General 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.

General, News, Photography

The Berlin Wall and its Wall Art – a few of my favourite images of those murals.

It was 30 years ago since the fall of the Berlin Wall on Saturday the 9th November. The news coverage reminded me that during a visit to Berlin we had gone to visit the remaining bits of the Berlin Wall. The Wall which for many years was a symbol of division has now become the world’s largest open-air gallery, featuring 105 murals by artists from across the globe. So here are a few images from my visit to see the iconic structure and the art murals that still adorn it

The street view of the long section of the Wall and its murals

street photography - street photographer - this image shows the street view of the berlin wall and its art

The Wall art murals were mainly painted in the 1990, although a number of them have been repainted as a result of either the work being damaged by vandalism or deterioration due to weather.

street photography - street photographer - image showing the wall mural entitled the kiss - berlin wall

‘The Kiss’ is such a mural and was repainted in March 2009.

At this section of the wall, you can step into what would have been known as no mans land between two sections of the wall. The River Spree flows behind the left hand section showed here. Then the major wall with the murals is at the right hand side of the image.

street photography - street photographer - image showing the wall murals - berlin wall

So here are a few of my favourite Wall art panels:

street photography - street photographer - image showing the wall mural entitled breaking through - berlin wall

street photography - street photographer - image showing the wall mural cv - berlin wall

street photography - street photographer - image showing the wall mural entitled the wall jumper - berlin wall

street photography - street photographer - image showing the wall mural entitled faces- berlin wall

street photography - street photographer - image showing the wall mural entitled tolerance- berlin wall

Street photography - street photographer - image showing the berlin wall and its wall murals

I have featured just a few of the 150 plus iconic murals that can be viewed at the open air gallery. I would certainly recommend anyone visiting the city to take your camera and capture your own images of what is left of the Berlin Wall, and its art work.

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, 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.

General, Photography

A visit to the Hayward Gallery at the Southbank Centre

The Hayward Gallery at the Southbank Centre reopened after a major refurbishment in early February, with its first major exhibition being a retrospective of the work of Andreas Gursky.

Andreas Gursky is an acclaimed German photographer, well known for his large-scale pictures, so a visit was on my list when I was last in London.

This exhibition also marks the beginning of the Hayward Gallery’s 50th anniversary year. The Gallery is nothing much to look at from the outside and the exterior architecture is often described as brutal. However, the two year refurbishment has focussed on allowing the gallery’s pyramid roof lights to bathe the spaces below in natural light, as was in the original design.

The Southbank architecture

There are some hard lines and angles in the design of the Southbank Centre buildings but this can give some good lead lines and suited mono processing using the Fuji Arcos film stimulation.

travel photography - travel photograher - images from a visit to london this one in monochrome using the lead the top of a wall to take you towards the royal festival hall and the london eye beyond it — Richard Spurdens Photography – Concrete views Royal festival hall – Model: Fuji X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R 1/680 @ f / 5.6 ISO 200

travel photography - travel photograher - images from a visit to london a view to three tower block at are being constructed with the cranes and of strong lines running vertically and cross wise in the image - what attracted me to this image was the the vertical lines crossed by the hand rail against the darkened sky — Richard Spurdens Photography – Tower and Cranes II – Model: Fuji X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R 1/900 @ f / 8.0 ISO 200

Lots of new tower blocks are being constructed near the Southbank Centre. I was looking to capture the feeling of the cranes towering over the rising building in the two images below.

travel photography - travel photograher - images from a visit to london this one in monochrome showing the new towers been constructed surrounded by the tower cranes reaching up to the sky — Richard Sprudens Photography – cranes and towers – Model: Fuji X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R 1/1700 @ f / 8.0 ISO 200

The Fuji Acros film simulation plus a red filter work for this one, which made the building and cranes stand out against the dark clouds.

Gallery viewing

But the main purpose of this visit was to view the images of Gursky. It was certainly worth the visit to see his range of work and some great large scale images. His images (often taken from a high vantage point) certainly have impact.

As the gallery information says : ‘these images make use of a ‘democratic’ perspective that gives equal importance to all elements of his highly detailed scenes’.

The newly refurbished Gallery’s pyramid roof lights seemed to work well and did bathe the spaces below in natural light, which made getting a few images of people viewing the images a lot easier.

