his new book. So it gave a good insight into the contents of the book and the some of the stories behind the images. I found presentation informative and interesting and so after the talk I decided to make a purchase of the book and add it to my library. I also got it signed by Rankin himself, and even had a short chat with the man as he signed it for me.

image of the inside cover and its signature — Richard Spurdens Photography –

I have tried in the past to make images that were inspired by Rankin work. Itis always direct, unapologetic and confronting. I like his honesty in his images and have tried to create similar types of work when collaborating with certain models who understand this challenge.

So below are a couple of images that I feel were inspired by Rankin approach and look

fashion photography - fashion Photographer - image of model carla monaco topless wearing big black pants and jewelled belt leaning against a white wall — Canon 5D mk III Sigma 35mm f2.8 lens. ISO 100 1/125sec @ f / 5.0

Fine Art Nude Photography - Fine Art Nude Photographer - a high key edge fashion nude image of the model madame bink based on a rankin look — Model: Fuji X-T2 Lens: XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR ISO:200

I think the book is worth a look if you like the work of Rankin.

Events, Fashion, Photography

Walter’s Wardrode October event

The final Walter’s Wardrode event of 2018 took place in a great location in the heart of Warwickshire. As usual with the Walter’s Wardrobe events it had a styled theme which for the event was theme around In-Bloom.

Shoot: In Bloom
Models: Lauren Rose McGee, Jaye Hicks, Olivia Harriet, Leela Tikadar.
Dress Designer: Rosie Red Corsetry and Couture and Bowen-Dryden.
Styling: Jen Brook
Creative set Design: Donna Graham.
Lighting: Available light and Elinchrom Quadra lights
MUA: Livvy Morewood and Sarah Grey.
Headpieces: CC Millnery Creations.

I have being luck enough to attend a few Walter’s wardrobe events in the past few years. The first one was at an old mill complex near Chorley, you can see the images here

Below are a selection of some of the images I shot at the event. They were shot at various location in and outside the venue. Some were shot using natural light others a balance of flash and natural light.

A few Images

Fashion Photography - Fashion Photographer - Image featuring model Jaye Hicks, at walter's wardrobe event — Richard Spurdens Photography – Model: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM 1/125 sec @ f-4 / ISO 200

Fashion Photography - Fashion Photographer - Image showing model Jaye Hicks jumping the floral moon — Richard Spurdens Photography – Model: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: EF24-70mm f/2.8L II USM 1/125 sec @ f-6.3 / ISO 100

These first three image feature the model: Jaye Hicks wearing Designer: Bowen-Dryden outfit, Stylist: Jen Brook, MUA: Sarah Gray, Headpiece: CC Millinery Creations, Set Design: Donna Graham, Production: Walter’s Wardrobe Events

Fashion Photography - Fashion Photographer - Image showing model Olivia Harriet and the floral umbrella — Richard Spurdens Photography – Model: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM 1/200 sec @ f-5.6 / ISO 100

Fashion Photography - Fashion Photographer - Image showing the floral head dress and floral mushrooms — Richard Spurdens Photography – Model: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: EF24-70mm f/2.8L II USM 1/60 sec @ f-6.3 / ISO 400

Designer: Bowen-Dryden, Stylist: Jen Brook, Model: Olivia Harriet, MUA: Livvy Morewood, Headpiece: CC Millinery Creations, Set Design: Donna Graham, Production: Walter’s Wardrobe Events

Fashion Photography - Fashion Photographer - Image of model Lauran Rose McGee in the garden at the walter's wardrobe event — Richard Spurdens Photography – location fashion shoot – Model: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM 1/125 sec @ f-11 / ISO 100

Designer: Bowen-Dryden, Stylist: Jen Brook, Model: Lauren Rose McGee, MUA: Livvy Morewood, Headpiece: CC Millinery Creations, Set Design: Donna Graham, Production: Walter’s Wardrobe Events

Fashion Photography - Fashion Photographer - Image featureing the model Leela Tikadar at the walter's wardrobe event — Richard Spurdens Photography – Model: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM 1/125 sec @ f-8 / ISO 100

