As a conference photographer in Scotland, the festive season offers both challenges and opportunities. Whether you're a seasoned professional based in Edinburgh or Glasgow, the holiday period is the perfect time to enhance your skills, boost your business, and recharge for the upcoming year. Here’s how you can make the most of the Christmas period while optimising your workflow for future events.

1. Review and Update Your Portfolio

The quiet period over Christmas is ideal for updating your portfolio. Showcase your best work from conferences across Scotland, especially from Edinburgh and Glasgow. Ensure your website reflects your latest projects to attract potential clients searching for an Edinburgh conference photographer or a conference photographer in Glasgow.

Tips for Portfolio Updates:

Highlight Unique Venues: Feature iconic Scottish venues like the EICC in Edinburgh or the SEC in Glasgow.
Use SEO-Friendly Captions: Include relevant keywords such as “professional conference photography in Scotland” and “Glasgow conference photographer.”
Optimise Image Loading: Compress images to improve website speed, which helps with SEO.
2. Plan Your Marketing Strategy for 2024
Christmas downtime is perfect for mapping out your marketing strategy. Use this time to focus on SEO tactics that will attract new clients in the coming year.

2. Key Actions for the conference photographer in Edinburgh:

SEO Content Creation: Write blog posts targeting phrases like “conference photographer in Edinburgh” and “conference events in Glasgow.”
Social Media Campaigns: Schedule posts featuring highlights from major Scottish conferences you’ve covered.
Email Outreach: Send holiday greetings to past clients and include a gentle reminder about booking early for 2024 events.
3. Network with Event Organisers
Use the holiday season to strengthen relationships with event organisers and venues across Scotland. Networking can lead to referrals and exclusive contracts for future conferences.

3. How to Network Effectively:

If you are a conference photographer in Glasgow you can attend Holiday Networking Events: Look for Christmas networking gatherings in Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Send Personalised Greetings: A thoughtful Christmas card or email can go a long way in maintaining professional relationships.
Join Local Groups: Engage with local business and photography associations to stay updated on upcoming events.

4. Refine Your Photography Skills

The quieter festive season is an excellent time to sharpen your technical skills. Whether it’s experimenting with new lighting techniques or exploring creative compositions, now’s the time to practice.

Skill-Enhancing Ideas:
Work on Low-Light Photography: Conference venues in Edinburgh and Glasgow often have challenging lighting. Practice shooting in dim environments to improve your adaptability.
Invest in New Gear: Christmas sales might offer great deals on photography equipment, allowing you to upgrade your kit.
Take Online Courses: Brush up on editing techniques or learn new photography styles that can add value to your conference services.
5. Recharge and Reflect
While it’s essential to focus on business, don’t forget to take some time for yourself. A well-rested mind is crucial for creativity and productivity.

Ways to Recharge:
Take a Winter Break: Explore Scotland’s stunning landscapes for personal photography projects.
Reflect on the Year: Review your accomplishments and set goals for the year ahead.
Engage in Festive Activities: Enjoy the Christmas markets in Edinburgh or Glasgow to soak in the festive spirit.  Here are some of my winter landscapes, amongst the summer ones.  Remember, keep taking photos, wherever you are.  Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Landscape

Conclusion

For a conference photographer in Scotland, Christmas isn’t just about slowing down; it’s about preparing for a busy and successful year ahead. By updating your portfolio, refining your marketing strategy, and honing your skills, you’ll be ready to capture Scotland’s vibrant conference scene in 2024.

If you're looking for a professional Edinburgh conference photographer or need an experienced conference photographer in Glasgow, make sure to book early to secure your dates!  For further inspiration, here is another article on this subject of taking photos at Christmas.  

Happy Holidays! 🎄📸Guide to Christmas Photography (+20 FESTIVE Tips!)

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

Today I am going to look at what a specialist photographer can do when his chosen genre is not related to the Christmas market.

I am a conference photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow and this blog will go into detail on how you can fill your time during that Christmas period, if your business doesn't tend to rely on Christmas sales.

The Christmas season is often a quieter time for conference and event photographers, but it doesn’t have to be a time without productivity. For an Edinburgh conference photographer or a Glasgow conference photographer, the festive period offers unique opportunities to expand skills, network, and even generate extra income. Here’s how a corporate photographer in Edinburgh can fill their calendar with engaging activities over the Christmas season.

1. Capture Corporate Christmas Parties

Many companies hold festive gatherings to celebrate the end of the year, and they often seek an event photographer in Scotland to capture the fun. Corporate Christmas parties are a great way for conference photographers in Scotland to keep busy and earn extra income, providing a change from traditional conference photography while still requiring professional skills in capturing the mood, interactions, and energy of an event. To secure gigs, reach out to local businesses or post about availability on social media and platforms like LinkedIn.

2. Create or Update Your Portfolio

The end of the year is an ideal time for a conference photographer in Edinburgh to refresh their portfolio. This could involve updating online galleries with the best shots from recent conferences, corporate events, and client sessions. Your portfolio is one of your most powerful marketing tools, especially if you’re targeting keywords like “Edinburgh conference photographer” and “corporate photographer Edinburgh.” Ensure your website and social media are optimized with relevant tags and captions to increase discoverability.

3. Build Skills with a Personal Project

Personal projects offer an opportunity to explore creative ideas or improve technical skills. A Glasgow conference photographer could create a series focusing on festive landmarks around the city, while an Edinburgh conference photographer might document the holiday spirit in places like Edinburgh Castle or the Christmas Market. These projects not only keep your skills sharp but also add interesting, holiday-themed content to your portfolio that can appeal to potential clients.  Here are some examples of my event photography images from this website, some if which took place over Christmas.Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Corporate Event and Conference Photographer, Edinburgh, Glasgow,Scotland.
 

4. Network at Holiday Events and Markets

Holiday events, markets, and community gatherings are excellent places to network and spread the word about your photography services. As a conference photographer in Scotland, networking can expand your professional circle and open up new opportunities in the coming year. Carry business cards or a digital portfolio on a tablet to showcase your work to prospective clients. Additionally, socialising at these gatherings can help you get to know other photographers, event planners, and vendors, creating valuable connections in the industry.

5. Offer Mini Holiday Sessions for Professionals

Offer mini photoshoots for corporate clients and professionals who may need updated headshots for the new year. Advertise a festive discount for “professional portraits with a holiday twist” or themed corporate headshots that professionals can use on their LinkedIn profiles and company websites. This is an excellent opportunity for an event photographer in Scotland to diversify income while promoting their expertise in capturing polished, professional images.

6. Attend Professional Development Workshops

Many organisations host workshops and online seminars during the winter months, giving photographers a chance to enhance their skills. A corporate photographer in Edinburgh might explore workshops on lighting, editing, or video content creation, which can be especially valuable as more clients look for multimedia solutions. These skills make your services more versatile, which can help when you’re pitching yourself as a conference photographer in Scotland.

7. Start a Photography Blog or Social Media Campaign

If you’re looking to increase your visibility as an Edinburgh conference photographer, blogging and social media are excellent tools for SEO and outreach. Write blog posts about conference photography, event photography trends, or tips for corporate clients planning their events in Scotland. Use SEO phrases like “event photographer Scotland” and “corporate photographer Edinburgh” to attract potential clients searching for these services. Instagram and LinkedIn are ideal platforms for sharing professional highlights from your portfolio and connecting with event planners or corporate clients in the region.

8. Develop or Refine Your Marketing Strategy

The quieter holiday period can be a great time to assess your current marketing approach. Review your website and update keywords like “Edinburgh conference photographer” or “conference photographer Scotland” to optimise for search engines. You could also invest time in creating paid ads on social media or Google to reach a larger audience, helping to keep your name in mind when clients are planning future conferences and events.  Here is a good article on how small businesses can be affected by Christmas: How Christmas Impacts Small Business | BusinessComparison

9. Reach Out to Past Clients with a Holiday Greeting

A friendly holiday message to past clients is a great way to reconnect and remind them of your services. This message could be in the form of a festive email, a card, or even a small printed calendar featuring your best shots. Staying in touch with clients keeps you on their radar, ensuring they’ll think of you when they need a photographer for their next event.

10. Plan for the Next Conference Season

Looking ahead, consider what you want to accomplish in the upcoming year. Research potential conferences or large events coming to Edinburgh or Glasgow where your services as a conference photographer in Scotland might be in demand. With a strategy in place, you’ll be ready to make the most of the next busy season and expand your business.

In Summary

For conference photographers in Edinburgh and across Scotland, the Christmas period can be an opportunity-rich time for networking, skill-building, and portfolio expansion. By using this time strategically, photographers can lay the groundwork for a successful year ahead, ensuring they’re not only busy but also well-prepared for new opportunities in conference and corporate event photography. Whether through festive photoshoots, connecting with past clients, or enhancing their marketing, photographers can turn the quieter holiday period into a productive season.

So, hope this helps

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

For today's blog I am going to look at the best gear for conference photographers and I have done some research and will try and include different brands, not just CanoN and Fuji, which is what I would use.

Best Photography Gear for Conference Photography:

A Comprehensive Guide for Professional Photographers in Scotland

As a professional Edinburgh conference photographer or conference photographer Glasgow, capturing dynamic corporate events requires the right gear to ensure top-notch results. Whether you’re covering large conferences, intimate corporate meetings, or seminars in Edinburgh, Glasgow, or across Scotland, the right photography equipment can make all the difference. In this guide, we'll cover the best gear to help you excel as a corporate photographer in Edinburgh or a professional event photographer in Scotland.

1. Cameras: Choosing the Right Body for Conference Photography in Scotland

The camera body is the foundation of any photographer's kit. Conference photography often involves low light conditions, fast movements, and a need for sharp, detailed images. Here are the top camera bodies that every Edinburgh event photographer should consider.

Canon EOS R5
The Canon EOS R5 is a top-tier mirrorless camera perfect for corporate photographers in Edinburgh. With a 45MP sensor and impressive 8K video capabilities, the EOS R5 excels in both photography and videography, making it versatile for conferences. Its superb autofocus and low-light performance help in capturing clear images even in dimly lit conference venues.

Nikon Z6 II
For conference photographers in Glasgow or Edinburgh, the Nikon Z6 II offers excellent image quality with a 24.5MP sensor. Its robust autofocus system, paired with impressive low-light capabilities, ensures that you capture high-quality images without missing important moments. This camera is also great for shooting in tight spaces often encountered during conferences.

Sony A7R IV
Sony’s A7R IV boasts a 61MP full-frame sensor, making it an ideal choice for Edinburgh event photographers focused on capturing every detail of the conference. Its fast and precise autofocus system allows for tracking speakers, audience reactions, and spontaneous networking moments with ease. The excellent dynamic range is also useful when dealing with harsh lighting from conference stages.

2. Lenses: A Crucial Tool for the Perfect Shot

Lenses are just as important as the camera body in delivering professional-quality shots, if not more important. Conference photography typically involves a combination of wide-angle and telephoto shots to capture the venue, keynote speakers, and candid moments. For conference photographers in Scotland, here are the best lenses to have:

Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM
This versatile lens is perfect for corporate photographers in Edinburgh who need to switch between wide and telephoto shots quickly. The 24-70mm focal length is ideal for capturing everything from wide venue shots to close-ups of speakers and audience members. Its f/2.8 aperture ensures great low-light performance, which is crucial in conference settings.

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR
For conference photographers in Glasgow who need to shoot from a distance, the Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 is an exceptional telephoto lens. Its fast aperture allows for sharp images in low-light environments, and its zoom range is perfect for capturing speakers on stage without intruding on the event.

Sony FE 16-35mm f/2.8 GM
This wide-angle lens is ideal for event photographers in Scotland who want to capture large groups, expansive venues, or dynamic stage shots. The 16-35mm focal length gives a broad perspective, and the fast f/2.8 aperture is excellent for low-light performance, especially in poorly lit conference halls.

3. Lighting: Overcoming Conference Venue Challenges

Lighting can be one of the biggest challenges for Edinburgh conference photographers. Many conference venues have dim, uneven lighting, which can make it hard to get clear, professional-looking shots. Investing in the right lighting gear can help you overcome this obstacle.

Godox V1 Flash
The Godox V1 is a popular choice among corporate photographers in Edinburgh thanks to its round head design, which delivers soft, even lighting. It’s versatile enough for both on-camera and off-camera use, making it ideal for conference settings where you may need to light a speaker or a group shot.

Profoto B10
If you're looking for more powerful lighting options, the Profoto B10 is an excellent portable flash. With its lightweight design and powerful output, it’s perfect for conference photographers in Scotland who need high-quality lighting in a compact form. It also works great with various light modifiers, allowing you to adapt to different lighting situations at conferences.

LED Continuous Lights
For video-focused event photographers in Edinburgh, or for shooting conference highlights, LED continuous lights are a great addition. Portable LED panels like the Aputure Amaran offer adjustable brightness and color temperature, which is perfect for conferences where lighting can shift throughout the day.

4. Accessories: The Must-Haves for a Seamless Workflow for the Conference Photographer in Scotland

No conference photographer in Glasgow or Edinburgh should be without essential accessories that help streamline the photography process. Here’s a list of must-have gear:

Tripods and Monopods
Stability is key for long conference shoots, and a good tripod or monopod will save you from shaky images. The Manfrotto Befree Advanced is a compact, lightweight tripod perfect for corporate photographers in Edinburgh on the go. For more mobile shoots, a monopod like the Sirui P-326 offers stability with flexibility, making it ideal for crowded events.

Memory Cards and Batteries
High-capacity, fast memory cards are a necessity for capturing the non-stop action at conferences. Brands like SanDisk and Lexar offer reliable, high-speed cards that ensure you won’t miss a moment. Additionally, make sure to carry multiple spare batteries, as long conference days can drain power quickly.

Camera Bag
As an Edinburgh conference photographer, you’ll need a reliable, comfortable bag to carry all your gear between sessions. The Peak Design Everyday Backpack is a great option, with customizable compartments to fit your camera, lenses, and accessories, while still looking professional.

5. Audio Equipment: Enhancing Conference Videography
For event photographers in Scotland who offer video services, quality audio is just as important as visual clarity. Conference settings often involve keynote speakers and panel discussions where clear audio is crucial.

Zoom H5 Handy Recorder
This portable audio recorder is perfect for capturing high-quality sound during conferences. With its dual XLR inputs, it can handle professional microphones, making it ideal for recording speeches and panel discussions.

Rode Wireless GO II
If you prefer wireless audio for videography, the Rode Wireless GO II is an excellent choice. It offers crisp sound and easy connectivity, making it ideal for corporate photographers in Edinburgh shooting interviews or live event coverage.

In conclusion

As a professional conference photographer in Glasgow, Edinburgh, or elsewhere in Scotland, having the right gear is essential for capturing the unique atmosphere of corporate events. Whether it’s a high-end mirrorless camera, versatile lenses, or essential lighting and audio gear, investing in top-tier equipment will ensure your clients receive stunning, professional images.

For the best results, always tailor your gear to the specific requirements of the event, and don’t forget to carry backup equipment to avoid any mishaps. With the right preparation and gear, you’ll be able to deliver exceptional photography services as a conference photographer in Scotland or a corporate photographer in Edinburgh.  Here are some example photos from my sister website www.edinburghphotographer.com. Conference and Event Photography Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland - Colin Wright Photography and some photos from this website: Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Corporate Event and Conference Photographer, Edinburgh, Glasgow,Scotland.  I also researched other articles on this subject including the following: Conference Photography: 12 Tips To Ace Your Session.

So thats all for now.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com.
 

Loch Katrine, TrossachsLoch Katrine by professional landscape and conference photographer, Edinburgh, Scogtland, Colin Wright

Loch Katrine by professional landscape and conference photographer, Edinburgh, Scogtland, Colin Wright.  Autumn colours in the Trossachs on this calm day.  A break from the corporate and conference photography for Colin Wright, corporate photographer based nerar Edinburgh.

Photographing corporate events and conferences at country hotels in Scotland requires a mix of technical skill, creativity, and an understanding of the unique atmosphere these venues offer. Scotland’s country hotels—whether in the heart of Edinburgh or tucked away in the scenic outskirts of Glasgow—present a beautiful backdrop that blends elegance with professionalism. For an Edinburgh conference photographer, Glasgow conference photographer, or an event photographer Scotland, these venues offer numerous opportunities to capture compelling images.

In this guide, we’ll delve into key tips for photographing corporate events at country hotels in Scotland, ensuring you capture not only the professionalism of the event but also the stunning charm of the Scottish landscape.

1. Scout the Venue for the Best Lighting and Backgrounds

When photographing conferences or corporate events at country hotels, natural lighting and scenery are some of your best assets. Scottish country hotels, especially those near Edinburgh or Glasgow, often have large windows that allow in ample natural light, lush gardens, and historic architecture.

Edinburgh conference photographer tip: Many venues in Edinburgh feature classic architecture with large windows. Use this natural light to your advantage by placing subjects near these light sources to capture bright, well-lit portraits.
Glasgow conference photographer tip: Country hotels around Glasgow can offer more rustic or modern aesthetics. Look for unique features in the venue like stone walls or scenic gardens to add a local flavor to your photos.
Always scout the venue beforehand. Pay attention to where the windows are, what the lighting is like at different times of day, and how you can use the landscape to create visually interesting shots.

2. Capture the Event Atmosphere

Corporate and conference photography is about more than just posed shots of speakers and attendees. You need to capture the essence of the event—its energy, ambiance, and mood. This is especially important when working at country hotels in Scotland, where the event might take place across multiple rooms, outdoor spaces, or even during scenic breaks.

Corporate photographer Edinburgh tip: During conferences, capture candid shots of networking sessions, keynote speeches, and team-building activities. This helps to convey the engagement and interaction that defines successful corporate events.
Event photographer Scotland strategy: If the conference has outdoor segments—like a cocktail reception or a lunch in the gardens—make sure to photograph the event attendees enjoying the surroundings. Shots of executives networking against a backdrop of rolling hills or gardens create a relaxed yet professional atmosphere.

3. Use a Mix of Wide Shots and Close-Ups

Variety is key when photographing corporate events. Mixing wide-angle shots with close-up portraits allows you to document not only the scale of the event but also the personal experiences of attendees.

Wide shots: Capture the entire venue—whether it's the grandeur of a conference room or the elegance of a garden setting. This shows the scale and setting of the event.
Close-ups: Focus on the key moments—like a handshake, a speaker's expression, or an attendee jotting down notes. These detail-oriented shots provide a personal touch.
Country hotels, especially around Edinburgh and Glasgow, have spacious interiors that lend themselves well to wide shots. For example, during a keynote speech, position yourself at the back of the room to capture the audience's engagement with the speaker while also showcasing the elegant décor.

4. Adapt to Different Lighting Conditions

Lighting at corporate events can vary significantly. You might face everything from harsh sunlight during an outdoor networking session to dimly lit conference rooms. Being able to adapt to these conditions is essential for a successful corporate photographer Edinburgh or Glasgow conference photographer.

Natural light: If you’re shooting outdoors, especially in Scotland’s countryside, be aware of rapidly changing weather conditions. Overcast skies can provide soft, flattering light, but be prepared for sudden shifts.
Indoor lighting: Conference rooms in country hotels often have artificial lighting, which may be challenging. Use a fast lens (f/1.4 or f/2.8) to allow more light in and avoid using harsh flash that could distract speakers or attendees.

5. Capture Key Branding and Signage

Corporate events, particularly conferences, are filled with branding elements—whether it’s the company’s logo displayed on banners, signage around the venue, or branded merchandise. Capturing these elements is essential for providing value to your corporate clients.

Event photographer Scotland strategy: Incorporate the event branding into your shots naturally. For instance, when photographing a keynote speaker, frame the shot so that the event’s branding is clearly visible in the background without being too overpowering.
This is particularly crucial for companies looking to use the images for promotional materials, websites, or social media. Showing their brand professionally represented in the photography is an essential deliverable.

6. Prioritise Key Moments

Events have numerous highlights that need to be documented—speeches, awards, networking moments, and interactions between attendees. As a corporate photographer in Edinburgh or Glasgow conference photographer, it’s your job to anticipate and capture these moments.

Before the event: Consult with the event organisers to identify the key moments they want photographed. This might include specific speeches, award presentations, or VIP guests. Being prepared ensures you don’t miss anything critical.
During the event: Stay observant. Candid shots often capture the most authentic expressions and interactions. Don’t just wait for posed moments—be ready for spontaneous interactions between attendees.

7. Maintain a Professional Yet Friendly Presence

Corporate and conference photography requires professionalism. Dress appropriately for the event, be discreet, and respect the flow of the event. For a corporate photographer Edinburgh or event photographer Scotland, it’s essential to blend into the background while ensuring you capture every significant moment.

At the same time, engage with event attendees when appropriate. Building rapport with the event organisers and attendees can make people more comfortable with your presence, resulting in better candid shots.

Conclusion

Whether you’re an Edinburgh conference photographer, Glasgow conference photographer, or an event photographer Scotland, photographing corporate events in country hotels is a rewarding experience. Scotland’s country hotels offer picturesque backdrops, making every photo opportunity unique. By focusing on the atmosphere, lighting, key moments, and adapting to the venue's challenges, you’ll be able to deliver a compelling and diverse portfolio that showcases the best of the event.

Remember, successful corporate photography is about more than just technical ability—it’s about telling the story of the event, capturing its atmosphere, and providing images that clients will be proud to use for future marketing and promotion.

So until next time.  Hope the above helps.  Here are some photos from my sister website at www.edinburghphotographer.com. Conference and Event Photography Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland - Colin Wright Photography (edinburghphotographer.com) and also some from this website. Corporate event and conference photographer Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland (colinwrightphotography.co.uk).  There is also a lot of good stuff out there on the internet on this subject, including the following: 7 Tips for Photographing a Conference (digital-photography-school.com).

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com
 

From landscapes to conferences: How Being a Good Landscape Photographer can elevate your skills as a Corporate and conference photographer in Scotland

As a landscape photographer, you've likely mastered capturing nature’s beauty, playing with light, composition, and timing to create stunning imagery. But have you ever considered how these skills could translate into becoming an exceptional corporate photographer in Scotland, or even more specifically, an Edinburgh conference photographer or a Glasgow conference photographer? There’s a surprising synergy between landscape photography and corporate photography that can turn you into a sought-after professional in the field.

In this blog post, we'll explore how your landscape photography skills can make you an outstanding corporate photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow, elevating your career in the competitive world of corporate and conference photography.  Here are some examples of my landscape photography from this website: Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Landscape and also some from my sister website at www.edinburghphotographer.com. landscape and corporate photographer Edinburgh, Scotland (edinburghphotographer.com). So, here is my take as a corporate photographer in Edinburgh on the vital links between landscape and corporate and conference photography.

1. Mastery of Light and Composition

As a landscape photographer, you have a unique talent for working with natural light, shadows, and dynamic compositions. In corporate photography, these skills are equally crucial. Conferences, business events, and corporate gatherings often take place in environments with varying lighting conditions, from dimly lit conference halls to brightly illuminated stages.

Adaptability in Lighting: As an Edinburgh conference photographer, you need to adjust to artificial lighting, overhead spotlights, and even the occasional backlight. Your experience with capturing the right moment in unpredictable lighting outdoors will make you adept at managing these situations indoors.

Creating Engaging Compositions: Just like in landscape photography, finding the right angles and focal points is essential in corporate photography. Capturing a keynote speaker, group discussions, or a bustling networking session requires a keen eye for detail, which landscape photographers naturally possess.

2. Patience and Timing – Skills That Shine in Corporate Events

One of the hallmarks of a great landscape photographer is patience. Waiting for the perfect sunset, or the ideal cloud formation, has trained you to be in the right place at the right time. This patience directly translates to corporate photography, where moments are fleeting, and you need to be quick to capture them.

Capturing Authentic Moments: As a Glasgow conference photographer, you must anticipate moments like the perfect handshake, a speaker’s expression at a high point, or attendees’ reactions. Your landscape photography experience ensures you’re always ready to capture these genuine interactions.

Dealing with Long Events: Corporate conferences can last for hours, even days. As a landscape photographer, you’re no stranger to waiting and working through long periods to capture the perfect shot. This endurance and commitment will serve you well as a corporate photographer in Scotland.

3. Attention to Detail – The Hallmark of a Professional Corporate Photographer in Edinburgh

Every successful landscape photographer knows that details matter – whether it’s the textures of rocks, the ripples of water, or the intricate patterns of a forest. This eye for detail is invaluable when transitioning to corporate and conference photography.

Spotting Key Moments: Corporate events often have subtle but important moments that need capturing. Whether it's a speaker’s hand gesture or the genuine laughter between colleagues during a break, your ability to notice these details can set you apart as a top corporate photographer Edinburgh companies will want to hire.

Brand Awareness: Many corporate events are a reflection of the company’s brand. Your attention to detail means you’ll capture images that align with the brand’s image, from logos in the background to the emotions and energy the brand aims to convey.

3. Attention to Detail – The Hallmark of a Professional Corporate Photographer in Glasgow

Every successful landscape photographer knows that details matter – whether it’s the textures of rocks, the ripples of water, or the intricate patterns of a forest. This eye for detail is invaluable when transitioning to corporate and conference photography.

Spotting Key Moments: Corporate events often have subtle but important moments that need capturing. Whether it's a speaker’s hand gesture or the genuine laughter between colleagues during a break, your ability to notice these details can set you apart as a top corporate photographer Edinburgh companies will want to hire.

Brand Awareness: Many corporate events are a reflection of the company’s brand. Your attention to detail means you’ll capture images that align with the brand’s image, from logos in the background to the emotions and energy the brand aims to convey.

4. Technical Expertise – A Shared Skill Between Landscape and Corporate Photography

Being a landscape photographer means you’re already familiar with the technical aspects of photography: camera settings, lenses, and editing software. These technical skills are directly transferable to the corporate world.

Adapting to Various Environments: As an Edinburgh conference photographer, you'll face various indoor settings, each requiring different technical approaches. Your experience with different weather conditions and terrains in landscape photography makes you more adept at adjusting your camera settings on the fly.

Post-Processing Skills: Corporate clients expect a polished, professional look. The post-processing techniques you’ve mastered as a landscape photographer in Scotland will allow you to deliver high-quality, visually striking images that impress corporate clients across Scotland.

5. Storytelling Through Imagery – The Core of Corporate Photography

One of the most significant similarities between landscape and corporate photography in Edinburgh is storytelling. Landscape photographers often convey emotions and narratives through a single frame, showcasing the beauty, grandeur, or tranquility of nature. This storytelling ability is equally important for a corporate photographer in Scotland.

Creating a Visual Narrative: As a Glasgow conference photographer, your job is to capture the essence of an event. Each photograph should tell a part of the story, from the enthusiasm of the opening speeches to the excitement of the networking sessions. The storytelling skills you honed as a landscape photographer will enable you to create a visual journey for your corporate clients.

6. Versatility and Flexibility – Essential Traits for Corporate Photography in Edinburgh and Glasgow

Landscape photography often requires you to adapt to different environments quickly. Whether it’s a rainy day or an unexpected lighting change, you’ve learned to adjust on the spot. This flexibility is incredibly valuable as a corporate photographer.

Handling Different Scenarios: Conferences and corporate events can be unpredictable, with changes in schedules, lighting, and settings. Your ability to stay calm and adapt as a landscape photographer will serve you well, making you a reliable choice for clients seeking an Edinburgh conference photographer or a Glasgow conference photographer who can handle any situation.

How to Transition from Landscape Photography to Corporate Photography in Scotland
Now that you understand how your landscape photography skills can benefit your corporate photography career, here are some practical tips to help you make the transition:

Build a Portfolio: Start by attending smaller events to build your portfolio as a corporate photographer in Edinburgh or Glasgow. This will help showcase your versatility to potential clients.

Network with Event Organisers: Reach out to event planners, conference organizers, and corporate agencies in Scotland to establish connections and gain opportunities.

Invest in Versatile Gear: Consider investing in lenses and lighting equipment suitable for indoor photography, ensuring you can handle any corporate setting.

Market Yourself: Optimise your website and social media profiles with keywords like Edinburgh conference photographer, Glasgow conference photographer, and corporate photographer Scotland to attract clients searching for your services.

Conclusion

The transition from landscape photography to corporate photography may seem daunting, but the skills you’ve developed as a landscape photographer make you exceptionally well-prepared. By leveraging your expertise in light, composition, patience, attention to detail, and storytelling, you can quickly establish yourself as a top corporate photographer in Scotland. Whether you're aiming to become a go-to Edinburgh conference photographer or a sought-after Glasgow conference photographer, your landscape photography background is the perfect foundation for success in this exciting and rewarding field.

Embrace the journey, and you’ll soon discover that your ability to capture Scotland's breathtaking landscapes will translate beautifully into capturing the energy, passion, and professionalism of the corporate world.

So, thats all for now.  Hope this helps you on your conference and corporate photography journey.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

Last week I had a  very interesting and enjoyable photoshoot with Penguin Books.  The subject was the opening of a book vending machine at Linlithgow Academy, Linlithgow, West Lothian, with special guest the poet and writer Jackie Kaye.  Jackie was interviewed and she answered questions from the audience from senior pupils at the school.  Then she opened the vending machine.  As a corporate photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow, I always enjoy photoshoots connected with the arts and Jackie was both interesting and friendly.  Mostly I work as a conference photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow, so this was a nice change.  I am an avid reader, so I found the day fascinating.  I also happen to think this is a great idea, a book vending machine that can offer reduced priced books for children and adults in the school for that matter.  Further details on the school and the event are on the school website at Linlithgow Academy - Linlithgow Academy (westlothian.org.uk).  I also attach a link to my website with more photos from the day. Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Professional Edinburgh corporate and event photographer
 

So as a professional photographer at a PR event, I thought I would look briefly at 5 headings to help you get the important and quality photos that please your clients.

1. Do your homework about the people you will photograph, location, lighting required and the photos your client wants.  It wiill save you time in the long run.

2. Be ready to take some formal posed photos, especially if they are required for newspaper purposes, but try and capture the candid moments and be ready for them at all times.

3. Talk to the people you will photograph beforehand, to help relax them.  It will result in better photos.

4. Find out waht the photos will be used for.  This is important as it affects the kind of photos you will take and it also affects image size, colouring and other aspects later on.

5. Send a variety of photos to your client.  Let them choose from a wide range.  It doesn,t matter if you send them too many, as they will always choose the ones they want.  I usually even send some photos outwith the brief and often they end up using them.

So anyway, hope that helps.  I am of to photograph a confernece in Glasgow, then I have some event photography in Edinburgh.

Until next time.

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Colin Wright Photography

The Kelpies in InfraredThe Kelpies in infrared by professional fine art, event and corporate photographer, Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland.

The Kelpies in infrared by professional fine art, event and corporate photographer, Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland.

Just back from a couple of days in Argyll when I was involved in capturing some great infrared photos to enhance my infrared photography in Scotland portfolio.  As a professional event and conference photographer in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Scotland, I like the fact that I can switch from event and conference photography to some fine art infrared photography now and again and Argyll in Scotland is definately the place to be with lots of foliage, blue skies with clouds and lochs. As a conference photographer in Edinburgh I am often involved in all day events, sometimes as much as 3 day events, as the Airmic conference in Edinburgh was earlier this year and the contrast of getting outdoors for some infrared photography helps keep me fresh.  As an event photographer in Scotland, the ability to act quickly to enable me to capture the moment is a skill which is very useful in fine art and infrared photography. My insight into the weather in Scotland is also useful for all types of outdoor photography, in addtion to grasping the photographic concepts of composition and light.

So keep in mind a good photo is exactly that no matter what the genre and any photography is better than sitting around without your camera.  Anyway, later this month I have a commission for Penguin books at Linlithgow Academy, can't wait for that and this will be followed by some conference and PR photography in Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Here are some infrared photos from this website. Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Infrared Images.  Also this link shows some infrared photos fdrom my sister website at www.edinburghphotographer.com. New fine art and infrared photography - Colin Wright Photography (edinburghphotographer.com).

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotogrpaher.com
 

Scotland, with its ethereal landscapes and historic architecture, offers a unique backdrop for any event. Imagine capturing these iconic scenes in a way that highlights their otherworldly beauty enter infrared photography. This photographic technique, often used for its surreal and dreamlike qualities, can bring a fresh and distinctive perspective to event photography in Scotland. Whether you're photographing weddings, festivals, or corporate events, infrared photography can enhance the mystical atmosphere that Scotland naturally provides.

What is Infrared Photography?

Infrared photography captures light not visible to the human eye. While conventional photography captures the visible spectrum, infrared focuses on the wavelengths just beyond red light, typically in the range of 700 nm to 900 nm. This technique reveals hidden details and transforms everyday scenes into otherworldly visions. Green foliage, for example, appears white or light, giving a snowy, surreal feel even in the height of summer.

Why Use Infrared Photography for Events in Scotland?

1. Unique Aesthetic Appeal: Infrared photography transforms ordinary scenes into extraordinary. In Scotland, this can mean turning lush landscapes, historic castles, and misty lochs into surreal, ethereal images that stand out in a crowded media landscape.  This can be of great benefit to event and conference photographers in Edinburgh, Glasgow and throughout Scotland.

2. Highlighting Scotland's Natural Beauty: The lush greenery and dramatic skies of Scotland are perfectly suited for infrared photography. The technique accentuates textures and contrasts, bringing out the rugged beauty of Scotland's landscapes in a strikingly unique way.

3. Capturing the Atmosphere: Events in Scotland, especially those with historical or cultural significance, can benefit from the timeless quality that infrared images evoke. The technique adds a layer of mystique, making moments look more like scenes from a fairy tale or a dream.

Getting Started with Infrared Photography

1. Equipment Needed:

• Infrared Filter or Converted Camera: To capture infrared images, you can either use an infrared filter on your standard camera lens or use a camera specifically converted for infrared photography. The latter is often more convenient as it allows for better control and image quality.
• Tripod: Infrared photography usually requires longer exposure times, so a sturdy tripod is essential to prevent camera shake.
• Post-Processing Software: Programs like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop are invaluable for post-processing infrared photos, allowing you to adjust tones and contrasts to achieve the desired ethereal effect.

2. Shooting Tips:

• Choosing the Right Conditions: Infrared photography often works best in bright sunlight, which enhances the contrast between foliage and sky. However, Scotland’s often overcast skies can add an interesting dimension to infrared images, creating moody and dramatic results.
• Composition Considerations: Focus on elements that will respond dramatically to infrared light. Foliage, water, and sky typically show the most significant transformation.
• Experiment with Angles: Infrared light reacts differently depending on the angle, so experiment with different perspectives to find the most striking compositions.

3. Post-Processing:

• White Balance Adjustment: Infrared images often require significant adjustments to the white balance. This step is crucial for achieving the distinctive look associated with infrared photography.
• Channel Mixing: This technique can be used to swap colors and enhance the surreal quality of the images, making skies deeper and foliage more strikingly white.

Practical Applications in Event Photography

1. Weddings: Infrared photography can be used to create stunning portraits that highlight the romantic and timeless feel of weddings. The technique is particularly effective in outdoor settings, where Scotland’s lush landscapes can provide a dramatic backdrop.  As an infrared photographer in Scotland, I can also use these techniques for wedding photography in Edinburgh, or for conference photography in Glasgow, for instance.

2. Festivals and Cultural Events: Use infrared to capture the vibrant spirit of Scottish festivals, like the Edinburgh Festival, where the technique can enhance the festive atmosphere and make cultural performances appear even more magical.

3. Corporate Events: For corporate events held in Scotland’s historic venues, infrared photography can emphasize the grandeur and elegance of the architecture, providing a unique perspective that traditional photography might not capture.  As a corporate photographer in Edinburgh, I can use these tecniques to help me in my craft.

Conclusion

Infrared photography offers a fresh and mystical way to capture events in Scotland, enhancing the natural beauty and historical ambiance of the setting. By experimenting with this unique technique, photographers can offer clients truly one-of-a-kind images that stand out from conventional photography. Whether you're a professional photographer or an enthusiast, Scotland's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage provide a perfect canvas for exploring the surreal world of infrared photography.

So, until next time.  Hope this helps.  Here is an extract form my infrared photos on this website: Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Infrared Images and some from my sister website at www.edinburghphotogrpaher.com New fine art and infrared photography - Colin Wright Photography (edinburghphotographer.com).
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Crinan, Argyll by professional fine art and conference and PR photographer Edinburgh, Glasgow, Scotland, Colin Wright

In the vibrant world of visual storytelling, few professionals possess the versatility and keen eye of former newspaper photographers. As they transition from the fast-paced environment of newsrooms to capturing moments at events and conferences, their unique skill set becomes a tremendous asset. For those seeking a skilled conference photographer in Edinburgh or a seasoned conference photographer in Glasgow, former newspaper photographers are an ideal choice. Here’s why they excel in event and conference photography and why hiring an event photographer in Scotland with a journalism background can elevate your next event.

The Skill Set of a Former Newspaper Photographer

1. Attention to Detail

Former newspaper photographers are trained to notice and capture details that tell a story. Whether it’s the candid expression of a keynote speaker or the intricate details of event décor, these photographers have a knack for spotting and immortalising moments that might otherwise go unnoticed. This skill is invaluable for those looking to document a conference in a way that captures the essence and atmosphere of the event.

2. Ability to Work Under Pressure

Newsrooms are high-pressure environments where photographers must deliver quality images under tight deadlines. This experience equips former newspaper photographers with the ability to work efficiently in the fast-paced environment of conferences and events. They are adept at quickly adapting to different lighting conditions and locations, ensuring that no moment is missed.

3. Storytelling Through Images

Journalistic photography is all about storytelling. Former newspaper photographers bring this storytelling expertise to event and conference photography, providing clients with a visual narrative that goes beyond standard event coverage. This storytelling approach is particularly beneficial for clients looking to promote their events online or in promotional materials, as it helps convey the event’s key messages and highlights.