As the gallery allows photography, it also gave me the opportunity to capture some more images for my Gallery viewing projects – some of which I have included below.

travel photography - travel photograher - colour image from a visit to the hayward gallery focusing on the visitors viewing the Gursky images two visitors lean forward towards a large image of a landscape the angle make the image as the rest of the Image is squares and vertical lines — Richard Spurdens Photography – Haywood gallery Gursky series – Gallery viewing I -Model: Fuji X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R 1/180 @ f / 2.0 ISO 800

travel photography - travel photograher - colour image from a visit to the hayward gallery focusing on the visitors viewing the Gursky images in this one three man standing at one image on the floor a young student sits on the floor looking at the same image but her trainers are illuminated and this makes it different image — Richard Spurdens Photography – Haywood Gallery Gursky series – Gallery views Gursky II -Model: Fuji X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R 1/180 @ f / 2.0 ISO 800

The illuminated shoes of the woman seated on the floor attracted me to this one.

travel photography - travel photograher - colour image from a visit to the hayward gallery all the visitor in this image are standing at different spaces in the frame no image are visible but a young lady with shoes that light up draws your attention — Richard Spurdens Photography – Haywood Gallery Gursky series -Gallery views Gursky VI – Model: Fuji X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R 1/210 @ f / 2.5 ISO 1600

Often an opportunity comes along that makes a good different image – as per the couple seated below.

These next three images try to show the scale of Gursky images on display, with a viewer included to help with the idea of the scale.

travel photography - travel photograher - colour image from a visit to the hayward gallery this visitor has a blue jumper with matches the wall colours she is viewing a large image of strips of green grass and then a large strip of water — Richard Spurdens Photography – Haywood Gallery Gursky series – Gallery views Gursky XV – Model: Fuji X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R 1/180 @ f / 2.8 ISO 800

My favourite image of “people viewing the images” was the Rückblick (the title of which translates as ‘review’). The results are below.

travel photography - travel photograher - colour image from a visit to the hayward gallery focusing on the visitors viewing the Gursky images a man with a walking stick stand and views the fashion shot of the four head of state from the back sat in front of a red wall — Richard Spurdens Photography – Haywood gallery Gursky image series – Gallery views Gursky XVII – Model: Fuji X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R 1/140 @ f / 2.0 ISO 800

image taken in the hayward gallery focusing on the visitors viewing the Gursky images — Model: Fuji X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R 1/200 @ f / 2.2 ISO 1600

travel photography - travel photograher - colour image from a visit to the hayward gallery focusing on the visitors viewing the Gursky images there are numerous visitors all with different and interesting poses again shoot in front of the famous shot of the four head of state from the back sat in front of a red wall. — Richard Spurdens Photography – Haywood Gallery Gursky series – Gallery views Gursky X – Model: Fuji X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R 1/200 @ f / 2.2 ISO 1600

So the visit to the Hayward Gallery at the Southbank Centre was fruitful in terms of seeing the work of Andreas Gursky and seeing results of the refurbishment of the location. It was also good for getting some more images of my Gallery viewing project.

Certainly recommend a visit in the future.

The final image is a colourful stairway, processed using the Fuji Velvia/Vivid stimulation.

architecture photography - architecture photographer - colour image of the the bright yelllow concrete steps which you can take to the finnish rooftop sauna and bar — Richard Spurdens Photography – Yellow steps to the southbank center – Model: Fuji X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R 1/320 @ f / 5.6 ISO 200

General, Photography

April Images

A selection of image taken during the month of April, hence the title April Images.

As I seem to be failing at the moment to get my Blog posts going on a regular basis, I am trying this approach of having a posts each month where I can just add image and a little text about them. I keep taking lots of images but never seem to get them into a blog post.

Lets see if I can keep adding images into the post.

image shot at bradford foster square station on a mist april morning — Model:X-E1 Lens: XF27mm F2.8

Spotted in Leeds

What attracted me to making these images was the lead lines on the platform and the misty red light at the end of the platform, it a long platform and seem to work using the lines to take you in towards the mist in the distance.

image showing the leeds bid team using a steam cleaner of the paving stones in the millinumn square — Model: X-E1 Lens: XF27mm F2.8

Just loved all the blues in this one

General, Photography

Photographing Rome at night

Photographing Rome at night was the only real option I had during a recent visit to the city.