Designer: Rosie Red Corestry and Couturee, Stylist: Jen Brook, Model: Leela Tikadar MUA: Sarah Grey, Headpiece: CC Millinery Creations, Set Design: Donna Graham, Production: Walter’s Wardrobe Events

Fashion Photography - Fashion Photographer - image showing the four models from the walter's wardrobe event — Richard Spurdens Photography – Model: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM 1/250 sec @ f-8 / ISO 100

Fashion Photography - Fashion Photographer - Image showing the four models from the walter's wardrobe event and jen brook and Donna graham photo bombing them — Richard Spurdens Photography – Model: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM 1/2500 sec @ f-2.8 / ISO 100

Like the timing of the last one featuring a photo bomb by Jen and Donna for the final shot of the day.

Events, Fashion, Photography

Fashion Artwise masterclass

A visit to Rome in mid February to attend a Fashion Artwise masterclass with international fine art photographer, Nicol Vizioli. This combined a trip to Rome which was on our list of places to visit and a chance to shoot the Fashion Artwise masterclass with 3 professional models from Italy.

The venue for the shoot was one of the most prestigious villas in Rome. Villa Giovanelli.

With luxury styling by Valentina Feula, and her assistants over the weekend were Francesca Sireci and Francesca Romana Pugliese.

The Make up was undertaken by Martina Chiacchio, and the hair Luigi Gentile.
The production assistants were Vincenzo Fierro, Maria Cerullo and Federico d’Antoni.

The location:

architecture Photography - architecture Photographer - colour image of the villa giovanelli near rome. — Richard Spurdens Photography – Rome series Villa Giovanelli – Model: X-T2 Lens: Touit 2.8/ 12mm 1/15 sec @ f 22

Villa Giovanelli has some good rooms to work in and as I had no flash units with me all the images were shot using natural light.

The weather was fairly dull and overcast for both the days. So it was important to work the ISO setting on the camera.

The aim was to try and keep the ISO low but also ensure that the camera shutter speeds were keep at a managable level. Thus avoiding any possible movement from the models as they posed.

All the images the interior images were shoot using my trusty 3 legged thing Brian tripod.

This Fashion Artwise Masterclass was run by the fine Art Photograher Nicol Vizioli. She was interesting to listen to and had a good eye for setting up her shots.

The theme for the shoot was fine art portraiture and below are few of the images from the master class.

Images:

portrait photography - portrait photographer -a natural light image head shot of the model Sara B @ fashion art wise. Silk dress: Franco Ciambella, Styling by @Valentina Feula — Richard Spurdens Photography – Sara B @ Fashion Art wise Model: Fuji X-T2 Lens: XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR ISO 250 1/30sec @ F / 2.8

fashion photographer - fashion photography - colour image from a fashion shoot at villa giovanelli near rome - the model is lying on a yellow settee and is holding a mad hatters hat looking towards the large window which is light her — Richard Spurdens Photography – fashion shoot – fashion artwise series – Model: Fuij X-T2, Lens: XF18mmF2 R, ISO 400 1/15 secs @ F /2.8

fashion photographer - fashion photography - colour image from a fashion shoot at villa giovanelli near rome - the four models are standing be a large window each one have either a red hand or a black hand which start off in front of the first model and then move progressive closer to their lips — Richard Spurdens Photography – fashion shoot image – fashion artwise series – Model: Fuji X-T2, Lens: XF56mmF1.2 R, ISO 200, 1/15 sec @ F /2.8

This last image was from the end of the second day, and the light had fallen to the point where I need to push the ISO up to a big number to keep the depth of field I wanted. At a shutter speed of 1/8th the a second I was pushing this shot.

But it turned out ok so overall I was very pleased with the result of this one.

Just a few images from the weekend, which I enjoyed, It was good to shoot with different models and have great styling and make up and hair. Thanks to Valentina and her team for a good Fashion Artwise masterclass event.

Events, Fashion, FIAP, General, Photography

2017 a year in review

So as 2017 comes to an end I thought it was worth taking a bit of time to reflect on this years photography.