Why Choose a Former Newspaper Photographer for Your Event?

Comprehensive Coverage

With their background in news, these photographers are accustomed to covering events comprehensively, ensuring that they capture all aspects of an event—from keynote speeches to attendee interactions. This comprehensive approach guarantees that clients receive a rich and diverse collection of photographs.

Professionalism and Discretion

Former newspaper photographers are skilled at working discreetly, capturing candid moments without disrupting the event's flow. This professionalism is crucial for conferences and corporate events where a photographer’s unobtrusive presence is necessary to maintain the ambiance and professionalism of the occasion.

Experience in Diverse Settings

From political rallies to cultural festivals, newspaper photographers have experience covering a wide range of events. This versatility makes them well-suited to adapt to any type of event or conference, whether it's a corporate gathering, academic seminar, or social gala.

Finding the Right Photographer in Scotland

For those in search of a conference photographer in Edinburgh or a conference photographer in Glasgow, it’s essential to choose a professional who can deliver high-quality images that meet your specific needs. Former newspaper photographers, with their rich backgrounds and honed skills, provide a perfect blend of artistry and reliability. Whether you’re planning a small workshop or a large-scale conference, hiring an experienced event photographer in Scotland ensures that your event will be documented beautifully and professionally.  Here are some images from conference photographers online.

Conclusion

Former newspaper photographers bring a unique set of skills and experiences that make them exceptionally well-suited for event and conference photography. Their attention to detail, ability to work under pressure, and storytelling prowess are invaluable assets. If you’re looking for a skilled Edinburgh conference photographer or an event photographer in Scotland, consider a former newspaper photographer for your next event. Their expertise will not only capture your event but also narrate its story through compelling images that resonate with your audience.  

So until next time, hope to see you for some conference photography in Edinburgh.  conference photography photos - Search (bing.com) and also some conference photography from this website.  

www.colinwrightphotography.co.ukColin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Corporate Event and Conference Photographer, Edinburgh, Glasgow,Scotland

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Inveraray in infraredInveraray in infrared by professional fine art, corporate and conference photographer Edinburgh, Glasgow, Colin Wright

Inveraray harbour in infrared by professional freelance corporate and conference photographer Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland, Colin Wright

Event photography in Scotland is a dynamic field, blending stunning backdrops with vibrant activities. Whether you're covering corporate events, conferences, or special occasions, the role of an event photographer is crucial. Here are some of the most important things every Edinburgh photographer, Glasgow photographer, and conference photographer in Scotland should keep in mind to excel in their craft.

1. Understand the Venue and Lighting

Every venue presents unique challenges and opportunities, especially when it comes to lighting. Familiarise yourself with the venue beforehand. Visit the site if possible, or ask for a floor plan and details about lighting conditions. In historic cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow, venues often have intricate architectures and varying light sources. For an Edinburgh photographer, capturing the essence of the city's historic charm requires adapting to both natural and artificial light.

2. Scout locations ahead of time.

3. Bring equipment suitable for low-light conditions.

4. Use off-camera flash to control lighting.

5. Capture Candid Moments

In event photography, or as a conference photographer in Edinburgh, the most memorable images are often those that capture genuine moments. Whether it’s a speaker’s enthusiasm at a conference or a guest’s spontaneous laughter, these candid shots add authenticity and emotion to your portfolio.  Here are some conference and event photographs from this website.  Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Corporate Event and Conference Photographer, Edinburgh, Glasgow,Scotland.

As an event or conference photographer in Edinburgh, you have the unique opportunity to capture events in one of the most picturesque and historic cities in the world. Beyond understanding the venue and capturing candid moments, here are three more tips to help you excel as an event photographer in Edinburgh. Edinburgh is renowned for its stunning architecture and historic landmarks. Whether you're photographing a corporate event, a conference, or a social gathering, make the most of the city's iconic backdrops. Incorporating Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, or the Royal Mile into your shots can add a unique and memorable touch to your event photography.  Here are some examples of event and conference photography in Edinburgh from my sister website at www.edinburghphotographer.com. Newspaper corporate and event photographer Edinburgh - Colin Wright Photography (edinburghphotographer.com).
 

6. Scout the best locations around the event venue that offer iconic views.

7. Time your shots to capture the best natural light, especially during the golden hour.

8. Use wide-angle lenses to incorporate more of the backdrop without losing focus on the event itself.

9. Adapt to Edinburgh’s Weather Conditions

Edinburgh's weather can be unpredictable, with sudden changes from sunshine to rain. Being prepared to adapt to varying weather conditions is crucial for event photographers in the city. Ensure you have the necessary equipment to protect your gear and continue shooting in all weather.
Invest in weather-resistant camera equipment and protective gear such as rain covers. Have a plan B for indoor locations or covered areas if the weather turns unfavorable.  Embrace the weather – sometimes, a bit of rain can add a dramatic and atmospheric element to your photos.

10. Network with Local Vendors and Venues

Building relationships with local vendors and event venues can open up new opportunities for collaborations and referrals. By networking with event planners, venue managers, and other vendors, you can become a preferred photographer for many prestigious events in Edinburgh.

So, I hope this helps.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Haiving just completed the photography for a fantastic conference at the EICC for Airmic, I thought I would reflect on the changing times for conference photographers in Edinburgh and Glasgow. 

As the vibrant cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow continue to thrive as key locations for conferences and corporate events, the role of conference photographers in these cities is more crucial than ever. However, along with the growing demand, new challenges have emerged that every Edinburgh conference photographer and Glasgow conference photographer must navigate to remain competitive and deliver exceptional results.

Increased Competition

The rise of freelance photography and the accessibility of high-quality smartphone cameras have led to an influx of photographers offering their services. This surge in competition means that standing out as a photographer in Edinburgh or Glasgow requires more than just basic skills.

Solution: Photographers can differentiate themselves by developing a unique style or specialisation. Whether it’s offering innovative photography packages or utilising advanced editing techniques, finding a niche can help you attract specific clients looking for those unique services.

Technological Advancements

The continuous advancement in photography technology, including AI-powered cameras and drone photography, presents both opportunities and challenges. Keeping up with these technological trends is essential but can be costly and time-consuming.

Solution: Regular training and investment in new equipment are necessary to stay ahead. Embracing these technologies can enhance your service offerings and provide clients with cutting-edge photography solutions.

Post-Pandemic Event Protocols

The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced new health and safety protocols at events, including social distancing, mask mandates, and enhanced sanitation. These measures can complicate the work of an event photographer in Scotland, making it harder to capture the dynamic, engaging shots that clients expect.

Solution: Adapt to these changes by planning ahead and finding creative ways to work within these constraints. Building a rapport with event organizers to understand the specific protocols in place can help in preparing and executing your photography sessions smoothly.

Client Expectations and Deliverables

Modern clients often expect more than just high-quality photos. They demand quick delivery, social media-ready content, and even real-time updates during the event. Meeting these expectations can be a daunting task for any Edinburgh conference photographer or Glasgow conference photographer.

Solution: Implementing an efficient workflow for rapid editing and delivery is crucial. Utilising tools and software that allow for quick turnaround times will help meet these demands without compromising on quality.

Environmental Concerns

With a growing emphasis on sustainability, event organisers and clients are increasingly seeking eco-friendly practices from their service providers, including photographers. This trend affects event photographers in Scotland who must find ways to reduce their environmental footprint.

Solution: Adopt digital-only packages, use sustainable materials, and promote eco-friendly practices in your business operations. Highlighting these efforts in your marketing can attract clients who prioritise sustainability.

Navigating Diverse Venues

Edinburgh and Glasgow offer a wide range of venues, from historic sites to modern conference centers. Each location presents unique challenges, such as varying lighting conditions and space constraints, which can impact the quality of your photographs.

Solution: Conduct thorough site visits and pre-event planning to familiarize yourself with the venue. Understanding the layout and potential obstacles allows you to prepare the necessary equipment and develop strategies to overcome these challenges.

Balancing Artistic Vision with Client Needs

Maintaining your artistic integrity while fulfilling client expectations is a delicate balance. Clients may have specific ideas about how their event should be documented, which might not always align with your creative approach.

Solution: Effective communication is key. Ensure that you have a clear understanding of the client's vision and incorporate their feedback throughout the process. Clear contracts outlining deliverables and expectations can help avoid misunderstandings and ensure a smooth collaboration.

Conclusion

The conference photography landscape in Edinburgh and Glasgow is rich with opportunities but also fraught with challenges. By staying adaptable, continuously learning, and proactively addressing these challenges, photographers can continue to thrive in these dynamic cities. Whether you are an established photographer in Edinburgh or an emerging Glasgow conference photographer, embracing these changes and finding innovative solutions will ensure you can capture the essence of every event and deliver exceptional results to your clients.

So hope that helps and keep snapping away at these conferences.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

If you're stepping into the vibrant world of conference photography in Scotland, particularly in Edinburgh or Glasgow, it's essential to prepare well to capture the essence of these significant events. Whether you're an aspiring event photographer in photographer or a seasoned Glasgow conference photographer, these top tips will help you deliver stunning visuals that clients will love.

1. Scout the Venue Beforehand

As an event photographer Edinburgh specialist, your first task is to familiarise yourself with the conference venue. Whether it's the Edinburgh International Conference Centre or the SEC Centre in Glasgow, understanding the layout, lighting conditions, and key locations is crucial. Visit the venue ahead of time to plan your shots and identify potential challenges.

Pro Tip: Make a checklist of the best spots for group photos, keynote speeches, and candid networking shots. Knowing where to be at the right moment can make all the difference.

2. Equip Yourself with the Right Gear

Having the right equipment is essential for any conference photographer in Scotland.   A good DSLR or mirrorless camera with a variety of lenses (wide-angle, telephoto, and prime) is a must. Don't forget extra batteries, memory cards, and a reliable flash system.

Pro Tip: Consider investing in a portable lighting setup. Many conference venues have dim lighting that can be tricky to navigate. A portable light can help you ensure your photos are well-lit and professional-looking.

3. Capture Candid Moments

While posed shots are important, the candid moments often tell the true story of an event. As an Edinburgh conference photographer, your ability to blend into the background and capture genuine interactions can set your work apart. Look for those spontaneous moments of networking, laughter, and engagement.

Pro Tip: Use a telephoto lens to capture candid shots without intruding on the participants. This allows for natural expressions and moments that are often the most memorable.

4. Master the Art of Editing

Post-processing is where your photos can truly shine. Use software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop to enhance your images. Adjust the lighting, sharpen details, and ensure the colors are vibrant yet natural.

Pro Tip: Create a consistent editing style that reflects the professionalism of conference photography. This consistency helps in building your brand as a trusted event photographer Edinburgh or Glasgow conference photographer.

5. Communicate with Your Client

Clear communication with your client before, during, and after the event is vital. Understand their expectations, the key moments they want to be captured, and any specific requirements they might have. Being proactive and professional in your communication can lead to repeat business and glowing referrals.

Pro Tip: Provide a shot list based on your client's needs and discuss it in detail before the event. This ensures you're on the same page and can prioritise the most important shots.

Conclusion

Being a successful conference photographer in Scotland involves more than just snapping pictures. It requires preparation, the right equipment, an eye for candid moments, editing skills, and excellent client communication. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to capturing unforgettable moments at conferences in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and beyond.  Here are some conference photos from my sister website at www.edinburghphotographer.com. Conference photographer in Edinburgh - Colin Wright Photography (edinburghphotographer.com).  I also attach a link from this website with some conference photos.  Corporate event and conference photographer Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland (colinwrightphotography.co.uk).
 

Embrace each event with creativity and professionalism, and you'll quickly establish yourself as a go-to Edinburgh conference photographer or Glasgow conference photographer in the bustling Scottish event scene.

Thats all for now.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Now that we are getting better weather I thought it would be a good time to look at how the job of the corporate photographer in Scotland will change in the summer season.

As the seasons shift and the sun graces Scotland with its warmer presence, the artistry and demands placed upon event and corporate photographers in Edinburgh and Glasgow undergo a remarkable evolution. In this blog post, we delve into how the interplay of better weather and increased daylight fundamentally alters the landscape for these skilled professionals, shaping their craft and enriching their outcomes.

Embracing the Edinburgh Light: A Photographer's Perspective

Edinburgh, with its historic charm and picturesque landscapes, becomes a canvas bathed in ethereal light during sunnier days. For event photographers in this vibrant city, the change in weather brings about a plethora of opportunities to capture moments infused with a newfound radiance.  Outdoor Events Flourish: With brighter skies and milder temperatures, outdoor events become a favored choice. From festivals on the Royal Mile to corporate gatherings in scenic parks, the abundance of natural light offers photographers the chance to showcase the essence of Edinburgh against stunning backdrops.

Dynamic Corporate Portraits: Corporate photographers in Edinburgh find themselves drawn to outdoor settings for professional shoots. The soft, diffused light of the Scottish sun lends a flattering glow to subjects, resulting in portraits that exude confidence and professionalism.
Architectural Marvels in Focus: Better weather allows photographers to explore Edinburgh's architectural treasures with renewed vigor. From capturing the grandeur of Edinburgh Castle to highlighting the intricate details of Georgian facades, the enhanced daylight brings forth the city's structural beauty in vivid detail.

Illuminating Glasgow: The Evolution of Event Photography

Glasgow, a city pulsating with energy and innovation, undergoes its own transformation as the days grow longer. Event photographers in Glasgow find themselves navigating a landscape where light becomes a powerful ally in their quest to capture unforgettable moments.

Vibrant Event Photography: As daylight extends into the evening hours, event photographers in Glasgow are presented with opportunities to experiment with twilight photography. From bustling corporate conferences to lively music festivals, the interplay of natural and artificial light creates captivating compositions that resonate with viewers.

Showcasing Corporate Excellence:

In Glasgow's bustling business district, corporate photographers seize the opportunity to harness the city's vibrant energy in their compositions. From boardroom meetings with panoramic city views to networking events in sleek, modern venues, the abundance of natural light elevates corporate photography to new heights.

Exploring Cultural Diversity:

Glasgow's diverse cultural scene comes alive under the radiant glow of the sun. Event photographers embrace the city's eclectic mix of festivals, concerts, and cultural gatherings, capturing moments that celebrate Glasgow's rich tapestry of traditions and creativity.  Here are some examples of my corporate photos from my sister website at www.edinburghphotographer.com. Conference and Event Photography Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland - Colin Wright Photography (edinburghphotographer.com).  Also, some corporate images from this website. Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Commercial corporate event photographer Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland
 

Conclusion: Lighting the Path Forward for Corporate Photography in Scotland

As the seasons change and daylight becomes more abundant, the role of event and corporate and conference photographers in Edinburgh and Glasgow undergoes a captivating metamorphosis. From showcasing the architectural splendor of Edinburgh to capturing the dynamic energy of Glasgow's events, these skilled professionals navigate a landscape where light becomes both a medium and a muse.

In this ever-evolving journey, photographers harness the transformative power of light to craft compelling narratives, immortalizing moments that resonate with audiences far and wide. As Edinburgh and Glasgow bask in the glow of better weather, the artistry of event and corporate photography in Scotland continues to flourish, illuminating the path forward with creativity, vision, and boundless possibilities.

So thats all folks.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotograpjhy.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Why Networking Matters

Networking is more than just exchanging business cards at events; it's about building meaningful connections with fellow professionals, clients, and industry influencers. For conference photographers in Scotland, networking offers a myriad of benefits:

Client Acquisition: Networking allows photographers to meet potential clients face-to-face, making a lasting impression that goes beyond online portfolios. Engaging with event organisers, speakers, and attendees provides opportunities to pitch services and secure future bookings.

Referral Opportunities: Word-of-mouth recommendations are a powerful tool in the photography industry. By establishing strong relationships with clients and fellow photographers, conference photographers can tap into referral networks, expanding their reach and clientele.

Collaboration Possibilities: Networking opens doors to collaboration with other professionals in the events industry, such as event planners, venues, and audiovisual technicians. Collaborative projects not only enhance the photographer's portfolio but also foster a sense of community within the industry.

Industry Insights: Keeping abreast of industry trends and developments is essential for staying competitive. Networking allows photographers to engage in conversations with peers, gaining valuable insights into emerging technologies, best practices, and market demands.

Networking for Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographers

Today we are going to look at the importance of networking for Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographers.
We all know that Edinburgh and Glasgow stand as vibrant hubs for conferences and events, attracting businesses, organisations, and thought leaders from around the globe. For conference photographers based in these cities, networking opportunities abound:

Industry Events: Both Edinburgh and Glasgow host numerous industry-specific conferences and networking events throughout the year. Attending these gatherings allows photographers to connect with potential clients and fellow professionals in the events industry.  This is esppecially important for wedding photographers in Glasgow and Edinburgh.

Local Business Networks: Joining local business networks and associations provides conference photographers with access to a diverse pool of professionals across various industries. These networks often organize networking events, workshops, and seminars tailored to the needs of small businesses and freelancers.  I often attend local Business Gateway events for instance.  Here is the link to their website: Business Gateway | Business Gateway (bgateway.com).

Social Media Engagement: In today's digital age, as a conference photographer in Edinburgh, social media platforms serve as invaluable tools for networking. Conference photographers can leverage platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram to connect with event organizers, share their work, and engage with potential clients using relevant hashtags such as #ConferencePhotographerEdinburgh and #GlasgowEventphotographer etc.  This can help photographers like myself gain useful contacts for conference photography in Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Community Involvement: Getting involved in the local community through volunteering or sponsorship can also yield networking opportunities. Supporting local events and initiatives not only fosters goodwill but also puts photographers in front of potential clients and collaborators. I often photograph local football and rugby events which gets me know in the community.  Here are some of my sports images from local and national events: Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Sport.

So to summarise, it is important to get yourself noticed out there and go for it as an effective networker.

So until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Today I am going to look at the challenges facing corporate and conference photographers in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland, with the new advances in technology and how they effect our industry.  We will also take a look at how to overcome them.

In the vibrant landscapes of Edinburgh, Glasgow, and across Scotland, the demand for professional photographers in Scotland is ever-present, especially in the realm of conferences and corporate events. As the heartbeat of business and cultural gatherings, these cities offer a rich tapestry of events to capture through the lens. However, behind the attraction of capturing memorable moments lies a whole bunch of challenges for photographers aiming to excel in this niche. Let's delve into the intricacies and obstacles faced by conference and corporate photographers in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Scotland.

Competition in Edinburgh's Photographic Scene:
Edinburgh boasts a bustling photography industry with numerous talented professionals vying for attention. Standing out as a conference photographer in Edinburgh requires not only skill but also a unique approach to capturing events.

Meeting the Demands of Corporate Events:
Corporate events demand a distinct set of skills from photographers. From capturing keynote speeches to candid networking moments, event photographers in Edinburgh and Glasgow must be versatile and adaptable to various lighting conditions and fast-paced environments.

Technical Challenges in Conference Photography:
Conference venues often present technical challenges such as uneven lighting, limited space, and unpredictable weather conditions, especially in Scotland. Overcoming these hurdles requires meticulous planning and technical expertise to ensure high-quality images.

Navigating the Dynamic Environment of Glasgow's Events:
Glasgow's event scene is dynamic and diverse, ranging from corporate gatherings to cultural festivals. Event photographers must anticipate moments, blend into the crowd, and capture the essence of each event while adapting to different atmospheres and themes.  Here are some top tips for conference photogrpahers in Edinburgh and Glasgow from my sister website at www.edinburghphotographer.com. Conference photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow, top tips - Colin Wright Photography (edinburghphotographer.com)

Marketing and Networking for Success:
In a competitive industry, effective marketing and networking play a crucial role in securing clients and projects. Building a strong online presence through websites, social media platforms, and professional networks is essential for conference and corporate photographers in Scotland to attract potential clients.

Maintaining Creativity and Innovation:
Continuously innovating and staying creative is key to staying ahead in the photography industry. Experimenting with new techniques, equipment, and styles can set conference and corporate photographers apart in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and beyond.

Despite these challenges, the rewards of being a conference and corporate photographer in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Scotland are plentiful. From capturing memorable moments to forging lasting connections with clients, navigating the lens in this dynamic landscape is a journey filled with opportunities for growth and success. By understanding and overcoming these challenges, photographers can thrive in their craft and continue to make an impact in the vibrant event scene of Scotland.

Whether you're an aspiring photographer or a seasoned professional, embracing these challenges and honing your skills can pave the way for a fulfilling career in conference and corporate photography in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and across Scotland.

So until next time, keep snapping.  I will also leave you with an internal link showing some of my corproate work. Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Welcome - corporate conference photographer Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotogrpahy.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

I thought I would do a quick blog on the preparation for the new season ie coming out of winter and what it means to photographers.  First of all, we are all grateful that we can go outdoors, as many of us work outdoors as well as indoors.  As a wedding photographer in Scotland, I will be able to work outdoors for longer.  Also, the guests will stay outdoors as it will be warmer, well that is the theory anyway, not always the case in Scotland, mind you.  I can also continue more with my infrared photography in Scotland project as well as for landscape photography, with longer days and more foliage which is perfect for infrared, in addition to that rare thing in Scotland, sunshine.  Here are a few examples from my sister website www.edinburghphotographer.com, landscape and corporate photographer Edinburgh, Scotland (edinburghphotographer.com) and while I am at it, here are some from this website. Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Landscape

So what are the things we need to do to prepare for the new seasons:

Top tips to prepare for spring for photographers:

1. Give your gear a good going over, clean the lenses and get your wet weather lens covers ready and make sure your cameras and lenses are robust and working well.

2. Think of a few outdoor projects to do over the summer, ie a landscape photography trip.  This year I plan to visit the Isle of Skye and to go to Corpach, Lochaber, near Fort William to photograph the old boat wreck, in infrared.

3. Think outdoors as a landscape photographer and during wedding photography in Scotland, or other events such as conferences or sport.  Better use of the environment can be made in spring and summer.

4. Start to think of how the seasons affect the foliage and plant life, when the leaves appear on the trees, when flowers bloom, some flowers bloom at certain times of the year.

5. Pay more attention to weather forecasts, particularly if you are covering outdoor sports or weddings.  Sometimes you have a bit of a say in when to take outdoor wedding photography photos with the wedding couple, try and get this to coincide with better weather.

6. Consider doing things you would normally do indoors from an indoor perspective ie portrait photography and pet photography for instance.

7. Market and promote your photography to meet the seasons.  So as a conference photographer in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland, I am looking to find clients all year round, although there is a dip over Christmas and January, also during the summer holidays.  Wedding photographers in Scotland have the opposite issue, with more events during the holiday period.  So you have to plan your marketing strategy accordingly.

So, hope that helps and happy snapping.

All the best.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Balmaha Loch Lomond by professional landscape, corporate and event photographer, Edinburgh, Scotland

Diverse Scenery:
Loch Lomond, located just a short distance from both Edinburgh and and even shorter from Glasgow, boasts a diverse range of landscapes. From the tranquil waters of the loch to the rugged peaks of the surrounding mountains, there's no shortage of stunning backdrops for event photography. Whether for corporate photographers in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland or wedding photographers in Scotland, or even special occasions, photographers can leverage the natural beauty of Loch Lomond to add depth and visual interest to their work.

Unique Settings for event photography in Scotland
So what else can we examine to demonstrate the joy of photography in Loch Lomond for commercial photographers in Scotland
As you know event photographers are often tasked with finding unique and memorable settings for their clients' photoshoots. Loch Lomond offers a multitude of picturesque locations that can provide the perfect backdrop for any occasion. From quaint villages along the shoreline to ancient castles nestled in the hills, there's no shortage of distinctive settings to explore. The location can also be fantastic for the conference photographer in Scotland, with lots of excellent venues to choose from.  Photographers can use these settings to create one-of-a-kind images that stand out and leave a lasting impression on their clients.  Some examples of great locations include the hotels in Luss, a photo from a recent wedding is attached to this blog.  I also attach a link with some wedding photography images from my sister website at www.edinburghphotographer.com. Conference Wedding and Event Photography Scotland - Colin Wright Photography (edinburghphotographer.com).  Other wedding photography photos from great locations in Scotland can be viewed on this website at Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Wedding Photographer Edinburgh Glasgow and Scotland
 

Seasonal Variation:
One of the advantages of photographing Loch Lomond is the ever-changing beauty of the landscape throughout the year. In the spring, the hillsides come alive with vibrant colors as flowers bloom and trees bud. Summer brings long days and warm sunshine, perfect for outdoor events and photoshoots. In the autumn, the landscape is transformed by a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and yellows as the leaves change colour. Even in the winter, Loch Lomond retains its charm, with snow-capped peaks and frost-covered trees creating a winter wonderland. By embracing the seasonal variation of Loch Lomond, event photographers in Edinburgh and Glasgow can capture the essence of each moment and create timeless images that resonate with their clients.

Tourism Opportunities:
As one of Scotland's most popular tourist destinations, Loch Lomond attracts visitors from around the world throughout the year. For event photographers in Glasgow looking to expand their clientele, tapping into the tourism market can be a lucrative opportunity. By showcasing the beauty of Loch Lomond in their portfolios and marketing materials, photographers can attract tourists seeking professional photos to commemorate their visit. Whether it's family portraits, engagement sessions, or vacation photos, photographers can capitalise on the steady stream of tourists flocking to Loch Lomond to grow their business and reach new audiences.

Conclusion:
So when it comes to event and conference photography in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland, photographing Loch Lomond offers event photographers in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and across Scotland a wealth of opportunities to enhance their craft, expand their portfolio, and grow their business. From the diverse scenery and unique settings to the seasonal variation and tourism opportunities, Loch Lomond provides a canvas for photographers to unleash their creativity and capture unforgettable moments for their clients. By embracing the beauty of Loch Lomond, event photographers can elevate their work and establish themselves as premier professionals in their field.  Here is a link detailing some of the advantages of this amazing location. Here. Now. All of us. - Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park - Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park (lochlomond-trossachs.org)

So that's all for now.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

urban infrared photography Glasgowurban infrared photography Glasgow by professional infrared corporate and conference photographer Edinburgh, Glasgow, Scotland, Colin Wright

Urban infrared photography Glasgow by professional infrared corporate and conference photographer Edinburgh, Glasgow, Scotland, Colin Wright Photography.  Lots of fantastic urban photography and infrared photography opportunities in a city like Glasgow, particularly due to the range of architecture available for urban photographers in Glasgow

Drones for Aerial Perspectives: Elevate Your Shots
One of the most exciting advancements in photography is the use of drones. For a conference photographer in Glasgow or an event photographer in Scotland, incorporating drone photography can provide breathtaking aerial perspectives of venues and large gatherings. Imagine capturing the grandeur of a corporate event or conference from above, showcasing the scale and impact of the occasion.

360-Degree Cameras: Immersive Experiences
Conference and event photographers in Glasgow can set themselves apart by adopting 360-degree cameras. These devices capture the entire scene, allowing viewers to virtually immerse themselves in the event. This technology is particularly beneficial for creating interactive and engaging content for corporate clients looking to showcase their conferences in a unique way.

Live Streaming and Virtual Reality (VR): Expand Your Reach
In today's digital age, live streaming is a powerful tool for reaching a broader audience. Event photographers in Glasgow can offer live event coverage, while those specialising in conference photography in Edinburgh can provide virtual reality experiences. This enables clients to extend the impact of their events beyond physical boundaries, attracting a global audience.

Taking advantage of the versatile and advanced features of new cameras

Nowadays, a conference photographer in Edinburgh or Glasgow can operate with incredible equipment, especially the ability to work well in very low light.  I use the Canon R6 and I find it remarkable in low light.  Here are some examples from my other website at www.edinburghphotographer.com. Conference Wedding and Event Photography Scotland - Colin Wright Photography (edinburghphotographer.com).  I also include some examples of how the technology has made things easier for wedding photographers in Scotland. Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Wedding Photographer Edinburgh Glasgow and Scotland

To conclude

As a conference or event photographer in Scotland, staying abreast of technological advancements is key to delivering unparalleled services. By incorporating drones, 360-degree cameras, augmented reality, facial recognition, and live streaming, you can elevate your craft and offer clients innovative solutions that set you apart in the competitive field of event photography. Embrace these technologies, and watch your business soar to new heights.

So, hope that helps.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

Glasgow in infrared by professional freelance fine art and conference and event photographer Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland

I thought I would do a quick summary of the proposed photography assignments ahead for me in 2024.   Lots to look forward to.  I have a corporate photography assignment next month for Brainkind in Glasgow, who do valuable rehabilitation work to help people thrive after brain injuries.  I will also be preparing my infrared photos for a long awaited book on infrared photography in Scotland.  This should be completed by June of this year.  I will be working as a conference photographer in Edinburgh in March and also as a wedding photographer in Scotland in the coming months - looking forward to that after a good year in 2023 for wedding photography in Scotland.  Other work includes my urban photography in Glasgow project and I will continue to shoot landscapes around the country with a visit to Glencoe and Fort William in the immediate future.  The football and rugby photography seasons are in full swing, so I will be doing some freelance sports photography in Scotland in the near future - weather permitted.  I will also be doing some theatre and music photography in Edinburgh soon.  As a newspaper photographer in Scotland, I have a wide range of photographic experience, so if you are looking for a photographer in Edinburgh or Glasgow, or anywhere throughout Scotland for that matter, feel free to contact me through this website on the contact page, or phone me on 0775 213 5055.  Examples of my work can be found in this website through this link Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Commercial corporate event photographer Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland.  Also my sister website at www.edinburghphotographer.com can also provide some recent examples of my work.

So until next time, watch this space for more interesting articles and insights.

Kind Regards

Colin

It is important to keep a keen eye and artistic prowess, when you are trying to push the boundaries of conventional photography. Specialising in event and conference photography in Scotland, I try to master the art of storytelling through his lens. My recent foray into infrared photography adds a new dimension to this genre.  For more infrared photos, please see my website, page through this link. Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Infrared Images.  There are also more articles on infrared photography and photos on my sister website at www.edinburghphotographer.com The Infrared Collection - Colin Wright Photography (edinburghphotographer.com)

Infrared Photography Unveiled:

Infrared photography involves capturing light beyond the visible spectrum, rendering ethereal and surreal results. This unique technique has the power to transform ordinary landscapes into otherworldly scenes, and the Kelpies provided me with the perfect canvas for his artistic exploration.

My Journey at the Kelpies:
Venturing into the heart of Scotland, Colin embarked on a mission to immortalise the Kelpies in a way that transcended traditional photography. Armed with my infrared camera, I navigated the picturesque surroundings, unveiling a hidden world not visible to the naked eye.

The Mystique of Infrared in the Kelpies:
My world of infrared images of the Kelpies reveal a mystical aura that enhances the already enchanting sculptures. The grassy landscapes take on an otherworldly glow, and the reflections in the water become dreamlike. The contrast between the dark metal of the Kelpies and the radiant foliage creates a captivating visual scene.

Challenges and Rewards:
Infrared photography comes with its own set of challenges, from selecting the right light to using the best infrared filter. The rewards, however, are evident in the breathtaking images that showcase the Kelpies in a whole new light.

Conclusion:
My venture into infrared photography at the Kelpies exemplifies the marriage of technical expertise and artistic vision. Through my lens, I invite you to see familiar landmarks in an entirely new way, unveiling the hidden magic that lies beyond the visible spectrum. As a professional event and conference photographer in Scotland, I love the distraction of doing something totally different with infrared.

So check out my infrared page for more photos.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphjotography.co.uk and www.edinburghphotographer.com

Just a short blog today to outline my busy plans for corporate, event and conference photography in Scotland for 2024.  First of all I plan to expand and develop as a professional conference photographer in Edinburgh, Glasgow and throughout Scotland, utilising some new equipment and techniques to ensure the service is even faster and more bespoke tailored to my clients needs.

I also plan to do more wedding photography in Scotland this year, having had a successful year in 2023 photographing weddings in Scotland.  This year I plan to expand my business to work as a pet photographer in Scotland.  This will be a new service, working at the home of the customer or location of their choice - watch this space.  I will also be offering a drone photo service in Scotland, particularly for property images, so again watch this space.  Finally, I am planning an exhibition for my infrared photography in Scotland and also hope to have some new equipment to assist in this regard.

So keep checking the website and remember if you are looking for an event photographer in Edinburgh, Glasgow or throughout Scotland, contact me on 0775 213 5055, or through the contact page on this site.

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

The emotional side of sport by professional corporate, event and conference photographer, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Scotland

Introduction:
As the dawn of a new year unfolds, corporate event and conference photographers in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and across Scotland find themselves presented with a fresh canvas of opportunities to elevate their craft. In the dynamic world of professional photography, setting resolutions can be a powerful way to stay ahead of the curve, refine skills, and foster success. In this blog post, we'll explore some insightful New Year's resolutions tailored specifically for corporate event and conference photographers in Scotland.  So here are my New Year's Resolutions event and conference Photographers in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Embrace Technological Advancements:
Resolution: Stay abreast of the latest photography technologies and incorporate them into your skill set.
In the fast-paced world of corporate events, staying technologically relevant is crucial. Whether it's mastering new camera features, exploring advanced lighting techniques, or delving into virtual and augmented reality photography, embracing technological advancements will set you apart as a cutting-edge photographer.  This includes utilising wi-fi functions, improved ISO on cameras etc.  In addition, it also means trying out new stuff, such as video and drone photography in my case.

Enhance Networking Skills:
Resolution: Cultivate meaningful connections within the corporate events and conference industry in Scotland.
Building a robust professional network is key to securing new opportunities. Attend industry-specific events, engage with event planners, and collaborate with other vendors. Networking not only opens doors to new projects but also fosters a supportive community of like-minded professionals.  This is something that photographers have to work harder at, as we are not natural networkers and social media users.

Elevate Your Branding:
Resolution: Invest time in refining your online presence, portfolio, and personal brand.
In the digital age, a strong online presence is essential. Update your website, showcase your best work, and ensure your branding is cohesive across all platforms. Investing in professional branding communicates reliability and excellence to potential clients.  Make sure you have a business email address, letter headed paper with branding and good quality business cards.

Expand Skill Set with Training:
Resolution: Enrol in workshops and training programs to continually enhance your skills.  We all need to keep learning, nobody knows it all, especially with the technological changes we experience today.  This year I am looking forward to doing a lot of conference and event photography in Scotland.  Here is an example of some of my recent work. Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Commercial corporate event photographer Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland

Investing in your education is a long-term strategy for success. Look for workshops, courses, and mentorship programs that align with your goals. Whether it's mastering new editing techniques or honing your communication skills, ongoing education will keep your craft fresh and relevant.  

Stay Flexible and Adaptable:
Resolution: Develop the ability to adapt to changing circumstances during events.  Even when you are doing well, it is important for conference photographers in Edinburgh, Glasgow and around Scotland to change and adapt to the ever changing world.
Corporate events are dynamic, and being able to adapt to unexpected changes is a valuable skill. Cultivate flexibility in your approach, whether it's adjusting to different lighting conditions or accommodating last-minute schedule changes.

Prioritise Client Relationships:
Resolution: Foster strong client relationships by delivering exceptional customer service.
Happy clients are more likely to become repeat clients and provide referrals. Communicate effectively, meet deadlines, and go the extra mile to exceed client expectations. Building lasting relationships will contribute to the success of your business, which will help you expand and improve as a conference and event photographer in Scotland.

Conclusion:
As the curtain rises on a new year, corporate event and conference photographers in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Scotland have the opportunity to set ambitious resolutions that will propel their careers to new heights. By embracing technological advancements, refining networking skills, elevating branding, expanding skill sets, staying flexible, and prioritizing client relationships, photographers can position themselves for a year of unparalleled success in the dynamic and exciting world of corporate event photography.

So that's all for now, happy new year.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

As look at the Plans for 2024 for corporate and conference photographers in Edinburgh and Scotland, we take a step into the dynamic world of photography in 2024. The realm of corporate and event photography in Scotland continues to evolve, presenting exciting opportunities for both professionals and enthusiasts. From technological advancements to creative innovations, the landscape is vibrant and promising. In this blog, I will look at the trends and plans that are set to shape the world of corporate and event photography in the coming year.

Embracing Technology:

In 2024, technology is set to play a pivotal role in transforming the way corporate and event photographers work. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are becoming integral tools for creating immersive experiences. Photographers are exploring new ways to incorporate these technologies into their work, offering clients unique and interactive visual content, whilst at the same time ensuring they don't lose the bespoke personal touch.

Drone Photography Takes Flight:

Its not for me yet, maybe will be this year.  Drones have already made a significant impact on photography, providing breathtaking aerial perspectives. In 2024, we can expect an even greater integration of drone technology in corporate and event photography. From capturing stunning venue shots to documenting outdoor events from above, drones add a new dimension to storytelling.

Focus on Sustainability:

As environmental consciousness continues to rise, corporate and event photographers are incorporating sustainable practices into their workflows. This includes using eco-friendly packaging, opting for energy-efficient equipment, and promoting eco-conscious events. Clients are increasingly valuing photographers who align with their sustainability goals.  This is especially true when bidding for public sector photographer contracts, as they will want to see evidence of this practice in your business model. 