A visit to the city of Rome had been on our list of places we wanted to visit for a while now and when the chance came up to combine it with a fashion shoot and masterclass organised by Valentina Feula, founder of Fashion Artwise Productions we planned a short visit.

As we arrived on the Friday afternoon and given that I would be shooting all weekend at a location outside the main city centre, I decided to go out and photograph the city at night.

Photographing Rome at night gives you some different images to the normal and gives you different challenges too. You really need a tripod once the sun has set. I had my trusty travel tripod the 3 Legged Thing Brian with me so that came out to help with the longer exposure times. After sunset, the colours from the lights at the locations offer an opportunity to make some different images of some of the iconic locations available, but the exposure times drop and hand holding becomes an issue.

Going into the city centre and exploring the locations, involved taking the metro into town and choosing a station from where to explore the popular locations on foot to see what night photography was possible

travel photography - travel photographer - Image of the eculator lines on the rome metro system — Richard Spurdens Photogaphy – Rome visit series – Model: X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R 1/60sec @ f 2.0

The Spanish steps covered by the tourist crowds

travel photography - travel photograher - colour image from a visit to rome this one from the spanish steps with the crowds of tourists covering the majority of the steps — Richard Spurdens Photography – rome series – the crowded Spainish steps – Model: X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R 1/60 secs @ f / 8.0

Photographing Rome at night I expected that there would be fewer people around at the popular locations, that was certainly a wrong assumption as you can see at the Spanish steps.

The side street gave a few opportunities for some street photography too. This lady was certainly not interested in anything but her phone !

travel photography - travel photograher - colour image from a visit to rome this one a street image spotted on a side street a lady sitting on a chainlink fence lost in here phone (february images) — Richard Spurdens Photography – Rome visit series – a instagram moment – Model: Fuji X-T2 Lens: XF18mm F2R 1/125 secs @ f / 8.0

The crazy Piazza Venezia roundabout, with cars appearing to come at you from all directions yet it seems to work.

travel photography - travel photograher - colour image from a visit to rome this one taken a the piazza roundabout howing cars negociating the roundabout in the evening light — Richard Spurdens Photography – Rome series – the piazza roundabout at night – Model: X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R

When the Piazza Venezia roundabout is almost free from cars you get the chance to see the impressive Monumento Nazionale building

travel photography - travel photograher - colour image from a visit to rome this one across the piazza venezia roundabout showing the impressive Monumento Nazionale building lit up by the buildings lights photographing rome at night — Richard Spurdens Photography – Rome series – venezia roundabout with the Nazionale flood – Model: X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R

Crossing the Piazza gets you up close to the Monumento Nazionale building – to its impressive and imposing statue and the carving around its base. The blue lights made this for me.

travel photography - travel photograher - colour image from a visit to rome showing the impressive Monumento Nazionale building lit up by the buildings lights photographing rome at night — Richard Spurdens Photography – Rome series – Monumento Nazionale building – Model: X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R

A short walk took me to the Trevi Fountain square which contains the wonderful fountain and even bigger crowds considering this was around 20:00. Here I chose to include the visitors in my shots. Very difficult to exclude them really.

image from the trevi fountain square shoot around 20:00 still lots of tourists stood in front of the fountain (february images) — Model: X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R

travel photography - travel photograher - colour image from a visit to rome this one from the trevi fountain square shoot around 20:00 still lots of tourists stood in front of the fountain — Richard Spurdens Photography – Rome series images – Trevi fountaino crowds I – Model: X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R.

travel photography - travel photograher - colour image from a visit to rome this one from the trevi fountain square shot around 20:00 still lots of tourist and on lady is standing out as she poses for a picture in front of the great fountain. — Richard Spurdens Photography – rome visit series – Trevi fountain II – Camera Data. Model:X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R

travel photography - travel photograher - colour image from a visit to rome this one from the trevi fountain square shot around 20:00 in the bottom are three tourist one is taking a phone picture the other two are looking at the results of the self they took in the back ground is the fountain lit by the flood lights — Richard Spurdens Photography – visit to rome series – Trevi-fountain crowds-III -Model: X-T2 Lens: XF18mm F2 R