Two of the main highlights from 2017 that spring to mind are being awarded a third London Salon medal for one of my images entered in this years (2017) London salon. Having been lucky enough to have been awarded medals at medal at previous Salons – I never thought I would get a third.

The second highlight was having an image in Great Britain entry for this years FIAP colour biennial .
I also achieved the EFIAP/Platiumn award which has been a long-term goal for me. (see below).

Studio wise, I have been busy in there and I have also done quite a number of location shoots too, which offers a different challenge to working in the controlled enviroment of a studio. I have enjoyed the challenges of working on location and learnt a few things too.

New creatives this year have included:

Dancers: Alexa Hilton, Charlie, Jay and Erica Mulkern.

Dance Photographer - Dance photography - dance moves by alexa hilton — Richard Spurdens Photography – Alexa Hilton – Canon EOS 5D Mark IV -Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM

Dance Photographer - Dance photography - dance pose by dancer erica mulkern — Richard Spurdens Photography – dance photography – Canon EOS 5D Mark IV – Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM

Models: Rachelle Summers, Nicole Rayner, Scarlot Rose, Pippa Doll (who is a karate expert, dancer and skate boarder too) and finally Zoi Morgan.

fashion photographer - fashion photography - colour image from a fashion shoot at pipewwll hall featureing designes by Jane-woolrich-design. model is seated in a red winged chair wearing a pink negligee and slip — Richard Spurdens Photography – Canon EOS 5D Mark IV – Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM

portrait Photography - portrait Photographer - colour image of subject looking out to the right hand side of the frame shot using nature light she is wearing a light brown blouse which is off both shoulder and she is holding it in the middle of her chest. — Richard Spurdens Photography – Rachelle Summers – Canon EOS 5D Mark IV – Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM – 1/60 sec @ F / 14.0

fashion photographer - fashion photography - colour image from a fashion shoot with model wearing croped demin jeans and a striped shirt she is stood against a dark brown back ground with one arm hold the shirt coller and the other resting on the opposite leg — Richard Spurdens Photography – studio shot with model Pippa Doll – Canon EOS 5D Mark IV : EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM 1/125 sec @ F / 8.0

Fine Art Nude Photography - Fine Art Nude Photographer - a toned monochrome image showing the model holding a bunch of white tulips against the skin — Richard Spurdens Photography – four tulips -Canon EOS 5D Mark IV – EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS 1/125 sec @ F / 3.2

I have also worked with a number of others from previous years including: Carla Monoco, Madame Bink, Ivory Flame, Elle Beth, Mischkan Scott and (aerialist and model) Em Theresa.

Richard Spurdens Photography – Madame Bink with white hat – Canon EOS 5D Mark IV EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS 1/125sec @ F / 4.5

Portrait Photography - Portrait Photographer - colour portrait head shot image of a subject looking directly into the camera lit from the window light on the rhs of her. — Richard Spurdens Photography – mischkan scott hs white top Canon EOS 5D Mark IV : EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM 1/125 sec @ F / 3.2

dance photographer - dance photography - colour image of the dancer wearign a large floaty blue dress kicking her right leg high out the the lhs of her with her arms reaching back behind her — Richard Spurdens Photography – Blue Dress moves – Canon EOS 5D Mark IV – EF50mm f/1.8 II 1/125 sec @ F / 6.3

fashion photographer - fashion photography - colour image from a studio fashion shoot subject is wearing a red ball dress, shot using natural light — Richard Spurdens Photography – fashion shoot – Canon EOS 5D Mark IV : EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM 1/125 sec @ F / 2.8

In terms of the FIAP distinctions trail; I was pleased to received my EFIAP/ platiumn award in June of this year, which a great achievement. So that goal was finally achieved within the 5 years I had set out for it. As I mentioned in my last review (2016) I had really scaled back the number of exhibition I have been entering, only entering mainly prints and looking to support exhibitions that maintain a good printed exhibition catalogue. I have managed to maintain a good rate of acceptances and also have managed to pick up a few awards as well. A couple of my images have been on the front covers of the exhibition catalogue, which is always a good result for an entry into the salons.