Personalised Experiences:

Clients now seek more than just standard event coverage. In 2024.  For instance conference photographers in Edinburgh are honing their skills to offer personalised and tailored experiences. This might involve pre-event consultations to understand the client's vision, capturing candid moments that reflect the unique atmosphere of an event, and delivering customised photo packages, to make sure you are that bespoke event photographer in Edinburgh that they are looking for.  Here are some images from my sister site at www.edinburghphotographer.com, which highlight my conference and event photography from around Scotland. 2023 corporate, conference end event photographer Scotland - Colin Wright Photography (edinburghphotographer.com).  There are also some examples from this website from the attached link. Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Commercial corporate event photographer Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland
 

Real-Time Social Media Coverage:

The demand for instant content continues to grow, and photographers are adapting by offering real-time social media coverage. This involves capturing and sharing highlights of an event in Edinburgh, Glasgow or throughout Scotland as it unfolds, engaging audiences and creating buzz. Social media has become an integral part of the event experience, and photographers are capitalising on this trend.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Editing:

AI tools are becoming more sophisticated, and photographers are leveraging them for post-processing tasks. From automated colour correction to facial recognition for efficient tagging, AI is streamlining the editing process, allowing photographers to focus more on creativity and storytelling.  However, I don't want to see it replacing actual photographs and there will always be a need for a skilled event photographer in Edinburgh, Glasgow or Scotland.

Collaborations and Networking:

In 2024, photographers are recognising the value of collaboration and networking. Building partnerships with other professionals in the industry, such as event planners, marketers, and venues, can lead to mutually beneficial opportunities. Networking events and online communities are essential for staying updated on industry trends and forming valuable connections.

Conclusion:

The world of corporate and event and conference photography in Scotland in 2024 promises innovation, creativity, and a continued commitment to delivering exceptional visual content. As photographers embrace technology, focus on sustainability, and personalize their services, clients can look forward to a dynamic and engaging visual experience that goes beyond traditional event documentation. The evolving landscape of photography opens new avenues for professionals willing to adapt and explore the limitless possibilities that the future holds.

So, until next time, have a happy new year and see you in 2024.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Corporate event and conference photographer Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland (colinwrightphotography.co.uk)
 

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

Today I am going to look briefly at the decision for fine art and commercial event photographers in Scotland as to how they achieve a good balance between the 2 genres.  That is when to pursue the fine art route and when to aim for commercial event and commercial photography in Scotland.  I am a specialist event and conference photographer in Scotland, who also does wedding photography in Scotland and the North of England.  I also sell landscape and infrared photos, from exhibitions and I am involved in training photographers.

So how do you decide when to pursue the art side of photography and when do you go for the commercial aspect. I thought I would devise a list giving advice for photographers who do both and lets face it very few photographers tend to rely solely on selling landscape or art images and even the ones that do tend to undertake training and or maybe publishing a book on the genre.  So here we go.

Advice for the fine art and commercial photographer.

1. Try to work out the income you will receive from both.  You may have to do more commercial work to pay the bills.

2. Use the commercial photography side of things as a means of funding the fine art photography, if this helps.

3. Combine the 2 areas. I often include infrared photography when I am working as a wedding photographer and the clients always love it.

4. Use commercial photography as a way of promoting your other photography.  I promote my exhibitions by inviting my commercial clients to the events and this often results in sales.

5. Allocate certain times of the year for each.   As an infrared photographer in Scotland, I tend to be more involved in this during the spring and summer months.  Weddings can often be seasonal as is sports photography and other events.  So if you plan things well you can balance it out.

6. Apply your strict commercial business rules to your fine art photography as well as as your day to day photography.  Sometimes we can get carried away when we are overly enthusiastic about a certain subject, often clouding the financial considerations.

7. Finally, ask around and take on board advice from successful fine art photographers as to how they manage to balance the two and how they market their product.

Anyway hope this helps.  In the meantime, here are some fine art infrared photos from this website Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Infrared Images
and here are others from my sister website at www.edinburghphotographer.com Infrared Photography - Landscape and Beyond - Colin Wright Photography (edinburghphotographer.com)

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

wedding photographer Perthshirewedding photography from Pitlochry Perthshire by professional event photographer Edinburgh Glasgow, Scotland, Colin Wright

Looking back on the wedding photography captured earlier this year.  This one is from Pitlochry Perthshire. Image by professional event and wedding photographer Edinburgh Glasgow, Scotland, Colin Wright

For todays blog we will be looking at Wedding photographers in Edinburgh and conference photographers in Scotland
and the similarities between both and what they have in common.  So lets look at the things that are similar for both these genres of photography.

Wedding and conference photography similarities.

1. Both genres come into the category of event photography in Scotland.  They are capturing a big event with either delegates or guests.

2. You need to know the timings involved on the day and know them well.  For weddings it is when the bride comes down the isle, time of the speeches, the time allocated for the photos etc.  For wedding photographers in Scotland, the timing of the weather changes is also critical and how they will effect the photography on the day.  For conferences it will be the time of the presentations, breaks, guest keynote speakers etc.

3. You will use similar gear as a wedding photographer in Scotland or say a conference photographer in Glasgow, you will need a standard 28-105mm lens for instance and a 70-210mm, possibly a macro lens for close ups and depending on the event, maybe a wide angle.  You will also need speedlights, as you wont have much tome or space to set up complicated lighting systems.

4. Your relationship with the clients will be crucial.  They will help you with the venue and provide you with valuable information on the day.

5. You will need to act quick to capture the right moments, whether this is the bride and groom at the ceremony or a politician arriving at the conference to give a keynote speech.  You need to make sure you do not miss these moments.

Wedding and conference photography differences.

1. Conference photographers will probably need a longer lens than than wedding photographers, probably up to 300mm or 400mm.  Other than that the gear will be similar.  However, I have been to conferences where I had to photograph people in a formal portrait sense, with a more complicated lighting set up.

2. You will probably have more room to play with at a conference thana wedding, due to the size of the venue, although this will not always be the case.

3. A conference will likely be a shorter day and less tiring than wedding photography in Scotland, which can go on from late morning to almost midnight.

4. You will have to deal with guests who are maybe a bit tipsy at weddings, this will not happen at a conference, unless you are also covering the eventing meal.  Wedding photographers in Scotland can however use this to their advantage as it can mean the guests will relax more.  It can cause problems though, as you can well imagine.  As a wedding photographer in Scotland, I have seen all sorts of things.

5. As a conference photographer in Edinburgh or Scotland, I have had a lot of repeat business.  This will not happen in weddings, although you can get referrals from friends of the bride and groom and people may ask for your business card on the day.  I have photographed weddings when I was asked at a friends wedding if I could do their photos.  So it pays to be friendly professional and polite at all times.

So I hope this helps all you budding wedding and conference photographers in the UK.  Here are some of my wedding photo images and also conference photos from this website. Corporate event and conference photographer Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland (colinwrightphotography.co.uk)Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow conference photographer | Wedding Photographer Edinburgh Glasgow and Scotland
 

Until next time.

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotogrpaher.com

Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

Balmaha Loch LomondBalmaha Loch Lomond by professional landscape and event photographer Scotland, Colin Wright

Balmaha Loch Lomond by professional landscape and event photographer Scotland, Colin Wright

Introduction:
The festive season is upon us, I thought it would be good idea to provide a guide for Christmas and the event and conference photographer in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland. For event and conference photographers in Edinburgh and Glasgow, this time of the year offers unique opportunities to capture the magic of the season. In this blog post, we'll explore how photographers can approach the festive period, ensuring they not only document the events effectively but also get into the swing of things this Christmas.

1. Embrace the Festive Atmosphere:
One of the key elements of successful event photography during Christmas is to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere. Understand the theme and decorations of the events you'll be covering.  Imagine being in Edinburgh at Christmas and having the opportunity to capture some of the unique magic of the city.  One of my first commissions almost 20 years ago as a corporate photographer in Edinburgh was to photograph the wheel at Christmas in Edinburgh for the EICC which at the time was being promoted as a conference and event venue.  It was great to see my photos on the front page of their magazine and also made into a Christmas card.

2. Plan Ahead for event photography in Scotland at Christmas.
For event photographers in Edinburgh for example, the festive season can be hectic, with a multitude of events and conferences taking place simultaneously. As an event photographer in Scotland, planning is crucial. Create a schedule, coordinate with event organisers, and familiarise yourself with the venues. Knowing the program in advance allows you to anticipate key moments and ensures you don't miss any important photo opportunities. For conference photographers in Edinburgh, this can be great time, with the opportunity to capture the Christmas tree when delegates arrive at the venue, also maybe the lights on a famous street, such as George Square in Glasgow or Princes Street in Edinburgh.

3. Capture Candid Moments:
Christmas events and conferences are often filled with candid, heart warming moments. Be on the lookout for genuine expressions of joy, laughter, and connection. Of course more drink will be flowing at this time of year, so don't be tempted.  You are working remember. These candid shots can evoke the true spirit of the season and provide your clients with memorable and authentic images.

4. Incorporate Holiday Details:
Pay attention to the little details that make Christmas events special. Capture the decorations, festive ornaments, and any unique elements that contribute to the holiday theme. These shots not only add context to your event coverage but also create a visual story that reflects the festive spirit.  Include that tree in the Christmas wedding photo and do not be afraid to combine the festive season with the event you are covering.  The photo with this blog was from a winter wedding taken near Christmas.

5. Leverage Creative Lighting:
Christmas events are known for their vibrant and dynamic lighting setups. Experiment with different lighting techniques to enhance the festive atmosphere. Use warm tones and play with backlighting to create a magical and relaxing ambiance in your photographs. Don't be afraid to get creative and capture the sparkle of the season.

6. Engage with Attendees:
Building rapport with event attendees can result in more authentic and compelling photographs. Strike up conversations, be approachable, and make an effort to connect with the people you're photographing. This personal touch can lead to more natural and relaxed shots, capturing the genuine joy of the festive season.  Don't overdo it mind, you are there to do a job.

7. Deliver Quickly:
Given the significance of the holiday season, event and conference organizers often want access to their photos promptly. Aim for a quick turnaround time in delivering the edited images. This not only ensures client satisfaction but also allows them to share the festive moments on social media or other platforms while the holiday spirit is still fresh.

Conclusion:
For event and conference photographers in Edinburgh, Glasgow and throughout Scotland, the Christmas season offers a splendid canvas to showcase your skills and capture the magic of the holidays. By immersing yourself in Edinburgh's festive spirit, planning meticulously, and paying attention to the unique details, you can create a portfolio of images that not only documents events but also spreads the joy and warmth of the season.  Or embrace the festive spirit in George Square in Glasgow and let your photography illuminate the Christmas period.

So until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

In the competitive world of corporate, event and conference photography, standing out from the crowd is essential for success. Whether you're based in Edinburgh, Glasgow, or anywhere in Scotland, effective marketing can make all the difference. In this blog, we'll explore the top 5 marketing tips tailored specifically for event photographers in these vibrant cities and the broader Scottish market. From optimising your online presence to networking strategically, these tips will help you elevate your photography business to new heights.

1. Optimise Your Online Presence for "Event Photographer Edinburgh":
In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for attracting clients. Optimize your website and social media profiles with relevant keywords, such as "event photographer Edinburgh," to enhance your visibility on search engines. Ensure that your portfolio showcases the diverse range of events you've covered, highlighting your skills and unique style. Consider creating blog posts or case studies about your experiences as an event photographer in Edinburgh to provide valuable content and improve your website's SEO.  Make sure you register with Google and Bing to track your SEO progress and look at your competitors and how they are doing in this area.

2. Master the Art of Networking:
Networking is a powerful tool for any photographer, especially in cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow where events and conferences are abundant. Attend industry-related gatherings, join local business chambers, and connect with event planners to expand your network. Word-of-mouth referrals are invaluable, so make a lasting impression by delivering exceptional service. Consider offering special promotions or referral discounts to incentivise clients and fellow professionals to recommend your services.  Join a local networking group and network with other businesses at Business Gateway. Business Gateway | Business Gateway (bgateway.com).

3. Dominate Search Engines with "Conference Photographer Scotland":
For photographers catering to the corporate world, ranking high on search engines is paramount. Incorporate the key phrase "conference photographer Scotland" strategically in your website's content, meta tags, and image descriptions. Regularly update your blog with insightful posts related to conference photography, industry trends, and client testimonials. Engaging content not only boosts your website's SEO but also positions you as an authority in your field.

4. Showcase Local Expertise with "Event Photographer Glasgow":
Tailor your marketing efforts to the unique characteristics of Glasgow by highlighting your local expertise. Create content that showcases your experience as an event photographer in Glasgow, sharing stories and images from events in the city. Collaborate with local businesses, event venues, and influencers to expand your reach and strengthen your connections within the Glasgow community. Utilise social media platforms to engage with local audiences and participate in relevant conversations.  Become an expert in your field. I often write articles on infrared photography and gaining a reputation in this area of photography has helped my sales.

5. Leverage Social Media Platforms:
Social media is a powerful tool for marketing, allowing you to connect directly with your target audience. Utilise platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to share your best work, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and client testimonials. Use relevant hashtags, including #EventPhotographerEdinburgh, #ConferencePhotographerScotland, and #EventPhotographerGlasgow, to increase your visibility on these platforms. Engage with your audience by responding to comments, participating in conversations, and collaborating with other local businesses and influencers.

Conclusion:

By implementing these tailored marketing tips, corporate and event photographers in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and across Scotland can enhance their visibility, build a strong network, and establish themselves as go-to professionals in their communities. Stay creative, stay connected, and watch your photography business flourish in these dynamic and culturally rich cities and if successful, you will have a variety of photographs on your website to showcase to your clients.  Here are some images from this website Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow corporate and event photographer | Commercial corporate event photographer Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland and also from my sister website at www.edinburghphotographer.com. Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

The Power of Impartiality in Photography:
Photographers are often regarded as the visual storytellers of an event. Their ability to convey emotions and tell a narrative through images requires a keen sense of impartiality. Remaining impartial means being able to detach oneself from personal biases or opinions, allowing the photographer to document the event authentically. This impartial perspective ensures that the images captured are a true reflection of the atmosphere and emotions present, providing clients with a genuine representation of their special day or event.

Edinburgh: A City of Rich Culture and Events:
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a city teeming with history, culture, and a vibrant events scene. From the iconic Edinburgh Castle to the bustling Royal Mile, the city offers a diverse backdrop for photographers. When searching for an event photographer in Edinburgh, it's crucial to find someone who can capture the unique atmosphere of the city's various gatherings, conferences, and celebrations.

Conference Photography in Scotland:
Conferences are dynamic events that require a skilled photographer to capture both the formal proceedings and the candid moments. For businesses and organisations hosting conferences in Scotland, having a conference photographer in Scotland who understands the importance of impartiality is paramount. Their ability to document presentations, discussions, and networking sessions without bias ensures that the resulting images are valuable assets for post-event promotion and documentation.

Glasgow: A Hub for Dynamic Events:
Glasgow, another vibrant city in Scotland, is renowned for its lively arts scene, festivals, and conferences. When seeking a conference photographer in Glasgow, it's essential to prioritise impartiality to accurately capture the diverse range of events hosted in this dynamic city. Whether it's a corporate conference, a cultural festival, or a trade show, an impartial photographer can provide a comprehensive visual record that reflects the essence of the occasion.

Event Photography in Edinburgh: Freeze the Moment, Not the Bias:
Events in Edinburgh are as diverse as the city itself, ranging from cultural festivals to corporate gatherings. An event photographer in Edinburgh must possess the ability to remain impartial while navigating the unique challenges presented by each event. By doing so, they can deliver a collection of images that encapsulates the energy, excitement, and significance of the occasion.  Here are some photos from my sister website at www.edinburghphotographer.com, to give you an idea of the style I adopt for corporate photography commissions in Edinburgh and Glasgow. Conference and Event Photography Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland - Colin Wright Photography (edinburghphotographer.com)

Conclusion:
In the world of photography, impartiality is the key to unlocking the true potential of an image. For photographers in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and throughout Scotland, embracing impartiality is not just a skill—it's a commitment to providing clients with authentic visual narratives. When seeking a photographer for conferences, events, or special occasions, prioritizing impartiality ensures that the images captured will stand the test of time, becoming cherished memories for years to come.  Here are some examples from this website: Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow corporate and event photographer | Miscellaneous

So, until next time, happy snapping.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com
 

Introduction - What to consider when you are looking for a conference and event photographer in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland.
Looking for a skilled and experienced photographer in Edinburgh? Look no further as we provide top tips for hiring an Edinburgh photographer, conference photographer Scotland, corporate photographer in Edinburgh, and event photographer in Scotland. Read on to find out how to make the best choice for your photography needs.  Here are some photos from my website from conferences I have attended. Corporate event and conference photographer Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland (colinwrightphotography.co.uk.  More photos can also be found on my sister website www.edinburghphotogrpaher.com through the following link. Conference and Event Photography Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland - Colin Wright Photography (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

1. Do your research:
When searching for an Edinburgh photographer, take the time to research their portfolio, experience, and reputation. Look for photographers who specialize in the specific type of photography you need, whether it's conference photography in Scotland or corporate photography in Edinburgh.

2. Read customer reviews:
To gauge the quality and professionalism of a photographer, read customer reviews and testimonials. This will give you insights into their past clients' experiences and help you determine whether they are the right fit for your event or conference.

3. Check their website and online presence:
A reputable Edinburgh photographer will have a well-designed website showcasing their work, services, and contact information. Take a look at their online presence, including their social media profiles, to gain a better understanding of their style, expertise, and professionalism.

4. Request a portfolio:
Before finalising your decision, ask for a portfolio of the photographer's previous work in event photography or conference photography in Scotland. This will allow you to assess their style, technical skills, and ability to capture key moments.

5. Inquire about their equipment:
To ensure that your event or conference is captured in the best possible way, inquire about the photographer's equipment. Ask whether they have high-quality cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, and backup systems to handle any potential issues.

6. Discuss pricing and packages:
When hiring a corporate photographer in Edinburgh or an event photographer in Scotland, it's essential to discuss pricing and packages beforehand. Clarify the services included, such as the number of hours of coverage, post-processing, and delivery of the final images. Request a detailed quote to avoid any hidden costs.

7. Verify their availability:
Before finalising the hiring process, check the photographer's availability during your event or conference dates. It's crucial to secure their services early to ensure they are not booked elsewhere.

8. Communicate your expectations:
Clearly communicate your expectations to the photographer, including the specific shots, angles, and moments you want captured. This will help them understand your vision and deliver photographs that meet your requirements.  I always ask this before I agree to a photoshoot, as it may not be suitable for my skills.  Its always better to know this in advance.

9. Discuss rights and usage:
It's important to discuss the usage rights of the photographs taken during the event or conference. Determine whether you will have exclusive rights to the images or if the photographer can use them for their portfolio or marketing purposes.

10. Sign a contract:
Finally, to protect both parties and ensure a smooth process, sign a contract that outlines the terms and conditions of the agreement. This will provide clarity and peace of mind for both you and the photographer.

Conclusion:
By following these top tips for hiring an Edinburgh photographer, conference photographer Scotland, corporate photographer in Edinburgh, and event photographer in Scotland, you'll be well-prepared to make an informed decision. Remember to prioritize experience, reputation, and the ability to capture unique moments. Hire a professional who aligns with your vision, and enjoy stunning photographs that will bring your event or conference to life.  Here is another article to help you take stunning photos How to Shoot Event Photography Like a Pro in 2023 (shotkit.com).

So until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.edinburghphotographer.com

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

wedding photographer Perthshirewedding photography from Pitlochry Perthshire by professional event photographer Edinburgh Glasgow, Scotland, Colin Wright

wedding photography from Pitlochry Perthshire by professional event photographer Edinburgh Glasgow, Scotland, Colin Wright

The importance of photographing children at weddings.  Children can light up a wedding and bring joy to all with their natural behaviour.  This was one of these times when I was photographing a wedding recently at Pitclochry, Perthshire.  This little girl in entertained us all with her playful character.  It's also good to get a good mix of colour and black and white photos when photographing weddings in Scotland, especially at a location as wonderful as Pitlochry.

The importance of knowledge for the event and conference photographer in Edinburgh

1. Knowing your subject is crucial for photographers of all genres.  Take sport for example.  You will need to anticipate in a team game, where the ball will be coming next, in addition to the likelihood of players moving into position for the photograph.  Your own position as a photographer will also be very important.  If you have any choice in the matter, your knowledge will inform you of the best position.

2. Experience and knowledge of conferences helps you in anticipating the best times to photograph certain things. This will also influence your position and like sports photographers in Scotland, anticipation is key.

3. Knowledge of the genre will give you access to the right people.  When it comes to conference photography in Scotland, I know exactly who to speak to if I need anything on the day and communication skills are key, as you will know how to approach people in a moment of crisis.

4. Knowledge of the genre will give you confidence to do a good job.  I have photographed so many conferences in Edinburgh, which makes me very confident when I photograph an event in Scotland.

5. Knowledge of the ins and outs of the event, means you can concentrate on taking excellent photos and also you will enjoy the day.  I think I enjoy photographing conferences in Scotland and the North of England more than any other genre and this is partly due to my knowledge of the genre.

6. Knowledge of the genre helps you overcome crisis moments.  You will know what to expect.  A sports photographer in Scotland, will allow for all eventualities ie weather, extra time etc.

7.Your knowledge and enthusiasm for the genre will shine through in your photos and you will increase your chances of being hired.

8. For other genres of photography such as landscape, or my specialism, infrared photography, my knowledge of the type of weather required for the photoshoot is vital, as is the ability to visualise the final photo after editing.

9. If you like a certain area of photography, you will find it easier to take great photos.  I like football, rugby, golf and athletics and I find it easy to photograph these subjects, due to the knowledge I have acquired throughout the years.

10. Knowledge is usually gained through doing research and this will help you deal with all types of situations in your photography.  For instance, although I had played a lot of golf, when I was asked to take take photos for a golf event for the first time, it was the first time I had tackled a photoshoot on this particular subject, so I conducted extensive research on golf photography, which definitely helped me take better photos of the 2 day event. 

So, if you are looking for an event photographer in Edinburgh, Glasgow or Scotland, then contact me through the contact page or at my sister website at www.edinburghphotogrpaher.com Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow (edinburghphotographer.com).

Here is another interesting article on the subject. The Importance of the Subject in Your Photography (picturecorrect.com).

Hope that helps.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

Colin Wright Photography.

wedding photographer Perthshirewedding photography from Pitlochry Perthshire by professional event photographer Edinburgh Glasgow, Scotland, Colin Wright

wedding photography from Pitlochry Perthshire by professional event photographer Edinburgh Glasgow, Scotland, Colin Wright

Things to consider before commissioning an event photographer in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Scotland

1. As mentioned above, what is the intended destination for the photos, this will effect the kind of photos and thereafter, the type of corporate photographer you want to commission.

2. What style of photos are you looking for.  Check out websites online, does the style of photos suit your purpose, has the photographer been involved in major commissions, at high profile venues.  The images on this link give you an idea of the kind of photos available. Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow corporate and event photographer | Commercial corporate event photographer Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland
 

3. How will the photos be delivered ie by link, the most common method nowadays, or by DVD/USB etc.  Wedding photographers, for instance will usually supply a USB stick with images and or possibly an album.

4. How soon can the photos be delivered.  This varies according to the kind of photo job involved.  A wedding photographer probably wont send the final photos until about a week or two after the event, but most conference photographers in Scotland will have to send the images fairly soon after the event, usually 2 or 3 days at the latest. 

5. Can the photographer provide photos on the day for PR and social media purposes.  This is particularly important for conference photography, when some images are needed pretty quickly for PR publication.  Most good photographers in Scotland can provide this, particularly with the improvements to DSLR cameras that can download photos onto their phone using wi-fi or through other sources.

6. Is the person a member of an accredited photography organisation, such as the Royal Photographic Society The Royal Photographic Society - Home - RPS. or the Societies of Photographers.  This will usually be mentioned on their website and you can also check the websites of the relevant organisations.

The Society of Photographers – Helping photographers improve their photography and build their business - The Society of Photographers | International Photography Organisation (thesocieties.net)
 

7. Finally, will you be able to get on well with the photographer.  This is very important, the need for effective communication is paramount.  This is very important for conference photographers, who will be interacting with the delegates at your event and it is crucial that they do not disrupt the flow of the event and that they are friendly and co-operative with the delegates and speakers.

So, I hope that helps, happy snapping.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

Today I am going to look at car photography and the corporate event photographer Edinburgh Scotland and how photographing cars has been an integral part of my corporate commercial photography in Scotland.  Cars are great photographic subjects and they cross over many genres.  For wedding photographers in Scotland, the car photo is an important part of the day, assuming there are classic cars.  Even if the car is not spectacular and mostly they are to be honest, the bride entering the venue is a significant part of the day and the car will be photographed.

Other uses for car photography in Scotland

As an infrared photographer in Scotland, cars have featured in some of my most successful photos.  I once photographed scrap cars in infrared for an magazine and I sold some prints following an exhibition in East Lothian. Details of this event are included in this link: IN PICTURES: Dunbar photographer's infrared project shows East Lothian in a new light | East Lothian Courier.  Many of the photos were from a scrapyard project that I photographed, details of which can be found here: Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow corporate and event photographer | Scrapyard Project.

I have photographed cars as a sports photographer in Scotland in motor sport events and also photographing supercars.  Vintage cars are also excellent to photograph and this was one of my favourite subjects before I became a professional commercial photographer in Scotland.  Cars were a popular subject when I was a newspaper photographer in Scotland.  I once photographed a mustang that featured in a Hollywood film and on a less glamourous note, I had to photograph illegally parked cars in Dalkeith for the local press, so what I here you say but this turned out to be one of my more risky photoshoots as the locals were none too happy.  I even photographed cars as a conference photographer in Edinburgh, Scotland, when important speakers or delegates arrived.  Again for the newspapers I photographed famous people in cars, often straining to get a recognisable image, but I had plenty of experience of this when photographing the supercars, as we had to make sure you could recognise the participants, who bought the photos.

So there you go, just some examples of car photography, one of my favourite subjects to photograph.  I will leave you with an infrared image of a car.  Infrared captures the metal brilliantly and increases the dynamic range, which makes for a dramatic image, especially with vintage or retro style cars.

So until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

Today we are going to take a look at Improvisation and the commercial corporate conference photographer Edinburgh and how the best photographers are the ones who can adapt to their surroundings and can suddenly change their strategy at a moments notice.  Now you may say, shouldn't all photographers be able to do this and well, not always.  A studio photographer for instance can pre-determine the photographic environment in advance, including the lighting positioning of the props model etc.  Whereas a wedding photographer in Scotland, for instance will have to adapt to different lighting indoors and outdoors.  Most outdoor event photographers will have to adapt to changing lighting, weather conditions etc.  So here is a list of some of the things you will have to look out for if you need to improvise in your genre of photography.

Improvisation and the commercial corporate conference photographer Edinburgh
 

1. The weather.  As we all know especially for commercial photographers in Scotland, this can change very quickly and you have to be prepared with your equipment, clothing and lighting.

2. The client can change the brief on the day, to something totally different than you expected and it is your job to adapt.  This is especially true for conference photographers in Scotland, who may suddenly be asked to photograph group portraits or workshops without any notice.  Its all part of the job and what I like about uncontrolled environment photography.

3. The timings can change.  This could be anything from extra time during football photography, a politician arriving late during conference photography in Glasgow, to a cancellation of an event due to poor weather.  Always be prepared is the motto.

4. This one is a bit different but it can happen.  Your gear can pack in, the flash may break half way through a photoshoot, a lens may stop working, your batteries may run out.  This one, although a bit disruptive is the easiest one to fix.  Just take at least 2 of everything and in some cases 3 and plenty of batteries and memory cards and always record to 2 memory cards in case one breaks.

5. When you arrive at a venue the lighting may be all over the place and you only have a certain amount of control.  There may be chairs in the wrong position getting in the way of your photo, people sitting in your line of site, an area that the photographer cant access, this is very common in sports photography.  You may also have very little room to stand or take a group photo for instance, but it is up to you to try and change the environment to help you take great photos and if it is outwith your control, you just have to and here is that word again - improvise.

So everyone, hope that helps  So use your powers of improvisation to get these photos.  Until next time, here are some event photos from my sister website at www.edinburghphotographer.com. Music and Theatre Event Photography Scotland - Colin Wright Photography (edinburghphotographer.com).  There are also a variety of photos on this website to view at: Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow corporate and event photographer | Welcome - corporate conference photographer Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com
 

Today we are going to look at the importance of training for the professional corporate event photographer Edinburgh, Scotland.  This is especially important in todays ever changing technological environment.  So lets take a look at why it is so important for commercial photographers in Scotland to keep up to date with their training.

The importance of Training for the professional corporate event photographer Edinburgh, Scotland

1. Technological improvements to cameras have been developing at a rapid rate.  We also change our gear more regularly nowadays than in the film days.

2. Updated training events are a good way to network with other people in the photography industry.

3. Training and other gatherings with fellow photographers keep you fresh and keen to try new things in this fascinating industry we all work in.

4. You are never to old to learn and no matter how good an event or conference photographer in Edinburgh, you are, it is always vital to update your training and learn new techniques.

5. Software developments enable professional photographers of today to capture some amazing imagery.  It is therefore vital that you keep up to date with any new developments.

So I hope that helps.  Whilst it is vital to keep training on a regular basis in the field of photography, it also important that we don't neglect training in business and website development, in addition to keeping our photographic skills finely tuned.  So even if you just update your Photoshop training Adobe Creative Cloud | Details and products | Adobe keep on learning everyone.

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Corporate event and conference photographer Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland (colinwrightphotography.co.uk)

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

Today I am going to look at Conference and event photography Edinburgh Scotland and the seasons, mainly how the change from winter to summer affects event photographers ie who is affected most and how does it change our focus, if you pardon the pun.  There is a good article by National Geographic on how to photograph in poor weather How to Take Good Photos in Bad Weather (nationalgeographic.com).  Also here is a link to some of my landscape images, with examples of photography from all seasons at the same locations. Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow corporate and event photographer | Landscape

How the seasons and event photographers in Scotland

1. For sports photographers in Scotland, this can fairly significant.  You would think that outdoor sports would be played in the summer and indoor ones in the winter, but this is not always the case, with football and rugby for example taking place in the winter.  There are also some sports that take place all year round ie swimming, gymnastics, boxing etc.

2. You will probably use flash more in the winter, as you will find yourself indoors a lot, with less room.  This can be significant for wedding photographers in Scotland, who will take entirely different photographs in the winter ie the guests wont be outdoors drinking champagne.  Other genres such as conference photography in Edinburgh and Glasgow for instance are hardly affected by the seasons as the take place indoors.

3. You will work in higher ISOs in the winter with poor limited light and often less time to photograph your subject if it is outdoors.

4. Photographers in some genres may have to diversify out of season.  If they photograph a lot of outdoor landscapes in the summer for instance, they may have to find alternative subjects in the winter.  Likewise the average wedding photographer in Scotland may have to change his or her outlook in the winter, as there are traditionally less weddings at that time of the year.

5. You will have to dress accordingly outdoors and be prepared for weather which can delay your arrival to events.  This may sound obvious but I have heard of photographers being late for photoshoots due to bad weather and its just not acceptable in our profession.  You will also need protective gear for your camera and lenses, plus a good towel or cloth to dry off the snow or rain.  If you are a newspaper photographer in Scotland, you will be required to go out in all types of weather and there will be no excuses.

So I hope this helps.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

IHG conference Edinburgh 2019Intercontinental Hotel Group International IT conference, Edinburgh 2019 by professional corporate and event photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

Intercontinental Hotel Group International IT conference, Edinburgh 2019 by professional corporate and event photographer Edinburgh, Scotland

A quick blog today, just to say what a great time I had photographing the wedding of Alexis and Ryan at the Atholl Palace Hotel, Pitlochry. Atholl Palace Hotel | 4-Star Hotel in Pitlochry, Scotland

Wedding photographer Scotland and the weather.
We were lucky with the weather and a good time was had by all, particularly the guests from Aberdeenshire, who were a great crowd.  The bride and groom were up for a wander to get some really creative images and video.  Thanks again to the organisers and the video team at Orchard Films, Steve and Cheryl.  As an event photographer in Scotland, you have to be prepared for everything and whilst I am used to wasps and bees outdoors, maybe it was a bit of a surprised to have to deal with them indoors during the ceremony, but the bride took it in her stride.  The Atholl Palace Hotel is a wonderful venue in the Perthshire countryside, the grounds are vast and there is a feeling of remoteness, although it is only an hour and a half from my home on the outskirts of Glasgow. The blessing with all wedding and event photography in Edinburgh, Glasgow and anywhere in Scotland for that matter, is the ability to get outside, it really makes a massive difference to the final photographs, although you do have to be prepared to improvise when we do get poor weather and as we all know it does happen frequently for wedding photographers in Scotland. However, some weddings are almost all indoors and this is not such an issue.   As a conference photographer in Edinburgh, almost all my events are indoors, although often they are held at Murryfield Rugby Stadium and then the delegates often want to go outside for a quick photo. 

Scotland ideal venue for wedding photography

Scotland has some unbelievable wedding venues and the Atholl Palace is one of them, with a vast expanse of land surrounded by the fantastic Perthshire landscape, it really is one of the ideal venues for wedding photography. Just to let you know some images will follow once the wedding couple have received their final photographs.  However, I have photographed a fair number of fantastic wedding photography venues and many can be viewed on this page. Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow corporate and event photographer | Wedding Photographer Edinburgh Glasgow and Scotland.

So everyone, of for some conference photography in Glasgow now, with more event photography in Scotland coming up soon as we move into the autumn.  So until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

Today I am going to talk about the importance of new technology, particularly for cameras and how they have evolved at a rapid rate, especially the last 5 to 10 years.  This new technology can enable us to work faster, more creatively and offer more for our clients.  I am going to start by telling you the gear I use, as this blogs pertains mainly to Canon R gear, although I often use Nikon for infrared work and also Lumix and Fuji as back-up cameras.  First of all I would like to begin by looking at the single most important breakthrough for event photographers in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland.  In my opinion, the ability of new cameras, particularly mirrorless Canon R models, to operate in low light has changed dramatically in the last 5 years or so.  The Canon R6 is a fantastic addition to the conference photographer Scotland, it allows all kinds of scope to work without flash.  Of course there are times when a bit of flash will give us that bit extra for some of our images but overall event and corporate photographers in Glasgow and Edinburgh, should avoid it where possible and you may even be restricted at certain events.  As an example the attached photo provides an example of working in very low light, although this photo was taken outdoors it was dark and pouring of rain, but my Canon gear coped very well. Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow corporate and event photographer | Music and Theatre Photography

So here is my list of technological advances in the last 5 years for what it is worth.

10 best technological advances for cameras:

1. Ability to perform brilliantly in low light.

2. Smaller and lighter than ever, without losing the quality.

3. Eye detection is excellent in some of the new models.

4. Image stabilisation is now incorporated into some camera bodies as well as lenses and it is much improved from the earlier attempts.

5. Mirrorless lenses have been introduced, with the same quality as the previous DSLR without the weight.

6. The phone cameras can =now be used as a back-up, or at least as a means of checking exposure, light etc.  They really are that good, check out the new Iphone 15 camera. iPhone - Apple (UK)

7. Most cameras now have dual recording, to help avoid any disasters if one card breaks.

8. You can back up the photos onto your phone and edit right away to provide immediate results for your event photography client in Scotland.

9. The viewing screens are excellent resolution and quality.

10. You can now edit your images even faster on camera before downloading the images.

So everyone, hope that helps, so get out there snapping with your new wonderful gear.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

I am often asked what I do as a conference and event photographer working in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Scotland during the quiet months and the answer is that I usually don't rely purely on one genre of photography and I also have a number of projects planned.  Although I am a conference photographer in Edinburgh, I also do other events, such as wedding photography in Scotland, sports photography for newspapers and general event photography in Scotland.  However, I am also an infrared photographer in Scotland and I combine this skill with other personal projects.  For example, I photographed scrapyards in East Lothian Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow corporate and event photographer | Scrapyard Project
and Edinburgh and managed to sell a number of images and also to have some of them published in an article in the East Lothian Courier Haddington and East Lothian News, Sport, Events - East Lothian Courier. I am now about to embark on a project which involves photographing shopping trollies around Glasgow and the surrounding area, sounds a bit daft but stranger things have become popular. So get your thinking cap on and come up with a project on a subject close to your heart, something you are passionate about and something you feel is unique if possible.

Things to think about for your photography project

1. Who is it intended for.  This is very important as it could influence the type of images you produce.  Is it purely for your own benefit, or is it intended for sale to the general public or an exhibition for instance, or even for a specific client.

2. When do you want it finished by.  This provides you with some discipline as to deadlines etc.  It may also have to be completed in time for an exhibition for instance.

3. What gear will you use.

4. Where will you take the photos.  Is it in one city, town etc.

5. Is the project weather dependant, this could delay the completion if this is the case.  For instance, infrared photography requires sunlight which is often in short supply in Scotland.  This can make planning the project difficult.

6. How are you going to show the final images, online, on your website, in an exhibition with prints, there are many options and it comes down to number 1 above, as to who it is intended for.

These are just some of the things requiring to be addressed.  So good luck.

Until next time.

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

A great weekend at the Kirkintilloch Canal Festival even if the weather was awful on Saturday night but it will take more than a little rain to spoil things in the west of Scotland.  There was live music, stalls and all kinds of entertainment, including the attached photo from the Sisters of Soul, who were at their best, along with all the live entertainment. This year’s festival was a bit special as it was the first one since the pandemic and you could tell everyone was itching to make their way to Southbank Marina in Kirkintilloch.

As a freelance event and conference photographer, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland, it was good to cover an event like this and it brought back memories of my 10 years as a newspaper photographer in Scotland.  If there any photographers out there just starting out, I would suggest they get in some local practice at events in their area.  You don’t need special gear nowadays, just a camera, or a good phone for that matter.  It’s a myth that you need to turn up at events with 3 cameras and massive lenses, that is just for show, especially with the advancement of technology with mirrorless cameras.  The only time you need a large lens is at poorly lit night events where more high quality glass is required and even that is changing.

