JONAH PENDLETON

27th August 2022

 Jake & Lauren

ONE FINE DAY - 16th October 2021

Dan & Izzy

24th August 2021 - Hartford golf club, Northwich

‘The Lord bless you
and keep you;
the Lord make his face shine on you
and be gracious to you;
the Lord turn his face toward you
and give you peace.’

I met Izzy and her bridesmaids in their newly built home. It was nice seeing it packed with excited friends and family and ABBA in the background! It was quite an early start. It had a bit of everything too… the manic preparations, a TikTok transformation video, bridal reveals to dad and bridesmaids.

I always love the busyness of the bridal prep. There’s always something happening. I love how the excitement, laughter, nerves, ebs and flows as the morning progresses. That final hour seems to pass in what feels like a few minutes. The prep ran over time slightly, but it was because Izzy an her mates soaked up every minute enjoying their time together!

The service took place at Bridge Chapel, the church Dan and Izzy attend. It was busy with people coming to support their friends. The service was traditional but really relaxed and personal. Rob, who gave the address, spoke to Dan and Izzy separately before the ceremony to ask them unique questions about each other to set up his message which was a nice touch! After the service, Dan’s sister provided all the snacks and they were incredible!! UK Temptations on instagram!! You need to look them up!

From the church, Dan and Izzy went to Izzy’s riding stables to get pictures with one of the horses Izzy spends some of her time working with and riding. I’ve not done that before, but it was very cool! Dan did well playing it cool - the horse was a little spooked at times (probably because there were loads of strangers in its field). Izzy was a picture of calm though. It was nice getting to see them doing something like that together. The pictures were boss in the end too!

In a weird turn of events, the driver had to desert Dan and Izzy so I drove them to their reception venue, at Hartford Golf Club. It’s a gorgeous setting, and it was a lovely night. Photos took place on the fairway right in front of the tee so the photos had to be suspended a few times. It was worth the little bit of hassle for the smoke bomb shots though!

The speeches, the food, the open BBQ, the evening party all topped off an excellent day!

Here are some highlights from the day…

MR & MRS CLIFF.

NEW LIFE CHURCH, HAYDOCK - 8TH AUGUST 2020

 MR & MRS WHEATLEY.

one fine day - 9TH NOVEMBER 2019

Eilidh grew up in Liverpool, but moved to London, where she met Tom in Uni, and they now live together.

This was a brilliant day.

The service was traditional and heartfelt, yet still laid back. The evening ceremony was contemporary and classy but still lively. It was really obvious how everyone there had a really good day. From the start, right up until the end, there was the constant murmur of conversation, everyone was laughing and smiling, and the party was lively.

Their photographers were Mustard Yellow. I’ve worked with them before and love their stuff. The fact they’re dead sound makes such a difference when spending the day working alongside them.

The ceremony took place at a church in Liverpool, which wasn’t their own, but had allowed them full control over the service due to family ties to it. Eilidh’s dad conducted the ceremony, then friends and family from their church did the rest. It’s fairly common for a lot of couples to see the ceremony as a formal necessity, rather than the part of the day they pat particular attention to. It was really noticeable to see how involved and engaged Tom and Eilidh were during this section of their day. It was lively, and far more than just a formality. It was clear how much everything that was said, and vowed, mattered.

The weather on the day was quite cold and, eventually very rainy! I always love it though when couples are still up for embracing it, and not letting it spoil the day.
Tom, and Eilidh, went past that point though, and just embraced it. From the service, they took a quick detour to the Albert Docks for some photos, before heading to the reception. I always like it when people make the most of their day to take photos - but equally appreciate it when they don’t want to it to become the focus of their day, and would rather spend time with their mates and family.

It was freezing(!), and soaking, and I absolutely loved how resilient Eilidh, in particular, was during the photos!! I was layered up, and was still freezing!!!

She just went for it, didn’t moan at all, and just smashed her way through it. Usually, when someone is obviously freezing, it shows in the photos. You wouldn’t know from theirs.

It was a privilege to be part of the day, and to spend time with Tom and Eilidh and their friends and family. Here are a few more shots from their day…

1st November 2019

Tyn Dwr Hall, Llangollen

This was an interesting one for me, since it was my first full photography wedding without video. I was keen to make sure Ben and Melissa knew exactly what they’d be getting from me. I explained that I was keen to use up as little of the day as possible for staged shots, and I wanted to direct them as little as possible. Rather, I just wanted to capture the day as it unfolded, and hopefully they’d forget I was even there. Some photographers have a very clear idea in mind of what ‘they’ want to capture, and how ‘they’ want to direct things. I genuinely haven’t got a problem with this (as long as the couple are aware) and if they’re particularly good at what they do, it can really pay off!! (I’ve worked next to some amazing photographers who do just this!). However, the success of shooting this way relies on the characters of the couple, and I personally prefer to shoot in a way which documents the day, and captures what happens as it happened. Having explained all of this to Ben and Melissa, and a brief discussion, it was clear from our chat that this wouldn’t be problem!

The day started early, with the girls getting ready in Jade’s Salon in Llangollen. It’s a picturesque little town in Denbighshire, north-east Wales, on the River Dee at the edge of the Berwyn mountains. I always love the nervous tension that starts to build in these moments. It comes in waves throughout the morning. From here, they then travelled to the reception venue where they got changed together.

St. John’s church, Weston Rhyn

The service took place in a parish church 20 miles or so from the venue. Ben and Melissa attend their local church so they were keen to have the ceremony in a Christian church with friends and family.

The church itself is significant, and familiar to them, as they’ve spent many summers as youth leaders in a camp round the corner; with Ben even attending the camps when he was a young lad. Every year the camp would then all walk down to the church together for a Sunday service.

Mel did well to get ready in time, but it was quite a long drive to the church from the venue. Thankfully it gave me a bit of extra time to get their in time (my car is a bit quicker on the country roads than the vintage wedding cars!). Often when a bride is late, you can arrive to the church and feel the tension and nerves building while they wait. When we arrived, everyone was still chilled and chatting.

Even though it was a traditional service, it felt dead relaxed and informal throughout. Ben’s uncle prayed, Mel’s mum read, and their friends from church sang, and gave the address.

The weather was temperamental throughout the day, but thankfully the rain held off when Mel arrived and the couple left the church. They asked for a quick set of formal shots there with bridal party and groomsmen and a couple with family.