Image that was the front cover of the Cotswold Salon 2017

artistic nude photographer - artistic nude photography - monochrome image the model in using a white posing box she pushing up with her arms at the back of the box and her left foot to lift herself off the box her other leg is lifted and pointed at ninty degress towards the light. which is a single side light to the right hand side of the model. — Richard Spurdens Photography -artistic nude figure study titled: A simple point of the foot – efiap platinum level image

I was also invited to be a judge for a number of national photographic exhiditions in the UK, which took up quite a few weekends in the first half of the year. As always, it was hard work but rewarding in being able to see what other photographers have been creating around the country.

I have also supported Walters Wardrobe (Jen Brook) and her couture themed shoots at some great locations. This year these have included a shoot at Western Park in Shropshire (Ruffles & Ready), which featured the designer: Mishi May, with styling by Jen Brook, Millinery: Donna Graham, and MUA: Sophie Battersby. The models included : Victoria Coutts, Jodi Lakin, Nicky Philips and Kamila Nowak.

We also returned to the vast stately home at Wentworth Woodhouse (Dance of the Decadent Dolls). This was with Designer: Rosie Red Corsetry and Couture, with styling by Jen Brook, and Millinery by Donna Graham, MUA: Sophie Battersby, Olivia Morewood, Rebecca Cordell, Sophie’s MUA/hair assistant: Rachael Doig. The Models for this event included: Ayla Rose, Ivory Flame, Jaye Yip, Rebecca Cordell.

The final shoot for this year was Sandon Hall Staffordshire, (Beauty and the Feast). This featured the designs of Katie Newsam, styling by Jen Brook, assisted by Jodi Lakin, Livvy Morewood. MUA: Sophie Battersby. Models: Amelia Mary, Katie Talyor, Charlotte Burton, Catherine Ashworth.

Images from the Walters Wardrobe shoots of 2017

colour fashion image of a model wearing a ruffle designed full wide skirt and match bodice and hat designed by Mishi May — Canon EOS 5D Mark IV – Lens: 35mm

fashion photographer - fashion photography - colour image of model wearing a red and gold ball gown with makeing red hat she is seated on a stone plinth in the garden room- shot on location at sandon hall, Dress Designer: Katie Newsam, Styling Jen Brook, Walter's Wardrobe Productions — Richard Spurdens Photography – Fashion shoot at Sandon Hall – Red and Gold dress – Model: Fuji X-T2 Lens: XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR 1/80sec @ f / 5.6 ISO 800

colour image of the model wearing a sculpted figure huging design of designer Mishi May — Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: 35mm

fashion photographer - fashion photography - colour image from fashion shoot at sandon hall, Dress Designer: Katie Newsam, Styling Jen Brook, Walter's Wardrobe Productions, model wears full lenght purple ball gown with scalloped purple swirl running from the left shoulder down to the right foot of the dress — Richard Spurdens Photography – Fashion shoot image designer Katie Newsam – Model: Fuji X-T2 Lens: XF50-140mmF2.8 R LM OIS WR 1/60sec @ f / 4.0 ISO 400

pom pom dress seated on the stairs — Fuji X-T2- Lens: F18mmF2 R 1/125 sec @ F /5.6

Fashion Photography - Fashion Photographer — Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Lens: 35mm

Dance Photographer - Dance photography - — Fuji X-T2 – Lens: XF18mmF2 R

Dance Photographer - Dance photography - colour image showing dancer on pointe wearing a white corset dress and to her rhs is a swam with eggs and balllons so the image is called dancing at the swans party — Richard Spurdens Photography – dance photography – Fuji X-T2 – Lens: XF35mmF1.4 R

Events, News

Photo London 2017

Just back from a visit to Photo London (18^th -21st May 2017) – this is a major international Photo Fair being held for the third year at Somerset House. Having attended the event last year, we decided to book again to visit this year’s fair.

