A few weeks ago now I took a very rare couple of days off from being a Mummy and plunged myself, head first, into a 2 day photography course with Aspire. If you’re a photographer and aren’t aware of Aspire, you really want to be! Their courses are amazing! They offer training based at every level and are based in the stunning scenery of the Lake District.
The course was Fine Art Weddings and was held at Rydal Hall, a stunning christian retreat with breathtaking views and a waterfall running right through the grounds of the house. I arrived at around sunset on the Tuesday evening and spent a while alone in their peace garden enjoying the wonderful tranquility (I don’t get much of that with a 2 year old!) and watching the sun go down.
On Wednesday morning I met my class mates and whilst I’d been nervous about this aspect of things, we all got along brilliantly and were soon sharing editing tips and talking about anything and everything photography related. We went on to spend a fabulous few hours with our wonderful models, Leanne and Tom, who are marrying later this year; there is no doubt that they will be well practised for the pictures on their big day! The course was led by Stuart Cooper who owns Cooper Photography and regularly trains for Aspire. Fortunately for me, not only is Stu a great trainer and photographer but he is also a lovely friend. In 2007, he and his wife Anna photographed our wedding and it is, largely, because of Stu’s suggestion that I should start a blog that I have built the business that I have today. I do also have to mention the super-duper- lovely Catherine Connor who not only provided very valuable insight into styling, composition of images and current trends but also had us erupting with laughter on a very regular basis!
We spent day two in the classroom discussing work flow, editing techniques and album design and this was the day that, for me, really helped my business! Since the course I have completely altered my work flow and have been out from behind the computer in record time – I would call that a result!
One of the best things about the course was meeting the other photographers. I had been nervous that their talent would make me want to run and hide but as talented as they were, they were also supportive, friendly and funny; I couldn’t have asked for a better group to learn with.
Enough of my rambling…
These are lovely Abi – I’ve looked at Stu’s blog too – really like the one on his blog where the bride is holding the bouquet in front of her face! (Don’t mean that rudely!! ) xxx
Thank you! I love that shot of Stu’s too, he’s a very talented guy! I think I might give that shot a whirl at my wedding tomorrow! x