 OWEN & CHELSEA

liverpool cricket club - 27th JULY 2019

It was a pleasure to be asked to be part of this wedding. I was friends with Owen when we were kids in junior school, where we used to play footy together. We haven’t seen each other since then really. I hadn’t met Chelsea before.

We met, prior to the wedding to go through the details of the day etc, as I do with every couple I work with. They’d personalised the structure of the day, and planned to enjoy it as much fun as possible by incorporating loads of elements... , which included the ushers cycling to where Chelsea was preparing, as well as cycling from the church to the reception, and games, like rounders, after the speeches.

Unfortunately, the weather was rubbish and the torrential rain forced the plans to change.

As with every single wedding I’ve filmed where rain has become a feature, a certain atmosphere is forged. Everyone decided to embrace it (most notably Chelsea) who was still happy, when she wasn’t dancing in it to take photos in the rain!

The reception was at Liverpool Cricket Club, which plays a significant part in their lives. They’re known by everyone there, and it had the feeling of a second home. 

It’s also where Owen’s mum and dad had their wedding reception 

Owen asked me to take a couple of photos of him and Chelsea in front of the traditional wooden sign, in the same place his mum and dad posed on their wedding day. 

I really enjoyed being part of the day. It was great seeing Owen again, and lovely to meet Chelsea. The thing that struck me the most, and the thing which has stuck with me since, was the sense of community. Having grown up in the same area as Owen, and his friends and family, I seemed to recognise everyone. 

The evening reception felt like one big family celebrating together. It was brilliant to think that so many people who were childhood friends in infants school, are all still mates as adults, as are their parents and neighbours. It can often feel like the sense of community is eroding, but here was a tangible example of it.

Nice one Owen and Chelsea. 

Hope you enjoy your video.

 WILL AND BEX.

ALLERTON MANOR - 8TH SEPTEMBER 2018

Will and Bex appear to have enjoyed their day, and each other, as much as any couple I’ve ever filmed. I can’t remember many points in the day, from the ceremony onwards, where they weren’t together, and pretty much every time I pointed the camera at them they were holding hands and kissing.

Every little detail was thought through, from the smallest (that you might miss if weren’t looking), to the bespoke 8ft high carved Crossroads Sign which greeted you at the reception venue, containing all of the significant places that have featured in their relationship together. 
If those involved weren’t beaming, they were moved to tears, but everyone was fully involved in every aspect of the day.

It was a pleasure to be there from beginning to end.

I spent the majority of the morning with the bridesmaids, before moving on to the groom and ushers. It’s always great to see the contrast between the bridesmaids and ushers on the morning of the wedding. Usually, the girls have the music blasting, they’re taking selfies as they go from hair to make-up etc, and they can’t sit still. 

When I got to the lads’ house, they were just starting the final round of Bucks-Fizz Pong. It was chilled, as everyone then started getting ready but, as with every wedding I've filmed, there comes a point (usually about half an hour before it’s time to leave) when the nerves begin to creep in, in a big way! This happened too. Things start to go a bit quiet and everything seems that bit more urgent. 

From the lads’ house, I went back to catch Bex in her dress. As you come up the stairs, Bex’s room is facing you as you turn a sharp bend. Coming up to the room, she was standing there while her mum and maid of honour applied the finishing touches, and it genuinely stopped me in my tracks. She looked amazing. I had to take a photo of that moment. 

After the service in the church where they’ve grown up together and where they met each other, the reception took place in the stunning Allerton Manor Golf Club. The equally stunning greenery provided amazing photos/footage, and the newly-renovated stables were the perfect venue for an intimate reception.

MARK AND KEELY.

SEFTON PARK PALM HOUSE - 17TH AUGUST 2018

This was a really enjoyable occasion for me, and the penultimate wedding before a long break from filming weddings. I think the whole day took me a bit by surprise and I enjoyed it far more than I was expecting to. Every aspect of the day was memorable (including dogs in the ceremony!), especially the stunning Palm House… but the thing I’ll remember this day for will be the sincere words spoken by Mark in the conclusion to his speech. Mark and Keely are genuinely sound and it was a pleasure to share their day with them.

The most memorable aspects of the day were the brilliant and stunning venues.

The service was held in the Church of All Hallows in Allerton, Liverpool. It is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a designated Grade I listed building, and is an active Anglican parish church in the diocese of Liverpool. It sits at the head of one of Liverpool’s most celebrated parks, Calderstones, surrounded by greenery and stunning old  buildings.

From there, the reception was held in the amazing Sefton Park Palm House.

The glass structure, and the botanical gardens, create a really cool atmosphere - you can easily forget where are. The natural light, and the vibrant colours fill the venue and have a positive influence on everyone. The vast array of colourful flowers is mesmerising. As a videographer, it’s a pleasure to film there, since the depth formed by the light and colour result in a stunning frame, no matter where you point your camera or where your focus is held.

As I find with most weddings, though, especially because I spend most of the day following the couple around, watching them through the camera lens, Mark and Keely themselves were the highlight of the day. It’s clear to see they’re highly regarded and well-loved! There was a genuine sense of support on the day, and the affection shown between them and their friends and family was really powerful. 

 The venue was probably the best I’ve filmed in so far (and, although I didn’t stay there all night, I have to say that their band may also be the best I’ve heard too!).  However, the one standout moment for me personally, was the conclusion to Mark’s speech. Keely’s dad was particularly moving and Mark’s brother completed the balance of humour and sincerity. 

But Mark, having said all that was probably expected, with stories and jokes etc, was as honest as anyone I’ve ever heard in  a wedding speech. It’s clear that the reason why he asked Keely to marry him was to display the love he has for her (and they have for each other) publicly. It’s one thing to say you love someone, but it’s a different thing to bind yourself to that person in front of all those who know you most as a ‘sign’ of your love. There were no clichés or cheesy lines … it was just a really powerful statement. 

I had a boss time filming some really sound people in a couple of stunning venues. Here area few more photos …

SPEED TESTING...

With a little help from some friends.

It's been a while since I've been able to take any photos, and some of my gear's changed. Most notably, I've swapped from a laptop to an iPad Pro when I'm out and about.

A while back, I was asked to photograph an event and have the shots edited and uploaded (to the client's site) by the end of the night so that everyone attending would have the opportunity to share them on social media etc that night, or in the next couple of days. I thought it was a really good idea and I was keen to have a go. Turns out, it worked quite well. However, I did all of this using my laptop.