A sign of the times with a very obvious police presence at this popular tourist spot, and other places too.

travel photography - travel photogarpher - image from the trevi fountain square shoot around 20:00 still lots of tourists stood in front of the fountain showing the crowds and the police keeping a watchful presence — Richard Spurdens Photography – Rome visit series – The trevi fountain and its crowds – Model: X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R

image from one of the main shopping streets showing a couple walking hand in hand against the on coming cars (februay images) — Image from a visit to Rome in Center, on February 162018. Photo: Richard Spurdens …………Camera Data……….. Model:X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R

Some of the side streets had good colours and the street lights gave them a different feel.

travel photography - travel photographer - image showing interesting colours of the walls in the side streets of rome shot at night and illuminated be the street lamps — Richard Spurdens Photography – Rome visit series – Model: X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R

Spotted the orange coloured windows and the arrow and then the guy went out into the middle of the road for some reason.

travel photography - travel photograher - colour image from a visit to rome shot from behind a street food seller he is selling warm chestnuts and is illuminated by his stands lights in the back ground shopper walk be with there warm coats and shopping bags — Richard Spurdens Photography – Rome visit series – ..Camera Data……….. Model:X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R

travel photography - travel photograher - colour image from a visit to rome this one shot at night shows a set of columns illuminated by the flood lights surrounded be the modern building of rome — Richard Spurdens Photography – Rome series images – …………Camera Data……….. Model:X-T2 Lens: XF18mmF2 R

The Rome columns and ruins gives an interesting foreground to the iconic building lit by the flood lights.

travel photography - travel photograher - colour image from a visit to rome a night shoot of the rome building lit by flood lights against the dark night sky. — Richard Spurdens Photography – Rome visit series ruins be flood light Model:X-T2, Lens: XF18mmF2 R

The orange glow from the flood lights gives this set of building a different look.

Final image for this blog is of a street artist working with spray paint to produce fantasy type art images

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

General, Photography

48 hours in Glasgow with my Fuji XT-2

The first time I visited Glasgow in the early 1970s it was a city that gave the impression of being dark, grimy and unwelcoming. All the streets seemed to be empty and the bars didn’t seem to have any windows at street level. The only restaurants that we could find open were on the central railway station.

First impressions can be lasting, but today Glasgow has a completely different feel and look as the old grime seems to have been washed away. It’s historic beauty created by architects of the likes of Charles Rennie Mackintosh has been blended with the modern architecture designs, like Zaha Hadid with “the Wave” (the Transport Museum). This is now a modern vibrant city and well worth a visit with your camera.

If you are in the centre near the Central Station, a good place to start is a visit to The Lighthouse. This building was designed by C. R. Mackintosh in 1895 as the offices of the Glasgow Herald, and it is now home to Scotland’s Centre for Design and Architecture. The city scape views from the top are well worth the climb of the corkscrew stairs. There are also several levels of galleries which offer exhibitions and portfolio overviews of contemporary artists and designers.

Images from The Lighthouse location

glasow roof top views from the lighthouse tower — Fuji X-T2 – XF 18mm F 2.0 R – 1/3sec @ F / 16

One of the views from the top of the building.

window views of glasgow city scape — Fuji X-T2 – XF 18mm F 2.0 R – 1/1250sec @ F / 5.6

View across to The Lighthouse Tower.

a view of the lighthouse tower in the winter sunshine — Fuji X-T2 – XF 18mm F 2.0 R – 1/2000 sec @ F / 4.0

The view from the bottom of The Lighthouse tower stairs which start on the third floor of the building.

looking up from the bottom of the lighthouse stairs — Fuji X-T2 – XF 18mm F 2.0 R – 30 sec @ F / 11

A visit to Bellahouston Park is also well worth making. It’s out of town but well served by buses or take a train to the nearest station. There you’ll find the stunning “House for an Art Lover”, built in 1996, based on an unrealized C. R. Mackintosh design from 1901. The other good thing is that you can take photographs inside which is always a bonus.