So, thanks to East Dunbartonshire Council for a great couple of days.  Can’t wait until next year.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Today I am going to discuss a subject that is on everyone's mind at the moment, especially for people who earn their living through digital means and the arts and that is AI and how it effects professional event photographers in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland.  I will look at 3 things, the legal aspect, which photographic genres are effected most and finally the moral side of things. I will also look at how it effects myself as a professional conference and event photographer Scotland.

The legal question of AI

So we start of by looking at the legal aspects of AI.  I can only address this from the perspective of a professional photographer Glasgow, Edinburgh and Scotland, so here it is for what it's worth.  When you use a background or an object or anything photographic to enhance your photo, someone else has created that background or object and there should be copyright involved.  Is every photographer being reimbursed for their work in these cases, I don't think so.  It also could create a new market for some photographers

AI and how it effects professional event photographers in Edinburgh

Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow corporate and event photographer | Commercial event photographer Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland
 

From my point of view as a professional conference photographer in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland, the answer is not very much.  As an event photographer, it is all about capturing the moment and adding something unreal to a wedding photo, or sports event or conference will not be what the client wants.  There may be some minimal uses but not much, in my opinion.  Now as an infrared photographer in Scotland, Colin Wright Photography, Edinburgh and Glasgow corporate and event photographer | Infrared Collection Gallery this is an entirely different story and landscape and artistic photographers could lose out most with the introduction of AI.  It is such a big issue that the Royal Photographic Society are holding a conference to discuss the effects of AI on the photography industry. BBC Yorkshire and Simon Hill (rps.org).  Other than to set rules for their competitions and awards, there is probably not a lot they can do, but at least it makes people aware that this is a big issue for the industry.

AI and the moral argument.

Now this is the one that really interests me. If you replace your ball during a game of golf to gain an advantage, cheat in any other way, then at the end of your round, you won't feel so good about your game and you may even feel guilty that you won.  Now I know this doesn't seem to be an issue for a lot of athletes these days but it is still a big question.  You should feel proud of your photos and happy that you have captured a moment in time, that is what got me into photography, capturing the beauty of Scotland and beyond.  So there is an argument that it is a form of cheating, ah I hear you say, but haven't we been doing this anyway in Photoshop and other software packages, well yes, but this takes it to another level and you could end up with a digital creation and not a photograph, as a photograph is meant to capture the world as it is, not as a computer sees it. Technology will always lead to new ways of doing things and the move from analogue to digital was a big step, but we have to keep an eye on it, or it could destroy the art within our industry.

This subject will be explored in greater detail in future blogs.  That all for me now.  Some event photography in Midlothian coming up in the form of photographing segways in action.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

As an event photographer in Scotland, I am well into the outdoor conference and event photography season with it being August.  This year, as well as conference photography in Edinburgh, wedding photography in Scotland and some general event photography in Glasgow, I will also be returning to do some Segway photography in Vogrie Country Park in Midlothian.  So I thought this would be a good time to provide you with some top tips for event photographers in Scotland.

1. Research your event thoroughly, whether it is for a sports event or classic cars, make sure you have a good knowledge of the subject.

2. Get the timings right, don’t be late and make sure you know the key times involved.

3. Prepare all your gear in advance the night before and only take what you need with lots of batteries.  I have conducted a wedding photography assignment with only one lens befire.

4. Communicate with the client well in advance and nearer the time and establish a good relationship with them.

5. Know your brief to the exact degree, then use your creative photography skills to give the client something extra.  I have often supplied couples for weddings in Scotland, some infrared photography photos and they loved them.

6. Be confident and knowledgeable.

7. Respect the guests/participants and take great care during the photoshoot, in addition to adopting a friendly attitude at all time.

8. Dress appropriately and smart but casual.  For wedding photography in Scotland, you dont need to try and upstage the wedding couple.

9. Keep in mind what the final photos will look like after editing. Pre-visualisation is a very important aspect of photography.

10. Finally have fun and enjoy.  Professional photographers in Scotland have the most enjoyable job in the world.

Hope that is helpful.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Today I am going to look at the need for photographers to keep pursuing projects, especially ones that divert from their specialist photography genre.  As most of you know, I am a freelance event, corporate and conference photographer working in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland.  Now recently I went on a quick family holiday to Karlsruhe Germany and I used this vacation period as a time when i could pursue another one of my photography projects.  In this case I wanted to continue with infrared photography and also to combine it with photographing art installations and architecture in Karlsruhe. I also wanted to extend the definition of art to include graffiti and other every day things.  So what exactly makes for a good photography project.  Here are a few tips to get you started:

1. Have a general theme and work round it ie in my case it is infrared photography and art and then I have expanded it.

2. Keep in mind if you are going to be producing a final colour or black and white image or a colour photo.  This is particularly relevant for infrared photography in Scotland, as certain subjects are more suitable in colour and others work better in infrared, a lot of foliage and strong sunshine can work well for colour infrared, while metallic subjects and photos with a lot of detail sometimes look better in black and white.

3. Stick to your brief but this is digital photography, you can always shoot something else and go back to your project, however, sometimes it pays to concentrate on the project.

4. Think about telling a story, your photos should lead the viewer into your subject matter.

5. Enjoy, but event is you are a conference photographer from Edinburgh on holiday, take it seriously as, you never know, these photos may be your next exhibition.  One of my most successful photos in infrared of a highland cow in the snow was taken during a hill walk, so always carry your camera and be alert.

Anyway hope this helps.

Until next time, have a good week. I will be off on an event photography in Edinburgh commission this week, then as a conference photographer in Glasgow the following week.

Kind Regards

Colin

I thought I would spend today talking about how landscape and infrared photography in Scotland can be used for conference and event photography in Edinburgh, or throughout the country.  As you all know, I am a specialist conference photographer in Edinburgh, and throughout Scotland.  I am also a general event photographer in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Scotland, however much of my time in the summer especially is spent on infrared photography in Scotland and also as a landscape photographer throughout Scotland.  So how can I utilise my skills in landscape and infrared photography for the benefit of my my conference and event photography in Scotland, well there are many ways and below is a list of examples:

1. Wedding photography is ideal for using infrared if the weather is right, the cars, the white dress, foliage etc, just make sure you don't make the bride look too weird, it will also likely be better for black and white infrared, unless you have a really whacky couple who like colour infrared photography.  Of course a good landscape photographer can take advantage of the background scene to benefit the wedding photographer in Scotland.

2. Architecture photographers can benefit greatly from a landscape photographers skills, but infrared can really help the architecture photographer with striking images depicting clouds and dramatic skies, not to mention high dynamic range.

3. Some sports can even work well in infrared, I have taken football and rugby using a converted infrared camera, again black and white is usually the preferred option.  Anything involving metal such as super cars and racing events will look great in infrared.

4. Theatre photography if outdoors can benefit from infrared as it is an art form, which can create over the top images suitable for drama and other outdoor activities.  I have often used infrared to depict outdoor Edinburgh Fringe Festival performers.  Rock music performers and bands also benefit from the infrared treatment.

5. Urban infrared photography gives you something totally different for your city photos, see attached photograph taken in Glasgow.

6. Nature photography in infrared is really interesting, you can really play with colours and contrast.  I took some interesting images of bees during the pandemic, which can be viewed in the infrared section of my website.

Anyway, more to follow soon.  Hope this helps all you landscape and infrared photographers out there.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.edinburghphotographer.com

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

For my blog today I will be looking at how event and conference photographers in Edinburgh, Glasgow or Scotland can make use of skills from other genres and also generally how all the different types of photography link together.  Now I am a specialist conference photographer in Glasgow and Edinburgh and this is my main source of income.  However, I do other types of photography.  I am also an active wedding photographer throughout Scotland and the North of England, I photograph all types of events in Glasgow and Edinburgh right up to Aberdeen.  I photograph football, rugby, work as a newspaper photographer throughout Scotland and also do some fine art, landscape and infrared photography in Scotland.  So how can all these genres help each other.  Lets take a look at wedding photography for instance.  A wedding photographer needs to be good at fashion photography nowadays, also the all round experience of a newspaper photographer will also be useful in weddings and conferences, as you taking formal shots, reacting to things happening, working to deadlines etc.  As a sports photographer, I have to get the right position and know when the important thing will happen and this helps me at conferences, with set times and reacting quickly to famous delegates and speakers arriving a the venue.   An architecture photographer will understand how to photograph buildings and interiors, which will obviously help at conferences and weddings and the portrait photographer can use their skills to great effect photographing conferences in Glasgow.  However of all the genres and experience that enabled me to be an effective conference and event photographer in Edinburgh, the main one that really helped was my 10 years as a newspaper photographer, which gave me practice in a wide range of photographic disciplines and enabled me to work quickly under pressure within tight deadlines.  

So, its of to photograph a conference in Edinburgh next week, then I will be taking some photos at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and some infrared photography in Glasgow and in the Highlands in Scotland, before returning to photograph a wedding in Glasgow after that.

So, until next time, keep snapping away.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

Today we are going to look a the effect of the four seasons on professional corporate and event photographers in Edinburgh, Glasgow and throughout Scotland.  As a professional corporate and conference photographer working in Edinburgh and Glasgow, I am often asked what I do when the conference season is quiet and the answer if that I am usually taking an entirely different type of photograph, but at the same time there are similarities and each genre of photography has skills relevant to it that can be applied to other photoshoots.  Often conference photography can be quieter in the summer months, as these type of events are avoided when people take their vacations.  So this summer I have been involved in wedding photography around Scotland, from Perth, Glasgow and very recently at the Lodge on Loch Lomond last month.  Now the main difference between the seasons is that I spend a lot of time shooting outdoors, particularly for weddings, however, we all know that theory can fall flat due to the Scottish weather.  The life of a wedding photographer in Scotland can be similar to a conference photographer in Edinburgh, you are photographing an event, with certain key moments at set times throughout the day.  People often ask why I enjoy photographing the speeches at weddings and I reply that it is just like the speakers at a conference.  Also weddings like other events, will present you with opportunities to photograph candid moments and to capture the emotion in the faces of the participants.

Another difference in the seasons is the type of sport you photograph, football and rugby are winter sports and athletics, apart from the indoor track season, tends to take place in the spring and summer, whilst indoor sports can take place all year round, although a lot of them will take place in the autumn or winter.  I used to be a newspaper photographer in Edinburgh and the Lothians and this was obviously all year round but the jobs tended to be very seasonal, ie the gala days were in spring, football and rugby in the winter and then you had seasonal celebrations, such as Easter and Christmas.  As some of you will know, I am also a landscape and infrared photographer in Scotland and although you can photograph infrared all year round, you need daylight and as much sun as possible, so the summer and spring are best, landscape can be achieved all year round but the days are shorter.

So, I could go on but the main aspect of this article is to emphasise that you can take photographs all year round and it can provide you with great opportunities to learn new skills and apply all you have learned to different genres of photography.  So no excuses get out there and snap away.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin 

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

Edinburgh Fringe Festival, event photography in Edinburgh Scotland by event and corporate photographer Colin WrightEdinburgh Fringe Festival, Royal Mile, Edinburgh

Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Royal Mile, Edinburgh

Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2017 by freelance event and corporate photographer, Colin WrightEdinburgh Fringe Festival 2017

Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2017

Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2017 by freelance event and corporate photographer, Colin WrightEdinburgh Fringe Festival 2017

Edinburgh Fringe Festival by event and conference photographer Edinburgh Colin Wright

In todays blog I am going to be looking at how conference and event photographers in Scotland are approaching photographic assignments now, in light of new technological advancements.  Digital itself has revolutionised photography but the changes within digital itself have also changed the landscape considerably for conference photographers in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland.  So for what it is worth, here are some of the main changes in technology affecting event photographers.

Technological changes affecting the conference photographer in Scotland

1. The ISO performance has improved remarkably enabling photographers to work in very low light without much noise creating more than useable photos at very high ISOs.  This means there is often no need to use flash and cheaper lenses can be used in low light situations, rather than forking out for expensive and fast lenses all the time.

2. The off camera flash systems are very sophisticated, versatile and more portable, enabling the photographer to move more freely and obtain high quality results on a regular basis.

3. The equipment is now smaller, with less need for long lenses and the smaller mirrorless cameras the same high quality as some of the larger DSLRs, giving the photographer more freedom to move about and also enabling him/her to blend in more in their surroundings without disrupting the event too much.

4. You can now wifi the images straight to your phone or pc and produce some photos for clients on the day, with the main photos to follow later.

5. Photos are now usually sent by a link, meaning they can be received a lot quicker and negating the need for burning DVDs or CDs.

6. Focussing is now far better with very good image stabilising and excellent eye detection for most cameras, making the job of the photographer easier and improving the quality.

7. You are now expected to take far more photos and supply the client with more images, this is a goods thing and can also enable the conference photographer to get more creative.

8. Silent shooting is one of the great advances.  I photographed a classical music concert recently and I would not have been able to do this properly without the new technological advances, particularly since the need to shoot without shutter noise was requested by the client.  This will also benefit conference photographers all over the country, as you won't be cringing every time you think your shutter has been heard by the presenters or the conference delegates.

So hope that helps, but it is also important to note that these technological changes only make the professional conference photographer in Edinburgh better and there will always be a need to compose effectively, use the light creatively and take bespoke wonderful images.  No amount of technological changes can make up for talent and training.

So, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Wedding Photography Loch Lomondwedding photography at The Lodge on Loch Locmond, Luss by professional wedding and event photographer Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland

wedding photography by professional wedding and event photographer Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland

Infrared Photography ScotlandInfrared photography in Scotland by professional freelance fine art and corporate photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

Infrared photography in Scotland by professional freelance fine art and corporate photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

Today I am going to look at the subject of what certain professions do when they are on holiday.  As a professional event and conference photographer Edinburgh and Glasgow, I am often asked this question.  Well the answer is, I enjoy my holiday but I also keep taking photos of my family and of the landscape around me.  This is especially true for myself as a landscape and infrared photographer around Scotland.  I may, however travel a bit lighter and take photos a bit quicker than I normally would.  I also probably won’t use a tripod when I normally would but I think if you are in a different location, it’s an opportunity missed if you don’t take photos when you are away.  I also have made money from images taken as an infrared photographer in Scotland while on holiday.  It’s also good practice to photograph in a short space of time.  I became accustomed to this as a newspaper photographer working around East Lothian and Edinburgh, you had a very limited time to shoot and you had to do it quickly.  Also photographing with limited equipment ie a telephoto lens is good practice for landscape photographers in Scotland and it forces you to move into the right space to get the best result.  I also think people are relaxed on holiday and without the pressure, this can be a very good time to take some of your best shots.

So everyone, get out there with your camera when you are on holiday this year.  Here is a photo I took whilst on holiday at the Trossachs in Scotland, I converted it to infrared on my return.

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

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https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on#fq=venue_name%3A%22Pleasance%20Courtyard%22&q=Guffy

A quick blog today on the subject of event photography, or more to the point low light music and theatre photography.  I had the pleasure of a photoshoot earlier on in the week at Pitlochry Festival Theatre for an Edinburgh Fringe Festival play due to premier next month.  So wha are we trying to capture when we are involved in theatre photography in Scotland. So for all budding event and theatre photographers Edinburgh and throughout Scotland, here is a list of tips for consideration.

Tips for theatre photographers Edinburgh:

1. You will be working in low low light and unless this is just a rehearsal, you won’t be able to use flash, so use a high ISO, as high as your camera can cope with, without much grain showing.

2. Get as close as you can with a telephoto lens if necessary, try and get facial expressions.

3. Eye focus is essential for theatre photography.

4. Change your angles to get interesting photos and move around if you can.

5. Ensure you communicate well with the actors.

6. Try not to take too long, if you do the actors may tire, which will effect their expressions in the photos.

7. Try and get shots with natural backgrounds with props and a theatrical black background.

8. Finally, enjoy, in my opinion this is one of the more enjoyable commissions for the event photographer in Scotland.

So hope that helps.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

I thought I would do a quick blog today to discuss the topic of moral decisions faced by professional photographers and other artists, this was prompted by a discussion I had on the recent trip by King Charles to Edinburgh for the crown jewel ceremony.  The question with this event for photographers in Edinburgh, is should they participate in this event if they are against the monarchy for example, or to use another example, if you are asked to photograph an event at a nuclear power station and you are against nuclear power, what should you do.  Now the answer as with most of these things is up to the individual and it is also a complex issue, so we are going to answer it with the words “ it depends”.  Here is my opinion for what it’s worth.  If you are a newspaper photographer in Scotland, you really have to go where you are sent and it should not be an issue, presumably you will only occasionally have to photograph things you don’t like.  I myself often had to photograph politicians I did not agree with but I showed the upmost professionalism as I always do.  If you are asked to work full time for a organisation you disagree with, then I would find this difficult to do ie a full time PR photographer for a political party you dislike intensely.  Now it gets complicated, if you are commissioned to do a one off photo job for conference photography in Scotland for instance and you are freelance and you really need the work, then it is up to you and unless it was something I really had a problem with, I would probably do it.  I also think that someone being asked to perform centre stage at an event ie a musician, like the recent one in Edinburgh, has a stronger moral reason to refuse, than a photographer or journalist, for instance due to the profile of the event and the importance of the performance. The attached photo is from a newspaper photography commission in Edinburgh at the G8 conference in 2005.  I had a problem with the futility of the G8 event and the politicians involved but I was sent out to do a job and I did it.  I was also more than happy to get some good demonstration photos, actually it turned out to be closer to a mini riot.
 

So there you have, my two cents worth, but I am sure you have your own opinion.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Just a quick blog to say as a professional event photographer Glasgow Scotland, it was an absolute joy to photograph the final day concert at Douglas Academy with my daughter performing a solo with her viola.  Music photography is great fun but you have to be aware of the performers, often you cant use flash and you need to get creative, often with very little space to change position, but don't forget to get some close ups, as well as some emotional photos from the audience and the performers.

I look forward to more music and event photography in Edinburgh and Glasgow in the near future.  I will also be off to Pitlochry Theatre next week to photograph an Edinburgh Fringe Festival play, cant wait.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotogrpahy.co.uk

Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

So today I am going to briefly look at some essential tips for music photographers in Scotland.  To be honest, you should just think of music photography as a kind of event photography, as the same rules apply, so as a starter I will detail the tips below and expand on the issues in the weeks to come under future blogs.  So here we go:

1. Know the genre of music, when the key moments will be the general rules for the musicians and the audience ie keep your camera on silent shutter mode for classical concerts, although not necessary for others is when I photographed Midstock, Midstock 23 | midstock (midstockfestival.com)
there was no need for silent shooting but there is at a school classical concert for instance.

2. Its all about position, try and get in the centre of you are not allowed to move around.  As always vary your angles etc.

3. Photograph the the artists close up and with the band or backing performers.

4. Get photos of the crowd, this is try for all event photographers in Scotland and also applies to sport big style.

5. Take close-ups of the instruments.

6. Remember and capture the emotions before, ie the nerves and after the relief and applause etc.

7. Obey the rules, if you are told not to move around then keep as quiet as possible.  It is also important not to spoil the enjoyment of the others in the crowd.

8. As with all professional photographers in Scotland, be polite and knowledgeable but also firm with clients and the crowd, your job is to come away with great photos, if they put you in a corner with a poor view, explain the you can't work miracles.

9. Vary your focal length ie telephoto, wide angle if possible and try and include as many of the performers as possible.

10. Enjoy the photoshoot and the music.

Anyway, that's all for now, hope this helps all you budding music photographers in Scotland.

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh (edinburghphotographer.com)
 

Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Event Photography Scotland, by professional freelance corporate and event photographer Colin Wright, Colin Wright Photography,Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Event Photography Scotland, by professional freelance corporate and event photographer Colin Wright, Colin Wright Photography,

Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Event Photography Scotland, by professional freelance corporate and event photographer Colin Wright, Colin Wright Photography,

I was once part of a photography discussion and the subject matter was, what is the most important aspect of photography.  Now in a room full of professional photographer, most of them event photographers in Edinburgh, then you knew you were going to be in for a lively debate.  Some of the usual suspects were suggested, like subject matter, technical ability, sharpness, correct focussing, good equipment, light and composition but I always feel that these are things which assist the photographer, the tools he or she requires. 

Capturing the moment

When I am photographing a conference in Glasgow, or working as an event photographer in Edinburgh, I am looking to capture the moment, this will always involve emotions, however, yes, you will have to use all your skills, mentioned above to make this happen, but the essence is that you must create an image that freezes that moment in time, looks brilliant technically and is focussed correctly but you only need these other factors if you have captured the moment. 

Sports Photography

This is illustrated with sports photography ie the goal, the crowd going mad during a celebration, the emotions of joy when the captain lifts the cup and this is why you will see sports and general event photographers in Scotland, keeping their gear ready at all times, as sometimes the best photo you are going to get will not be the ball going over the line, remember the famous Eric Cantona photo at the Man Utd Crystal Palace match https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/manchester-united-eric-cantona-kick-20466384.  One of my best ever sports photos was from a rugby match at Murrayfield where i captured perfectly the celebrating crowd, another was of an image of a well liked young footballer scoring a goal, a year or two before he tragically passed away far too early, so you know if is all about capturing the moment. 

Unique Photographer

So if I could choose one other important aspect of photography, what would it be.  Well the one thing always try to be as an event photographer in Scotland, is unique, ie to try to be different to all the rest.  This is challenging today with all the images around us but it is still vital.  We can all copy artists, but you need to develop your own style.  I for one don't want to go and watch a tribute band of Quean, that sound and look like them, if I wanted to see the band I would have gone to see the real thing, or something completely different.  By all means be inspired and motivated by other photographers, but dont copy, learn and develop your own style.

Anyway, that's all for me for now.  Get out there snapping.

Until next time.  Oh and just a small reminder, my Colin Wright Photography - Commercial Photographer in Edinburgh (edinburghphotographer.com)
Edinburgh Photographer website has now been relaunched and I am looking forward to populating it with some cool new stuff.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin 
 

Today we are going to look at how corporate conferences and event photographers in Edinburgh and Glasgow should be preparing for the day.  First of all you will have had conversations with the client by email and they will let you know what is expected of you on the day, this can relate to a number of things such as when to send the photos, the format, size etc.  you have to make sure that you will deliver as the client requests and then some more.  When I am photographing a conference in Edinburgh for instance, I will think of something different I can offer the client over and above the brief. This could be some infrared photos additional shots at different angles etc.

Before the event I will check out the location for potential photo opportunities.  I will also establish a dialogue with the people who run the venues, this will make everything easier on the day.  Then I will research previous publications the organisation has, to see what kind of photos were used and I will endeavour to do it even better.  Then I will ensure all my gear is ready, picking every piece of equipment I will need and doubling the number of batteries and cameras, in case of emergencies, oh and remember to take 2 flashes.  I remember hearing a colleague who was a photographer at a conference in Glasgow, who had his flash packed in on him at the start of the event, all the remaining photos had to be taken in natural light at a poorly lit venue.

Then just before the event, test out all the gear and do a final plan for the day, this is particularly important if there are specific times you have to keep in mind like for wedding photography or a conference photography event in Scotland with speakers and politicians attending.

So happy photographing.  Hope that helps.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

infrared photography Scotland by professional fine art and corporate photographer Edinburgh Glasgow Colin Wright

Today I am going to look at the need to keep evolving no matter what genre of photography you are into.  This usually means how you can provide a bespoke service to make you totally unique in the photographic marketplace.  Now for all photographers, not just corporate, event and conference photographers in Scotland, this can be difficult in a crowded marketplace, especially with millions of images circulating the internet, so if you want to stand out in the crowd, you have to go that bit further. 

How to provide bespoke wedding photographs in Scotland.

How can this be done, well first you have to develop your own style, that is your own way of taking photos, so that they are recognisable as your images.  This can only happen through time as you gain experience and develop your own techniques and photos that make you recognisable.  I have a reportage style as a wedding photographer in Scotland, I also use my skills as an infrared photographer in Scotland to enhance my wedding phots outdoors, as very few people do this, then I can add that to my portfolio, so I am recognisable as a bespoke wedding photographer in Scotland.

How to become a bespoke Conference photographer in Scotland.

Well, again this is similar to above, I will utilise infrared when outdoors, I also like low and unusual angles when photographing conferences in Scotland and I like to be creative with my focusing, often utilising crops, like mirrors, conference programmes, glasses etc.  You really want people to take a second glance at your images, so you have grabbed their attention. Again, I like to produce candid moments, capturing emotions outwith the posed format and all these things add to my unique style

Unique sports photographer in Scotland.

So how can you be different as a sports photographer in Scotland, well this in my opinion comes down to the angle and position you will have at the event.  Again I like to capture emotion as well as the active sport moments, in fact my most successful image was a photo from the crowd during a rugby match in Scotland.  To be different in sport, you need to watch all the time, as some of the best photos don't always involve action during the event.

So, hope this helps, I have found my unique bespoke style and I am sure you will find yours too.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

After a fair absence due to the pandemic, I have re-started on the wedding photography front again and its great to be back.  A friend and colleague in the photographic industry asked me to be a back up second shooter photographer, so she could concentrate on the video and some of the more formal images of the couple.  We have 3 weddings booked and 2 have already taken place in Glasgow and Perth and I have enjoyed every minute of them.  This article is mainly about how things have changed since pre-pandemic.  The main wedding change was of course for all event photographers in Scotland, to be honest, was in relation to the change from film to digital.  However there have been some significant changes since the pandemic, one relates to the absolute relief people have at being out, it is almost like being set free and you can see it in people at all corporate photography and event photography commissions in Glasgow Edinburgh and throughout Scotland.  The other main change relates to the technology.  I had just started using a Canon R before the pandemic.  It is a good camera but you can tell it has limitations relating to focussing and other issues, as it was their first mirrorless camera.  I now use the R6 and the frames per second and focussing are fast and much improved and better than anything I have worked with.  However the ISO performance is the main winner here, it is quiet simply outstanding and very little grain is evident even at very high ISO levels.  This camera is also perfect for sports photography in Scotland and Canon have brought out a range of lenses since the pandemic, with the non L lenses operating better than an old L lens with an adaptor, in my opinion.  The rest of the day is the same to be honest and I cant wait to get back into things.  Next stop Luss in Loch Lomond, cant wait.  I also have some theatre photography in preparation for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, in addition to some conference photography in Edinburgh.

So, everyone, get snapping.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Today I am going to have a look at some new developments for the creative infrared photographer and to discuss the AI issue a bit.  As a professional event and conference photographer in Scotland, I enjoy the completely different genre of infrared photography and the diversion from conventional corporate and event photography that I pursue in and around Scotland.  Infrared photography has changed dramatically in the last 10 years or so with the introduction of digital and converted cameras.  There are many options with the photographer having the ability to chose their filter depending on the type of infrared photography they prefer ie black and white or different strengths of filters which render certain colours better - this will be the subject of another blog where I can expand on this subject.  You can also go full spectrum which is just a clear filter giving you the option to add infrared filters to your camera according to your needs and if you take this road you can also use an Aerochrome filter which will mimic the original Aerochrome film of the past.  All these advancements are terribly exciting for photographers.  
 

However, this brings us to a new topic of AI, now the opinion is divided.  I think that if you create an entire image from scratch without the need for a camera then this is stage too far.  I even have some problems with replacing skies.  It is a matter of opinion mind you but I think most of us would agree it would be sad day to completely lose the art and craft aspect of photography, so I will continue to pursue my infrared photography and landscape photography in Scotland the conventional way.

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

I thought I would do a little blog on a recent trip to Loch Lomond for the day.  I drove to Rowerdennan in Loch Lomond for some infrared photography.  As a busy corporate, event and conference photographer in Edinburgh Glasgow and Scotland, it is a good diversion to do something completely different and I manged some chill time also.  The weather was fairly good for infrared photography, lots of sunshine and blue skies, although I could have done with a bit more cloud, I know that is a strange thing to say in Scotland, but it makes the sky a bit more interesting, however it is a fantastic spot.   Although most of the trees were not yet fully developed, there were still a few and some excellent reflections in the water.  I was looking for a combination of detailed black and white images and also some colourful photos showing the foliage at its best.  I am looking for some foreground focal points, in addition to some examples of framing an image, using the trees, statues etc to add interest to the photograph.  It is the same principle for infrared photography as it is for conference photography in Edinburgh, or as an event photographer in Glasgow, composition is everything and that and light are by far the most important aspects for successful photography.

On the same subject, I am looking to exhibit some of my photographs soon and to add to my infrared photography Scotland collection.  Having moved house just under 2 years ago, I now have a whole new collection of photographs from the Campsies, Loch Lomond, Strathblane, city photos from Glasgow and more.  In a couple of weeks I will be photographing a wedding in Perth, so I am looking forward to that.

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

In todays blog we are going to look at editing for professional corporate and event photographers Edinburgh and where to stop.  I will also look at my main workflow as a conference photographer in Edinburgh, in addition to how much editing I do for infrared photography in Scotland.

So how much editing is the right amount, well that depends on what you are editing and how much time you have.  When I was working as a newspaper photographer in Scotland, I had to send the images to the paper as soon as I could, some right away.  If I was sending the photos from a day shoot on Saturday I may have had a bit more time, but not much, so the only real editing I would do would involve cropping if necessary and maybe adjusting the exposure.  If you are looking at hundreds of photos that need to be sent quickly, then that's about it.  For a conference or event in Edinburgh, Glasgow or around Scotland, then I have a bit more time but time is money and you don't want to be spending days on the computer.  Work out according to the job just how much time you have for editing and stick to it.  For a conference, I will adjust exposure, crop, possibly remove any distracting objects, maybe convert some images to black and white, give them an artistic angle by using the Silver FX Nik filters by DXO.  Then I may use the levels a bit and sharpen the image but not much more than that, to be honest.  If I am doing wedding photos, then I may pick a few special images and work for longer on them, bringing out the detail on the dress, enhancing the eyes and possibly smoothing the photo a bit, but not too much editing.  I will then re-size for print if appropriate and sort the images for the client.  For infrared photography images, then I may spend more time on one or two photos to prepare them for print, with cropping, using the channel mixer, adjusting the tone, colour and saturation and possibly using Silver Efex pro filters or HDR software.

So that is a brief look at editing, hope it helps.  More on this subject soon.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Today I am going to look at how event and conference photographers in Edinburgh can effectively market themselves to the wider public and to Communications Departments in Scotland and throughout the UK.

First of all you have to make up your mind who your target market is.  Are you doing weddings, then Facebook is a good source for you, also Instagram, whereas if you are marketing as a conference photographer in Edinburgh, then you will want to use LinkedIn and probably Instagram, as Facebook tends to be used more for the general public, so for instance if you are a dog photographer in Scotland then you should use Facebook, whereas a newspaper and event photographer Glasgow you would be advised to use LinkedIn.  There are a wide range of other social media platforms and I am far from an expert in this area but that gives you a rough idea where to start.

Other areas for consideration, are obviously your website, make sure it showcases your best work and is professional looking.  There are a number of platforms to consider such as Square Space, Zenfolio and Wix, or you may wish to build it up through Word Press.  The main thing is it demonstrates your experience and shows you are a bespoke photographer working in Scotland.  You will need to ensure you are featured on Google Business and that you do all you can to improve your SEO for your website.  Keep doing your blogs, link to other organisations and link your social media accounts to your website.  Another effective source of improving your business is through networking groups, where you can increase your exposure locally and nationally with other businesses.  Having other photographer friends is also a good idea, especially if you do weddings or other event photography commissions in Scotland, as they may be able to assist you in big jobs, or act as a back up if you are ever I’ll.  it’s also a good idea to keep updating your training, especially in photoshop and other software.  Keep up to date with the new equipment on the go and keep checking your own gear regularly, but only buy new equipment if you think it will help you on a commission.  Keep updating your website and communicate regularly with your potential customers on social media.  If you are ever invited to talk about your photography, then always do so, everyone is a potential customer of the future, you may also enjoy it.
 

So I hope all that helps to get you started on your way to being a professional photographer in Glasgow or Edinburgh.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Today I am going to look at which lenses are best for which situation.  As an event photographer in Edinburgh and someone who photographs conferences around Scotland, I have to make sure I have the right lenses for the occasion.  If I photograph sport, I need longer lenses but not necessary beyond 200-300mm, although it’s good to have up to 400mm, hoewever you may want a shorter length if you are photographing football behind the goals, same with rugby.  Also do you need fast expensive lenses for sport, not necessarily unless you are working in Low light or floodlit areas.

For wedding and conference photographers in Edinburgh, which are the best lenses, well that depends again on the light, you will however benefit from a zoom lens say 24-70mm for instance, also something a bit longer up to 200mm but probably not more.  If you want to do some macro work at weddings then a macro lens may be useful, but overall you are best to minimise it, as you don’t want to be dragging a whole load of gear around all day, weddings are tiring enough without that.  Should you go prime or zoom, well that depends again on the light, prime lenses are better in low light and you tend to get a faster lens for your money, however you lose that versatility that you have with zooms.  I like prime lenses when I am photographing conferences in Edinburgh, as I can use them to good effect when someone is speaking on the podium, then use my zoom for the candid photos. Usually an 80mm prime lens is ideal for conferences.  Also you can often take more lenses if you are shooting mirrorless due to the smaller size of the new lenses.  For landscapes you want a wide angle such as 24 or 28mm at least, or even less ie 16-18mm.  If you want to get all arty a fish eye or 10mm lens may be ideal for these whacky photos.

So I hope all this helps, happy photo shooting.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Out at the weekend photographing a wedding at Citation Glasgow.  As an event photographer Edinburgh and Glasgow, It’s good to get back into wedding photography after a reduced number of weddings during the pandemic.  The venue at Citation Glasgow was excellent and the wedding couple were fantastic.  Photographs will follow once the couple have given their permission. Also at the weekend, I managed some infrared photography at my old home in Dunbar East Lothian.  The weather was perfect for it, with sun, clouds and plenty detail for infrared photography in Scotland.  Getting back to weddings, here are a few tips for wedding photographers in Scotland.  
 

1. Preparation is key, check all your gear, make sure you get there in plenty of time, arrange for food and know all your timings on the day.

2. Have a strict timetable for the day and try to stick with it, but remember to take lots of candid shots.

3. Keep an eye on your camera settings, changing your speed, ISO and aperture depending on light and also your white balance for indoor and outdoor shooting.

4. Use few lenses but bring 2 cameras.  I use a 24-70mm, 70-210mm and an 85mm, sometimes a  50mm standard lens or 40mm, plus one flash with a modifier or of camera.

5. Make sure you cover every crucial part ie arrival, ceremony, speeches, cake cutting and first dance.

So enjoy and until next time, I will leave you with an infrared photo from Dunbar.

Kind Regards

Colin

In todays blog I am going to examine the new landscape that professional photographers live in and as an event photographer in Edinburgh, Scotland, I will be looking at how this effects me and other professional photographers in Scotland.  As we all know new technology has taken away some of the craft in the profession.  You no longer have to be a skilled darkroom operator, just a computer geek.  New cameras can operate brilliantly in low light, which means you don’t have to be so skilled using flash and lighting systems.  Auto modes can take excellent shots and even camera phone images are usable for commercial purposes and there are numerous filters and pre-sets that can help you capture that brilliant shot.  So why should you employ a professional event photographer in Scotland for your conference photography in Edinburgh, well first of all you are hiring people with lots of experience, who can operate under pressure and who shoot a good number of excellent images, not just cherry picking a few for the camera club.  Professionals will have benefited from extensive trading in using their camera and also editing, particularly with Photoshop.  A professional photographer knows how to deal with the clients and has an eye for the perfect image, particularly the composition skills and lighting, they can also create something that little bit special and can deliver the results quickly, oh and while camera phones have improved, the small censor still has limitations for printing photos and enlarging them, but they are good for a back up.

So remember it pays to hire a professional photographer for your conference in Glasgow or Edinburgh.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

colinwrightphotography.co.uk

For my blog today I am going to look at some top tips for wedding photographers in Scotland and how this links in with conference photographers in Edinburgh and Glasgow.  As an event photographer in Glasgow and Edinburgh, I am often asked what my favourite event is from the perspective of a photographer and I can honestly say it is very difficult to have a favourite, they all have their advantages and different creative challenges but overall, event photography gives me a buzz. you don't really know what is going to happen next and you derive a lot of satisfaction from providing some joy to the clients after the event to remind them of the day, or weekend.  When I photograph conferences in Scotland, I am trying to tell a story, to create a series of unique images that summarise the day and to show the emotions and different stages of the event.  Now whilst we all know wedding photography is totally unique, it does have some basic rules that apply to other types of event photography in Scotland, including conferences and even sport.  So here are just some tips because wedding photography requires a lot of practice and dedication.  So here we go:

1. Whilst there are set images the client has asked you to capture, you should at all times of the day, be trying to capture emotions and in the case of weddings that emotion will be joy, if you can do this, you are half way to producing some good images.

2. Know the venue and timings inside out well before the big day, so you have an idea where and when you will shoot specific situations.

3. Take 2 cameras and 2 of everything really but don't overdo the lenses, you will only have to carry them around with you and you could get stressed worrying about someone helping themselves to your equipment.  You will need a zoom, wide angle and maybe a macro.

4. Get to know the couple in advance, so they are not strangers to you on the day and let them know what is expected of them, including any worries they may have.

5. Look after your memory cards like they are gold dust, use twin slot memory card cameras if you can.

6. Don't forget to take close ups of the details ie favours, flowers, ribbons on dresses etc.  The couple have paid good money for these things and it is good to have a few reminders in their photos.

7. Don't panic, if you prepare in advance everything will be fine and try not to rush, just make sure you don't miss the key moments ie bride and groom exchanging rings, father and bride coming down the isle etc.  I usually find that I can relax a bit once the couple have been married and they are also then more relaxed and therefor more likely to look good in the photographs.

8. Be polite to the guests, they are close friends and relatives of the couple after all, but do not be scared to assert yourself if necessary ie if they are standing in the way trying to photograph the wedding couple with their phones.