So I wanted to put the iPad to the test to see how easy it would be to do something similar. This meant taking a load of photos, transferring the photos from my camera to it  and edit them, then upload them to an online folder where they could be downloaded by a client. 

It turns, out, it was easier than I thought (although I swerved sending over wifi for an SD reader since discovering you can't transfer RAW files over wifi... in 2018?!) even though it took slightly longer than I thought it would.

It's obviously not as easy as sorting through the JPEGs on my desktop then editing the RAWs and using custom presets, and I'm sure it would only ever be on the rare occasion that a client would need the photo's taking, editing, then processing all within such a short period of time... but it proved it can be done, and to quite a high standard.  

I was also practicing mixing prime lenses (23mm f/2 and 56mm f/1.4) in a single 'live' shoot to see whether they would be obviously distinguishable in one album. Very often I found that it was obvious to tell the difference between my 24-70mm f/2.8 and 50mm f/1.2 even when I wasn’t trying to push the f/stop to its max. It's hard even to technically articulate why... I've always just been able to spot the difference. I know prime's tend to be slightly crisper, and the aspect is affected, but it was more than the shape and definition. Sometimes there's just a different 'feel' to them.

I was pleased with how well they mixed in the end.

Apart from a couple, where I was purposefully trying to achieve a shallow depth of field, it's hard to tell the difference. 

STU & JO.

nunsmere hall hotel - 16th december 2017

There wasn't a point in the day when Jo wasn't smiling, laughing, crying (joy-filled tears) or dancing! In a similar vein, it felt like every other time I looked at Stu, he seemed to be glancing at Jo with a smile on his face. For me, that's the sign of a genuine wedding.

When I film, I end up chatting to guests... usually i'm being asked questions about my camera, or whether I can recommend a pro level camera for less that £100... then every so often, we talk about who they know at the wedding, how they know the newlyweds etc... - this wedding was a bit different though. Very quickly, the conversations I had eventually ended up in the guests telling me how much they loved both Stu and Jo, and how happy they were for them get married. 'They 'deserve' each other and they're so pleased they're both so happy'.

The venue was stunning - made even better by the fact it was nearly Christmas so classy decorations were everywhere, and because of the intimate setting, there was a palpable buzz and positive atmosphere from guests chatting in large groups, rather than small pockets. 

It was an amazing day, and with the guests, I felt privileged to be there to take part! 

kate's 40th birthday.

10TH JANUARY 2018 - DELAMERE FOREST.

Rather than just having a normal party, Kate decided she wanted something else to remember her 40th birthday by that would last longer than just a few hours - which sounded, to me, like an excellent idea!!

She loves a good photo (has them all over her house) and makes sure she updates her Instagram feed every day!

Rather than just take some on her phone, she decided to go to a spot she loves, with the coolest prop she could find, with the people she loves most and have a boss day out with the family!! I was asked to come along to take some photo's of the day for a keepsake and I'm really glad I was! The photo's look great because, as a family, everyone enjoyed themselves so much! 

Here's a selection from the day...

VENICE, ITALY.

NOVEMBER 2017

We've been threatening to do Venice for ages, but never got round to it. It ended up being a bit of an impulse decision when we came across cheap flights. We had to rearrange flights because Katie ended up spending a couple of weeks in Florida with Childflight. It was boss that we did because the weather we ended up getting was amazing! Although I was fuming to have to miss the trip to Seville to watch Liverpool!

We didn't have a clue about the city at all, and whereas I'd usually do a lot of reading up on the place we're going to in advance, I didn't have time to. The trip sort of just crept up on us. Thankfully Katie was slightly more prepared and booked the boat from the airport to the island, otherwise I wouldn't have had a clue how to get there. 

If you've never been, it's probably the best journey from an 'airport-to-destination' going, where you basically wait for speed boats like you would a taxi in a regular airport. It's so well organised and makes the trip dead interesting from the start. It's dead well organised and really well kept etc, but it did make me wonder what the experience must have been like decades ago! (Particularly on a moody day). Venice is mad in that sense. Once you're on the island, in the same way you'd wait for a bus regularly to get about the place, you have to make your way to the nearest dock to board a boat which will sail along the Grand Canal through the city. 

We only spent 3 full days there (which in one way, is a perfect amount of time) but we got to see a lot in that time. Unlike most other cities I've ever been to though, it was the actual place itself which was so enjoyable and fascinating. In most other places you might travel to, you make your way to the landmarks, museums, galleries, landscapes and tick the boxes. Although there are plenty of places to check out,  in Venice, the walk around the city is the most interesting way to spend the time. Every new street is dead interesting and picturesque. It's managed to do what most other 'famous' cities struggle to do and modernised what's necessary while maintaining it's traditions and mystique. 

Apart from the obligatory gondola ride, there's no need to use any transport. Everywhere we felt to be within walking distance, and even if you do find yourself walking for any longer than 20-30 mins, you've got hundreds of restaurants and cafe's to visit. Between us, we made a list of about 30 places we'd have liked to go back to. Basically... you're not short of stunning places to enjoy.

It's a mad experience navigating through the streets and alleys. It can feel like you're lost and turning down a shady alley... but it seems that every time you wander it to a gorgeous side street every time. I said to Katie as we were enjoying getting lost (genuinely), that in most other cities we've visited there'll always been a main area (or a few) which is built up and interesting... but if you're not careful you can wander it empty spaces where you feel very lost or as if you've stumbled into the areas even the locals would never particularly want to find themselves or there's nothing to take in. In Venice, every 2 mins you're wandering into somewhere attractive or 'occupied'. 

With a camera, it feels like every street (and everything on it), the rustic architecture, along with the unique Venetian characteristics, and the colours... everything seems photographable! We were really fortunate to have amazing weather which meant that the light and shadows (from narrow streets) brought everything to life, and as I've mentioned, everything is picturesque! I brought an ND filter with me for the first time on a holiday and it was a good job I did with all the water and the low sun. It just meant that  I was able soak up all the colours I'd have usually lost because of the glaring light! 

If you've been before, I'm sure you'll know what I mean. If you haven't, you definitely should! 

The whiteways.

Reynolds park, Liverpool - September 2017

Rob and Gill recently enjoyed their Pearl (30th) wedding anniversary. 