The Photo London guide stated: ‘Photo London was created to give London an international photography event befitting the city’s status as a global cultural capital. Photo London has established itself as a world-class photography fair and as a catalyst for London’s dynamic photography community. From the capital’s major museums, to its auction houses, galleries large and small, right into the burgeoning creative communities in the East End and South London, Photo London harnesses the city’s outstanding creative talent and brings together the world’s leading photographers, curators, exhibitors, dealers and the public to celebrate photography, the medium of our time.’

There were as many galleries as last year, with some showing the work of emerging artists and others with new images by some of the big names in the field. I was particularly impressed with the black and white portraits taken by Yousuf Karsh . Certainly a highlight for me.

It was also good to see some prints of the work of Saul Leiter, certainly better than any of the images I have seen published in the books on his work.

David Hurn’s exhibition of images that he had obtained by swapping photographs with other photographers of his generation was another highlight too. The exhibition showed which images he had swooped alongside the image he obtained in return.

Photo London also had a program of talks and symposia each day which were curated by William A. Ewing, writer and a distinguished curator. Having missed out on last years talks, we booked early to listen to David Hurn in conversation with Martin Parr. This was certainly an informative and fun discussion, with David sharing stories of his early years in London.

As the Photo London Fair didn’t open until 12:00, we decided to make use of the morning and also visited the Courtauld Gallery which is right next to Somerset House. The first three images below are of the great Staircase that is a feature of this gallery.

A selection of images from the days visits:

travel photography - travel photograher - images from a visit to photo London exhibition — Images from a visit to London on May 19 2017. Photo: Richard Spurdens …………Camera Data……….. Model:X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R

travel photography - travel photograher - images from a visit to photo london this one in monochrome showing visitors to the david hern swoops exhibition — Richard Spurdens Photography – photo london -Photo swap gallery Fuji X-T2 : XF18mm f2 R

travel photography - travel photograher - images from a visit to photo london this one in colour capturing a man walking past fashion poster shot on the wall. he is engaged with reading his ticket — Richard Spurdesn Photography – photo london – views Fuji X-T2 XF18mm f2 R

travel photography - travel photograher - images from a visit to photo london this one in monochrome of fashion images outside the pavillion gallery — Richard Spurdens Photography – photo london views – William Klein Image -Fuji X-T2 XF18mm f2 R

travel photography - travel photograher - images from a visit to photo london this one in colour capturing a lady looking at the posts image on one of the outside walls — Richard Spurdens Photography – photo london series – Taking a text by the Dual Reality wall Fuji X-T2 XF18mm f2 R

travel photography - travel photograher - images from a visit to photo london this one in colour showing the selection of images on the image wall by noh suntag — Richard Spurdens Photogarphy – photo london series – Dual Reality by Noh Suntag Fuji X-T2 XF18mm f2 R

travel photography - travel photograher - images from a visit to photo london this one in colour capturing a lady looking at her phone as she strides past the dual reality wall imagess — Richard Spurdens Photography – photo london series – Engrossed in the phone Fuji X-T2 XF18mm f2 R

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Events, General

Dragon boat racing

A chance to shoot some Dragon boat racing on the river Aire in Saltaire was too good to miss.

The event held at Roberts Park a World Heritage Site where the River Aire runs along the side of the park and gives a great vantage point to watch and photograph the close Dragon boat racing.

The Dragon boat racing event was billed as a team building event and the idea was that each team member would do there best to raise £50 for the Lord Mayor’s Appeal 2017 Charity: YoungMinds

As well as the boat racing there was a large number of landside attractions from stalls, food, bars and entertainment to live music and just so much more in a stunning spectacular, picturesque venue. It gave some good photographic opportunites:

So here are a few images from this years Dragon Boat racing event.

sport photography - sport photographer -colour image of dragon boat racing on the river aire at roberts park saltaire, image captures the dragon boats head — Richard Spurdens Photography – Dragon boat racing series – Canon EOS 5D Mark IV – Lens: EF70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM

Having taken a few classic Dragon boat racing shots, I decided that the colours in the scene might provide something different and colourful absrtact images.

I set a challenge and started to use a slow shutter speed and then added on camera flash set to second curtain sync.

Playing with different slow shutter speeds gave a set of interesting and sometimes abstract images which I really liked.