9. Take a number of photos of the same thing, just to make sure you have a few in focus, you won't have much time to check your screen, this also applies to conference photographers and event photographers in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland.

10. Finally, enjoy the day, if you can enjoy the wedding and you feel part of the day, then the photos will benefit and your clients will be very happy.

Anyway, hope that helps, more wedding photography tips and some conference photography advice coming soon.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

As a professional conference photographer in Edinburgh, Glasgow and throughout Scotland, I have a wide range of experience in photographing events in Scotland and whether you are a wedding photographer in Edinburgh, a sports photographer in Glasgow, or an award ceremony photographer in Scotland, its the same set of rules and all the genres interplay with each other because they all involve uncontrolled photography, although some more than others, sports photography for instance offers less control over what will happen than at a conference photography event.  Rugby can also be a bit easier to predict than football, due to the action remaining in one area for a period of time, as opposed to football when the action can transfer from one part of the pitch to the other, the rules are the same however.  So for what its what its worth, here are some top tips for the event photographer.

1. Do your research, so you can predict as much as possible, with a conference, it is the timing of the speakers and the programme, for sport, you have to develop an understanding of the rules and to be able to predict what will likely happen next and in this case you can learn a lot from watching sport live.

2. Find the key players at the event and communicate with them regularly , in addition to creating a good impression, event photography, with the exception of some sports, is about trust and establishing good relationships, as much as it is about talent.

3. Position is everything and this is true of all types of events, whether you are photographing sport, conferences, birthday parties, or any kind of event, where you stand is crucial.  For instance as a wedding photographer in Glasgow, I once had to constantly assert myself to the amateur snappers, most of them with phones nowadays that my position was the priority and I even had to remind them that the wedding couple would not have been pleased if their photos had been less than perfect due to guests in the way and blocking the professional photographer.

4. Reacting fast is crucial in all event photography commissions, you cant afford to miss the key moments at a wedding, you must pay attention at all times during sport and this also includes when the ball is out of play, you need to watch the crowd, check out the reactions of the participants etc, remember when the famous photo of Eric Cantona was taken for instance.

5. Vary the lenses you use, try wide angle, at a conference to get all the participants in, get down low for rugby, so you are level with the players and you may get that magic try photo, its not all about long lenses, usually up to 300mm is fine and the rest is taken using shorter focal length lenses.

6. Don't forget to capture the emotions and this one is crucial, ie the emotional bride or father in law, the goal celebrations, the speaker at a conference who manages to generate laughter at the event, the list is endless.

7. Break the rules sometimes, try new angles, different gear.  I have used my infrared photography gear as a wedding photographer in East Lothian and Edinburgh and the clients were delighted with the results.

8. Look at what you have done and study where you can improve.

9. Keep your editing as short as possible, cropping and exposure should be your limit for most sports photos, whilst you may get the opportunity to work more on some wedding and conference photos later due to the time involved, but remember time is money, I learnt this as a sports photographer, getting home at night and having to work on the images and send them off right away, there was no time or energy for any fancy stuff.

10. Finally, enjoy it.  I get a buzz from all types of event photography and I usually come away feeling high at the end of the photoshoot.  I also feel I have been part of the event and can't wait to get home to see the results.

So hope that helps.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Today I will be looking at how professional photographers move into or expand into a new genre of photography and for this blog I will use my own situation as an example.

As you know I am a freelance event and conference photographer Edinburgh and Glasgow, who also sells fine art infrared photography from around Scotland.  That is not to say I haven’t tried other ares of photography and I have been trained in studio photography, sport, portrait, landscape and PR.  As a former newspaper photographer I have a wide range of skills and from that base, I started a a wedding photographer in Scotland, also doing portable portraits and sport.  I am now returning to wedding photography in a big way, in addition to other areas of photography that I was involved in years ago.  One of these genres is pet photography in Scotland.  As I am now the proud owner of a dachshund, I have been photographing the wee one since we got her and having undertaken a fair number of pet photography assignments in Scotland in the past, it is in this area that I now intend to expand in.  So how will I do this, well I have already done a fair bit of training to update my skills.  I was an analogue film photographer when I last photographed pets, so I am learning more about the wonderful advantages and range of options for photographers in relation to using digital equipment for pet photography.  I am also learning as much as I can about dogs and cats, specifically different behaviours in dog breeds, in addition to equipment updates suitable for the job.  Next will be the marketing, through my website, word of mouth and linking in with dog owners and organisations involved in the industry.  I don’t have a studio but I will use portable lights and backgrounds, as well as travelling to good outdoor locations, as the best pet shots combine the subject with the surrounding landscape.  So watch this space.  Next will be tips on dog photography, with DSLR cameras and your phone.

So until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Today I am going to look at the topic of specialism and the professional photographer in Scotland.  As an event and conference photographer working in Glasgow and Edinburgh and around Scotland, I normally specialise in event photography in Scotland, especially conferences.  However as I was a newspaper photographer in Lothian, I have that all round photographer thing going, which helps me adapt.  So the big question is should we specialise in one area of photography, well the answer is yes and no to be honest.  You should concentrate on what you are good at, but this can be in more than one area.  I am a conference photographer and an infrared photographer, in addition, my event photography skills work well with wedding photography in Scotland, in addition to award ceremonies, parties, and any kind of event really.  You also need to look at the market and see the expanding areas and the quieter times, wedding photography is generally seasonal, although more and more Scottish weddings are happening in the winter these days and there is a backlog due to the pandemic, however this is also being affected by the cost of living crisis, so all these factors interplay an need to be examined in your marketing strategy.  So you can keep adding to your specialisms, but at the same time using a bit or realism ie if you don't have a studio, you may want to avoid studio photography, however, you can offer on site images with portable lighting.  I am also looking at doing more dog photography in Scotland and hope to expand in this area, so it is an ever changing environment, as long as you remain focussed and adjust your marketing strategy accordingly.

Hope that helps.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotograpy.co.uk

This week we will be looking at what the professional infrared photographer in Scotland can do to utilise their time in the winter.  As a professional freelance event and conference photographer working in Edinburgh, Glasgow and around Scotland, I tend to concentrate on conference and event photography in Edinburgh and these events are mostly, although not exclusively indoors.  However, I don't put my camera away for the season.  There are many ways to keep active as an infrared photographer.  Someone once said to me but the trees look bland without the foliage in the winter, this may be so, but there is still a lot to be said for winter infrared photography.  Fist of all, your converted infrared camera is a high dynamic range device and even on a slightly overcast day, it can be a useful tool to create something just a little special.  Also, as we know the weather in Scotland can change by the minute and you will get some great opportunities to capture the sun, no matter how infrequent this may be, plus your favourite destinations are quieter in the winter.   Now is also a good time to edit some of these photos you took in the summer, sort out your software, learn some new skills in infrared.  This applies to all types of photography and the pandemic was a great example, the ability to motivate yourself during downtime is vital.  Asa conference photographer in Edinburgh, I updated my IT equipment during the pandemic and strengthened my photoshop skills, in addition to networking with other people working in the event industry, so I would be ready for event photography in Edinburgh when things re-commenced.

For infrared, there are lots of other things you can photograph.  Did you know that metal comes out great in infrared, so all these vintage cars, old boats and planes, will look great even out of season.  You can also source out some good locations for the spring and summer.

More news now on a different front, I will be starting a new gallery in Pet Photography in Scotland and hope to have this populated as soon as possible, so keep an eye out for mor on our furry friends soon.

Hope this helps, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotogrpahy.co.uk

Today I am going to look at why newspaper photographers have the best start for a career in professional photography.  As a conference and event photographer in Edinburgh, Scotland, this was a great way to ease me into the event photography business.  I also started taking landscape photos, as this combined well with my love of the outdoors, in addition to sports photography as I was a keen runner, tennis player and golfer.  However my big break came when I was offered a part-time job as a newspaper photographer in East Lothian and Edinburgh, before this I sent photos to local newspapers, but now I was finally getting paid.

Newspaper photography gives you a grounding in a wide range of disciplines.  In one day I could photograph football, rugby, local politicians, shop openings and a neighbour dispute.  There were often gala days, open events, which has certainly helped me as a conference photographer Edinburgh.  Photographing events generally was also a big part the day and local celebration parties, this also helped prepare me as a wedding photographer in Scotland.  The quick turnaround and tight timetables within the day is perfect practice for conference and wedding photographers in Scotland, both of which have specific key times that you can’t afford to miss as a professional photographer.  Newspaper photographers also have to react to the unexpected and be prepared to go where you are not meant to be to get that special photo, this desperate need to be in the perfect position to catch that photo is also essential for event and wedding photographers.  There are also no second chances in newspaper photography, you have to react well in what can often be as little as 5 or 10 minutes and during that period you must get some striking photos, no excuses.  That kind of pressure also applies to conference photographers in Edinburgh and Glasgow.  To feel constantly pressure to do your best is not a bad thing in any photographic discipline. The variety of people you meet and the need to interact well with them in order to get a great photographic content is also integral for the newspaper photographer,. 

Unfortunately there are less openings for newspaper photographers nowadays due to the internet but there are still some openings and you can send some photos to the papers to get your foot in the door, so good luck, get out there and get snapping.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Today we are going to briefly look at the Unique Selling Point (USP) which all the best photographers will have.  What exactly is your USP and how can it help you.  Well, the reason it will help you is mainly due to the crowded market that the photographic industry is.  It is not the only industry like this but it has become more so in recent times, particularly since the introduction of the digital camera and the the expansion of the internet, with the millions of photos around for all to see.  So what can a conference and event photographer working in Scotland do to be seen.  Well there are the obvious things like developing a good website, improving your SEO, marketing your business, but whilst all these things are essential, you have to make sure the product is first class and providing bespoke conference photos for your clients is a good place to start.

In actual fact USP is just another term for being a bit different and providing something unique for your clients., this will then help them to project a unique impression for their product, whether it is a physical object on sale or a service, depicted in the form of a conference photograph.  As a photographer you should always try new things, from this starting point you will eventually find a style which is unique and gives your clients something a bit different.  I like to catch the speakers at key moments, using unusual angles and even using infrared photography for some outdoor images at events, especially wedding photography photos in Scotland.  I also emphasise the candid moments and utilise props such as clipboards, computer screens, phones etc.  Your photos should capture what is going on, especially the emotional aspects, this is why football photographers in Scotland are on their guard after a goal, to capture the joy of the celebration.  So practice, find a style that suits and apply it again and again and remember that whilst you must supply the client with what they require, you should never be frightened to experiment.

The attached photo was taken at from conference photography in Edinburgh three and a half years ago.

Hope this helps.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

Starting to get back into the swing of things in the New Year like everyone else.  Planning and sorting out your strategy for the year ahead should be the main priority for event and conference photographers in Scotland at this time of year.  There is often a a slow start for some businesses in January and for conference photographers in Edinburgh Scotland, things are already a bit slow to start due to the effect of the pandemic and the cost of living crisis.  So what I usually do is take myself out into the landscape and get some infrared and landscape photography in Scotland and use the time to think about what investments are required and any new marketing plans for the year.  I have already purchased a laptop at the beginning of the year which will enable me to edit high resolution images due to the impressive RAM of the machine I purchased.  It is always good to have at least 16g RAM for editing all these event and conference photography images in Edinburgh and this should make my job a lot easier.  I also plan to activate my other website at edinburghphotographer.com in the near future.  At the weekend I visited Loch Lomond and the Trossachs and I managed some landscape and infrared photography on the day, even though the weather wasn’t exactly ideal, photo attached.  It’s good to get out and about with my infrared camera after a recent spell getting it repaired.

Anyway more to co e soon.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

This will probably be my last blog before Christmas so I thought I would look at what the average professional conference and event photographer in Edinburgh, Glasgow and throughout Scotland actually does over the festive period.  I have in the past worked over Christmas and New Year, especially when I was a newspaper photographer in East Lothian and Edinburgh, covering festive events, New Year dips into the sea etc.  I also had a portrait photoshoot in East Lothian on Boxing Day.  However with most Christmas parties over by this time, I try and use the time to get in some landscape and infrared photography in Scotland and this year I will be away for a couple of days at Arrochar in Argyll which weather permitting, which will give me an opportunity to get in some photography at this excellent location and if all else fails I will just chill out in a great place.

So what else can the corporate photographer Edinburgh do over Christmas.  You can prepare a number of things but the list below is a starter for the event photographer in Scotland.

Event and conference photographer Edinburgh Scotland - strategy for 2023.

1. Look at your calendar for event photographer jobs in the coming year, identify gaps and timing challenges.

2. Check your IT and software, does it need cleaning up, do you need to finally update your computer or printer or both.

3.  Check all your equipment and prioritise any future purchases for the year based on the return on your investment.  Don’t buy a lens for the sake of it, only buy according to your needs and if you are asked to do a commission and you feel a new piece of equipment could help, then that may be the time to buy.

4. Use the time to update you training online and knowledge, there are many courses and videos online that can help even long term professional conference photographers in Edinburgh.

5. Plan how you will market your business, who are your client base, can they be reached through social media and if so what type of social media is more suitable.  I find LinkedIn is best for business clients and Instagram and Facebook for personal customers, but as we all know there are many other platforms.  Find which ones are best for you and your client base.

6. Think about giving yourself a new challenge in a genre you haven’t preciously photographed much.  I started taking infrared photos from a converted camera about 8 years ago and haven’t looked back.

7. Reflect on the previous year on has worked well and what didn’t and plan to overcome the area that didn’t work so well and improve even further in your strong areas.

Anyway, hope that helps.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

I thought I would do a quick blog on how I have been getting on with the Canon R6 and the 100-400mm lens I recently purchased with a view to using for event photography in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland. I have only used it for sports photography and general usage so far but I know how it will be able to help me with conference and event photography in Scotland and so far but my first impressions are good. Let’s start with the R6.

Canon R6 for the conference and event photographer Scotland.

Pros:

Excellent focus improvements for the Canon R, with better face recognition and fast frames per second for sports photographers in Scotland.

Outstanding ISO performance in low light. The R was good but this is even better, with very little noise even at super high settings.

Focus bracketing facility which was not available on the R but was on the RP for some strange reason.

At last, twin card slots, an essential for the professional conference photographer in Scotland.

Better touch screen than in previous models.

The HDR mode is much improved with more realistic outcomes.

Better battery life.

Excellent image stabilising built into camera.

Cons:

Only 20.1 pixels, which is enough for most photographers to be honest, but maybe not for landscape.

A bit pricey considering the pixel count and a new version is already available.

New R lenses still with some gaps compared to the selection of previous Canon R lenses and whilst the old Canon L lenses work with an adapter, you are still better with lenses tailored for the R cameras and they are pretty expensive.

Canon 100-200 mm lens

Pros:

Great focussing and tracking for sport.

Although the lens is not designed for really low light like some of the far more expensive L lenses, it can work well in low light conditions due to the fantastic ISO performance of the R6.

Works great with R6 focussing speed.

Compact and can be used hand held without a tripod or monopod.

Good value for money.

Cons:

The lens is a bit stiff and can bea problem when photographing subjects moving towards you, the zoom won’t move fast enough.  I thought this may have just been my lens but the other one in the shop was the same.  Maybe this will improve in time.

Not so good in low light, due to aperture, but still good value.

Not too robust ie a lot of plastic is involved and may not look the part for the professional who feels they have to turn up with gigantic lenses, especially for sport.

Thats it, my quick overview of the Canon R6 and the 100-400 zoom lens for the conference photographer Scotland.  Hope it helps.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

As a professional event and conference photographer Edinburgh Glasgow and throughout Scotland, I tend to work indoors, however not all my work is indoors and as a newspaper photographer in Lothian, I had to drive to locations in severe weather, then to often work outside.  I have also photographed sport, bungee jumping, weddings and supercars in the snow, so I know my way round bad weather.  So what tips are there for professional photographers in severe weather.  Here they are below:

1. Make sure you are dressed for it, prepare for the worst conditions. Event photographers in Scotland should be ready for ever changeable weather, even in the summer.  So wrap up and make sure you car is also prepared for the weather.  As a landscaper photographer in Scotland, I have often had to drive in all sort of locations and a healthy car is just about as important as a healthy photographer.

2. In bad weather, you won’t be able to take so many shots, your subjects won’t want to hang about, I had this at a wedding photography assignment once and I had to make the photos count, as the couple couldn’t stand for too long.  This applies to all outdoor event photography in Scotland in the winter, or even in the summer sometimes.

3. It is even more important to check your gear when the weather is bad.  You will also need more batteries and you won’t want to be changing lenses as much due to time constraints, so pack that zoom.

4. Take care of your gear, I once damaged a lens as I had in appropriate footwear whilst doing sports photography in Edinburgh once.  I tried to get a good vantage point on a snowy hill and went flying. Use waterproof protection when required and a lens hood.

5. Always check the weather forecast and plan accordingly.  It may be better to take the train rather than drive if possible, check on Twitter regarding any weather issues.  I used to use this as my method of determining the football and rugby cancellations when working as a newspaper photographer Scotland.  If the weather is due to be terrible, as an event photographer in Edinburgh, Scotland, you should contact the client. In the case of sport, will the event be cancelled.  For wedding photographers in Scotland, have a chat with the couple about a revised programme of photos, given the bad weather.  Finally, leave earlier than normal.  The professional photographer should never be late for a commission.

Hope that helps.  These tips may sound obvious, but I bet there are cases up and down the country where people have been caught out failing to take the above suggestions into account.

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Today in this blog I will be looking at event photography and the importance of possessing knowledge of the event you are photographing. As a corporate and event photographer Edinburgh Glasgow and throughout Scotland, I am a conference photographer in Edinburgh, a sports photographer in Glasgow and a general event photographer in Scotland.  So what is the most important skill (after your photographic technical ability and skills, that is), well I think the crucial aspect is knowledge of the genre and we will will use sports photography as an example.  I used to work as a newspaper photographer in East Lothian, Midlothian and Edinburgh and this gave me a grounding in all different types of photography.  For the first time I had to photograph rugby.  Now I participated in a lot of sports when I was young and everyone knows I am a big football fan, but I was never really into rugby.  However as photographers, we should be willing to tackle all sports and I was more than happy to try my hand at rugby.  I found out that without the required knowledge of the sport, it was going to be difficult to photograph it.  You need to know the best position to stand, you also need to have an idea what is going to happen next and this is probably the most important thing for event and conference photographers in Scotland, timing your next photograph and being in the right place is the be all and end all in sport.

So as a professional event photographer in Scotland, what could I do to acquire this knowledge.  Firstly I was lucky I have a lot of friends who are into rugby, they helped me to understand the rules, gave me an idea what was going to happen next and on what and who to concentrate on during the game and more importantly why I should do this if I want to capture the action.  I also read about the sport and started to watch games, both locally and internationally, until I now actually enjoy watching rugby.  The other thing you can do is to look at images from excellent sports photographers in Scotland and throughout the sports community.  After photographing local rugby, I was asked about 10 years ago to photograph the international rugby sevens at Murrayfield in Edinburgh and now I love photographing the sport at all levels.  Of course this also applies to conference and event photography, it is important to know your subject, anticipate what will happen next and understand the motivation of the people participating.  In addition knowledge of the light you require to take a good photo is also crucial in these situations.  Also, the ability to distinguish the difference between local sport and high level often international level sport, is important.  There is a difference in pace and athleticism, which has to be taken into account, a well as positioning, which will be more limiting for the photographer at professional level.

So I hope this helps in your quest for excellent event photographs.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

I thought I would do a quick blog post today to expand on a previous blog about the use of mobile phones for photography.  As a professional landscape and event photographer Edinburgh Scotland, I use my phone like anyone else but now it is a vital tool for the photographer.  Although I would never use it on its own for a professional commission, I have started to create printable art work as a back up or when I don’t have a camera and I regularly use it for social and family photography, in addition to editing.  With the ability to transfer photos to your phone through the Canon app, I can now select, sort and edit photos on my phone.  This is a valuable tool for photographers.  I also take photos if I have a quick 20 minutes or so to spare and this is the photo shown below.  So yes all photographers can make use of a phone, especially if you learn how to use it as a valuable tool, making use of the different lenses, exposure settings and studio feature.  So here we are, but don’t worry I haven’t thrown away my cameras yet.  Next week we will look at why the camera is still king.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin 

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Today I am going to talk about how professional photographers specialise in one particular area of work.  As a professional conference photographer Edinburgh Glasgow and throughout Scotland, I believe this is my specialist area but how do we come to realise the best genre of photography to suit our skills within the profession.  I had a grounding in newspaper photography, which is a great method for all photographers to find their way.  I did everything from sports photography, to PR, photographing politicians and gala days and general event photography in Edinburgh and East Lothian.  this all round training helped me find both what I enjoyed and what I was good at, because I think you tend to enjoy doing something if you know you have the skills to excel at it, that's not to say you can't improve, as we can always upgrade our skills and the day I stop learning will be the day I stop breathing. 

Most professional photographers try everything and this is also the case with myself.  Some photographers like working in a controlled environment in a studio with control over the lighting.  I prefer to work with what I have with minimal lighting and this is something again that I learned in newspaper photography, as you often have to work quick with less gear and one flash, you also can't control the light.  I discovered I liked working with people but prefer to let them do their own thing, while I concentrate onto photography and try to capture the moment, as any professional event photographer in Edinburgh would do.  So once you decide to specialise, you should decide on a strategy.  As a conference and wedding photographer Edinburgh Scotland, I can fully concentrate on event photography Scotland and this is reflected in my strategy.  So when you have decided what you want to do, here are a few pointers to get you moving note right direction:

1. Buy the gear you need for the genre you are working in, you can't afford to buy every type of camera and lens for the occasion.  Conference photographers in Edinburgh, for instance will go for a fast all round lens, for low light situations indoors and at least zoom up to 200mm.  There is no need for a sports lens up to 600mm, however you may want to use a Macro lens and wide angle on some occasions.

2. Network with other photographers in your genre, this is particularly true for wedding photographers, who tend to be involved in a range of networks with people working in the wedding industry.

3. Aim you advertising and SEO key wording strategy on the genre you wish to attract clients for.  in the case of conference photographers in Edinburgh, they should contacting event managers and communications departments.

4. See how other people capture your genre and aim to go one better and to provide something totally unique.  my USP is my infrared photography and low angled images.

5. Practice and keep training and learning.

Anyway, hope this helps.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

This blog is a bit different as I am going to move into uncharted territory.  As a professional event and conference photographer Edinburgh Scotland, I will always defend professional level cameras against the ever popular smart phone cameras.  I still maintain that position, however for the first time ever I have to concede the quality of the cameras on phones has reached a new level and can be used as a effective back up tool for photographers.  I already use my phone at conference events in Edinburgh, to transfer images from the camera to my phone and this enables me to send photos to clients half way through the event.  This makes photographing conferences in Scotland a lot easier and it is a valuable tool.  Having purchased an iphone 13, I feel this is the first phone camera I have used that takes my breath away and it’s not even the  best camera by Apple, with the iphone 14 pro even better. I have listed below some of the advantages of this phone and how it can assist professional photographers in Edinburgh.

Professional photographers and the iPhone.

1. The iPhone 13 camera is excellent in low light, with the ability to get get good results hand held and an easy to use exposure adjustment.

2. The portrait mode has some excellent settings to improve the light and create a studio effect, in addition to several other creative modes.

3. The wide angled lens and the ability to zoom in and easily switch to selfie mode is very helpful for event photographers in Edinburgh.

4. The editing mode is very useful and a number of excellent apps are available including the ability to use a professional mobile editing app by Photoshop.

5. There are also some low cost RAW file editing apps available which will assist the professional photographer.

6. Of course the smart phone camera is also useful for other things such as photographing the programme before conference photography in Edinburgh, taking photos of delegates who don’t want to be photographed and taking quick photos as a way to test the light before taking a group photo.

These are just some of the things that can help the professional photographer in Scotland.  However I would like to point out that the DSLR camera is still superior when used the right way and the final prints will be better but the smartphone can be a very useful addition for the professional photographer.  The other main issue is, it doesn’t look good for us professional photographers if we just have the same tools as the average person.  If you are looking for a skilled professional event photographer in Scotland then you are well advised to go with a skilled artist who can utilise the correct light and composition to great effect.  It is not all about point and shoot.

So hope this helps and more to come on this subject in future blogs.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Southbank Marina Kirkintilloch by professional corporate event and conference photographer Edinburgh Scotland Colin Wright

As a conference and event photographer in Edinburgh Glasgow and Scotland, I often photograph a number of sports, particularly when I worked with newspapers, covering football, rugby, boxing, hockey, gymnastics and other local sports.  I also photograph football regularly for fun for local clubs.  As an experienced football photographer, I thought I would do a few tips for football photographers in Edinburgh, so here they are:

1. Position is everything in event, corporate and conference photography and this is even more important for the sports photographer in Edinburgh.  For football and this is only if you have the freedom to move, as this is not always the case particularly for big scale professional matches, you should be positioned near the goal where your team are shooting, this depends on who you are covering the game for.  The corner flag is a good position, although some photographers like to get behind the goals where they can photograph from the back with the net and ball in focus.

2. Move your body position, crouch down sometimes to change your angle for a more interesting viewpoint.

3. Shoot about 1/800, - 1/1250, that should be about right for football.  It will need to be much faster for other sports ie motor racing.  If the subject matter is moving towards you, a slower speed should suffice.

4. Whilst you should try and use equipment which has a good rate of frames per second, you should still try and time the shot so you are capturing the most impressive moment.  This often means you click the shutter a fraction of a second earlier to capture the action.

5. You need to capture the ball at all times, unless it is a celebration photo.

 
6. As mentioned above, don’t just shoot the action, capture the crowd, celebrations, anything else happening.  This applies to all conferences and event photography, as it is always important to capture these unexpected moments.

7. Take plenty batteries, you will need them for sports photography.

8. Whilst everyone thinks sports photographers need long lenses, this is not so important for football and a zoom from say 70mm up to 300mm should do.  You may also want to take a shorter lens in case you need to take a portrait image later on.

9. Try and capture the goals if possible.  Also try and get facial expressions and the footballers in the air in mid action, unless you have capture the goal, you should avoid showing the backs of the participants.

10. Lastly enjoy and have a banter with the players and crowd if possible.

Hope all this helps.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

As a professional event photographer working in Scotland, today we are going to look at why you should hire a professional photographer for your conference in Edinburgh instead of going for that staff member who has a decent camera and has done one or two events in the past.  so here are the reasons you should book a photographer for your Glasgow conference:

Why to book a professional event photographer Edinburgh, Scotland

1. A professional photographer should be qualified to work at a high standard, you can check this with them, they may have a formal qualification or have some accreditation from say an organisation like the Royal photographic Society.  I know this is no guarantee of great work but it is always better than someone with no formal qualifications and you can always check their website for testimonials and the quality of the photography.

2. A professional conference photographer in Edinburgh will have invested in the right equipment for event photography and will have the time to research the most relevant and up to date gear suitable for the job.  They won't just buy the latest gear all the time, as everything they purchase should have a justifiable return on investment.

3. Professionals are accustomed to photographing a large number of events and this essential experience means they are more reliable and less likely to make a mess of your precious conference.  You can check on the previous events from their website.  This should also give you an idea as to the venues they have attended and the profile of the event, in addition to the style of photographs to ensure the photos meet your requirements.

4. If you pay a professional in any walk of life, they are obligated to provide you with high quality images, someone who does it for free may not feel the same pressure to do a good job, as it is not their paid occupation.  Thats not to say they will always do a bad job, it is just a more likely scenario if you go in house.

5. A professional photographer should have Public Liability and Public Indemnity Insurance and in some cases depending on the subject matter, a Disclosure Scotland certificate.  This gives you some legal comeback in the unlikely event of anything going wrong.

6. A conference or event can cost thousands and the cost of an event photographer in Scotland is a small price to pay for the one lasting thing you will keep after the event.  The photos can be used for a variety of purposes, including brochures, annual reports and posters and the professional photographer can assist in resizing and other important editing considerations after the event.  The overall image of your company is at stake if you display results that are less than professional, just for the sake of saving a few pounds.

7. Employing a professional from outside your organisation always looks more professional than just using Jimmy from Accounts who is into photography.  You will also be able to establish a long term relationship with a professional conference photographer Scotland for your future events, which could be valuable for the image of your company.

8. A professional photographer in Scotland will act in a manner that is good for the image of your company, they will have the right personality, know how to interact with delegates and when to remain in the background and when to assist at the event and this will help create a good impression of your organisation.  They will have long term skills and experience that makes them a master at the cart of event photography in Edinburgh Glasgow and throughout Scotland and this will give you peace of mind for the big day.  

Hope this helps and keep in mind this applies to all events including for wedding photographers in Scotland, award ceremony photographers and sports photography in Scotland.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotogrpahy.co.uk

Today I am going to look at the connections between different genres of photography.  As you may know this is a subject I have examined before.  Although an event photographer Edinburgh Scotland will cover a wide range of events, however, I think most photographers specialise.  A conference photographer in Edinburgh for instance can also be an event photographer in Glasgow and this can include events such as Awards ceremonies in addition to conference photography in Glasgow, but what does the sports photographer have in common with the conference and event photographer.  having previously worked as a sports photographer for newspapers in the Lothian area for 9 years, I covered a wide range of photographic genres but i feel my sports photography helped me as a conference photographer in Scotland and here is why:

1. The sports photographer has to react quickly to unexpected situations, this is also true for the conference photographer - people may not turn up, they may arrive late, or you may be asked to take a quick portrait photo either indoors or outdoors.

2. You have to work with the light you have.  Although you may have some influence on the light, usually venues differ greatly and the conference organiser will want to dim the lights to an extent for slideshows and presentations, so you have to work with that.  Likewise I have covered indoor sports and football outdoors in all kind of light, also in Scotland, the outdoor light can change in seconds.

3. You have to look for special moments outwith the standard images you are asked to produce ie emotion, celebrations etc.  The golden rule after you have captured the goal at a football match is to catch the celebrations and the crowd, don't just put your camera down, satisfied that you got the goal.

4. if you can, you should move about and change your angle.  You may have some restrictions at professional sports events but always move about and change your viewpoint if possible, even crouching down to frame your subject from the ground can help.  This applies to all event photography to be honest.

5. You have to establish a relationship with the performers. If you get a chance before the event, introduce yourself.  Don't stand to close to presenters and don't ever get in the way of the athletes, respect them but try and get a rapport with them if possible. This is more achievable at small local events than high profile professional football matches.  For instance the players at my local football ground know me often interact with me during the game while I am taking sports photos.

Anyway, hope this helps.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Hi Everyone

As a conference photographer in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland, I am often asked what other types of photography I do and not a lot of people know this but I am also a well regarded infrared photographer in Scotland and have been exhibiting and selling infrared photographs for around 8 years now. 

When can you shoot infrared photography in Scotland

As an infrared photographer in Scotland, I am often asked the above question and the answer is all year round.  Whilst we all want to photograph foliage and trees at their best in the spring, summer and early autumn, there are still some left even well into winter.  Lack of sunlight is also an issue and this will limit your photo time after October certainly.  However all is not lost and here is a list reasons you can photograph all year round.

Photographing infrared out out of season

1. Remember your infrared camera is a high dynamic range black and white camera all year round, as long as there is some daylight you will still be able to take high dynamic range images all year round that will be better than a normal camera.

2. There are other subjects that render themselves well to photographing in infrared such as metallic objects ie cars, old planes etc.  Another good subject is wood and water reflections work well in infrared. You can utilise these locations more out of season.  Most locations will also be quieter in the winter and that is what we all want, most of the time anyway, when photographing infrared.

3. Try other things out of season.  I have used my infrared camera outdoors, as a conference photographer in Edinburgh Scotland, in addition to photographing infrared as a wedding photographer Scotland.  Just get out there and experiment.  So photograph your dog and family on the garden.

4. Architecture renders itself to dramatic photographs in infrared.  The contrast in the sky is more effective in infrared and the blues after editing will result in a final image with deep blacks, that would take you more time to achieve in editing a normal image.

5. Winter is the time to experiment in your settings and for editing earlier images you have taken.  Some converted cameras allow you to adjust the white balance, you can also try different exposures and settings, or even using filters.  I like to use a polarising filter to deepen the blacks and help with reflections, but feel free to try anything.

So hope the above helps.  Infrared photography is not just for the summer.  It can be used as an event photographer in Edinburgh, or a corporate photographer Glasgow, jus use your imagination.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Just a quick blog in relation to how I am getting on with the Canon R6.  I tested it out the last 2 weekends at some local football matches and I am seriously impressed.  The focussing is fast and accurate and the touch focus on the screen is a facility I will use for conference and event photography in Edinburgh.  ISO performance is excellent, the best I have ever used.  I also used a 100-400mm RF lens which is excellent for the price, although a little stiff zooming in for sports to be honest, but hopefully that will loosen of a bit with use.  I can see me using this lens for conference photography Edinburgh, sport, wedding photography around Scotland and general usage, it will go well with my 85mm.  Are there any cons to this camera, apart from the fact I am not fully used to it, well not many, its maybe a bit heavy on battery usage but that is because you want to shoot the more images, due to the excellent frames per second rate.  It is only around 2m pixels but to be hones that is enough for event photography in Glasgow Scotland.  Sometimes i miss the larger cameras but i am getting older and the smaller bodies suit me fine these days.  So apart from it being a bit complicated as its new, the camera is excellent.

More to come soon on this subject.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Today we will be looking at the best images for conference photography.  As a professional event photographer Edinburgh, Glasgow and beyond, naturally my aim is to provide bespoke high quality event photography photos for my clients.  Obviously you will be given a brief and you must supply exactly what the client wants but usually there is scope to demonstrate your individuality and produce some eye catching images that will make your clients more than happy with what you supply for them for their event photography in Edinburgh.  

What images does the corporate photographer Glasgow Edinburgh need to supply.  Here is the list below:

1. Capture all the speakers from different angles, with different expressions on their face and make sure you delete all images that are less than perfect.

2. Make sure you can convey the emotions on the faces of the delegates and speakers.  Keep an eye out for these moments where they express joy, surprise and elation, because being a good conference photographer in Edinburgh Scotland also includes capturing unseen moments, so keep eye out for these little bits of action often away from the main speaker.

3. The photographs should be sharp and technically exposed perfectly, with the correct white balance for skin tones, as well as possessing good composition.

4. Try and include as many different people as you can and don't send too many similar images.  This is especially important when photographing workshops as an event photographer. I once photographed a conference in Glasgow which mainly consisted of workshops and only one speaker.  It is in the workshops that you will get your most creative photographs as people relax more in smaller groups and you can get really close to the delegates.

5. Make sure you include creative images utilising the props around you, varying your focus point and even including some black and white photographs.  As an event photographer in Scotland, I also include some infrared images, showcasing the venue outdoors, particularly if the location is interesting.

So I hope that helps you to decide what type of photos will be perfect for your conference photography in Scotland.  This is a subject that I could spend ages on, so we will carry on this theme in future blogs.

So, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

So you are looking for an event photographer Edinburgh or Glasgow for your corporate event.  So what factors should you be looking at.  Today we will explore the essentials for commissioning a professional event photographer in Edinburgh, Glasgow or Scotland.  So here we go.

1. Make sure they have conference experience

Check their website to ensure they have photographed conferences and have event photography experience in Edinburgh or glasgow.  It would also be helpful if they have previously photographed at the venue you will be using.  But first and foremost, check their website for images, have they photographed any high profile delegates or speakers, how long have they been a conference photographer in Edinburgh.

2. Do they photograph other genres.  

This is OK as most photographers do a variety of types of photography.  However if it seems from their website that they are mainly portrait or wedding photographers, then they may not be the right person.  Of course experience in other genres can be useful. I feel my experience as an architecture photographer in Scotland is helpful for conferences, in addition my knowledge and experience as a sports and event photographer is also useful, as well as my newspaper and PR photography experience, which enables me to think fast on my feet. These genres help the conference photographer, however someone specialising in still life jewellery photography for instance, may not be ideal for conference and event photography.

3. Do they appear helpful and knowledgable both on their website and in person when you talk to them.  

The ability to work well with a Communications Department and to have a good manner with delegates is essential for a corporate event photographer Edinburgh, Glasgow.  Never underestimate the personality of the photographer, now one wants to go back to the days of overbearing wedding pushy photographers.

4. Knowledge of the corporate world is essential for the corporate photographer Edinburgh

This goes back again to previous experience but it is a bit deeper than that.  Does the photographer understand the importance of the timing of the event, dealing with keynote speakers.  Making sure they deliver the crucial images that the client needs.  If the event photographer understands the profession he or she is photographing this is half the battle.  This is very much the case for sports photography.  I was a better football, athletics and golf photographer in Scotland, as I had played and constantly watched these sports.  I had to learn and understand rugby as a sport before I became an accomplished rugby photographer in Scotland.

5. Looking for an event and conference photographer Scotland - what type of photographs do you really want

This is very important as photographers all have different styles.  Does the photographer seem to have a style that would be ideal for your company, or are the photos on their website nothing like the ones you want.  Do you want formal photos or bespoke reportage conference photography, again the website should help you choose.  Just make sure you ask all these questions when you are looking for a conference photographer Edinburgh Scotland.

Hope all this helps, more tips on finding a conference photographer in Scotland soon.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

A quick blog today.  Thought I would pop along this Saturday for the second half of the Kirkintilloch Thistle friendly game today. As a professional event and corporate photographer Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland, it’s always good to get a bit of practice in.  I missed the first half and 6 goals apparently but I still managed a few good sports photographs, including this goal. Luckily I was there before the heavens opened up an hour later.

Until next time.