They were married in St Annes church, Aigburth and were hoping to go to Reynolds Park in Woolton for their wedding photo's as it held particular sentimental value to them... but on the day, their wedding photographer told them he'd double-booked the appointment and had to leave after taking only a few photographs at the church!

...So 30 years, 3 kids and a grandchild later, they eventually made it to Reynolds Park making up for what they missed out on on their wedding day!

We visited the Walled Garden... I couldn’t believe I’ve never been/heard of it. Proper hidden gem in Liverpool! 

It was good fun, and it felt more like a day out than a photo shoot! Most of the photo’s, not featured here, were of everyone laughing or messing together. It was boss seeing a family who enjoyed just spending time together!

Here are a few photo's from the day. Happy Anniversary Mr & Mrs Whiteway!

mr & Mrs Unsworth.

thornton manor - 21ST JULY 2017

A couple of weeks ago I filmed the wedding of some really good friends, Joe and Becca. 

Spending the morning with the girls getting ready was really funny! I enjoyed learning the difference between Italian pasta and a ‘church pastor’, as well as an in-depth discussion around teeth whitening methods.

Typically, the morning of the wedding can feel tense. Everyone is excited, but also nervous about the ceremony. Everyone’s edging around, getting hair/make up in order, making sure they’re ready in time to make it to the church…

This was a bit different! By the time I’d arrived, (3 hours before the ceremony) pretty much everyone’s hair and make up was already done. There were a couple of people in chairs being seen to, but there was only really Becca left to do! As a result, everyone just enjoyed chatting and had some breakfast, (setting up Instagram accounts for the day) with plenty of time to get ready!

It was the most efficient bridal prep I've witnessed. So much so that Becca arrived at the church 10 minutes early so chilled out with the bridesmaids!

There was a depth to everything that took place. The service was full of singing, (although Joe’s niece was clearly distraught by being asked to walk down the aisle), and the speeches were probably the most personal and heartfelt I've heard since I've been filming weddings. 

I always make a point of trying to stay as ‘out the way’ as possible and to never direct anything on the day for the sake of the video. I think wedding videos which are directed can look absolutely amazing! (There are hundreds of examples). But personally, I feel you lose something when you ask the couple to do something they wouldn’t ordinarily do. The idea behind filming weddings this way is so that when you look back on it in time, you’re watching all that took place rather than what you were told to do!…. that being said, two of my favourite pieces of footage are from when I ask Joe to give Becca a kiss and he can’t do it for embarrassed laughing!

It was a really boss wedding! Full of laughs with genuine friends and loving family, and a real, palpable focus on the importance of the marriage. 

I’m really made up for you both and excited to spend time with you both together as the Unsworths! 

Here are the highlights…

Hope you enjoy!

Israel

July 2017

I've never had an official bucket-list. However, the only place on earth I wanted to make sure I definitely visited at least once, has always been Israel. It was a real privilege to be able to finally go. 

I was asked by Foundation Matters to film some footage for a presentation which takes people on a journey through John's gospel in the New Testament. While I was there I was able to take a few photo's when I had the chance. Unfortunately, there wasn't loads of time to take photo's as there was a lot of footage to shoot and hundreds miles to cover! It's definitely somewhere I'd like to re-visit with the sole purpose of taking photos!

We landed in Tel Aviv and made our way to our first stop in Jerusalem. Our first day of filming took us to the Dead Sea. Specifically to the Qumran National Park and to Ein Gedi. The Qumran valley is the place where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. These are hugely important documents in establishing the veracity of the New Testament scriptures. The story is enchanting... a young, bored shepherd boy lashing rocks into an open chasm hears a jar smash, accidentally uncovering some of the most important relics known to mankind.

Ein Gedi is a stretch of mountains that features prominently in Pentateuchal narrative. It's reckoned to contain the stretch of valleys and caves King David fled from Saul in 1 Samuel. When you visit, it's easy to imagine the scene. 

The next couple of days were spent in and around Jerusalem. Previous trips by the charity had covered a lot of the old town so we weren't required to spend too much time there. 

It was a strange experience. I wasn't as overwhelmed as I'd expected to be. Jerusalem, in my opinion, is the most important city on earth. The central focus of the three major religions and the spiritual base for the majority of the worlds population throughout history, even to the present day. 

It's fascinating how within Jerusalem itself synagogues and temple sites, mosques and Islamic temples and churches and cathedrals are mingled together. Interestingly, as you can see in a couple of the pictures, is the very evident divide of Israelis and Palestinians by the West Bank barrier.

Rather than being enamoured by its rich biblical heritage, I was struck by the ritualistic fundamentalism of the orthodox Jewish community, and the narcissistic idolatry of the Christians. The vast majority of the religion on display seemed cold and mechanical rather than spiritual and heartfelt. Occasionally, there would be individual moments that seemed genuine (even in one of the pictures of the father and son at the wailing wall). I'll save my opinion on this for a future blog post which I feel compelled to write. It's inspired mainly by the people I met and was able to spend time chatting to during the trip (both Israeli Jews and Palestinian Muslims). One of those people is in the last photo of this section; an ex tank commander in the Israeli army. We used one of his ATV's for a section of the film, along the West Bank, on one of the hottest days of the year (when out on the track I measured 42° on my watch). Once we'd been out and filmed he invited us into his air conditioned office for coffee while we waited to be picked up. After obligatory small talk, we found ourselves in an in-depth discussion which wound up covering the state of Israel, the Middle-Eastern situation, global terrorism, world politics, religion, lasting a couple of hours.

Next we headed to the Negev desert, on the border with Egypt, to the small town of Ezez where we stayed the night in the desert. It was a long drive but a long stretch in the car to rest was welcome. It also offered a good opportunity to take in the stretch of Israel. 

As we arrived, the sun was setting and the smell of incense was in the air. - it was stunning. It was impossible to notice though... as we pulled up to the campsite we had to find a space between dozens of army vehicles. As we looked out on to the camp, soldiers were everywhere! We're on the border of Egypt so the scene seems ominous! As we get out the car, the buzz of drones was in the air with the sound of discussion. I honestly thought we'd just wandered into some sort of restricted area! It transpired that a section of the Israeli army were having a night of celebrations and meetings and we were sound. I took out my camera to take photos but was promptly told to put it away. 

