Photography Ryde Isle of Wight

Have you ever been reluctant to have your photograph taken? Felt like you’re not good enough, even when you’ve promised yourself you’ll stop all that negative self-talk?

Me too. I’ve spent a rainy Bank Holiday Monday photographing myself, wearing sunglasses, trying not to notice that my hair is in need of attention.

I nearly gave up after the first failed attempts, frustrated that it didn’t go to plan. [Read more…]

The minute I open the front door to greet Joanne we start giggling, striding to shake my hand, Joanne’s uplifting smile radiates health and happiness. Whilst the kettle boils, we natter about the rose-tinted outfits Joanne’s packed and I notice we’re already getting on famously. [Read more…]

Megan’s is a highly-acclaimed dancer, performer and friend who inspires her pals to be true to themselves, explore their creativity and enjoy life to the full. Her expertise comes from years of practice and the support of a loving family, in a short time she’s mastered the art of grace, dignity and integrity with whoever she’s working with. Hence this FB post here……

I can’t lie, the journey to my first inaugural workshop in Ryde Aspire was a path strewn with hurdles. Reaching out to Megan, asking her to model for me, the results are a delight and we finished the mentoring session on a high (+ a promise to meet again in the summer.)

You see, stepping beyond your fear isn’t easy, but beyond the pain is everything you want: stylish portraits, effortlessly captured and produced with refined elegance. Megan and her mum took a risk to meet with me; all it took was a quick phone call and hastily packed bags bursting with the perfect outfits. I’m thankful they trusted me to capture Megan’s beauty, discovering I’ve photographed a number of dance friends was a pleasant surprise (let’s face it, the Isle of Wight is small community).Time is always a consideration, and Friday morning is always busy for everyone, the weekend is looming and there’s precious little space in the day beyond chores, deadlines and commitments. Luck was on our side, as Megan’s family had a cheeky little window and were able to meet with me at short notice.Based on Megan’s IG following, I think she’s something of a trend setter, with lots of admirers urging her forward, applauding her maturity and blossoming dancing career. It’s wonderful to watch the confidence that shines from my model’s faces as they realise the photo shoot is going to be easy (and fun). I think it’s my natural talent at guiding, supporting and nudging in a quiet, understated way that makes all the difference.

Leading the way with her creative vision, Megan’s worked with a number of photographers on the Island. Each time, she’s learnt a little more, pushed herself a little further and always produced portraits that shine with her enthusiasm, optimism and artful interpretation of the photographer’s brief.For this portrait workshop, I created a mentoring session that looked at posing, rapport and simple lighting that is easy to reproduce for beautiful results. On the sidelines just two people watched quietly, trembling fingers reveal my nerves under their scrutiny; normally I create a little cocoon or intimate bubble between myself and my model. It’s how I create expressive portraits that generate genuine smiles.Summer is on the horizon and my portrait workshops are already in the pipeline. Ask me anything about these photographs and if there’s something you’re interested in learning, contact me to book a mentoring session in August.

Amanda Herbert | Isle of Wight
Email: info@amandaherbert.com

 

 

Easter Photos in my Isle of Wight Living Room

Ellie’s session sums up everything I love for photography – confident gazes, honest expressions and the delight in sharing beautiful images. It takes a lot of nerve to get in touch with a professional photographer – not knowing what to expect is unsettling and feeling a little out of control is nerve wracking.

Ellie’s growth during the session amazing, she knew how to style each wardrobe piece and jumped right in to offer creative suggestions. From tweaks to her jewellery, to suggesting different positions, Ellie pushed me to create images where she looked natural, elegant and honest. She made me a better photographer and everyone on Facebook have heaped praises on her photographs.

Excitement always keeps me awake the night before the session and I was eager to try out my new toy (the lovely new backdrop – what do you think of it). Taking expressive photographs is important to me, I want mum or dad or even gran to say, “that’s a beautiful photo!”

Once the session starts, the fun takes over – giggling over the perfect image, laughing when I get the picture right first time and squeezing ourselves with delight over what we have just created. Time soon runs out and that I one thing I’m proud of, my sessions are getting shorter and shorter, simply because I have streamlined my portrait sessions and distilled them to the essence of: meet, greet, create gorgeous images and say good bye with high fives, all in just over an hour. Quality over quantity – I have high standards and always expect the best (from myself and my models).

Ending on a high is paramount – I want my new friends to leave feeling that I’ve taken the best pictures ever and feel surprised at how much they’ve learnt. My clever tips and tricks work on professional shoots, as well as selfies at home.  Sometimes photography is about reinventing yourself, I had girls get in touch after a disappointing life event, whilst sometimes they want to celebrate who they are with self-affirming images that speak of their true selves.

Huge thanks to Ellie who jumped in to help me design a new setting with my backdrop. I adore these photographs and hope your wishes are fulfilled.

I’m happy to share the kind of tasty tips that other photographers keep as their trade secrets. Be sure to dip right in and share how I can help you today.

Amanda Herbert | Isle of Wight

Email: info@amandaherbert.com