Images of the iconic Mackintosh designs

close up of the Stain glass design by mackintosh — Fuji X-T2 – XF 18mm F 2.0 R – 1/125 sec @ F / 2.2

Image showing the design details of the wood work designed by mackintosh — Fuji X-T2 – XF 18mm F 2.0 R – 1/280 sec @ F / 2.8

wooden panelling artist designs by mackintosh — Fuji X-T2 – XF 18mm F 2.0 R – 1/450 sec @ F / 2.8

shadows of a window playing on the opposite wall in a corridor — Fuji X-T2 – XF 18mm F 2.0 R – 1/125 sec @ F / 4.0

The house is in some great grounds too and with the low winter sunshine and winter frost gave it a different look worth photographing.

Landscape Photography - Landscape Photographer -colour image capturing the hard winter frost on the brown grasses and trees in this location — Richard Spurdens Photography – winter frost and morning light colours

Modern Architecture

It’s not just the classic architecture that makes Glasgow interesting; there are several large modern buildings which are worth a visit to photograph, including the SEC Armadillo amphitheater and the UFO-like SSE Hydro Arena. Both of these were designed by N. Foster and Partners.

Fuji X-T2 – XF 18mm F 2.0 R – 1/250 sec @ F / 11.0

Another great building to photograph is the Riverside Museum, designed by the architect Zaha Hadid, with a roof that resembles waves of water.

The building is Glasgow’s Transport Museum and houses a collection of more than 3,000 historic cars, trams and motorcycles.

a black and white image showing the design of the wave building designed by Zaha Hadid — Fuji X-T2 – Lens: Touit 2.8 – 1/500 sec @ F / 5.6

You can walk to this musum along the River Clyde which has now been redeveloped and gives some good photographic oppertunities as the images below show.

landscape view of the clyde Arc and the finnieston crane — Fuji X-T2 – XF 18mm F 2.0 R – 1/250sec @ F / 11.0

The Finnieston Crane or Stobcross Crane structure and its shadows made an interesting image

Structures and shadow on the the finnieston crane structure — Fuji X-T2 – XF 55-200mm F 3.5 – 1/125 sec @ F / 6.4

The Tradeston pedestrian bridge

the tradeston bridge a pedestrian bridge across the River Clyde — Fuji X-T2 – XF 18mm F 2.0 R – 1/60 sec @ F / 14.0

The BBC Scotland building and the Bells Bridge

a landscape view from the clyde river and clyde arc bridge — Fuji X-T2 – XF 18mm F 2.0 R – 1/30sec @ F / 16.0

The final image was a scene I came upon outside the transport museum – bungy jumping Santa Claus! This was fun to watch and a good reminder of the festive season to come.

a bungy jumping santa clauss as he leaves the jump platform — Fuji X-T2 – XF55-200mm F 3.5 – 4.8 R 1/250 sec @ F / 9.0

General, News

Zurich a short visit

And so on to Zurich – after a smooth and fast journey to Zurich during which you certainly got a relaxed view of the French country side as you sped through it. When we arrived in Zurich main station there was a lot of people around and Saturday night entertainments as in most big cities seem to be in full swing. After a bit of walking around we found our hotel. (We chose this Boutique hotel, just by the station). An evening stroll around the streets of Zurich then gave us a bit of idea where to go on the following day.

Exploring Zurich.

Setting out the next day with my Fuji XT-1, we walked around the town crossing the river via the many bridges and walking to various locations of interest. Here are a few of the more general tourist type images of the iconic buildings and a few different views of the place. I had to include the locks on the bridge as the colours made them stand out in places.

zurich towers and clocks — 1/125sec @ f / 10.0 XF55-200F3.5-4.8 R LM

Zurich bridge locks II — 1/125sec @ f / 8.0 XF18mm 2.0 R

Zurich bridge locks — 1/125sec @ f / 8.0 XF18mm 2.0 R

Zurich walkway be the river — 1/125sec @ f / 7.1 XF55-200F3.5-4.8 R LM

Zurich building and art — 1/125sec @ f / 7.1 XF55-200F3.5-4.8 R LM

Zurich modern architecture and colours — 1/125sec @ f / 7.1 XF55-200F3.5-4.8 R LM

Zurich ganymed sculpture I — 1/125sec @ f / 7.1 Touit 2.8/12mm

Zurich ganymed sculpture — 1/125sec @ f / 16. Touit 2.8/12mm

Zurick a wall Frieze — 1/125sec @ f / 6.4 XF55-200F3.5-4.8 R LM

Autumn colours

Were also at their best and the golden colours made a good feature to include in some images. In others, they gave a strong focal point.

