Welcome to our monthly news page packed with all the weird and wonderful things happening in the world of photography. It's also your opportunity to get involved and make your opinions count.
To get your photography tips, testimonials, recommendations and reviews featured - blog us!
Gavin's work as a freelance travel photographer takes him to some wonderful far-flung locations. As an enthusiastic amateur photographer, before turning pro, it was the travel aspect of the job that first appealed. He's the first to admit, 'It's definitely more of a way of life than simply a means of earning a living.'
"Everywhere is a travel destination to somebody so don't dismiss opportunities on your doorstep"
Gavin works on commissions for magazines and travel companies, shoots stock images for various photo libraries, and also runs photo workshops and tours. He explains, 'The difference between being an enthusiastic amateur who takes great holiday pictures and working as a professional is enormous. Any pro photographer will tell you that taking engaging photographs is only a small part of what's required to run a successful business. You have to be able to work on marketing, promotion, keep accurate accounts, budget,
© Gavin Gough
run websites and network, whilst keeping abreast of technical advances and all the time trying to improve and enhance your creativity. I won't say that it's not a great job but it's not just about jet-setting from one exotic location to the next. Well, not all of the time anyway!'
His advice to other would-be travel photographers is to 'Consider other income streams whilst you establish yourself, and remember everywhere is a travel destination to somebody, so don't dismiss opportunities on your doorstep.'
Find out more at www.gavingough.com
Events and exhibitions you won't want to miss
Kiera Knightley
The National Media Museum is currently hosting Live by the Lens, Die by the Lens. It's a diverse look at film publicity showing how stars are portrayed in the media, from carefully styled studio shots to paparazzi snaps. See famous faces such as Elizabeth Taylor, Michael Caine and Sophia Loren, right up to today's young stars including Scarlett Johansson and Keira Knightly. There's also an interesting section on the photographers behind some of the many star studded images. Exhibition ends 28th September.
Introduction to Wedding Photography
Has the summer wedding season inspired you to learn more about the art of wedding photography? If so, the Royal Photographic Society has just launched a brand new one day workshop that would suit you perfectly. Simply entitled Introduction to Wedding Photography, it guides you through everything from photographic styles, kit bag essentials, and must-have shots list. There's only one date, Sunday 17th August, so book early!
©Julian Woollatt
Photographer Julian Woollatt has an exhibition entitled The Historians launching on 12th July at the Focal Point Gallery in Southend-on-Sea. The theme is based on historical re-enactments which have taken place around Britain. It's intriguing, poignant and certainly food for thought, making it worthy of a look. Exhibition ends 30th August.
Shoot Nations competition
Calling keen photographers under the age of 24, the Shoot Nations competition, sponsored by PhotoBox, wants your photos now! Set up by our friends at Shoot Experience and Plan UK, there are some serious prizes up for grabs. The lucky winner gets a trip to Canada, where their work will be exhibited as part of the World Youth Congress in Quebec, in celebration of International Youth Day. The theme is 'Young people in a changing climate'. Making this an opportunity to show off your photography skills and draw attention to the problems of climate change. Deadline for entries is 31st July.
Here are a few of our favourite things!
Let leading landscape photographer David Noton take you on a journey of discovery through the picturesque New Forest to the cliff of Lands End with his DVD Chasing the Light. As well as sharing some great location ideas with you, David will teach you the best way to go about capturing landscape photographs that really stand out from the crowd. It's a joy to watch whilst being highly informative too. To grab a copy check out David's website.
©Photo Walks of London
Whether you're visiting London for the first time, or you're a local, joining one of the Photo Walks of London is a great ways to get some memorable shots of the city. They'll give you ideas on where to go for the best views and how to control your camera to get something a bit special. It's a great day out with the chance to learn plenty about London and photography at the same time. Choice of locations includes: Westminster, Southbank and the Pool of London. Tickets just £16 each – bargain!
Weddings are packed with photo opportunities. While the official photographer is busy taking time consuming group shots, you've got the perfect opportunity to capture the more candid moments. Exactly the kind of images the bride & groom are bound to love.
Get into the habit of taking a few shots of each image, that way you won't be disappointed when someone has their eyes shut or is pulling an awkward expression.
Issue 1: Featured photographer – Annabel Williams
Issue 2: Featured photographer – Clive Nichols
Issue 3: Featured photographer – Karen Parker
Issue 4: Featured photographer – Helena Smith
Issue 5: Featured photographer – Brett Harkness
Issue 6: Featured photographer – Jason de Caires Taylor
Issue 7: Featured photographer – Sarah Wright
Issue 8: Featured photographer – Neil Bygrave
Issue 9: Featured photographer – Adam Lawrence
Issue 10: Featured photographer – Barry Wakelin
Issue 11: Featured photographer – Brian Harte
Issue 12: Featured photographer – Michael Molloy
Issue 13: Featured photographer – Jason Hawkes
1. Main element
Think about why the photograph you're taking appeals to you, it will help you focus your thoughts on how best to capture the most important elements.
2. Creative cropping
Try cropping a single photo in a few different ways and see the difference it makes, it's a great technique for helping you think more creatively.
3. Monochrome made easy
Try converting a colour photo to black & white with our Picnik editing software to give an image a completely different feel.
Thanks for my photos. My first time on PhotoBox, won't be the last. Excellent prints and very fast service. Truly recommended. Thanks again.
Malcolm Wearin
4 star rating – Those seeking a value for money service to store, edit and print digital images on a frequent basis will enjoy PhotoBox. The photographic tips and community add to the mix.
PC Advisor
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GadgetSpeak
'The options, quality and simplicity of this service will leave you impressed and the prices are very reasonable too, PhotoBox is the future! I love this site and can highly recommend it.'
IC Network