We enjoyed some gorgeous food before sitting under the stars with tea that had been brewing in the fireplace. Our beds for the night were either hammocks or mattresses on the floor. It was idyllic. That night was probably the most tolerable temperature, which should have made it easier to drift off, except for the distraction of machine-gunfire in the distance. Eventually, the noise became familiar and I eventually drifted off until about 5:30am when the firing was heard only a few hundred yards away.... For some reason, I couldn't get back off to sleep!

In the morning we enjoyed a huge breakfast before a camel ride through the desert to capture some final shots for the movie. 

From there, we headed to the Galilee region to a small town called Poriya Ilit. 

The final leg of the trip was probably my favourite. It was helped by an absolutely stunning home which we stayed in for the final few days called Birdsong. 

From the top of Mount Arbel (second row of photos) you get an aerial view of the Galilee region and the sea of Galilee. It was incredible to gain some perspective on the key area of Jesus' ministry. We would slowly make our way through the region over the coming days. 

In Nazareth, we visited a small reserve which had been designed to mimic a small first century village. One of my favourite parts was a replica of a synagogue which met the requirements of a synagogue in Jesus' day. It was stirring walking inside and being able now to picture, more vividly, the scenes described in the New Testament gospels. While we were there, we bumped into Mary and Joseph - it was a weirder version of meeting Mickey Mouse in Disneyland or something?! 

We planned to hire jet ski's for filming on the Sea of Galilee but it turns out you need an Israeli license to drive them! Instead, we hired our own boat! It wasn't as exciting but it meant we were able to jump in and swim in the sea! It was strange how warm it was and that it didn't taste of salt water! The Sea of Galilee is also far bigger than I'd pictured in my mind. 

From there we had our final day of activities to film which included rapelling and a bungee swing! The rapelling took place on the border with Syria (again, only a few hundred yards away) where the sound of missiles, this time, could be heard exploding. The guide we were with was now so familiar with these sounds that he'd stopped hearing them. It was impossible for us to ignore though! The enemy was visible from where we were working. 

Both the rapelling and bungee swinging were incredible (filming the bungee meant lugging the camera gear over the remains of the bridge!), but as with the whole trip, by far the most memorable aspect of the whole day was chatting to our helper! We covered every subject imaginable and I gained knowledge and insights I wasn't prepared for, which have even affected much my own thinking. Again, I want to save the bulk of what this experience taught me for a more thorough blog post, but the basic principle is that getting out of your own context and meeting with those from completely different cultures/worlds is such a vitally important exercise; the value of which, shouldn't be underestimated. Realising, actually/tangibly rather than just casually, and experiencing other perspectives and viewpoints than your own, humbles and grounds you and enriches you infinitely more than staying in the safety of your own familiar and comfortable environment ever could.

DAKAR, SENEGAL

June 2017

I was invited to spend a week working in Dakar. I've been very fortunate in the past to travel to quite a few countries, but I fell in love with this city fairly quickly in a way i've not done before. 

I can honestly say that I fell in love with the place. It'll live with me for a long time. 

While I was there I was able to get out a couple of times with my camera. Unfortunately, I managed to somehow lose 100 or so images. Here are some of the of the ones I managed not to accidentally delete...

We started in Manchester and made our way to Dakar via Paris. Charles de Gaulle is seriously impressive. I should have slept while we had a 4.5 hour overlay, but Yolanda wouldn't shut up. I had to pretend I was interested, so instead, I spent the whole time catching up. 

We arrived in Dakar late in the day. Getting off the plane, you could feel the heat and humidity straight away. 

The first couple of hours were dead interesting. For the first time in a long time, I was aware of the fact that I was a foreigner and a stranger.  My skin was different. My clothes were different. I couldn't understand the language and unfamiliar with the customs. We were met by a long line to the passport checks and I was conscious of how much I stood out from everyone else. Although nobody was acting in a way to make me feel uncomfortable, I felt unsettled. I'm often ignorant towards how others must feel in settings where I instinctively feel comfortable. 

We made it through the passport check (which itself was a totally unique experience) so went to pick up our bags. It was a small space so it was absolutely packed! I think 3 flights had all come in at the same time. We had to fight through the layers of people (who are happier jostling for position, rather than queuing in orderly lines - and i've got to say, I prefer their version!) As well as people picking up their bags, there were staff everywhere, each one of them, with some sort of badge or lanyard. It wasn't entirely clear what they were there for - they all just seemed to be catching up with one another, belly laughing at something or other, or observing what was going on. It was loud and chaotic, but more interesting than any other airport I'd ever been through before! I'd been there 10 minutes and there were already mozzies sticking to me! 

We eventually got our bags, passed through a second stage of security, then made our way outside through a fenced cordon, about a meter and a half wide, which was lined either side by people at least 3 layers thick (again, jostling for position at the front), to meet the fella picking us up. Once we'd made it through the crowds, we got to the car park which was gridlocked (If there was space, someone had found it and stuck a car there). When we made it to the car, there were at least 4 taxi drivers offering us lifts, 3 fellas offering to lift our bags into the boot, some selling nuts, someone selling sim cards. We managed to get everything into the car then began the journey to the guest house we'd be staying in for the week. 

The drive home was enough of an experience... the smells from the street food vendors, people everywhere(!), stalls everywhere(!), cars everywhere(!). Since it was Ramadan, the city came alive at night as people would come together to eat and socialise.

The next day, we travelled on the ferry to Goree Island. Goree is a tiny island known for its role in the 15th-19th century Atlantic slave trade. It's a strange blend of eery past and stunning natural beauty.  

The ferry over to the island was packed full of shop owners who were now your friend (whether you wanted to be or not) in order to get you into their shops, the Dakar football team (who were a feeder club for Lyon), and a Christian sect who we later saw attending a meeting in a large tent.