travel photography - travel photograher - images from a visit to zurich this featuring the vibrant autume colours of the trees contrasting with the blue spire of the church and off white buildings — Richard Spurdens Photography -Autumn colours in Zurich – 1/125sec @ f / 11. XF35mmF1.4 R

travel photography - travel photograher - images from a visit to zurich this featuring the vibrant autume colours of avenue of trees — Richard Spurdens Photography -Autumn colours Zurich – 1/125sec @ f / 4.4 XF55-200F3.5-4.8 R LM

Zurich autumn leaves colours — 1/125sec @ f / 5.6 XF55-200F3.5-4.8 R LM

As with all street photography it is often good to explore up side streets and see what interesting things you can find. Sometimes nothing – other times some more interesting street images. Here are a few of the more interesting finds.

Zurich cobbled streets — 1/125sec @ f / 13.0 XF18mm f2 R

Zurich figure on the roof — 1/125sec @ f / 8.0 XF18mmF2 R

Zurich traffic light confursion — 1/60sec @ f / 5.6 XF18mmF2.0 R

Zurich street a people triangle — 1/125sec @ f / 5.6 XF55-200F3.5-4.8 R LM

Zurich coffe table books — 1/60sec @ f / 8.0 XF18mmF2.0 R

Zurich coffee table books I — 1/60sec @ f / 8.0 XF18mmF2. R

Zurich election adverts — 1/125sec @ f / 8.0 XF35mmF1.4 R

Zurich window art — 1/60sec @ f / 2.0 XF18mmF2.0 R

Zurich stockings art — 1/125sec @ f / 3.6 XF18mmF2.0 R

Zurich reading waiting for the next fare — 1/125sec @ f / 5.6 XF55-200F3.5-4.8 R LM

You can also walk along the side of Lake Zurich and when you hear the sound of Alpine horns, you have to go and see what is happening. It turned out to be a group of Alpine horn players giving a free concert.

Zurich alpine horn players II — 1/125sec @ f / 6.4 XF55-200F3.5-4.8 R LM

Zurich alpine horn players I — 1/125sec @ f / 7.1 XF55-200F3.5-4.8 R LM

Zurich alpine horn players III — 1/125sec @ f / 16 XF18mmF2.0 R

Strolling a little further along the shore line we came across this scene with the kids really enjoying the giant bubbles being created and then chasing them around.

travel photography - travel photograher - images from a visit to zurich this featuring five children enjoying the fun of chasing large bubbles in a park — Richard Spurdens Photography – Zurich bubble fun I – Fuji XT-1, 1/125sec @ f / 5.6 XF55-200F3.5-4.8 R LM

travel photography - travel photograher - images from a visit to zurich this featuring two children enjoying the fun of chasing large bubbles in a park — Richard Spurdens Photography – Zurich bubble fun II – Fuji XT-1, 1/125sec @ f / 4.5 XF55-200F3.5-4.8 R LM

travel photography - travel photograher - images from a visit to zurich this featuring three children enjoying the fun of chasing large bubbles in a park — Richard Spurdens Photography – Zurich bubble fun III – fuji XT-1,1/125sec @ f / 4.5 XF55-200F3.5-4.8 R LM

Stopping for a drink and a bit to eat provided an opportunity for a few interesting images.

Just loved the sign.

Zurich the more you weigh — 1/60sec @ f / 2.0 XF18mmF2.0 R

Zurich inside looking out I — 1/60sec @ f / 5.6 XF35mmF1.4. R

inside looking out II — 1/60sec @ f / 6.4 XF35mmF1.4 R

Heading back into town I spotted this chap who seemed to be directing trams at a junction that was having a bit of major work being undertaken. Not sure why you need to direct trams on tracks but they seemed to manage ok when went for a break.

Zurich directing the trams — 1/180sec @ f / 4.4 XF55-200F3.5-4.8 R LM

Zurich directing the trams II — 1/125sec @ f / 4.4 XF55-200F3.5-4.8 R LM

Zurich lunch time — 1/180sec @ f / 5.6 XF55-200F3.5-4.8 R LM

An interesting place for some different types of images for me, expensive but worth the trip to visit and explore.

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