Kind Regards 

Colin

Today, in this quick blog I will be looking at whether photographers should specialise in one area of work, or pretty much carry out all types of photography.  As a conference and event photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow, I am always asked if I specialise in conference and corporate photography Edinburgh and Scotland and whilst this is my specialist area, I also do fine art infrared and landscape photography in Scotland and a few years back I was a newspaper and PR photographer in Edinburgh and East Lothian.  Event photography also means i photograph sports, birthday parties, weddings, university graduations and general award ceremonies etc, so even though I specialise, this covers a wide range of photography.  However, I am wary of photographers who say they will do any kind of photography.  

looking for a commercial photographer in Edinburgh Glasgow or Scotland, which kind is best for you.

There are 2 kinds of photographer, those who thrive on a controlled environment, where they set up the lighting, usually in studio and the photoshoot is organised prior to the event, usually with little surprises on the day.  Then there are uncontrolled environment photographers who deal with the conditions on the day, there is often very little control over the lighting and unexpected things can happen on the day.  This very much applies to sport and can also apply to other other events such as conference photography and awards ceremonies.  I put myself in the second category and while I can and will take posed photographs, I prefer not to do this in a studio environment and like to get the best out of the natural light where possible in a normal environment.  In contrast to this, I am an infrared and fine art photographer, although this is also in an uncontrolled environment and the weather can play a large part over the success of the photoshoot. Most photographers in Scotland will do various types of work, but beware of those who say they can do everything and its always best to work with someone who regularly specialises in one area and has plenty of experience.  Another example of this is still life photography, very much a controlled environment genre and not for me to be honest, I like the element of surprise.

Anyway hope this helps.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

So what equipment do you need as an event photographer in Edinburgh or Glasgow.  Well you are going to have to try and keep it light.  I personally don’t like to see photographers with enormous telephoto lenses at conferences, it both intimidates the delegates and can be physically impossible for you to be mobile.  So here is my top 5 tips for conference photographers in Scotland.

Equipment Tips for corporate event photographers in Scotland:

1. An all purpose lens would be useful ie something like 70-200mm for instance, it’s better for the lens to work well in low light than say a longer telephoto.  You can get relatively close anyway as the official conference photographer.

2. Take plenty of batteries and 2 cameras in case one packs in.

3. I suggest keeping flash simple and portable, unless you are taking a lot of posed portrait photos, then you may want to have a separate area with a portable flask and an umbrella or soft box.  Otherwise flash with a light modifier would be sufficient but don’t use it all the time.

4. It may be worth taking a wide angled lens for shits of the whole venue, outdoors and indoors.  

5. You may want to use a tripod if you are taking official portrait shots but otherwise a monopod my be more appropriate due to space constraints.

Anyway, hope this helps.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

Today I am going to briefly look at some editing tips for the event photographer in Scotland.  Of course a lot is dependant on the timescales for completion of the photos by the client, but there are still some basic rules that would help any corporate and conference photographer Scotland.  So here we go:

1. Don’t try any new software or routine when you are editing a corporate photoshoot. Practice on any new systems prior to any commissioned work.

2. Make sure your equipment is all ready prior to the event ie lots of hard drive memory, pc or Mac working fast enough, internet ok, software updated.

3. Go through all the photos and work through images that could be included in the final batch for the client but don’t do any complicated editing yet, just keep the hopeful ones in a folder.  Then you want to do some basic editing ie exposure,  colour balance, crop.

4. The next stage is identifying any specific photos from your conference photography in Edinburgh and carry out the more complicated edits ie black and white conversions, removal of any unwanted objects, enhancing the portraits etc.

5. Check your final batch and remove any images that are similar or not good enough, then sharpen images if required.  I use Photoshop, Nik filters by DXO and Canon software, but it’s important that you establish a routine.  You also need to try and limit the time you spend editing.  Time is money and the object should be to get it right when you take the photo.  You can’t spend hours and hours editing and it’s not necessary if you are organised enough.

Hope all the helps your corporate event photography in Scotland.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

So if you are looking for a conference or event photographer Edinburgh Glasgow Scotland, what exactly should you be looking for. An experienced conference photographer Edinburgh or throughout Scotland should have the following photographic skills:

1. To be organised with their time/equipment etc. Being aware of the timing of the event including the speakers/workshops etc is vital and it goes without saying conference photographers should arrive early.

2. Proper insurance ie public indemnity and public liability insurance are vital for the photographer.

3. The skill to take high quality conference and event photos, which should be apparent from the photographers website.  Make sure they have proof of photos taken similar to what you require and see if there are any testimonials to back-up their good work.  A list of some of the companies they have worked for would be useful.  Make sure they work in the relevant area of the industry.  A wedding photographer in Edinburgh could have a portfolio full of high quality wedding photos but with few depicting conferences.

4. The price, although you will have a budget so this will be the main consideration, but don't just go for the cheapest one.

5. The ability to react quickly to unexpected things happening at your event is a must for the corporate photographer in Edinburgh, in addition to a calm manner during a crisis.

6. Membership of a photographic organisation and or qualifications.  There are lots of photographers out there, whilst qualifications are no guarantee, it pays to check of the photographer is a member of a reputable photographic body such as the Royal photographic Society (RPS), who have high standards when awarding distinctions for their members.

7. Can the photographer provide a quick turn around of the final photos, if this is important and ensure they are able to supply them in the format you require.

8. Can they provide a few photos on the day for social media.  This should be possible for most photographers with the technology available, but it's worth checking nevertheless.

9. Will they go above and beyond for your conference in Edinburgh ie can they provide even more than you have asked for and do they have a unique selling point (USP}.

10. Do they have a friendly personable manner.  The photographer will be with your delegates for hours and taking a photograph is a very personal thing, they should be friendly helpful and mindful of not intruding or being a nuisance at the event.

OK, so I hope that helps in your search for a conference photographer in Scotland.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotograpy.co.uk

Today I am going to be looking at considerations for organisations about to hire a corporate event photographer in Scotland.  Most photographers should be able to do a wide range of photography, but they probably specialise in one area of work, for me as a conference and event photographer in Edinburgh and Glasgow, I tend to focus, if you will excuse the pun, on awards events, conferences and wedding photography in Scotland, however, I have worked in a wide range of photographic genres and I think this is important for companies choosing an event photographer in Scotland.  Experience as a newspaper photographer in Scotland for 10 years gave me a good grounding in general photography, it was also vital in enabling me to respond to unexpected crisis at any given time and this can also be very useful at conferences and events.  As a landscape photographer I am able to photograph effectively outdoors and I can provide a quality image of the building and guests outdoors, I can also supply infrared photographs in addition the images I already provide.   The position for wedding photographers is similar, they should also be versatile and able to take on a variety of work to enable them to respond to the unexpected.  A good wedding photographer nowadays will also be able to do fashion photography.  Sports photographers in Scotland will also be able to adapt their skills to events.  In fact you tend to find there are 2 different types of photographers, those who work in a controlled environment ie studio photographers who set up lighting and create artificial props and backgrounds for the photoshoot and uncontrolled environment photographers, who deal with the situation as it is without having any control over what happens next or the lighting for that matter.

So should I hire a general photographer for our conference in Edinburgh.

Well that depends on your event or need for the photography, I would say yes for conference and event photography, weddings and PR work, but for still life, portrait or food photography for instance, you may be fine with a specialist.

Hope that helps.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

As a conference and event photographer in Edinburgh, I am often asked how I plan for conference photography

in Scotland and my answer is that I complete a comprehensive plan for each photoshoot which tends to be very similar no matter whether it is for wedding photography, award ceremonies, or any other event photography.  We will use a typical conference photographers plan for a conference in Scotland as an example below:

The Photo Plan for an Edinburgh conference photographer

1. Take a clear note of the venue, location, rooms etc.

2. You should include the contact person for the photoshoot, together with back-up contacts, with phone numbers, email addresses etc.

3. The timings and names of all the people involved.  In the case of conference photographer for example this will be the speakers and when they start, along with any presentations or awards.

4. Any special type of photographs required ie all delegates, workshops etc.  This could also include formal group photos or awards.  Make sure you get the names of all this involved, it is far more professional to approach people if you know their name.

5. A note of anyone who doesn't want their photo taken and make sure you are aware of who this is.

6. Anything they don't want you to photograph ie specific workshop, or if they don't want you to use flash.

7. Go over the plan carefully with your main contact and ask them exactly what they require from you.

8. How and when the final photos will be delivered ie by link, USB or DVD.

The above are just some of the things you could include in the plan.  Next week I will show you what a typical plan looks like. and the week after that will be on the subject of:

What to expect from a conference photographer for your event in Glasgow or Edinburgh.

Anyway hope that helps.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

Today we are going to look at how to plan for photography at corporate events in Edinburgh Scotland. 

Why use a corporate or event photographer

So first of all why use a conference or event photographer, you know amateurs who can do it and we all have phones nowadays.  Well it is always best to hire a professional, particularly one who has considerable experience in corporate and conference photography in Edinburgh, Glasgow or throughout Scotland.  They will have allowed for all eventualities, they will be insured and you will receive more high quality photos, which will be good enough to be published in documentation such as Annual Reports, posters, website and will add to the professional reputation of your company.

How do I choose a corporate photographer Edinburgh

how are you going to source an event photographer in Edinburgh, well you can Google it for a start.  You can also take advice from other organisations and you may have some recommendations from friends or colleagues.  You should also be looking at their portfolio, to see if it matches exactly what you are going to need.

Consderations when hiring a conference photographer in Scotland

We have already touched on the importance of a relevant portfolio, but you will also have price considerations, although it is never a good idea to go with the cheapest, a little extra can make a big difference.  you may want to ask them a number of questions as follows:

1. Have you done this kind of event photography in Edinburgh before.

2. Do you have public liability and public indemnity insurance.

3. How soon will I get the photos an in what format ie through a link or a DVD etc.

4. Can you provide any photos on the day that we may use for social media.  

5. Can you print any photos on the day of the event for clients.

These questions will help when choosing a corporate photographer in Scotland. It also may be worth meeting the photographer before hiring them.  You will be trusting them with hundreds of delegates at your conference in Edinburgh, so it is important they are personable and friendly.  You could also ask for suggestions as to what type of photos they think would work at your conference.

Setting the Ground Rules for the event photographer

​​​​​​​You may have a list of people who do not eat their photograph taken at the conference.  The photographer should note this before the event starts.  You may also have restrictions over when the photographer can or cannot use flash photography, if they allowed at all.  I have photographed a full 2 day conference in Manchester when I was not allowed to use flash, this was a good few years ago before the improvements in lo light photography, but I prepared well and the photos were great.  At least I knew the rules before I started.  You should let the corporate photographer know the timetable of the photoshoot and devise a plan detailing exactly what you require and at what time.  After the event you should also let the photographer know when you need the final images and in what format.

So, I hope all this helps you to find a great photographer in Edinburgh for a conference you may have coming up.  Finally if you are planning a conference in a major hotel, say a conference photography in Glasgow with hundreds of delegates, you will have started to plan way in advance, so don't leave the photography side until the last minute as the best corporate photographers in Scotland will be fully booked. 

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

A quick extra blog today following a trip with my good friend Derek Isles who was good enough to take me out on his boat to Loch Lomond prior to a big week of photographing conferences in Edinburgh.  I had the opportunity to shoot some infrared photography with my Lumix, although the water could be choppy at times.  I think in this case the colour infrared worked best on the mountains surrounding the loch.  As with all these photoshoots, I have learned and will improve on my next trip and I will know exactly the right type of gear.  As a professional commercial photographer in Edinburgh, you always should note down the key points from every photoshoot and learn from the outcome.  In this case the main aim was to enjoy the trip and the photography was secondary but you know me, I will always take my camera.  Oh and next time I will bring some waterproof housing to keep my camera dry.  The weather was perfect for infrared photography, with some blue sky and cloud, without rain and I have posted a few photos, with more on the way soon.

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotogrpahy.co.uk

I thought I would do a quick extra blog as I am about to upgrade my photographic equipment this weekend.  So what should you consider when choosing to upgrade your gear.  Well the main consideration after whether or not you can afford it should be, do I really need this upgrade or do I just want the latest tech.  If you feel you do need it, then you will hopefully have taken a number of considerations into account.  So what new gear would a conference and event photographer in Edinburgh need.  Well this first sentence has given you a clue.  The main consideration is can I move to another level and improve my photographs by purchasing new equipment.  In my case as a corporate photographer in Scotland, I feel the answer is yes.  I am about to purchase the Canon R6, as it is a vast improvement on the first Canon mirrorless camera, the EOS R, the focussing will improve, as will the ISO performance and there is a vast difference in the frames per second, which will assist me as a sport and event photographer in Scotland.  So, as I mentioned, the main consideration has to be - what will I be using it for.  I could have gone for the EOS 5 with the higher pixelation count but this would only hinder my sports and conference photography due to file sizes and low light performance and speed are very important for event photography.  The other considerations have to be related to size, weight etc.  I am happy, as I get older, to see gear becoming smaller and lighter, the days of having to cart around heavy DSLRs are over thankfully.  Another consideration is your existing lenses.  Although I don't tie myself to any brand and in fact I also use Fuji, Nikon and Lumix cameras, I have mostly Canon lenses and have started to build up some Canon mirrorless lenses, so it makes sense to stick with Canon for my main commissions, I am also very familiar with the menus on Canon cameras. So to summarise, only upgrade if it is required and it is a major improvement on your existing equipment.

Anyway more conference photography tips next time, as I prepare for conference photography in Edinburgh at the weekend.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwirghtphotogrpay.co.uk

Corporate and Conference Photography Scotland, UKcorporate photography Scotland, UK

corporate photography Scotland, UK by Colin Wright, professional freelance photographer Edinburgh Glasgow and Scotland

Corporate Photography, SYZ Asset Management, EdinburghSYZ Asset Management, corporate photography images, Edinburgh

SYZ Asset Management, corporate photography images, Edinburgh

conference photography Scotland by professional event and conference photographer Colin Wright

For todays blog I am going to look at how a professional photographer working in Edinburgh, Glasgow or around Scotland, can avoid disasters or make sure anything doesn't go wrong for that matter.  As a conference and event photographer, Edinburgh, Scotland, I believe that you have to stay ahead of the game and provide the best photos for the client, there are no excuses and whilst this may seem like a negative post, it may be the best one that any budding professional event and conference photographer will read.  So here we go, my tips for conference photography Scotland continue with the action to take in advance to avoid anything going wrong.

1. You should have an idea of a reserve photographer in the event of serious illness or something else that causes you to cancel.  Do this in advance with a fellow photographer, you can agree to back each other up.  however this should only happen in an extreme emergency, the client booked you and not someone else.  You could stipulate this in the contract where appropriate, this also applies to wedding photographers.

2. Check and re-check all your gear in advance, practice on any new equipment in before the conference photoshoot, don't be panicking on the day when you can't find that new feature on your camera.  Take plenty of spares.  If it can go wrong, it will one day.

3. Check your car, taxi times etc and leave 2 hours earlier than you have too.  Luckily I always do this and a motorway accident one day made me almost 2 hours later than I wanted, but I was still on time,  Also make sure you have an emergency contact number.

4. Check out the venue in advance and asked what you are allowed to do ie with regards to lighting, access etc.  Try to find out good vantage points for photographs.  Nothing should be a surprise on the day when it comes to the venue.

5. Make sure you and the client are clear on what you have to before the event, again you don't want any surprises on the day.

6. Check you have all the necessary insurance ie Public liability and Public Indemnity, not only do you need them in case of any disasters, it also makes you look more professional.

7. Think about what you are going to wear and what is appropriate for the day.  It doesn't have to be a suit and tie but you should look smart ie no jeans or trainers.

Anyway, hope that helps.  More tips for the conference photographer Scotland soon.  Also future blogs will concentrate on corporate photography Edinburgh, Scotland and sports photography.

So, I am off to photograph an awards ceremony in Edinburgh in a couple of days and corporate photography in Glasgow.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotogrphy.co.uk

As a conference and event photographer working around Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland, I am often asked what the main skills are for conference photography and I thought this would be a good time in this quick blog to add a short list detailing the essentials for conference photography.  So here we are:

1. You need a variety of skills for indoor and outdoor photography, including the use of flash.

2. You must have the skills to take candid reportage photos, whilst this may sound obvious some people are controlled environment photographers, who prefer to set up the lighting etc, not me, I prefer to make use of existing conditions and i enjoy the challenge of different lighting.

3. You must be flexible, things can change very quickly, people may fail to turn up, that group shot outside may now have to be completed indoors due to the weather, so be prepared for the unexpected.

4. Conference photography is similar to photographing a wedding, or even a sports event, you need to be an action photographer and have the ability to capture these special moments.

5. As well as candid photography, you also need the skills to take posed individual and group photos, this is particularly important if you are photographing an award ceremony.

So that's just a little food for thought this week.  more on tips for the conference photographer next week.  I am off to photograph an award event in Edinburgh and also a conference photography assignment in Glasgow.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

The summer wedding Photography season is ending but plenty scope for autumn and winter weddings, so please get in touch if you require quality bespoke photos for your big day

A wedding photo taken at Dunbar a few years ago.

As promised some more conference photography tips for all you budding conference and event photographers Edinburgh and Glasgow.  As a business and event photographer working in Edinburgh and around Scotland, I am often asked what the most important aspects are for conference photos and last week we concentrated on the preparation, this week we will look at some of the skills required and the equipment needed for conference photography.  So here are a few tips, more to follow on the next blog.

1. You will need a lens with at least a reach up to 200-300mm, although large sports event type lenses are just too heavy and intrusive for conferences and events.  
 

2. You also need a wide angle for group shots and large photos of the venue internally and externally.  At least 2 flashguns, or a flash gun and a portable studio flash, although you may not have the room for studio equipment.  I would also recommend some kind of flash diffuser, to reduce the harshness of the light.

3. Keep your gear to a minimum, take a tripod but you may not have the space or time to use it.  Keep the gear as small as possible.

4. You want photos of the speakers from all angles from a distance and also getting fairly close at an angle to capture the venue in the background.  It is also important to practice before the start of the event.

5. Take some photos of the event, exhibitions and signs advertising the organisations.

6. Make sure to ask if there is anyone who doesn’t want to get their photo taken.

7. Try and get creative with the photos, use a table or tripod and slow your shutter speed down to capture some motion blur, also try some strange angles.

8. If you are allowed to use flash, that’s great, but don’t use it all the time, it can irritate speakers and delegates if over-used.  This also applies to photos taken up close, take a few at the start then retreat to the back with a telephoto lens.

So that’s all for now, more tips to follow on workshop photography at conferences and award ceremonies at corporate events in Edinburgh and Glasgow and throughout Scotland.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Cockenzie in InfraredCockenzie in infrared by professional freelance corporate and fine art photographer, Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland.

Cockenzie in infrared by professional freelance corporate and fine art photographer, Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland.

As a professional corporate, event and business photographer, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Scotland, I am often asked what the most important aspects of photographing a conference are and whilst there is no substitute for practice, there are a number of things you can focus on - if you pardon the pun. So as I have just launched my new page, which which has been showcasing my conference photographs, I will be doing a number of extra blogs which contain 5 tips for corporate, conference and event photography.  Today we will start with preparation, so here are my first of my top 5 tips for conference photography below:

1. Get plenty of practice, before you go on a paid commission, volunteer to cover any kind of event, to get you used to the pressures ie the demands, timelines etc,  Its better to make mistakes before people are paying good money for you to provide a bespoke conference photographer service.

2. Have lots of dialogue to get to know the organisers before the event, so you know exactly what to expect long before you arrive.  Then go over a list of the things they require ie keynote speakers, arrival of main speaker etc and other timelines, also things like, who doesn't want there photo taken etc.

3. Check out the lighting thoroughly when you ge there and speak with the lighting engineers if you get a chance. They will want it to be as dark as possible, you want as much light as they will allow you to photograph the speakers and delegates, ask if you can let some natural light in, some will let you, others won't unfortunately.

4. Prepare all your gear in advance, check the batteries, allow of at least 2 of everything, camera, flash etc and test all your gear thoroughly.

5. Prepare your journey, so you arrive in plenty of time.  You want to be arriving at least an hour before the event, make sure you allow for any disasters ie late train, car breakdown etc.  Have a taxi number handy just in case.  You can not be late for a photography commission.

Hope that helps, next we will be looking at the essential aspects of the photoshoot.

So, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotogrpahy.co.uk

For this weeks blog I am concentrating on my conference photography photos.  Being a professional event, corporate and conference photographer, working in Edinburgh, Glasgow and throughout Scotland, I thought it would be a good idea to start a new page on the website highlighting some of my best conference photography images throughout my career as a freelance photographer in Scotland and the North of England.  Conference photography means a lot to me.  It is probably my favourite commission and is responsible for most of my photo earnings throughout the years.  To mark this I have included a selection of photos taken in various locations, including images of Nicola Sturgeon, the First Minister of Scotland, Gordon Brown and some of the world’s health and environmental experts.  I love the buzz from conference photography, the challenge of working in different types of venues, with varying lighting.  The importance of good timing for award ceremonies waiting on the arrival of politicians and key speakers and the need to forge good relationships with the clients.  So hope you enjoy the photos.  Some more concerned photography tips coming up soon.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

infrared photography taken along the canal and harbour at Bowling near Glasgow by professional freelance conference and event photographer, Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Glasgow Scotland.

Linlithgow in InfraredLinlithgow in infrared by professional freelance corporate and event photographer, Edinburgh, Scotland

Infrared photography Scotland by professional fine art and corporate photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh Scotland

Cottage on the Isle of Skye. A reminder that we shouldn’t put things off. this cottage is no longer on Skye. Glad I photographed it when I did. Photo by professional corporate, event and landscape photographer Edinburgh, Scotland Colin Wright

Now that things are returning to a near normal again after the pandemic, I think this is a good time to go over some top tips for photographing conferences.  As a professional corporate and event photographer working in Edinburgh, Glasgow and throughout Scotland, conference photography is one of my main sources of business.  So I thought we could go through some of the most important attributes for the successful conference and event photographer in Scotland, so here they are.

1. Preparation - make sure all your gear is ready and you know exactly which lenses you will require for which situation.  Think how many batteries you will need and double that.  Take more than one flash and of course never turn up with only one camera.  Plan how and when you will shoot specific things and know all the contacts and finally, make sure you have planned the journey.  Everyone else can be late but not the photographer.

2. Write out shooting plan with all the timings in advance.

3. Practice before the speakers arrive, particularly with the lighting on the speakers podium.

4. Be helpful and friendly at all times, no matter how stressed you may get.

5. Although you have set photos to take, get creative, change your angle etc.

6. Even if you haven't been asked to do so, you should always take some candid images, your client are sure to like them even if they were not expecting it.

7. Use your flash if you are permitted but not with every shot, this will just annoy the delegates.  Modern camera equipment should be able to cope with most types of lighting without flash for at least some of the shots.

8. Try not to be too prominent with big lenses and getting in everyone's way.  The photographer should not be noticed.

9. Be careful, It is easy during busy periods to drop a flash on someone during an event.  The main purpose for the conference is for the delegates to learn and enjoy the day.

10. Introduce yourself to the organisers and speakers (where possible) in advance of the event.

So with all these tips in mind go out there and enjoy the photoshoot.

Until next time.  All the best.

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

The Forth and Clyde canal Linlithgow, in infraredCanal photography in infrared at linlithgow by professional corporate and fine art photographer, Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland.

Linlithgow in infrared by professional fine art, event and corporate photographer Colin Wright, Glasgow, Scotland.

I managed to get along to Edinburgh very briefly at the weekend to take some photographs of the performers at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.  As a professional event photographer working in Edinburgh and around Scotland, this can be a great way to learn your trade.  You have a public place where you can photograph all you want for free, or in some cases its polite to pay the performers, particularly the ones who are using this as there main source of income during the Festival.  I felt this year, although the crowds were big, there weren't as many performers on the High Street or Grassmarket areas, but maybe that's still due to recovering from the pandemic.  Still, it is enjoyable and a great way to feel part of the festival.  Some of the challenges include, getting a good vantage point amongst the crowds and often standing on something or getting there early is the only option.  I often see photographers at these events and its a great way to network.  The one thing that never fails to amaze me is when I see photographers with dozens of lenses in their gear and large long lenses.  There is not the room for this kind of equipment and there is less excuse now with mirrlorless equipment, also the light isn't low enough during the day that you need these kind of lenses.  Finally it is selfish and intimidating for both the crowd and the performers if you use this type of equipment.  Anyway that's my rant for the day.  I also use the Festival as a means to supply infrared photos and I have done this in the past when commissioned to do outdoor theatre photography at the Festival.

So all you corporate and event photographers in Edinburgh and all the amateurs, get yourself along to Edinburgh while it lasts.  Experiment with lenses, colour, black and white, HDR, freezing movement, blurring movement - you wont get a better chance to practice like this.

Looking forward to some conference photography in Edinburgh soon also.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotogrpahy.co.uk

Apologies for the delay in my blog posts.  I recently suffered a bereavement and needed a little time to get back into things but I am back now and I have a number of professional freelance photography commissions to look forward to, particularly in corporate, conference and event photography in Scotland.

Today I would like to talk briefly about editing for infrared photography and although I won't go into detail, I will give some pointers and hints in relation to editing suggestions for infrared photography.  As you may well know, I think editing should be kept to a minimum in all genres of photography and this is the same for infrared.  The main bit of editing is in photoshop in the Channel Mixer, all you are going to do is swap the red and blue channels.  There are other software companies that offer this kind of service but in my opinion non of them do it as good as Photoshop.  Next I want to make sure my exposure is ok, maybe tweak the highlights a bit and in the case of colour infrared, increase the saturation individually, which will depend on your infrared blocking filter.  I like to increase the yellows and reduce the blues, as I have a 590n filter in my Nikon D800.  The reason I decrease the blues, is to obtain a darker and blacker, reducing the colour blue in the sky for more drama, although it is just a personal thing.

Other software that can help is Silver FX pro in the Nik Collection, now run by DXO, this is particularly useful for increasing the dynamic range in black and white images.  While I am not a fan of false infrared being created from normal non infrared photos by using software, I do like the RNI Aero app for phones which does a pretty good job of creating a red infrared effect from a normal colour image taken by your phone.  I also find it does a pretty good job of enhancing properly created infrared photos taken with a converted camera, which are then saved on your app to be edited further.

Anyway that's all for now.  I have a conference event photography commission coming up in Edinburgh, Scotland soon, looking forward to that.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin 

Colin Wright Photography

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Infrared Photography GlasgowInfrared photography Glasgow by fine art, event and corporate photographer Colin Wright, Glasgow, Scotland.

Glasgow Science Centre in Infrared by professional freelance fine art and corporate photographer Scotland, Colin Wright

This blog is a bit different than most of my previous ones.  I was asked the other day by a client if I ever get the opportunity to switch off and leave my camera behind.  Now as a professional corporate photographer working in Scotland who mostly spends his time photographing conferences and events, or fine art photography, you would think I would welcome the opportunity for a rest but not only do I automatically take my camera wherever I go for fear of missing an unexpected opportunity, I also welcome the opportunity to document the life of my family and the world around me. plus I love taking photographs and would prefer to do this than anything else in my free time.  I think you have to be like this in this profession, which can be competitive, seasonal and financially challenging - you need the joy of taking photographs to compensate for the difficult times.  Photography is also in a very interesting stage of rapid development at the moment and this can be very interesting for photographer, an example of this is the ability to convert cameras to make it easier to shoot infrared photography.  There are also purely infrared cameras being developed, but this is the subject of another blog.

As a conference photographer working in Scotland, I also like to keep my eyes open for new composition ideas when I am out and about, even attending events in my free time.  The other day I was at a concert and having done some freelance music photography in the past, although I was not allowed to take photos at the event, I was thinking how I would make effective use of the light and what would be the best composition, even when I was there watching the concert.  I will also take my camera on holiday with me, particularly when you visit places you may never have the chance to see again and before anyone says you can just use your phone, well that is OK as a last resort, but if you want something higher quality and a bit different, then you can't beat a camera.

The photo attached to this blog was taken in my free time during a day trip with my kids and also combines my love for infrared photography.

So anyway, there you have it.  Never stop thinking about photography unless you are asleep, and even then, you may even dream about cameras.

So until next time, happy photography.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

I have recently moved to the West of Scotland in East Dunbartonshire and although it has been difficult leaving the coast in East Lothian, in Scotland, particularly having that immediate source of photographs when the weather permits, I also think it is very important for landscape photographers to keep finding fresh locations.  I am now nearer places like the Kelpies, South Queensferry, Stirling, Loch Lomond and Glasgow and I plan to take advantage of these locations for my landscape and infrared photography.  This will help freshen up my portfolio and website and give me a new perspective for my photography.  This also applies to conference photography in Edinburgh, Glasgow and throughout Scotland and I hope to get some new event commissions in Stirling and Glasgow to add to my selection of Edinburgh conference images.  This can make a tremendous difference to your website.  All it takes is to build up new contacts and recommendations in different locations and I am working on this now.  So anyone out there who has a conference or event in the West of Scotland, please get in touch.  I can offer considerable experience of corporate and event photography throughout Scotland and the North of England.  Of course, it goes without saying I am also still available and looking forward to photography commissions in Edinburgh, as its just down the road.

I will leave you with a photo from one of my new locations at South Queensferry.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotogrpahy.co.uk

www.edinburghphotogrpajher.com

I have some significant developments to report on my infrared photography in Scotland project.  I have purchased a new 14mm Samyang lens, which takes pin shark images and gives me a wide angle perspective.  I am also shooting more red images utilising some new software I have discovered.  As a professional fine art and event photographer working in Edinburgh, Glasgow and around Scotland, I think it is always important to try new approaches, no matter what genre you are in, whether you are a wedding photographer in Scotland, or a landscape photographer, or even a conference photographer.  I am using a manual 14mm lens which although forcing me to work harder, giving me more creative control over exposure and focusing and making me think a bit more.  Too much nowadays we are all capable of being a bit lazy and relying on the technology and auto focusing on modern advanced cameras, but you should take time and step back and think about the basic elements of photography.  I think the best photographers are the ones trained on film cameras, as they have had to learn about depth of field, focusing, exposure and other aspects of manual controls.  This enables them to rely on their instinct often in stressful situations, rather than fiddling about with the dials in modern digital cameras, often in conditions of low light.  I think everyone would benefit from whilst not necessarily going back to using film cameras, at least use manual exposure and manual focusing every now and again.   So anyway, some conferences on the the go soon, as the corporate and event photography Scotland season picks again.

So until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Celebrations at the final game of the season for Kirkintilloch Thistle. Photograph by professional event photographer Scotland, Colin Wright

Good to get back into things at the weekend photographing a football match at Kirkintilloch near Glasgow.  As a professional corporate and event photographer working in Edinburgh, Glasgow and around Scotland, it is important that you keep taking photographs at all times, including during vacations and periods of I’ll health and after a second bout of covid, I am now back into the full swing of things and looking forward to some corporate and fine art photography commissions around Scotland, so it was great to do my first football photoshoot for a few months and get a chance to photograph Kirkintilloch Thistle at their last home game of the season, in what has been a good one for them.  
 

One of the things I wanted to chat about is the importance of positioning in sports photography.  It’s often not your fault and you can be limited through time or restrictions.  In rugby it is not as important as the action tends to stay in one area for a while and you can move about a bit more, if you are allowed, according to where the game is concentrated.  I think the best position at football is near the corner flag, just a few metres in to give you site of the goals and I was busy getting some good shots on Saturday, including 3 goals.  However, for a free kick, this restricts the subject you will photograph and only lets you see the goal posts and net, or the striker, not the drama of the situation.  This was where I was situated when one of the Kirki players scored a 25 yard free kick and there was nothing I could do about it.  The best place to stand would have been around the halfway line, so you can catch the ball and the wall jumping, as it is in mid flight before it goes in the net or just as it strikes the net.  Never mind I still caught a decent image of the ball hitting the net and the keeper looking at it.   Next time I will be sprinting to the half way line.

Anyway, until next time.

kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Kirkintilloch Thistle in action earlier today by professional corporate and event photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh and Glasgow, Scotland .

As a fine art and corporate event photographer in Edinburgh, Glasgow and throughout Scotland, I always think it is important to keep moving into uncharted territory, rather than just repeating the same photos over and over again.  This is just as true for conference photography in Scotland as it is for infrared photography.  For my corporate event and sports photography, I am using new Canon R mirrorless equipment and for infrared photography, I am about to purchase an ultra wide angled 14mm manual focus lens.  I lived for 15 years in Dunbar and pretty much feel I have exhausted the possibilities of seascape and infrared photography in East Lothian.  I will be doing more urban photography in Glasgow, along with exploring Loch Lomond, the Kelpies, Linlithgow and Stirling.

It is important to keep thinking how you can improve and break new ground.  It should never be easy and you should be mentally tired at the end of each photoshoot.  I have often supplied clients with infrared photos even when they didn’t request them and this gives you a good USP to sell your services, it also allows you to get creative even if the commission would suggest otherwise.  Always give the client what they ask for plus a little bit more.

So anyway I am off to get creative with my new equipment.  Look out for an infrared photography exhibition soon, it’s been a while but the next one is in the planning stages.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Aberlady Bridge East Lothian in InfraredAberlady Bridge East Lothian in Infrared by professional freelance fine art and corporate photographer Colin Wright, Scotland

Aberlady Bridge East Lothian in Infrared by professional freelance fine art and corporate photographer Colin Wright, Scotland

Dunbar in infrared by professional fine art and event photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

photography by professional fine art and event photographer Colin Wright Edinburgh, Scotland

This weeks blog is about photographic exhibitions and what you need to consider during the planning stages of an exhibition.  I haven’t had a planned exhibition for a few years with covid being the main issue and as a fine art and event photographer operating around Edinburgh, Glasgow and throughout Scotland, I am looking forward to planning an infrared exhibition from scratch in the near future.  When I say from scratch I mean with new photos and a new outlook.  So what do you need to take into consideration when planning an exhibition. Here is my list of important considerations:

1 What do want to exhibit for, this is the main one, do you want to boost online sales, or just use it as a promotion tool to get your name out there, or as in my case, do you want to sell images at the exhibition and are the ones on display for sale.

2. The size of the images and the frames used are very important, for instance for infrared I like metallic images and I was A3 or A2 if possible but also some smaller prints, if I want to sell at lower cost for multiple sales.

3. Choose your venue carefully, do you want to utilise a local venue at lower cost, but one that would require more income outlay to promote the event.

4. Who are you aiming the exhibition at.  If I had a commercial event and corporate photography exhibition, this would be very different from a fine art, landscape or infrared photography exhibit and they would all require different marketing strategies.

5. Who do you want the exhibit to appeal too.ie is it a specialised market, or local and any walk-ins. You may not need to market it much if it is on a high street of a city for instance.

6. The pricing of the images is very important.  Are you going for high value limited edition prints or a higher number of sales.  Or do you not want to sell at your exhibition at all.

7. How will you market the event ie online, leaflets, local newspaper advert or story etc.

8. What format will the day take ie will there be an opening day with private invites, wine, special offers etc. and how long will it last, some stay open for a few weeks, others just consist of a planned one day exhibit.

9. how much is your total budget and when you set it try and keep to it.

10. Evaluate the success of the exhibition after it has finished ie did you make a profit with the sales, or has it helped get your name out there as a professional event photographer in Edinburgh or Glasgow, Scotland, for instance.

Anyway, hope that helps.  more info on my exhibition soon.  One thing is for certain mine will be on the subject office art infrared photography.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

As we approach the new tax year, this is often the time for freelance photographers in Scotland to make plans for the next year.  Your business plan for the year ahead will probably include buying and selling of gear.  Now I know things have been a bit upside down with the pandemic but we are now moving into some sort of normal times and as a professional corporate and event photographer Edinburgh, Glasgow and Scotland, I am no exception.  I am a bit different from most photographers in that I don't tie myself to one brand of gear, I use Canon for all my indoor photography and conference commissions and indoor events, Nikon for my infrared photography and a combination of Canon and Fuji for the rest, with some infrared incorporated into my corporate work.  My gear purchase this year will likely be a new lens for my infrared work and a new Canon camera mirrorless body, probably the R6.  When buying gear, either as a professional or as an amateur, you have to buy wisely and not just buy the latest thing out.  I really like the Canon EOS R camera, but I need a camera that has 2 card slots, focus stacking, for my landscape work and a faster and more accurate focus, none of these things are available with the EOS R. I also need a wider angled lens for my infrared work.  I really don't need anything else and won't be seduced by the latest gadgets.  I even stopped going to trade shows as they only encourage you to buy what you don't really need.  i also won't be rushed into buying, with deals that last until the end of the month etc.  

So happy purchasing and purchase wisely.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Hope you are all well.  I have this crappy virus again, which has put paid to any photography for a week or two.  Never mind just before I had a positive test I was out and about in Glasgow, in what was a great day for infrared photography, particularly in or near a city.  So what exactly is considered a great day for infrared, well the sun needs to be out for one, but you also need clouds and Saturday was a stormy day with black skies and clouds, along with the blue skies.  The location was along the River Clyde in Glasgow, one of my favourite places for city photography even before I moved to Kirkintilloch.  As a corporate and event photographer in Glasgow and Edinburgh, Scotland, I love the mixture of old and new along the Clyde, new industries, alongside traditional shipbuilding.   I am always on the lookout for glass reflections which I feel are perfectly portrayed in infrared and the Glasgow Science Centre is a great place to start.  It really is my favourite urban location and that is saying something from someone born and bred in Edinburgh.  There are also so many angles to photograph the Clyde, it’s sheer size overwhelming at times.  There are usually plenty of people, which is good for urban photography and you also have water and boats, what more do you need.  So I will leave you with a photo taken on Saturday.   Now what can I do, I guess this is an opportunity to work on some photos in photoshop.

Until next time.