We had a tour guide (which I couldn't understand) who we didn't really need. It was obvious how important he felt his role was in reminding people of what had taken place here. Having visited Auschwitz and Birkeneau within the past 12 months I'm aware he's right to regularly remind visitors of what took place so that it's never forgotten and never repeated! I was surprised when I was at Auschwitz/Birkenau by how many orthodox Jews were there. Not just that they were visiting, but that they were posing for fun photos at the scene of some of the most horrific atrocities to have ever affected their ethnic group. I realised I was surprised, because I'm relatively unaffected. When I considered it afterwards though, it made perfect sense to me why they would be doing it - because, in a sense, they shouldn't be able to! The scene of such horror now becomes a scene of victory in some way. It's their way of sticking two fingers up to Hitler. He tried to exterminate them, but failed. So now they're free to visit the scene in freedom, remembering what took place, but also in defiance because he failed. It was similar visiting the House of Slaves museum. If the history according the guides is to be believed, the building at the home of this port is the scene of a comparable level of atrocity. The House of Slaves would be the final stop for slaves (men, women and young people), many who'd been farmed for slavery, before making their way to Europe and the Americas as slaves. There are different rooms for men, women and young people, and detention cubicles for anyone showing dissent. The most harrowing part of the HoS though is the passageway running through its centre called 'The Point of No Return'. It's a short, dark corridor with a hole cut out of the other end where the light bursts through. The light bursting through the hole at the end of the dark corridor is so bright your eyes can't focus on anything outside - they're forced to squint by the blinding sun, the contrast is so stark. The slave ships would pull up to the hole in the wall and slaves would be marched, chained, into the separate compartments on the boat. It was really interesting then, watching young, black males taking photos/selfies in the detention cubicles, or even jumping out of the 'point of no return' before clambering back into the house. It was a poignant picture of freedom and liberty whether they were fully aware of what they were doing or not. I was genuinely moved, more so afterwards, by the whole reality of slavery.

From there, we were led around the island by our guide, past every kind of stall you can think of, into St. Charles Boromeo (a 15th Century Portuguese catholic chapel), up a hill to the armoured turret, housing WWII French 240mm cannons, taken from a Danton class battleship. From there we were led into an artists workshop renowned for his sand paintings. 

It's a stunning island, especially when the sunlight bounces off the colourful walls and heats up the gorgeous beach. It's brilliant watching people trade, catch up with friends and children playing in the sea given its history. 

A friend, now living in Dakar, took us to church on Sunday. It wasn't too dissimilar to a church at home, apart from the music and the dancing! Everyone made us feel really welcome, even though I couldn't understand anything anyone was saying. 

She then took my friends to a local fabric stall to pick out materials for their outfits for church the following Sunday. It was amazing! They'd previously lived in Ivory Coast so were familiar with the process but they still just seemed as excited as I was for my first time. (You can see how made up Yolanda is to be rifling through so much material). It was the most colour I'd seen splashed about in one place! Once they'd picked out their materials (some as present for people at home too), they took them to a local tailor to be measured and pick their designs. 

After the material shop we were taken into a tiny little shacked up meat market. I can't describe how atmospheric the place was! The sounds, smells and activity was overwhelming. It was like the scene from a film! The lighting was incredible (dim lighting with bursts of sunlight through the gaps in the corrugated iron panels)! There was a mist hovering from random stalls boiling stews or boiling ingredients. Unfortunately, I was told not to take pictures... but they wouldn't have done it justice anyway. It was one of those moments you had to experience which you can't justify by describing. 

Afterwards, it was back to the guest house. It was there I was given a lesson in how to control a room by the fella doing magic tricks with a group of kids.

The next couple of days, when we had free time, was spend in markets. I didn't go to buy a single thing but it's an amazing opportunity to meet people and take in the culture. The markets are crammed, and if it's obvious you're a tourist (I don't know how they managed to pick me out so easily) you're man marked within a couple of seconds. One of the days, I went out with an old German friend called Ruth. She's ruthless! We had a good-cop/bad-cop thing going on (though it didn't matter at all). It was top heavy on the bad-cop side. I would smile and laugh about footy... (mention you're from Liverpool and you're in. Steven Gerrard is notorious and Mane is a national treasure. Everyone has a Premier League team and either Real or Barça. You could easily pass an hour telling stories of games you were at or debating who's better out of Messi or Ronaldo)... meanwhile, Ruth is hanging the male traders out to dry. They were frustrated, but at the same amazed by how tough she is as a negotiator. You could see them actually grimacing and sweating. They'd turn to me after they'd come to some sort of agreement blow their cheeks and raise their eyebrows knowing they'd just been taken the cleaners. 

We got to know one fella called Ams (in the yellow t-shirt) who took us round his network of stalls to find Ruth an up to date Germany shirt. He was a boss laugh to be fair and very kind to us. He saw himself as a bit of a goodfella figure who ran his particular area of the market. We (or I) ended up needing his confidence towards the end of the day though. I took a photo (having asked whether it was ok to or not beforehand) which someone had an issue with. Within a couple of minutes, there were about 20 fellas all fuming (don't know what about) between themselves (half with me, half against the fellas fuming with me) and it all got a bit heated. After deleting the photo that kicked it all off, the fume passed and everyone was back to normal or even laughing together - I was now fuming because it was my favourite photo from the day!

The next day, another friend and her husband took us around a different part of the same market. After about half an hour, we were led by a local contact into a factory that produces the material sold in the marketplaces to find the specific items the people who'd brought us were after that they couldn't find in the market. The volume of stuff they were producing was incredible but I couldn't help feel uncomfortable by the situation. There were young lads kipping at their sewing machines, while others chatted or read. The physical conditions weren't too bad and there wasn't anyone bouncing round shouting orders, but seeing people so exhausted as they worked was quite unnerving. Somehow we ended up 3 floors up and about half a mile in and came to the most chilled out room in the whole place. There was one older fella relaxing on a pile of sheets while his mates read their newspapers. He had a presence about him that commanded a certain level of respect. His mate, who'd led us around the workshop was a master in the art of human interaction. Witty, bright, brilliant communicator... he made jokes about the grammar my friends were using as they haggled, wound her up about her negotiating tactics, then gave her extra change to make up for what she'd lost in the deal due to Brexit. There were too many once in a lifetime encounters that you don't ever experience unless you're willing to leave your comfort zone and meet new people from unfamiliar cultures in a place of mutual respect and humility. It's life changing. When you're only on this earth for such a short period of time, it's a very worthwhile investment of time and energy. 

I was also able to add a few more 'out-of-focus-photos-taken-by-others-with-my-camera' to my collection!

ARTHUR JONES-REYNOLDS.

APRIL 2016

Having filmed Andy and Hannah's wedding a couple of years before, it was particularly poignant to be invited into their home to meet their son, Arthur. 

Mr & Mrs Bendle.

The Mere GolF Resort - 26th May 2017

Last week I had the pleasure of filming the wedding of Loz and Emma. It was only my second wedding of 2017. Over the last couple of years, I've probably ended up doing more weddings than I should have done time-wise. I absolutely love weddings because of how well you end up getting to know everyone on the day. They can be tiring by the end though!

I met Emma a few weeks before the wedding and knew straight away I'd enjoy this one... 

Everything (I mean everything!) had been completely thought through, to the finest detail! It felt like, before I'd asked any of the questions I had, Emma had already answered them! 

The weather was absolutely brilliant! Lovely and warm with bright sunshine! The original plan was for the ceremony to be indoors - but it was too nice to miss out on the opportunity of having it on the lawn. In the end, most of the day took place outdoors. Once the formalities had been taken care of indoors, everyone was quick to grab a drink and enjoy the lovely weather together! It must be said that this had absolutely nothing to do with the conditions indoors! I was overwhelmed by amazing the room, for the reception, was! The room looked unbelievable.  Emma's fine eye for detail had paid off massively - this was highlighted particularly in all of the little things... the M&M's in the morning were personalised, the wafers in the ice creams after the service were personalised, the stickers on the pick n mix bags in the evening were personalised... etc. 

Watching them throughout the day, it was obvious that they're completely comfortable with one another - like the deepest form of friendship. Meeting Emma, before the wedding, she was happy telling me how much she thought of Loz. In his speech, Loz echoed it. Nothing seems forced. I particularly enjoyed, and benefitted, from how laid back they were; but more than anything else, how genuinely friendly they were. I felt it particularly towards me, but it was really evident that they were exactly the same towards everyone who came! 

It really was a dead enjoyable day to be a part of and that was genuinely down to how sound Loz and Emma were.

Enjoy Bali!  

Solomon Joshua Smith.

9th May 2017. 8lb 15oz.

The name Solomon is derived from Hebrew שָׁלוֹם (shalom) "peace". When offered any gift to possess from God, Solomon requested wisdom, above earthly riches. Two beautiful qualities to be characterised by. 

When Mia wasn't stuffing her gob with popcorn, she was doting on her little (big) boy! 

I particularly love the photos of Josh and Sol in their grandad/great grandad's flat caps. 

Yogi was too busy digging holes in the garden to be jealous of all the attention Sol was getting. But whenever he did turn up he was loving the camera. 

Sol was dead chilled, which I suspect he's inherited from his relaxed parents. There was loads of chat and laughter. He has a happy, loving future ahead of him! 

// Solomon went up to the bronze altar before the Lord in the tent of meeting and offered a thousand burnt offerings on it.

That night God appeared to Solomon and said to him, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.”

Solomon answered God, “You have shown great kindness to David my father and have made me king in his place. Now, Lord God, let your promise to my father David be confirmed, for you have made me king over a people who are as numerous as the dust of the earth. Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?”

God said to Solomon, “Since this is your heart’s desire and you have not asked for wealth, possessions or honor, nor for the death of your enemies, and since you have not asked for a long life but for wisdom and knowledge to govern my people over whom I have made you king, therefore wisdom and knowledge will be given you. And I will also give you wealth, possessions and honor, such as no king who was before you ever had and none after you will have.”//

2 Chronicles 1:6-12

Mark & Kev's Graduation

Liverpool Hope University - May 2017

Mark and Kev are mates who ended up in uni together.  Rather than paying an extortionate amount for the typical (and boring) portrait photo, they asked me to come in to uni on the morning of their graduation, with their families, to capture the day… and to prove that they did actually graduate. 

Since they started their uni journey together, it seemed fitting they ended it celebrating together with photo's they'll actually want to look back on in the future.

Wah Sing Chinese School & Community Centre - Living Memory Liverpool Event

8th October 2016

I was contacted by the War Graves Commission to document a posthumous tribute to Chinese WWI soldiers from Liverpool.

Usually, when asked to photograph an event, I'm looking through the viewfinder trying to find the right looking image that I can miss whatever it is I'm shooting. 
I found this commemoration so interesting though, that I spent more time watching what was going on, and asking questions, that I did taking photo's. 

It was a unique cultural experience that I was grateful to be a part of. 

iceland

April 2017

We were able to travel around gorgeous Iceland. Katie sorted it for me for my 30th birthday and I've got to say, it was the best birthday present I've had. Iceland is amazing! Scenic, atmospheric, historic...and unbelievably expensive!! 

Started early from Manchester airport... but woke up late. Formula 1 speeds to Manchester airport meant we made it on time. Bag too heavy because we're tight arses so our hand luggage doubled up as luggage bags. After binning as many S*n papers as I could find, we were ready to roll. Had to wait on the runway for a bit but it was good prep for freezing in Iceland.

Made it to Reykjavik and didn't get picked up for close to 45 mins by our car rental company. Turns out it's because they send a shuttle bus. (The bright yellow one in the second photo that you can't miss!)

Finally made it into Reykjavik and saw the Hallgrimskirkja cathedral. It's totally unique and visible from every part of the town.

From the cathedral, we went for lunch. Hadn't eaten all day so fancied something to keep us going to tea. Went to a boss little homely cafe for some soup and paninis...

The cafe was sound but we learned a hard lesson, early on. Iceland is expensive. Cheese toastie with a bowl of soup, a panini and Nutella cheesecake... £36!!! Only realised once we'd sat down or we'd have bounced straight out. Lesson learned. We learned to live on amazing fresh Icelandic water for the rest of the trip. From there, we decided to walk off lunch by visiting Harpa, Reykjavik's concert hall.

The next day we drove the Golden Circle (NE on Route 36 towards Þingvellir, Haukadalur Geysir, Gullfoss Falls, Kerið Crater Lake) in our beige 4x4. It was actually amazing. Not only was the majority of the route absolutely stunning, but the volcanic fields which line most of the route are fascinating! There's always something to capture your imagination. 

Other days, we made our way along the south end of the island visiting Selfoss, Seljalandsfoss, Þórsmerkurvegur, Skógafoss, Vik, Kirkjubæjarklaustur.

On our last day, we enjoyed the Blue Lagoon. I'd read on the internet beforehand that is wasn't a natural spa and very touristy. I was a bit reluctant to go but while we there we decided to give it a try - it'd be a nice break from long drives that did my back in. It was a boss decision!! It was absolutely brilliant and very cool!

It was one of the best trips we've done. Well in Katie! 