Stay safe.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Balmaha, Loch Lomond in infrared by professional landscape and event photographer Scotland Colin Wright

As someone who works in the area of corporate and event photography around Edinburgh, Glasgow and throughout Scotland, it seems trivial just now to display some photos from recent event photography commissions in Scotland, or some urban photography but that is what I will do, as we all need to try and take our minds away from what is happening just now, although our thoughts and prayers go to the people of Ukrain at the moment.  Also spare a thought to photographers and journalists out in Ukraine just now.  I used to work as a press photographer and have been at the centre of riots and demonstrations but nothing even close to the turmoil that the photographers are feeling in the Ukraine just now.

On a different note, I have been taking a lot more urban photographs recently, particularly as I now live outside Glasgow.  i find Glasgow a great place to photograph, as it has a variety of buildings, new and old.  it is often used as a film location to mirror cities in the US and you can see why with the San Fransisco looking streets and slopes.  I come from Edinburgh and this is an entirely different place to photograph, with a more historic and touristy feel about it.  Glasgow has the busy feeling of a real, at times scary, other times beautiful, city.  There is also the River Clyde and its wonderful mix of architecture.  In addition, I have been doing a lot of infrared photography in the city, to give me that increased dynamic range, structure and drama and Glasgow never lets me down, so without further comment, i will leave you with a photo taken in the city recently.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

As a professional freelance corporate and event photographer in Edinburgh, Glasgow and around Scotland, things are starting to pick up a bit now with event photography and conference photography in Scotland restarting again.  I have move nearer to Glasgow now to Kirkintilloch, this gives me some new subjects to photograph, although i do miss the sea.  However, I now have loch Lomond and the Campsie Fells.

Recently we have had some really extreme and stormy weather and although this can be challenging and you often have to protect yourself first, there are some great photographic opportunities.  I always loved photographing the waves in Dunbar and now have snow and mountains to photograph, in addition to living near a canal on the River Clyde.  I also have new cities to photograph in Glasgow and Stirling, so plenty to keep me busy.

I wanted to talk briefly about storms, ie how can you photograph them in relation to still photography, to convey the drama, you could take a photo os flying derbris or people battling their way through the elements, however one of the best things to photograph in a storm is the period just before the big event, where the sky is often dramatic and very changeable.  The photo I have featured in this blog shows the sky at Southbank Marina Kirkintilloch just before the big storm we had on wednesday 16th February.  The clouds were battling with the sun rays and to add to the photo, my infrared converted camera caught the sun rays effectively to give the image more drama.

So get out there and take photos, but be careful.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotogrpaher.com

Derelict ground at Balmaha Loch Lomond by professional fine art, infrared and corporate photographer Colin Wright Edinburgh Scotland

Derelict ground at Balmaha Loch Lomond by professional fine art, infrared and corporate photographer Colin Wright Edinburgh Scotland

As we move into the new year, I have been doing some more urban street photography around Glasgow, while I wait on the corporate and event photography commissions re-starting again in Edinburgh and Glasgow, Scotland.  The signs are good that things are starting to pick up again and I expect to get some conference photography enquiries coming in soon.  Already there is some movement in the event photography sector in Scotland, with sports events back on again.  

Last week I did a short blog on street and urban photography.  This week I thought I would touch on another subject close to my heart and that is puddle and water reflection photography - just as well, given that I have now moved to the West of Scotland.  The main advice for puddle photography, is to get down low, place your camera on the ground or at a low level on a tripod and fire away.  Look for reflections and interesting shapes, use people and cars as your foreground prop.  However, be careful, the worse thing I have had happen to me is to get a soaking.  Make sure you are not too close to the road and watch out for dodgy people who could nick your gear when you are concentrating on that perfect shot.  Usually a wide or ultra wide angled lens is best for this type of photography, but experiment with lenses.  Night time puddle photography is good to get some creative light photos, combined with light trails if you take long exposure photos.  Finally, just enjoy, it can be a very rewarding and creative genre.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Urban photography by professional event and corporate photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh and Glasgow

First blog of the year.  Once again, the pandemic has affected event and corporate photography commissions for me in Edinburgh and Glasgow, Scotland, so I thought I would take the opportunity to do some urban photography in Glasgow.  The rain stayed off for long enough and I spent an hour photographing traffic and landmarks in the city, mostly light trails. So this prompted me to draw up my Top 5 Tips for long city exposures, so here they are:

1.  Always take a tripod, or some sort of support, often I just place may camera on the street and if I have no tripod or balance on a fence etc.

2.  Experiment with your camera speeds ie all the way up to 1o or 15 seconds or more if you want to.

3.  Even though you are photographing motor light trails, pay attention to the composition and try and have an interesting building in the background.

4.  Although you want to photograph a night scene, try and do it while there is still some light in the sky.  This makes the sky more interesting and you don't just have a black background.

5.  Experiment with lenses, my favourite is a manual ultra wide angled lens, as I like to shoot low and include plenty of foreground interest detail.

So happy photographing and remember, be careful, watch out for your safety with cars around and people potentially nicking your gear.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

Colin Wright Photography

Street photography in Glasgow by fine art and event photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

HDR canal photography by professional event and fine art photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh Scotland

As we move into the new year, we are all hoping for a more positive future with the effects of covid being felt on photographers and other businesses.  The corporate and event photography event commissions in Scotland have started up again and I recently photographed an award ceremony in Edinburgh.  It was a very enjoyable event held in the wonderful Signet library just of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh.  The event was for the MRG Media Awards and was attended by a number of media organisations, including the major television companies and everyone had a good time.  However, due to the new covid variant, there has been a bit of a halt for some event commissions, but hopefully this will be a temporary thing and we will advance forward.  In the meantime, I have been doing some infrared photography in the Campsie Fells and photographing Southbank Marina in Kirkintilloch.  I am also hoping to get some landscape and infrared photography in over the festive period at loch Lomond, near my new home.

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

It was great to get back to some professional corporate and event photography at the Signet Library in Edinburgh after the longest wait in my photography career due to covid.  This event was an awards ceremony for media companies, which included representatives and award winners from the BBC and Channel 4.  This is the first time I have worked at this location and it is a truly remendous building in the old town in Edinburgh, just of the Royal Mile.  We had the Awards ceremony, dancing and generally delegates networking and enjoying themselves after too long a period where this kind of event was not possible.  
 

It did feel like I haven’t been away for long and it all came back to me, despite some tricky lighting, as the whole event took place after dark.  It’s great to be back and this is just the start of many new photographic commissions on the horizon.

Anyway, until next time, I will leave you with this photo from the event.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

As things start to get back to a sort of a semi normal state, I have been getting enquiries for corporate and event photography in Glasgow and Edinburgh and I have an award ceremony photoshoot booked in Edinburgh next month amongst other things.  As I have now moved to Kirkintilloch, I am pretty much next to Glasgow and I was out at the weekend getting some urban photography images.  The weather was pretty awful but there is always a cloud under the silver lining and I was able to shoot some puddle photos in the centre of the city.  I started puddle photography as a student and had a bit of a reputation for it at the time, with fewer people doing it then than now and I have always enjoyed shooting from the ground up.  I loved it and although you look a bit daft (that has never bothered me anyway) it is a great way to get some unique low angle photos with really creative reflections.  I also like to convert to black and white and try infrared photography where possible (ie if you are lucky enough to get some sun after the showers).  Glasgow is a really interesting city to photograph with lots of glass architecture, people buzzing around and landmarks.  You have to be careful mind you as most of the puddles are in the gutter, make sure you don't get knocked down and keep your gear dry  Hope to do more soon.  

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

Colin Wright Photography

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotography.co.uk

As a professional fine art and event photographer working around Scotland, one of my favourite destinations is the Kelpies installation in Falkirk.  From my earliest days photographing infrared this was one of my go to places.  This has also been the case after I was recovering from Covid and needed some therapeutic help.  So it is with great pleasure that I recently returned to this location, particularly since I live a lot closer to it now.  The new installations as part of the Canal Project also add to the venue.  Well done to the artists involved.   So why the Kelpies, well the metal installations come to life with infrared photography, there is water nearby, lots of foliage and people to give you a sense of scale.  It is ideal for colour and black and white and lends itself very well to drama.  I love it.  Oh and if you fancy a change then drop in up the road to the Falkirk Wheel. an engineering feast, although also a kind of art form too.

So until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin 

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Apologies for the delay in completing my blog, what with covid in my household and a variety of other things, it has taken a me a wee while to get organised with my blog.  Its was great, after a long delay due to the pandemic, to get back to doing some serious sports photography in my new home in East Dunbartonshire, Scotland, first of all with Kirkintilloch Thistle for the football and then at Allan Glens Rugby Club last weekend.  I was only around for the first half of both games but that was enough to get back into things and hoping to do more soon, also happy to establish a working relationship with one of the local clubs to supply them with photos when I am free.  As a professional freelance corporate and event photographer working in Scotland, particularly in Edinburgh and Glasgow, I am hoping that the corporate event photography commissions pick up again soon.  I can't wait to get going again and hopefully things will start to pick up.  There is also been a resurgence in wedding photography and thankfully I have a few wedding photography bookings in Scotland on the horizon.  Trying out my Fuji gear for sport and enjoying working with the 100 - 400mm lens with the XT2.  Thinking of getting an XT3.  Also looking at extending my Canon gear to acquire a mirrorless sports lens and possibly a different Canon body suitable for sport.

So, until next time, keep snapping.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotogrpaher.com

The Kelpies in infrared by professional fine art and corporate potographer Colin Wright Scotland

Now that I have moved I have been investigating the area for photographic potential. Having moved to Kirkintilloch we have discovered some great walks and opportunities for photography throughout East Dunbartonshire.  The Campsie Fells is also an area new to me and it looks like it has a lot of potential for infrared photography, particularly at this time of the year with the trees and foliage still around.  There is a rich countryside with a variety of potential subjects suitable for infrared and landscape photography in Scotland.  In addition, I am still in the perfect position for corporate and event photography in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Central Scotland.  The conference photography commissions are a still bit quiet at the moment, due to covid, however, the PR and sport is starting to kick off now.  I will also be continuing my urban photography project in Glasgow and the Clyde in particular.  So plenty going on.  I also intend to invest in some more lenses and possibly a new Canon body and possibly some infrared equipment.

So, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotography.com

Sorry it’s been a while since my last blog post.  I recently moved to Kirkintilloch and it’s been a bit chaotic recently.  However, things are starting up a bit more now and I hope to be doing some professional corporate event photography throughout Scotland in Edinburgh and Glasgow.  For my infrared work, I will now be focussing more on urban photography, mostly in Glasgow, although I hope to visit Loch Lomond more and of course, living in Kirkintilloch should provide me with some opportunities to photograph canals and the Kelpies, which is only 20 minutes away.

So until next time.  All the best.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Glasgow city centre by professional corporate, event and conference photographer Colin Wright

Infrared Photography ScotlandInfrared photography in Scotland by professional freelance fine art and corporate photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

Infrared photography in Scotland by professional freelance fine art and corporate photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

As some of you may know, I will be leaving the area of Dunbar, East Lothian and moving to Kirkintilloch near Glasgow.  After 15 years of living by the sea next to this wonderful coastline, in a few weeks time I will be in a totally different place.  I will be very sad to leave Dunbar, as a professional fine art and landscape photographer, Scotland, this is obviously a great location for photography in Scotland and the ability to nip out and photograph a sunset or a storm just at my doorstep, will be missed.  However, as photographer, we should always be looking at exploring new horizons and you can only keep photographing the same subject over and over again, so many times.  I will be in the ideal place to explore Loch Lomond and the Highlands, in addition to being close to Glasgow for some urban photography and also to expand on my infrared photography in Scotland project.  The area is also ideal for conference and corporate event photography in Central Scotland, with quick access to both Edinburgh and Glasgow, as opposed to Dunbar which is not so central. Kirkintilloch is also famous for its canals and I will be close to the Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel, so onwards and upwards.  

To celebrate the move, here is a photo taken in Glasgow, probably the best city in Scotland for urban photography.

Until next time.

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Infrared photography in Dunbar East Lothian by professional fine art photographer Colin Wright, Scotland

One of the things I have found about this strange time as a professional corporate and event photographer based in Scotland is that I had to find other things to photograph, particularly since I am a specialist conference photographer and there hasn't been a conference for over a year now.  So what did I do, for one, I couldn't travel to the same extent, so I concentrated on my local area and more importantly I adapted my projects to may daily routines.  As you will know I have an ongoing project relating to infrared photography and I have managed to use this genre in unusual ways, so if I am going to take my boy to a skateboard park, I will photograph him in infrared.  Likewise any insect shots and spring photos of chick hatchings in Dunbar have been taken in infrared, sometimes the results are fairly striking, so it is worth it in the end.  Often I am looking to create something surreal in a typical infrared way, however sometimes it will be difficult to tell that the shot was taken in infrared and all you will be left with is a high contrast black and white photo with excellent dynamic range.

So onwards and upwards.  Now that things are moving a bit, I will be photographing conferences in Scotland soon.  However, I will continue with my local infrared project.

Until next time.

All the best

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

As most of my professional photography has been concerned with infrared photography recently due to the pandemic affecting corporate and event photography commissions around Scotland, so I thought this would be a good time to reflect on how infrared photography has changed in recent years.  of course the biggest change has been the move away from infrared film to digital cameras and an even larger influence, has been the ability to convert digital cameras to shoot entirely in infrared, without the need for a tripod, by removing the internal protective infrared light filter from the cameras and replacing it with either a specific infrared filter or leaving you with a full spectrum camera (able to shoot a variety of infrared images with filters).  The main thing has been the ability to stroll around without a tripod and experiment. In the past, infrared film was expensive and often a bit of a hit or miss depending on the developing and exposure of the image, now photographers can try out all sorts of things.  I have used infrared for sports photography, weddings, architecture and many other corporate photography commissions around Scotland, this could never have happened in the past.  Photoshop and other software such as DXO filters have also enhanced all the special effects created by infrared and has given the photographers a range of choices for the final image to create eye catching images for fine art purposes, or just to have a black and white photo with brilliant dynamic range.  My biggest sales over the last 5 years for landscape and fine art have been in infrared.

It is also a hugely enjoyable genre and offers all sorts of creative possibilities. So its not all about white trees and forests.  This doesn't even touch on the use of infrared imagery for medical and forensic purposes.

So, I will leave you with a recent infrared photograph taken in East Lothian, Scotland.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

As I prepare for a possible move away from East Lothian to East Dunbartonshire, I can reflect on the 15 years I have spent in East Lothian and what a brilliant place it is for professional photographers to live and work.  Whilst most of my paid photography commissions involve corporate PR and conference photography around Scotland, I also do landscape and infrared fine art photography in East Lothian and Scotland and this location has been ideal.  However, whilst I will miss the area and the convenient closeness to the coastal areas, it will be good for me to relocate and move out of my comfort zone.  You tend to repeat yourself if located in the one place, especially recently without the ability to travel.  Moving nearer to Glasgow will provide me with the opportunity to update my urban photography images and there is no better city than Glasgow.  I will also be more central and closer to the Highlands and Islands and Stirling, not to mention the Campsie Fells and Loch Lomond and I will still be within shouting distance of Edinburgh.  All in all, more central for photographic commissions in Scotland.

So onwards and upwards.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www,edinburghphotographer.com

As we are starting to come of lockdown and some activities re-start, this means that the event and corporate photography commissions in Scotland will be re-starting soon, maybe not so many conferences just yet, but the outdoor events and indoor commissions throughout Edinburgh and Scotland.  So its time to dust off my gear and get going again, I cant wait. I like to think that I have tried to utilise this time by updated my training and equipment, in addition to increasing my infrared photography portfolio and I also had a few photography commissions, particularly in the summer months and even up to November, but it will be a bit strange at first.  I have also had a couple of photography jobs which involved wearing masks, although as an event photographer, it pains me that I cant photograph the full face of the participants, however, you get used to it and it wont last forever.

So let’s get back in there and do what we love to do.

Kind Regards

Colin Wright

Just before my corporate and event photography commissions are due to start in Scotland, I am expanding my fine art infrared photography portfolio.  Recently I have been photographing my son Lukas, who is a keen skateboarder.  I decided to go for some dramatic infrared photos of him skateboarding and also portrait photos, although none of the photos are posed, I have just photographed him while he is unaware of me in the background.  I think black and white works best but the next aim will be to get some dramatic colour infrared photos with foliage in the background, or other landscape or street photography props that lend themselves to infrared photography.  Once again, the clouds are crucial to add a sense of drama.  I also used flash in some of the images to add contrast and bite to the images.  It also gives me the opportunity to try out stuff myself and act like the overgrown kid that I am.  Hope you like them, more on the way soon.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotogrpahe.com

As a professional corporate and event photographer working near Edinburgh, who also spends a lot of time photographing infrared around Scotland, this means I spend a good amount of time outdoors.  For infrared photogrpahy, you may have heard me go on about the importance of sunlight and foliage in the composition, in addtion to the quality of light.  However one of the most important factors for successful infared photography is the clouds in the sky.  If the sky is blue without any clouds I probably wont even take the shot.  this also goes for non-infrared landscape photography.  Whilst most locations are roughly the same every time, it's the clouds that can change everything, the shapes, or the intensity, whether they appear blurry, if photogrpahed at a slow shutter speed during a windy day, or puffy and sharp with repeating patterns, they are going to enhance your photo, whether of not it is in coluor or black and white.  So the next time you go out on a infrared photoshoot, or landscape for that matter, I want you to look up into the sky and check out the clouds.

Good luck.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

As we are still in lockdown and event and corporate photography in Scotland is still a while away, I thought I would do a short article reflecting on how the cameras we work with have made a pretty major change recently to the profession.  Some would say that no change can be as big as the film to digital transition and this is true but now there is a major change coming into play and that relates to the size of cameras.  This change has probably been coming largely due to the explosion of mobile phone photography, with smaller lenses providing the final image. However, the boom in mirrorless cameras has finally come.  At first it was Fuji, Panasonic and Sony leading the way, now the big guns have embraced the market, with Canon now promoting the EOS R series as their main camera choice for professionals and amateurs alike.  The convenient small size, coupled with the familiar touch screen operation will appeal to many.  The new range of lenses are also helping to promote the product.  I would say the only area where these cameras aren't yet dominating, is in professional sport in low light, which is still largely dominated by big camera bodies and long telephoto lenses.  As a conference photographer I love mirrorless cameras, especially the touch screen facility and the ability to reduce my visibility at events, in addition to less weight.  However, I still prefer my larger camera bodies for most sport, due to the auto- focusing and low light capabilities - things are changing though and I expect this market to become part of the mirrorless revolution.  I just hope they do not get too small, as I like to be able to grip my camera, but otherwise, roll on the changes, I am getting to the age where I don't want to be lugging around a lots of equipment all the time.

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Infrared Photography ScotlandInfrared photography in Scotland by professional freelance fine art and corporate photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

Infrared photography in Scotland by professional freelance fine art and corporate photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

I thought I would spend a a bit of time on one of my recent fine art infrared photography projects, which is photographing harbours in East Lothian.  As a professional corporate, conference and event photographer working in Edinburgh, Glasgow and throughout Scotland, due to the covid restrictions, I have spent a lot of time on my personal projects, particularly infrared photography and due to travel limitations, I have been photographing local subjects, like the two harbours in Dunbar.  So I thought I would do a little blog on how to photograph harbours.  Dunbar has 2 harbours, one of them, Cromwell Harbour is the old one and there is a larger new harbour which leads out to the open sea.  I won't go into the aspects of harbour life, but I will concentrate on studying infrared photography from a harbour point of view.  As with all infrared photography we are looking for sunlight where possible, although in this case , as long as you have some cloud detail, it can be possible to get some good photos.  There are so many things to photograph in harbours, I like old fishing boats, but modern yachts are of interest also.  Black and white or colour can be considered and the weather could dictate which is best, in addition to the colour of the boats etc.  I also think you should always be looking at what you want to achieve down the line after editing, as infrared photography is a bit like in the old film days and the image you see on the screen is a long way from the final version after editing.  Close ups can also be considered.look for creels, ropes, old bits of boats and engines in the foreground, in addition to fishermen working on the boats.  I also look for any grass areas or trees close by, which will be prominent in infrared.  As always look at the angle you are shooting with, some low ground level shots can be very dramatic.  

With the lockdown, I have had the opportunity to do a very in-depth study of harbour photography, so much that I hope to turn it into an Infrared Photography exhibition in the future and also to add some of the images to my infrared photography in Scotland book, with a separate chapter on the subject of harbour photography.

Anyway, hope that helps.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

As we all prepare to come out of lockdown this time has also given all professional photographers in Edinburgh, Glasgow and around Scotland, the opportunity to think about their future strategy and to reflect on what is important to them as a person and to their business.  I have had time to reflect on the areas of photography important to me and I hope to continue with my conference photography and event photography commissions with a renewed vigour.  I am now a fully converted Mac user and the lockdown has provided me with the time to re-invest in IT and improve my editing skills.  I also will be finishing my book on infrared photography in Scotland and doing more infrared photography with the possibility of converting another camera to shoot infrared.  

So let’s look onwards and upwards in 2021.

Until next time.

Colin

www.edinburghphotographer.com and www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Some time ago, I posted a blog on my other website on the subject of Mac or Windows operating systems.  As I have now changed almost entirely to Apple systems, I now have more experience in using the MacBook and I thought as we are still in lockdown and it may be a month or two until my professional corporate and event photography commissions restart in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland, that this would be a good time to re-visit the subject.

So here is my opinion for what it is worth and it is only my preference from my personal experience.  I am sure other photographers will go the opposite way.

For Apple Mac:

1. Although it shouldn't make a difference, they just look cooler and are more enjoyable to work with.  Whilst this should not impact on business decisions, it does to an extent due to the professional image it creates.

2. Macs work better with Photoshop and the updates are designed to work well with Apple systems.

3. The products last longer in my opinion.  Although more expensive, Mac systems can be an investment.  I find my PCs start to slow down after a few years.

4. They sync well with other Apple devices.  Although pc and android systems also offer sync between devices it is more clumsy and you are pairing different manufactured devices with each other, which is often problematic.

5. I like most of the Apple updates and they don't take ages to update.  I also feel Windows updates often made the system more difficult to work with, rather than improve things.

6. I prefer Apple customer service.

For Windows:

1. Easier for working with documents due to Microsoft office compatibility.

2. I find it easier working with Music on Windows systems, they don't make it difficult to download or save Flac files to the devices. One of the things I don't like about Apple, is it forces you into their system, so you spend money on Apple products.  I prefer to be given the choice.

3. Most Windows systems still offer the option to burn CDs and DVDs.  I know this is outdated technology but some of my clients still want the service and it means I have to purchase an additional disk burner.  This wasn't even available on my Mac book when I purchased it 5 years ago when most of my clients still preferred disks.

4. There are some things I prefer about Windows, such as keyboard shortcuts and right click options, but this is mostly just because I am used to the Windows system.  Eventually I will learn the Apple shortcuts.

So that's it, overall I prefer Mac systems, as I think the good points outweigh the bad.  I could have added in the Windows section that the products are cheaper but you get what you pay for and in the long run I now prefer Apple.  Keep in mind I was a Windows user for 20 years, so this decision was not taken lightly.

Anyway, hopefully some event photography commissions soon, in the meantime, its more fine art and infrared photography during lockdown.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotogrpahy.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

One of my favourite locations is the Kelpies installation in Falkirk, Scotland.  As a professional fine art infrared photographer, working in Edinburgh, East Lothian and throughout Scotland, I have had to content myself with photographing more local locations during the pandemic.  In fact at this moment in time we are in lockdown and I can't go any further than Dunbar or surrounding area around East Lothian.  However, this challenging time has also enabled me to focus on specific locations and to try to perfect my photography locally, in addition to experimenting with new techniques.  I have also been able to concentrate more on my fine art landscape and infrared photography due to the reduced number of professional event and corporate commissions in Edinburgh and around Scotland, due to the pandemic.   

The Kelpies has everything, it has drama, set in an amazing landscape.  It also has everything for the infrared photographer, including metal surfaces, trees water boats, large artistic installations and combine that with the somewhat dramatic Scottish weather, then you have the perfect location for infrared photography and a great day out.  I have experimented with colour, black and white and also I have often used HDR combined with infrared to enhance the images, so I hope I have succeeded in achieving something different.

Anyway, enjoy the photographs and chin up, this can't go on forever.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Landscape photography by professional freelance fine art and corporate photographer Colin Wright

A quick blog today, as we are all limited at the moment, with very little corporate photography commissions in Edinburgh, Glasgow and around Scotland, this is a good time to re-visit some earlier photos, to give them a fresh edit and a new perspective.  I photograph bungee photography events in Glasgow and I often have the opportunity to take a few infrared photos while I am at the Riverside Museum location on the River Clyde, Glasgow, my favourite urban locations in Scotland.  This image was taken earlier in the morning, hence the good light and shadows and I decided on a fresh different colour edit, with an emphasis on red.  one of the things I like about infrared photography is the ability to change the colours in a natural way with our spending ages on the edit, whilst at the same time keeping it real.  It is vital during this difficult time that we try to keep creative and use at least some of the time in an effective way.  That said, I can't wait to travel around Scotland soon.

See you soon.

Kind Regards

Colin

Just for a change I am going to talk about choice of IT equipment and operating system for professional photographers.  As a corporate and event photographer working in Scotland, fast workflow and an efficient desktop are essential to running a successful photography business.  With more of our work done on mobile technology, through our phones and tablets, the way we work has changed dramatically.  For many years I was a pc person and although I purchased a Macbook when I went professional, the different operating system and steep learning curve prevented me from changing to Apple products.  However, I have now purchased an IMac and I am now a fully fledged Apple convert.  Whilst everyone is different, I would like to let you know my reasons for changing.  Whilst a PC can often have a faster operating system, the Apple updates, always improve on the current system.  Many Windows updates just frustrated me in the past.  The quality of the screen in IMacs is excellent and they sync well with other devices.  As a fine art photographer working in Scotland, I also think it is important to have a professional looking desktop set-up for the customer and Apple IMacs look great and are instantly recognisable.  However, the biggest reason is the longevity of the devices.  All my Apple products last longer than their Android counterparts, PC systems can start going slower after 2 years.  So I am looking forward to the new year with my new gear.  Apple is not perfect mind you, the hard drive size is often limited, as are upgrades and the products are more expensive.  Word also works better on a PC system, but more importantly, Photoshop works better on a Mac, with many of the updates designed to improve the experience on the Apple systems.  So in the long run I am looking forward to working with my Mac.  Finally, I just think it is more fun, but I am sure you all have your own opinion and there will be photographers out there who will defend and prefer PC systems.

Hope this helps.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Infrared photography ScotlandInfrared photography East Lothian, Scotland by professional fine art and corporate and event photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

Infrared Photography from East Lothian, Scotland by professional corporate and event photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

A bit late with my blog this week but I have a good reason as I have been affected by Covid 19 in the last 2 or 3 weeks.  After a couple of bad weeks, I appear to have turned a corner and hope to be up and running again in the new year.  As I always do at this time of the year, I like to reflect on the year and look at the highlights as a professional photographer, working as a corporate and event photographer in Edinburgh and around Scotland.  Yes, this has been a very challenging and unique year for us all but it is also important to look at the highlights and aims for the year ahead.  Due to lockdown, I have completed far more personal projects, particularly in infrared and landscape photography and I have also started on my aim to complete an infrared photography book, based on my photos taken around Scotland.  I have also updated by IT equipment, thanks largely to a digital development grant, thanks again to Business Gateway and Digital Boost who funded 75% of the costs, towards the purchase of an iMac and digital event and corporate lens for my Canon camera.  The year also included some supercar events, before the lockdown restrictions and it started with a very interesting whisky event photoshoot in Leith, Edinburgh.  I also had a lot more food photoshoots this year, which was interesting, in addition to a PR photoshoot for the opening of a new supermarket and a great classic car photo commission in East Lothian, so there was plenty of variety even with all the restrictions. I have also completed my first photoshoots wearing a mask, not that easy when you wear glasses.  I have re-ignited my enthusiasm for landscape photography and added new subjects to my infrared image collection, including insects and bees, birds, waves and harbour photography.  Unfortunately, all my conference photography commissions were cancelled after March and I had loads booked this year, although I am hoping to get going in this Line of work next year after we have all been vaccinated.  However, the one thing I am really looking forward to doing is travelling to other locations in Scotland once all the restrictions have been lifted and a trip to Skye is definitely on the cards.  So, onwards and upwards and looking forward to 2021.  Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

I haven’t taken any photos this week as I have been grounded in the house due to a virus.  With little energy to do much, you can still make use of the time at home to re-assess your strategy for the following year, to determine where things can be changed and what the focus will be for 2021.  Of course this has been a pretty awful year for most of us, but there is still time to plan and look forward.  As a professional corporate and conference photographer working in Edinburgh and Glasgow, Scotland, I have suffered from a huge loss of event and corporate photography commissions and just when things were starting to look up in the summer, it has all gone backwards again.  However, the future looks good with a vaccine on the horizon.  I have also re-appraised my IT strategy and have moved almost exclusively to IMac, following successfully obtaining a Digital Development grant from Business Gateway, for which I very much appreciate. professional corporate I have also decided to focus more on fine art and landscape photography for now until the corporate and event photography industry picks up, probably the beginning of next year.  I am expecting to publish a book on Infrared Photography in Scotland next year and another exhibition is also on the way.  So onwards and upwards, keep positive and look to the future, don’t stand still and keep with the creativity.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

IMG_1793.JPG

Cockenzie Harbour in HDR photography by professional fine art, landscape and event photographer, Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

Belhaven Bay in HDR by professional fine art, corporate and landscape photographer Colin Wright

Today I am going to briefly talk about the need for all professional photographers to act on impulse and break the rules sometimes.  As a professional corporate and event photographer working in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland, I am constantly looking for better ways to photograph my subjects and often these new ways can not be found through boooks or training, you have have to act on impulse and try new things.  I started taking photos from ground level when I first supplied urban photography images for my design agency clients in Edinburgh.  Thety had a specific remit which I supplied but I added on my own slant to the commissioned photos and guess what, they loved it.  Last weekend I went a walk with my family to Traprain Law in East Lothian and wondered whether to take my infrared camera, it was dull and misty, with no real sunlight, not ideal conditions for infrared photographers.  However, I thought why not, I have never photographed mist in infrared.  So I gave it a try and although I would have preferred some sunlight, the results gave me some fairly mystical erie effects in infrared, that I would not have obtained using a conventional landscape photography camera.  There would have been some infrared light creeping through the mist and although I struggled for light, tha camera coped well and I was happy with the results.  So the moral of the story is, try new things, break the rule of two thirds, photograph event commissions in infrared, try black and white when colour is the norm, do some HDR etc.  I am not saying dont do as the client has asked, just the opposite, supply them with what they want and also more, bringing your own personal bespoke style to the forefront.

Hope this helps.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Infrared photography ScotlandInfrared photography East Lothian, Scotland by professional fine art and corporate and event photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

Infrared photography East Lothian, Scotland bFine art infrared photography by infrared, corporate and event photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

With the pandemic still upon us and lots of mini lockdowns around preventing professional photographers from obtaining commissions, I think this would be a good time to look at the importance of exploring your local area and making the best of the surroundings outside your own doorstep.  As a professional corporate and event photographer living in East Lothian, who normally photographs conferences and events in Edinburgh or throughout Scotland, the importance of keeping busy can never be underestimated.  Whilst we are all human and there are times when this Covid situation will get us down, you can help stay sane by taking photographs and concentrating on other projects, of course that is easier when you live in a place like Dunbar, with a wonderful coastline.  However, the need to keep going is still there.  I have been concentrating on a number of individual infrared photography projects, including the following: Harbours, Seabirds and Seascapes, in addition to utilising the autumn leaves from an infrared perspective.  Not to forget landscape photography of my local area at Belhaven Bay and some portraits of my family, when the kids let me that is.  It is also a good time to plan out what approach you want to take once this is all over.  Or find alternative markets, I  have certainly done more PR photography work recently, to replace the conference photography void.  I have also applied for a digital development grant to update my IT equipment and also for an additional lens.  This has also been a time to learn software skills and get to know my equipment in general and possibly upping the game with regard to social media posts.

So dust yourself up and get going.  You will benefit from this course of action after all this is over.

Until next time.

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

As you all know I am a specialist infrared photographer, often found out and about East Lothian and throughout Scotland, what I wanted to talk about today was the various uses for infrared converted cameras.  Whilst I like to photograph black and white infrared with sparkling white trees and extreme contrasty photographs with vibrant colours like the next guy, I also like to use the camera in a conventional way.  Although we require bright sun for most infrared photos, you can still use them on an overcast weather day, especially if the sun is peeking through, the main thing is to have some kind of contrast in the sky.  As infrared cameras have extensive dynamic range, they can be used to portray fine art black and white images, depicting strong detail  and contrast after editing.  I have sold a number of landscape photos to clients who were unaware that they are infrared, they just liked the dramatic nature of the photograph.  Long exposure on an infrared camera also results in more drama and detail in the sky or water, if this is part of the scene.  When it comes to colour, infrared converted cameras can enable you to switch colours and tone in a more natural way to conventional editing.  You can also bring out the blue sky and easily decrease or increase saturation according to the colour effect you are going for.  I would say that in about 50% of the photos I post on social media, the viewer is unaware they are infrared.  I can like everyone else, revert to taking a dramatic black and white infrared shot or even a colour image with red trees for instance, when it is obvious that the photo is infrared.  however as a professional corporate and event photographer working in Scotland, often I want to inject some realism into my photography for my clients.

Hope this helps.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin Wright

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Recently I have been revisiting locations I haven’t been for a while to try and improve and or do something entirely different at the location.  As it appears I will have a few professional corporate photography commissions coming up in Scotland soon and now is a good time to try and utilise the free time for my fine art photography.  it is important to try and develop what you did on previous occasions and to find new areas to interpret the scene.  This time I visited the Bridges at South Queensferry.  Of course as a photographer, every time you visit a location, the sky is different and this should present you with new options, particularly for infrared photographers.  There are also different vantage points to consider, how you can edit the photo in a different way, maybe you have new software, or in my case, I have learned some new photoshop skills during the lockdown.  I decided to change my vantage points for this photoshoot, including lower angled photos, I also managed to get access to parts of the harbour I hadn’t visited before.  So there are always new angles to be considered.  To summarise, the more you visit a location, the more you can reach perfection with the photo.

So happy photographing everyone.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Eyemouth Harbour in infrared by professional fine art and corporate event photographer, Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

Infrared photography Isle of Kerrera by professional fine art and corporate photographer Colin Wright , Edinburgh, Scotland

As a professional corporate and event photogrpaher working in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland, when I am not out photographing events and sport, I add to my collection of fine art infrared photography and also landscape work.  Sometimes you get a day, especially in Scotland at this time of year, when the weather appears unsuitable for any type of outdoor photogrpahy.  However, as I live in Dunbar in East Lothian, often the storms we get can be ideal for photography and it also adds to my collection of wave photographs.  Yesterday was a case in point and it was also raining, so I had to be careful.  So here is my top 5 tips for wave photography:

1.  Be prepared with clothing and protection for you gear if possible, yesterday was a spur of the moment photoshoot, so I had neither, but try and avoid this.

2.  Dont take too many risks, I have lost 2 cameras to salt water and waves can be unpredictable, once I was covered by a wave which destryed my gear, now my insurers will not cover me anymore for salt water damage.  So be careful.

3. Shoot with a view to either colour or black and white, yesterday was dull, so I was trying to visualise a finalised black and white image.

4. Try shooting at different speeds to freeze movement or create a blur effect.

5.  Photograph with a view to including the landscape and also try up close images, depicting the waves on their own, the effect can often be interesting.

6.  Try to catch the wave just at the right time at peak height as they crash against the tide or the buildings/landscape.

7.  Include people sometimes, to add drama and scale to the photograph.

Hope this helps.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

As a professional corporate and event photographer working in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland, you cannot underestimate the need to properly prepare for corporate and event photoshoots.  lets take the example of a conference photographer working at an event in Scotland for instance.  You will have been given a brief in advance by the client with instructions as to what they want from you as a photographer.  it is then your duty to do just that and also go beyond what they requested.  Here is list of things you need to do to prepare for a photoshoot:

1.  Make sure you understand the brief, including the location, timings, when they require the photos, key people etc and if something is not clear, then ask in advance of the meeting.

2.  Sometimes its the unexpected things that cause problems, be sure you can get to the location with lots of time to left, so that you a have al least an hour and a half to spare to allow for any disasters such as traffic, car problems etc.  A delegate can be late for a conference but the photographer can't.

3.  Get all your gear ready a couple of days before, so you have time to buy batteries etc if there are any problems.  This includes charging lots of batteries, cleaning the equipment, making sure it works etc.

4.  Think clearly about what photos you will be taking and select the gear you need, ie will you need a macro lens or a telephoto, will it be better to use smaller mirrorless gear etc.  Don't over pack your bag, as you will have to lug the gear around and leave a lot of it unattended.  However make sure you have back up in case of malfunction.

5.  Map out the timings and write them down, on a programme if possible.  This is vital for conferences, weddings and PR, where timing is key.

6.  Make sure you have the a note of the key contact people, name, email address and mobile number (for emergencies) ie the person who commissioned you and and main players at the event and introduce yourself in advance of the event if possible, or on the day.

7.  Determine in advance when and how they want the photos ie if they require some on the day of the event then take a laptop etc, also establish in advance how and when you will be paid. 

8.  When you are arrive look professional and be friendly to everyone before the start of the event.

9.  If you have a long day ahead and lets face it most conferences are, try and make sure you have as much energy as possible for the next day, get a good nights sleep the night before and try and relax.