Krakow

October 2016

I'd never been to Krakow before, and I never really intended to. Katie's family arranged a trip so we booked flights and headed over. Usually, the trips you don't plan for or expect much from (because you don't know what to expect) turn out to be the best. I'm so glad we went! 

It's such an interesting city, full of stories, and is placed in a really pivotal part of Europe. 

The square in the town centre is a brilliant focal point and a really inviting place to spend time eating, drinking or people watching in the restraints and bars. It has the look and feel of a classic European city that you know is steeped in interesting history. 

We went for a long weekend, so didn't have loads of time to explore, but saw more than enough in that time to be really fascinated. (Liverpool also beat Palace away while we there which at least meant the trip wasn't soured by that). 

One of the highlights for me was spending my mornings reading with a coffee in Charlotte's, and the mountain top cafe.... no idea where it was though. 

Obviously, the main part of the weekend was our trip to Auschwitz/Birkenau. You can't go there and not be profoundly affected. The experience will live with me forever. I'm sure there are far more eloquent people than me who can describe what it feels like to visit, but it's a trip everyone should make. 

The most poignant moment of the trip (one of the most poignant encounters I've ever experienced) was walking amongst Orthodox Jews at the central part of the Birkenau concentration camp where groups were reading Scriptures, surveying maps and charts of the camp, posing for photos in the cattle carts used to transport Jews to their deaths and praying. I often think back to that moment and try to wonder what it must have meant to them. I was severely affected by being there as someone unaffected by what had taken place there. I can only speculate, and wouldn't want to try and guess but it moves me still to think about. 

My trip there justified the reason why it still stands as a monument...

To remember what took place. 

To honour those who suffered.

To make sure it never happens again.

Week in the Lakes

may 2017

Since being married, we've always arranged a holiday around our birthdays. This time round, we spent a week in the Lake District. It was the first time the dog had ever come away with us. The idea was for her to enjoy loads of long walks and swimming.

I've been to some amazing places in the world - places i've fallen in love with. However, nowhere will ever be able to compete with the Lakes. I'll save why for another time...

Anyway, we hired a small cottage on a working farm in Shap (South East Lakes) then picked a different walk every day (where Pepper could swim) then find pubs for a drink and a massive fish an chips or big, fat burger afterwards.

The average temperature while we were there was 30°. I've been the Lakes hundreds of times but never seen it looking like it did this week!

New York Marathon

November 2015

I'd applied for the New York City Marathon every year for the previous 6 years, never actually expecting to get in.I semi thought it was a scam since it seemed impossible to enter through the ballot. I'd never met anyone who'd been successful. Then one day, I got an email from NYC Marathon with the title 'Congratulations...'

I still couldn't quite believe it until I checked my bank statement and I'd seen the entrance fee had automatically been taken from my account - something I hadn't considered since I didn't think I was going to get in (can't remember how much it was, but it was around £200+!!)

I'd already run a couple of marathons so knew I had it in me to do it. All I felt was excitement! I have a mental bucket list (it's not that incredible or anything... it's just in my head rather than written down). This had been one of things on it! 

I tried to convince Katie to join me but she wasn't having any of it. She agreed to come and support me though. It took loads of convincing her! Interestingly, my previous marathon had been in Chester where nobody came to support me. After I'd sent a message to our family whatsapp chat my mum and dad said they'd come and support me too. Funny that!

Katie and I thought that since we were going to go to NYC, we'd visit our mates who'd moved to Virginia and visit Washington DC while we were there. We were away for about 10 days. 

Just before we left I bought a Fuji X100T. I didn't fancy carrying my 5Dmkiii around with me everywhere we went and wanted something fairly compact (which wasn't my phone) so I didn't need to carry any sort of bag. It was within my budget (after the marathon cost, flights and accommodation) and it served me well. I was getting to grips with it more as the trip went on even though I only really feel I properly got a hang of it once we were home. 

Hillsborough Vigil

St George's Hall, Liverpool - 27th April 2016

"We climbed the hill in our own way"

I've found the last couple of days exhausting. My emotions are fraught. I can't imagine what it must feel like for those who've fought tirelessly on the front line for 27 years. 
I've been exposed to the events of Hillsborough for over two decades yet fairly unaffected. It always intrigued me as a kid because I didn't comprehend what had happened. Magazines I would buy as a keen fan, and songs that were sung at games would throw issues out I didn't understand so I began to investigate for myself. 
Growing up in Liverpool meant that most of the people I've known growing up have been affected by Hillsborough in some way, either directly or indirectly, so they have an opinion of their own. I'd say it's only in the last 10 years or so though it's actually begun to affect me (Most notably since sharing office space with a branch of the Hillsborough justice campaign and family support group. Phil Hammond took great pleasure in educating and stirring up a hungry young pupil). Anger and frustration would be my overriding emotions whenever I considered what took place at Hillsborough and the subsequent events. My energy was always spent dwelling on the sheer injustice of the whole situation. 
Yet the past couple of days have completely shifted my focus. Rather than considering the weight of the injustice and growing angry at the situation... I'm now overcome by pride and inspired by those who've been committed to the cause - whatever their individual agendas may have been. 
Their example and courage have inspired me more than any other. I'm overwhelmingly grateful for it.

YNWA

anniversary #2 - 2014

vw camper van, touring the JURASSIC coast - southern england

For our first anniversary, we went to New York. The year later, we thought we'd do something completely different and stay at home. I surprised Katie with a VW camper van. We used one for our wedding car (van) on our wedding day. Split screens are a particular favourite to Les, Katie's dad which is the main reason why she loves them - particularly splitties (the iconic split screen windscreen).

We stayed in some interesting places, met some really cool people and saw stunning parts of England I didn't even know existed!

I'm posting these because I've just photographed my sister's 40th birthday which included a pink VW camper. It's funny how often they keep cropping up!

Looking back, these photo's go against the grain of how I like to present photo's. These were some of the first I took using a 24-70mm lens on my first ever camera. Settings were all over the place, the editing is shocking and half of them are out of focus. It's funny to me though how, no matter how bad the production is, it's always the memories and the subject matter which jump out after seeing them again after so long. 

Having said that, interestingly, my favourite ever photo is part of this series! (The green bus against the deep blue night sky with stunning clouds!). I didn't even really give it a second thought when I actually took it. I'd probably over think how I shot it now!

They're fun to look back at.

(Spot the photo that looks wonky, where it's actually the car park that's mad!)