10. Finally, enjoy and get creative.

Hope this help.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

A quick blog post.  continuing in my quest to boost my infrared photography collection, to enable me to publish my Infrared Photography in Scotland book in the near future, I paid a second visit this year to the Kelpies in Falkirk.  The weather was ideal for infrared photography with some blue sky and cloud and plenty of sunshine, there was even some dark skies and a storm about to start.  I lost my polarising filter, which dropped into the lake, but it was worth it.  Why is the Kelpies one of my favourite locations, well the metall surface of the installation is ideal for infrared light reflection for a start.  Often as a professional event and corporate photographer working in Edinburgh and around Scotland, I am looking to include infrared images with the commission and this location is ideal.  A storm was also brewing which created dramatic skies and the location also has a river, creating dark reflections on water, which is ideal, in addition there are boats and trees, all of which makes it a fascinating place to visit.  So drop on over to the website and let me know what you think of the photos.

All the best.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotogrpahy.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

As someone who is both a fine art photographer and also a professional corporate and event photographer in Scotland, I have often been asked how infrared photography can be utilised from a commercial point of view in everyday use.  Whilst I am able to promote and sell infrared images from a fine art point of view, I can also present the images to my corporate and event photography clients, in addition to the photographs they have asked for and they are always happy with the results, often using the infrared photos in their final publications.  This is the case for weddings. sport and PR photography, but it really comes into its own for architecture, urban photos, motor vehicles, vintage cars and landscape photography.  You do require a commission which enables you to go outdoors and the weather has to be suitable ie some sunshine if possible and it is better with some blue sky and clouds.  Architecture particularly lends itself to infrared, as the high dynamic range is ideal for this genre.  Metallic objects show up really well in infrared.  As an infrared photographer, I have different uses for my infrared converted camera, often I want to create a realistic photograph which has something just that little bit unique but can also represent a normal analogue photo, most of the time, especially in black and white, the client will not be aware it is in black and white, or they don't care, if they like the image, that is the main thing.  A recent visit to the Falkirk Wheel was a case in point.  This fantastic example of architecture and engineering, with the backdrop of a famous canal, overlooking countryside and hills is ideal for all types of infrared and it enables you to create something different at a location which has been photographed to death.  The same is true for urban architecture  and famous tourist scenes. Infrared can give you that something just a bit special to show the client.  So keep this in mind.  Always try and assert your own Unique Selling Point (USP) in your commissions, otherwise, the only real difference you have to the hundreds, no really thousands of other photographers out there, is your price.

Hope that helps.

Until next time.

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

The Falkirk Wheel in Infrared PhotographyThe Falkirk Wheel in infrared by Colin Wright, professional freelance, corporate, event and commercial photographer, Edinburgh, Scotland.

Falkirk Wheel by professional corporate and event and fine art photographer Colin Wright

As you know during lockdown, I was looking for projects in the absence of professional corporate and event photography commissions around Edinburgh and Scotland and one of the things I did was photograph waves during storms in Dunbar., in East Lothian.  The other day, I extended the wave photography project to include infrared photography and a photo is attached.  I thought this would be a good time to offer some tips on photographing waves and here are a few below:

1.  Try not to use your best camera if possible. I once lost ad fairly new camera and lens to waves, soaking me and ruining the camera in the process.

2.  Keep safe.  the force of a wave can knock you flying and even draw you back to the water.

3.  Experiment with shutter speeds, fast at about 1/800th and slow, with a monopod or tripod at 1/15th for example, for different effects.

4.  Try close up to the waves and take in the context of the landscape also, ie with buildings or people in the background.

5.  Think colour and black and white.

6.  Experiment, I recently used my infrared equipment to arrive at different effects.

7.  Try some low level shots parallel with the waves and some shooting from above.

8.  Watch what everyone else is doing, then do something different.

9.  Use telephoto and wide angeled lenses.

10.  Last of all enjoy, but keep an eye on the wave, with the other on your camera.  They have a habit of surprising you and soaking both yourself and worse of all, your camera.

That's all.  Hope it helps.

Kind Regards

Colin 

www.colinwrightphotogrpahy.co.uk

www.edinburghphotogrpaher.com

Finally the corporate event photography commissions re-started for me this week in Edinburgh with a corproate store opening photoshoot at the Company Shop in Edinburgh.  This was a photoshoot like no other, with the participants social distancing and wearing masks indoors.  It was enjoyable but definately a bit different from an other photoshoot I have done.  The Master Chef Gary Mclean was there to open this grand store in Edinburgh, which was also attended by company representatives from the food and clothing industries.  As this was the first time I really had to wear a mask at a photoshoot, luckily I took my contact lenses, as I was unable to see through my glasses with my mask on.  As images during the virus are very importnat just now, I had to ask the participants to social distance, as we would not be able to use photos where they were standing too close to each other, so this was new to me, especially when it is human nature to move closer to someone when you are taliking to them.  For outdoor group shots and the cutting of the ribbon photos, normally, I would ask people to group as closely together as possible but in this case we had to improvise with gaps in between the people taking part.   So it was all very interesting.  Still very enjoyable and now I know what to do on a socially distanced photoshoot.  

Looking forward to more corporate and event commissions in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland.

Until next time.

All the best

Colin

www.colinwrightphotogrpahy.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Infrared harbour photography from professional fine art and event photographer Edinburgh, Scotland Colin Wright

As I update my infrared photography collection from various locations around Scotland, it is interesting to re-visit certain places that I have never photographed in infrared but which I have photographed using conventional photographic equipment.  It’s a bit like the switch from analogue to digital, it was like entering a whole new world for the first time.  Recently, I visited the Falkirk Wheel for the first time in years.  Now this is a location that I had visited before but not with my infrared camera.  So what made the visit different.  For a start it was raining most of the time and while this is not the end of the world for landscape photographers, it can be for the infrared photographer.  However my infrared camera can still take creative images, as long as it is not too dark.  So what other considerations are there.  Well you are looking for trees and grass where possible.  You are looking for some sun rays even if it is cloudy and you hope for some blue skies, however, a stormy cloudy day can also produce some good results in infrared as you are still getting improved dynamic range with the final result. You also have do do more pre-visualisation with infrared and the result displaying on your camera screen still requires a lot of work using editing software afterwards and you have to be able to visualise which photos can be brought to life, so you are looking for contrast, dynamic range and perfect exposure.  Focusing is also different for infrared than it is with a conventional event photography photoshoot in Edinburgh or around Scotland and some lenses focus better than others in infrared and it’s not all to do with their cost for some strange reason.  I also look for water and metallic subjects in infrared as they look different in infrared, water tends to be darker and metallic objects reflect infrared light in a different way to create an interesting fine art photography image. The other thing worth considering is whether the photo will be suitable for colour infrared or black and white.  Colour usually works better in the bright sunny days.  So there you have it, a lot more to consider when you visit the location in infrared.

Hope this helps.

Until next time.

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

When I first started shooting digital infrared photography one of the first things I photographed was the Kelpies installation in Falkirk.  This fine work of art is a major tourist attraction in Scotland and I also had the privilege of photographing it as part of a corporate photography commission in various locations around Scotland for Scottish Enterprise in 2015.  However, along with the ponies at Traprain Law, The Isle if Skye and my highland cow photos, the Kelpies has been one of the best sellers.  So it was with a bit of excited anticipation that I returned to the location last week.  The weather was perfect for infrared, with lots of cloud and sunshine and while it was busy, it was not as crowded as it would have been in July and August.  The location is also ideal as it overlooks a canal with boats, in addition to trees and grass, also great for infrared.  Metallic structures are also ideal subjects for this genre and the sheer size of the installation creates a rather superhero effect.  Combine this with the rather spooky nature of infrared and you have an ideal location for professional infrared photography.  Visit the website for more, but in the meantime here is the original photo that started it all, shown below.

Until next time.

Kind Regards 

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

wee.edinburghphotographer.com

The Kelpies in InfraredThe Kelpies in infrared by professional fine art, event and corporate photographer, Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland.

The Kelpies by professional fine art and event photographer Colin Wright Edinburgh Scotland

The Kelpies in InfraredThe Kelpies in infrared by professional fine art, event and corporate photographer, Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland.

The Kelpies by professional fine art and corporate photographer Edinburgh and Scotland

Six months ago in my blog, I was hoping when we arrived at this point that we could have moved on to some kind of normality and whilst things are better, we are still living in a difficult time, which will probably only change once a vaccination has arrived.  As a professional corporate and event photographer working in Edinburgh and around Scotland, the events industry is only slowly starting again and mostly at limited capacity, often without the need for conference and event photographers.  However, as with every difficult situation there are always positives and things we can learn.   I thought it would be a good idea to list a few of the lessons learned and these are indicated below:

1. We have all learned that nothing can be taken for granted.  Nothing is exempt from this kind of emergency.  Some of the sports photography and cultural events have experienced cancellation or postponement for the first time since the second world war.

2. There are always options to diversify.  I have spent more time learning new skills and improving areas that I haven't worked in for a while.

3. Photographers have had more time to explore their creative side.  I have done a lot of infrared photography during this period and the time has been beneficial from a fine art photography point of view..

4. You can explore where you live from a photographic point of view.  I admit this is probably a bit easier if you live in a lovely scenic place like my home town of Dunbar, but I imagine there are opportunities wherever you live.

5. communication with our peers and clients has been vital and we have all had the opportunity to explore this more during the lockdown and immediately after.  I certainly have tried to be more focussed on social media and communicating with my fellow photographers.

6. This may sound strange but I have also used this time to explore all aspects of my camera and software.  I have tried to use the free time to ensure I know my software and equipment inside out.

7. This period has been a valuable to time to think your financial and photographic strategy for the future.  We should all be doing this anyway and as a newspaper photographer in the past I had to do a big re-think of my photographic priorities and strategy when this aspect of the market diminished somewhat.  This is one area that we all tend to ignore when things are busy, but it is good practice to continually evaluate your strategy.

Anyway, more on this soon. I will leave you with an infrared photo I took recently.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

Colin Wright Photography

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

As a professional corporate, event photographer working around Edinburgh and throughout Scotland, it is always good to get the opportunity to visits different places.  I paid a visit to Glasgow on friday, to add to my infrared photography Scotland collection and also to get some urban photography images of this great city.  I thought this would be a good time to do a few Tips for the Urban Photographer, so here they are as follows:

1. Try low angles, making the best of puddles, objects on the ground and the dramatic perspective.

2. If you can try and include people in the photos, to give the images a sense of reality and buzz through movement, more difficult just now, I know due to the lockdown restrictions and the lack of people in urban offices.

3. Try to include famous landmarks in the city ie buildings, statues and bridges, or famous streets.

4. Be careful, you are in a city.  Be aware if you have a £2000 camera on a tripod in the middle of a busy location, or even more so, in a quiet area at night time.

5. Take loads of photos and try different things, with regard to the angle, composition etc.  Get creative also at home with software ie conversions to black and white, increase the dynamic range and structure in your editing. You could also try a little HDR, or focus stacking.

Hope that helps.

Until next time.

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

One of the things I have missed during this awful pandemic has been sport and event photography in Scotland.  As a professional sports, event and conference photographer working around Scotland, I have really missed this aspect of my work.  Some of the events cancelled included, motor sport, football, rugby, bungee jumping and golf.  So when i went a walk with my daughter last week, I jumped (pardon the pun) at the chance to photograph her jumping from some old fallen trees along the East Lothian coast at the John Muir Walk.  I thought I would make it interesting and I fitted a manual focus fish-eye lens onto my Fuji XT2 and fired a few shots of at a very low angle, while Gina jumped onto the sand.  The results were pretty good, with the low angle giving the impression of extreme height.  Of course, it helps that Gina is really up for this kind of thing and her athletic movements also resulted in some dramatic images.  I have always been a fan of low angled shooting at ground level and in previous corporate positions, I have included some arty dramatic ground level urban and architectural images.  I also completed a project on puddle photos taken in Edinburgh and Glasgow and I also try to incorporate this technique in my sports photography commissions and infrared photography work where appropriate.  So enjoy the photos, more are on the website.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

One of the subjects that comes up constantly for me as professional event and corporate photographer working in Scotland, I am often asked how much editing I do and what my opinion is to manipulating or editing in photography.  My general attitude is that I want to be spending as much time taking photos and less time in front of a pc.  Photography is all about composition and light.  Of course you would be mad not to take advantage of the capabilities of digital software and infrared photography requires some digital editing to achieve the final product.  When it comes to corporate event photography, you may be processing hundreds of photographs from a conference photography commission in Edinburgh and you simply don’t have the time to do much editing, except for a few special photos.  The other thing I have an issue with is replacing skies in photos. Photography is about capturing a special moment in time, showing the fantastic landscape for what it is and if you have to replace the sky with one that you took last week, well then I am sorry, this is not a photograph and nothing more than a digital creation.  For portrait and wedding images, a certain amount of editing is acceptable but in my opinion, and I stress this is just my point of view, if you are altering the body shape or changing the face considerably, again I have a problem with this and it is not what photography is all about.  This is not an anti technology or editing rant, but more of a keep it real message, to prevent what is essentially a form of cheating if taken too far.  The good news is, you can always tell a good photo from an overly manipulated one.

I will leave you with an older photo rom the air show at East Fortune, which like a lot of events has sadly been cancelled this year due to Covid 19.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

I thought as we are approaching an ease in the lockdown regulations that this would be a good moment to talk about the benefits of having more time to concentrate on personal photographic projects.  As a professional fine art and corporate event photographer working in Edinburgh and around Scotland, my event photography work has been a bit non-existant recently, although there are signs things are starting to pick up.

One of the advantages of this situation is that you are forced to concentrate on something fairly local and this restriction can be a good thing, as you have to think in a more micro way, concetrating on the small details of the place you live.  How many of us dont visit what is around us.  I think I visited Edinburgh Castle once in my lifetime, yet it is the first thing a visitor to the city would do.  My infrared work has been a saviour during this time and I have had the luxury of being able to concetrate on small photography projects.  I have visited a lot of harbours recently and each harbour is different and has its own individual challenges and cretive possiblities.  On a recent visit to Eyemouth Harbour, I noticed reflections onteh watter, casued by a combination of light and oil in the water, I wondered how this would look in infrared and the results are shown on my website, with a photo attached to this blog.  Photography has proved good for my mental health during this time and also forced me to stop thinking of getting new equipment, as I have no money anyway, I have been aiming to use my existing gear even more effectively.  I have a wedding photography commission due next month and some motor sport event photography in Scotland, but all this is still in a bit of doublt at the moment, so we shall wait and see.  Until then, there will be plenty of time for infrared photography and special projects.

Until next time, stay safe.

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotogrpaher.com

One of the challenging things for professional corporate event photographers in Edinburgh and around Scotland during this lockdown has been how to best utilise our time without travelling as much as we would like.  The irony is that with more time we would tend to travel to photograph different destinations but the lockdown has forced most of us to concentrate on the subjects close to home and try to see things from a different perspective.  I managed to re-visit a few of my favourite local subjects, such as waves, the kittiwake chicks in Dunbar, bees and other local landmarks, but this time I tried to do it from a different perpective and often photographed subjects in infrared that I had previously never tackled before ie with the birds and insects for instance.  There is also an opportunity to perfect a particular subject through repitition and to experiment when you wouldn't otherwise have the time, just keeping your eye in is good enough, so that when you return to some professional event or coprorate photography work, you are not rusty and you will be raring to go.  I have also tried out a lot of new tricks and techniques with my software.  given that we probably only use about 20% of the capability of our software, especially with a programme as extensive as Photoshop, we sould at least try new things to offer a different perspective to our clients.  So keep the creative juices flowing and dont let this situation get you down.  I know its easier said than done but we will hopefully come out of this as better photographers.  I for one know I will have a more extensive library of fine art photography images once this is all over.

So, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin 

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Now for something a bit different.  As a corporate and event photographer, operating in Edinburgh, East Lothian and throughout Scotland, freelance photography work is starting to come back again and I just finished a commercial corporate job recently photographing a classy Range Rover car for a Luxury Car Chauffeur business, which was great fun.  However, I have had a bit more time on my hands and have managed a few projects that I would have found difficult otherwise due to lack of time.  Many years ago, I photographed the kittiwake chicks in Dunbar Harbour and it has been a few years since I have returned.  This year, however, I have manged a few days photographing the chicks just after hatching and the related activity that you get during this time.  It is interesting watching the parents fetch the fish for the little ones and seeing how they rapidly grow - some of them are a bit like teenagers by now.  It is a challenging subject to photograph as you have to be quick.  You need a long lens but there is no space for a tripod, so you have to hand hold, which can be very tiring on your arms and your neck hurts from looking up alll the time.  However, as lomg as you keep alert and shoot at a fast speed to combat camera shake, it is well worth it in the end.  If you are patient enough and stay for at least an hour, the birds get used to you and trust you more, which means they are more likely to behave naturally.  Anyway there are lots of pictures on my website in the Miscellaneous section, in addition to the one with this blog.  Hopefully some of the corporate event photography commissions and weddings in East Lothian, Edinburgh and around Scotland, will start to commence soon.

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

I have my first commission tomorrow after 3 months of virtual lockdown.  After a whole load of corporate event and conference photography bookings were cancelled, it's good to get back to doing what I love ie being a professional photographer working in and around Edinburgh and throughout Scotland.  Tomorrow i will be in my home county of East Lothian, where I will be photographing a classic car as a promotion next to Scotland's golf coast around this great county.  I will be at Archerfield, Dirleton, Dunbar and Musselburgh Golf Club, I cant wait.  I know some photographers who have taken a different approach during lockdown and who haven't really continued to shoot during this very difficult period, but although I had my moments of depression like everyone else, I have to keep taking photos and never failed to be motivated.  My personal infrared project has also flourished during this time and I have made good progress on my infrared book, as well as providing a lot of new material for the publication.  I also have extended my photography of harbours and waves and tried a topic new to infrared for me, namely photographing bees and insects in infrared.  So all in all its been eventful, but i am eager to get back to some commercial PR and corporate photography and hopefully tomorrow will be the start of more to come.  I hopefully have some motor sport photography in August and a wedding in September, so things are starting to look up.

Anyway, watch this space for more to come.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotography.com

Like a lot of businesses, as a professional freelance photographer who normally photographs events and corporate conferences around Edinburgh and throughout Scotland, in addition to fine art photography, I have had to look at fresh markets and projects during this difficult time.  However from a positive point of view, this has also enabled me to explore new ideas and extend existing initiatives that I previously had to delay due to lack of time.  I have always liked photographing harbours around Scotland, nothing new in that, I hear you say and you would be right, however, this time, I am only photographing them in infrared.  The harbours in question will all be located in Scotland and will include colour and infrared photos.  The harbours in infrared photos include: Dunbar, Port Seton, Eyemouth, Cove Bay, St Abbs, Crail and Skye.  The ones not located in East Lothian or the Borders were taken before lockdown.

So what considerations should I take into account when photographing harbours in infrared.  Here they are below, for what it’s worth:

1. The usual rules for infrared photography apply ie sunshine for the best photos, as near to mid-day as possible, although on one occasion it was foggy and I still managed a few good shots

2. Check the tides, the harbour will look totally different without water and when it is shallow

3. Try and go when there is a higher likelihood of boats, ie get to know when the fishermen go out

4. Try and get the old boats in the photo ie the ones with character that look great in Infrared

5. Clouds are great for harbour photos with a blue sky backdrop to give that infrared contrast that we all love

6. Don’t just photograph the boats, there are, seagulls, nets, ropes, engines and even seals and otters in some harbours.  I haven’t photographed an otter in a harbour yet, but I have managed a seal or two

7. Don’t stand too close to the edge and pay attention, I haven’t fallen in, but I did injure myself when I was concentrating too hard on the photo and not on the ground I front of me

8. Take a normal camera with you also, you may just catch a photo that needs conventional equipment

9. Don’t be frightened to include people now and again.  They will help to tell a story

10. Vary your angles and vantage points for something different.  You may want to be down at a low level or overlooking the harbour from above, but the main thing is to try and get something new and original

Hope this helps.

Until next time.

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Sunrise Dunbar Scotland

As a professional fine art and corporate photographer working in and around Edinburgh and throughout Scotland, the lockdown and subsequent effects of this crisis has had an effect on my life and work, but throughout this period I have never lost my enthusiasm for photography.  It has just taken on a different format.  As you know I am an infrared photographer, working on a project to highlight infrared photography in Scotland.  While looking for something different to do, I decided to expand my infrared collection to include insects, particularly bees and wasps and this combined with the fantastic colours of plants at this time of year has produced some interesting results.  With infrared, you never know what the final results will be, especially with colour infrared and this time, I was pleasantly surprised, as most of the original colours came out entirely different in infrared.  Let me know what you think.  I am desperate to get out there and do some corporate photography work in Edinburgh and there are some signs that this could happen in the near future.

Anyway, stay safe.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Now that we have been in lockdown for a few months and we are starting to get into some kind of routine, I thought this would be a good time to examine lockdown strategies for professional photographers and how we are coping with this new normal.  Whilst there are signs that things are starting to change, it will be a while until photographers feel any kind of normality, particularly event photographers in Scotland, like myself.  However this strange time has enabled us to to explore different ways of working, and or new markets.  Many photographers have been doing the doorstep photos, its not for me, but definately a fresh market for some photographers.   From my point of view, the ability to concentrate on local projects has been my main focus.  Whilst I have always taken local infrared photography and landscape photos in East Lothian, I now have the time to really examine the small details in certain locations, such as Dunbar Harbour and the nesting gulls.  I have also had time to photograph waves, having the luxury of leaving whenever the conditionsa are perfect, this is something that even freelance photographers dont always have due to constant commissions.  Exploring your fine art creative side is more possible and while some days you are a bit down due to the circumstances, particularly the financial implications, other days you are optimistic, I can also use the dark side of things to good effect in my photography to create good fine art images.  I also think my photoshop skills have greatly improved as I have watched a number of instruction videos and had more time to explore my software.  The free time also has enabled me to think more about my future photographic strategy and to update my website and enhance my networking and contact experience through social media.  So to summarise, when my corporate event photography in Scotland picks up again, I will be ready and with extra strings to my bow.

So its not all doom and gloom, just get out there and create.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin 

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

As it looks like we are coming out of lockdown slowly but surely, although I imagine I will have to wait a bit longer as a conference and event photographer operating around Edinburgh and Scotland, there are a number of things we can do as professional photographers to prepare for working again, some you may already be doing during the lockdown and others you may not have thought about.  So for what it’s worth, here are my tips for photographers coming out of the lockdown and preparing for some new photography commissions: 

1.  Make sure your website is up to date and has some new content.

2.  Check all your gear is in working order for your first commission.

3.  Practice some photoshoots and try and imagine you are photographing a paid commission, it’s easy to get rusty when you are out of action for a while, this is particularly relevant for event photographers, who will have had little opportunity to photograph large groups of people throughout the last 3 months or so.

4.  Keep your social media presence up and active daily, there is no real excuse for this during lockdown.

5.  I know it can be difficult at a time like this, especially as we have all lost a lot of income, but try and remain positive for the future, or at least take advantage of the days when you feel positive and use them to create and prepare.

6.  Think of the useful things you have experienced over lockdown.  I have extended my infrared work in Scotland and I feel I have taken some of the best photos of my home town in Dunbar, in addition to having more time for new projects like photographing waves etc.

7.  Get in touch through social media with your clients to remind them you are still around.

8.  Try and continue with these projects you started during lockdown, treat this time as a fresh start in some areas.

9.  Hopefully we have all had some access to training over this period, even if it is photoshop or camera manufacturers videos on YouTube, it’s all useful, so remember practice your newly found skills.

10. Spend a bit of time on your appearance, we have all let it slip during lockdown and if possible, get a haircut beforehand your first job, we all look a bit like cavemen just now.

Hope that helps, anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

During this lockdown, as professional photographers we have all had to find ways to keep ourselves occupied.  As a corporate, event and fine art photographer working in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland, I also think it is important to keep your creative side flowing.  Of course the lockdown also means that you are limited to photographing outwith your own area.  Now the advantage of this is that you can perfect photographing in your local area under different weather conditions and with different gear, experimenting all the time, while at the same time keeping creative.  The disadvantage is that you may start taking risks as you try out new things.  This was the case last weekend when I went out on an infrared photoshoot in my home town of Dunbar in East Lothian.  I went to the harbour and decided to climb on to an embankment which was full of abandoned materials and fences etc.  Through this vantage point I was able to get a good view of the birds nesting in the rocks, however I wasn't looking carefully and I walked into a metal fence lying on the ground and severely damaged my leg.  This caused a trip to the minor injuries clinic and if an infection occurs I may have to visit the hospital.  So the moral of the story is, take care and whilst you want to get the best possible photos, adhere to safety regulations.  I will probably have to slow down, as I am not 21 anymore.  So after having provided you with this advice, will it change the way I behave in these situations, time will tell.  In the meantime, I will leave you with a photo taken on that fateful day.

Until next time.

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Wave Photography Dunbar East LothianWave photography by professional corporate, event and fine art photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

storm at Dunbar by landscape and corporate photographer Edinburgh, Colin Wright

Midlothian Advertiser, Newtongrange Star v Camelon, junior footballMidlothian Advertiser, Newtongrange Star v Camelon, junior football

Midlothian Advertiser, Newtongrange Star v Camelon, junior football by professional corporate and event photographer Colin Wright

As a professional photographer working in corporate and event photography mostly in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland and the North of England, I have I have been severely affected by the Covid 19 situation, given that corporate conference events have all been cancelled and there is little hope new events will be organised this year.  However, what can we do as photographers, especially as there are now signs that we are coming out of the lockdown and there will be some movement.  Here are the things we can do in the meantime:

1. Try and get some part time work if possible but make sure it is only part-time and short term, it is important to keep your focus

2. Keep up with Social Media and website updates, this is important, as you need your site to be noticed as soon as work is available

3. Pursue any projects you have always wanted to do, especially if they involve photographing things locally, I have been taking a lot of infrared photos recently and intend to continue with my aim of publishing a book on infrared photography in Scotland.

4. Keep in touch with other photographers, to keep creative

5. Keep an eye out for training online, particularly free training if you are a photoshop user

6. Try to prepare for areas of photography that could be re-introduced.  I am also a sports photographer and some events may be re-introduced soon

7. Try and branch out into new areas where there could be income potential, ie online sales, or new areas of photography that may be more possible in the early stages of coming out of lockdown

8. Try and keep motivated, photography is a great way to help avoid depression, it has certainly helped me through dark times

9. Get to know your gear more more, read the boring manual and watch videos online.  We all only use a small percentage of our camera's potential

10. Keep taking photos, no matter how bad things get

Hope that helps,

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

As a professional fine art, corporate and conference photographer in Edinburgh and around Scotland I am accustomed to all the wonderful innovative software that is available for photographers nowadays, however I think there is a line that needs to drawn.  So for this blog, I have decided to have a discussion about editing, both its uses and the future of manipulation in general.  All photographers have faced this dilemma before and we have all discussed it with each other.  When expressing some reservations about over manipulation, a photographer once said to me “but you are an infrared photographer, which is a surreal photographic genre”.  My answer was that infrared light is already present and it is only the naked eye that is unable to detect it.   Also, I tend only to swap the colour channels, spending very little time on editing the images.  Still on the subject of landscape photography in Scotland, I personally feel that swapping skies, or backgrounds is a step too far.  The scene in front of you simply hasn’t ever existed and is just digital graphic at best.  Part of landscape photography is capturing the moment and the atmosphere, so creating a non existent image is far removed from that description.  There are also some portrait photography software companies that over-manipulate the photos.  I won’t mention any names, changing the shape and look of a human being to excess is not a photograph, let’s keep it moderate, without overly digitising the image.  If you are spending ages on one photo, you probably haven’t taken a good one.  Don’t get me wrong, I use photoshop and particularly like the On One software and Nik filters but I also feel we have to protect the profession and keep it real.

We can discuss his in more detail later, so until next time, take care and stay safe.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Close-up of waves, Dunbar, East Lothian by professional fine art, infrared and corporate photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

I thought with the extension of the lockdown that this would be a good time to look at some top tips for event photography.  For the purposes of this blog we will keep it general, so that the advice can apply to all types of events, from weddings to gala days or graduation photography.  Whilst as a professional corporate and event photographer working in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland, I also do a fair amount of sports photography, we won’t include this today, staying with corporate and general public photography events.

So here we go:

1 Always be prepared and if at all possible check out the venue before hand, so you know how to get there and where the best shooting positions will be

2. Take note of the time of day when you will be required, this is very important for outdoor events and will effect the photos in a big way, it is up to you to overcome any lighting issues, but try and anticipate them in advance

3. Communicate regularly with the organisers and establish a good relationship with them before the event

4. Be friendly and helpful at all times, otherwise you may not be asked back

5. Make sure all your gear is ready, ie batteries fully charged and ready, with back up for all important equipment

6. Know the timings inside out and write them down 

7. Always photograph what you are asked to do ,but add your own creative stuff.  They will nearly always like it, even if it’s not what they were expecting.

8. Practice in advance in your head the shots you are going to take and try them out before the start of the event

9. Dont panici if you don’t get the good shots at the start, they will come, it can take a while to get going, but just make sure you catch the key moments

10. Keep smiling, it always helps and remember you are getting paid to do something you love

Hope this helps, more to come on corporate photography tips soon.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Infrared Photography in East Lothian by professional fine art and corporate photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

With the lockdown seriously effecting photography commissions at the moment, I thought this would be a good time to start a new Tips for Photography today.

As a professional event and corporate photographer operating in Scotland, I have undertaken many commissions which involved photographing cars, from supercar events, to vintage cars and scrapyard and general car photos as part of my infrared in Scotland project.  I thought this would be a good time to give you some tips on photographing cars.  To keep it simple I will concentrate on outdoor photos without any flash or artificial light and I promise not to get too technical.  So here we go:

1. Its all about the weather, stormy skies, or sunny days with with blue skies and cloud are ideal, especially for infrared photography

2. Dont be frightened to get in close when shooting a stationary vehicle

3. Keep an eye out for interesting close up detail, especially for vintage and scrap cars

4. Its not always the supercars that are best to photograph, scrap cars and old wrecks often have bags of character

5. Vary your angle, get down low if possible and include interesting backdrops ie trees, sky etc, otherwise, avoid clutter in the backround

6. Use a tripod if you want good depth of field

7. Cars are a great way to showcase other genres such as architecture, weddings, urban photography etc

8. Use people in the photo if relevant ie a driver or someone behind the story of the car

9. Shoot through the window, sometimes the interior of the cars can be interesting

10. If shooting moving vehicles, change your angle, get down low and high and pan your photos now and again to get some motion blur

Hope this helps.

Stay safe.

Until next time

Colin

www.colinwqrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

UAE Media eventUAE media event, Edinburgh Castle by professional event and corporate photographer Colin Wright

UAE media event, Edinburgh Castle by professional event and corporate photographer Colin Wright

in a previous life, I was a newspaper photographer, supplying photos to publications around the borders, East Lothian, Midlothian and Edinburgh, Scotland.  Whilst the market for this type of photography is much reduced, I still do it occasionally and more importantly, I think it has helped me greatly in my event and conference photography commissions around Scotland.

Here are a few reasons why it has helped me and these can also be interpreted as tips for the aspiring newspaper photographer:

1. You need to work fast and react to a very tight timetable.  I was often asked to attend numerous football and rugby games all happening at the same time, after a morning of other photoshoots on my daily rota

2. You need to be able to photograph a variety of different subjects in a short space of time ie sport, gala days, neighbour disputes, architecture

3. You have to be able to adapt to using limited equipment, you cant lug around lots of gear or risk leaving it in your car all the time

4. You have to be good with people, ie accommodate them, listen and try to get the best out of them, use your charm and humour

5. You must edit and send the photos as soon as possible, if not on the go through wifi, then immediately when you get home.  There is not time for complicated editing either, keep it simple

Anyway, hope these help, more to come in the future.

Until next time, stay safe.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

sports photography by professional corporate and event photographer Colin Wright Edinburgh Scotland

As a professional event and fine art photographer from Scotland, like all freelancers and pretty much all of us to be honest, this is an extremely difficult time, especially if you have financial worries and children to cope with, add to that elderly relatives and it isn't easy.  However, I still think there is time for creativity and on my daily allowed wanders I have often taken the opportunity to add to my infrared photography in Scotland project, in preparation for my new book on infrared photography from this great country we live in.  As we all know during this time, there are days when you just cant summon up the enthusiasm to do anything, let alone demonstrate your creativity.  Sometimes, however, the fact fact that you are forced to concentrate on your geographical location can often lead to some some really creative images and that is what I have been trying to achieve in my hometown of Dunbar in East Lothian during this lockdown.  You have to be quick as you cant really stand around under the current circumstances, but it still allows you to keep your eye on your photography.  So chin-up and all that, we shall overcome.

Until next time, stay safe.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Hope you are all coping during these difficult times.  With all my conferences cancelled for at least the spring time, this puts a temporary halt on professional conference and event photography work in Scotland for the time being, I have a bit more time on my hands, although not too much with 2 children in the house.  However, now is the time to concentrate on a little bit of infrared photography around my local town of Dunbar, in East Lothian, Scotland. On my walks I have managed a few infrared photos along the Belhaven coast and Dunbar.  I am also in the process of completing text for my new book, which I hope to self publish, although I have had some positive responses from some publishers.  I am now about to choose the images for the book, happy to take on any suggestions, the only stipulation is that they were taken in Scotland, as the book is a means of showcasing this amazing country we live in.  It is a kind of alternative guide book for tourists and infrared photography fans.  The photos will consist of colour and black and white images, with a short description of the location/conditions etc.  I will also start the book by providing a brief description in the Introductory paragraph on how infrared photography works and why I got into it.  So watch this space.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotgrapher.com

Intercontinental Hotel Group conference Edinburgh 2019IHG conference Edinburgh by professional corporate, event and conference photographer, Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

IHG conference Edinburgh by professional corporate, event and conference photographer, Colin Wright, Edinburgh, Scotland

Infrared photo from Dunbar Scotland by fine art event and corporate photographer Colin Wight

Hope you are all managing to get through this difficult time without cracking up.

As a professional corporate and event photographer working in Scotland, I read a lot about how to use this time wisely to develop as professional photographers, however this is easier said than done if you have children in the house, or you are worried about elderly relatives.  It is important to force yourself to try and bring a normality to the situation if you can.  I obviously can’t take any conference photography assignments in Edinburgh just now, but I can photograph infrared when I go on my one walk a day and we do live by the sea, so I am fortunate in that sense.  You can also post on social media and talk to your fellow photographers.  It is important to try and stay positive as we will get through this.  If anything you can use the time to think, what future photography projects you aim to tackle, also tidy up your workspace, practice on that software you have hardly touched.

Anyway above all else, stay safe.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

With the current situation as it is and most of my events cancelled, now is the time to look at other projects and keep our hopes up during a very difficult time both financially and emotionally.  As you all know I have been photographing infrared over the last few years and I recently compiled a collection of infrared photographs from Scotland.  Although my main source of income is through professional corporate and event photography mostly from Edinburgh but also throughout Scotland, I also conduct personal projects, in particular infrared photography and I am currently planning a book showcasing my infrared photos from various locations throughout the country.  I also find photography very therapeutic at times like this.  Photography in general can help you in many ways during stressful times.  If you want to see more, take a look at the collection of photos on the website.   It was very difficult choosing my favourites but I tried my best to keep it varied, with a mixture of colour and black and white images.  The other thing as photographers that we can do is to update our training during times like this.  There are a number of ways online and they don't all cost money.  Adobe also run a variety of training courses for members.  Also, I have a mountain of photography books to read and its always important to keep up to date with your social media.  Also, why don't you get out that film camera from the attic, you may re-discover the magic of film photography.

Anyway guys, chin-up.  Look after those who need it most.  All this will be over eventually.

Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotogrpahy.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Although it is acknowledged that we as photographer have a variety of specialisms, or maybe one or two, the best way to create a unique image is to think  with several photographic hats on.  As a corporate event photographer in Edinburgh and around Scotland, I often find myself on a photoshoot for one purpose but also drawing on other disciplines.  I have often used infrared equipment for my architecture and event photography commissions around Edinburgh and one of the things I like about having a dual identity ie corporate event photography and fine art photography, is the ability to mix them both in, then present the client with an extra photo or two which they invariably love.  You are also able to use skills from one genre to the other and it gives you flexibility and a good USP.  For instance, on this photoshoot of the Union Canal in Edinburgh, I decided to add a few infrared photos and then to draw on my College project of puddle photography.  I have even used infrared for sports photography, landscape (often to create realistic black and white landscape images) and weddings.  In fact any outdoor commissions, I will usually try a bit of infrared.  So don't be constrained, switch the genre now and again.

until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotogrpahy.co.uk

www.edinbnurghphotographer.com

we have had some pretty extreme weather recently and while I am a specialist conference and corporate photographer in Scotland, working mostly indoors during the week, my weekend work is largely outdoors, either sports photography or some infrared or landscape photography in or around Edinburgh.  So when you have stormy weather like the last couple of weekends you have to take your opportunities.  Timing is crucial and you have to be prepared to get cold and wet but when you catch it right it is worth it.

Recently, I managed some good infrared photos, with a very detailed sky which always helps.  Recently the motor sports event I covered still went ahead and although it is cold, it’s still fine.

In this weather you tend to work without a tripod, you need to wrap up well and be quick.  Use all your past experience, no messing around with the dials on your camera, your hands will be too cold.

Anyway, whatever you do just get our there, you may surprise yourself.

Until next time.

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

I have been shooting a lot of infrared photography in Scotland these days.  I am also half way through completing a manuscript for a book on infrared photography showcasing image in and around Scotland.  I thought I would look at a few myths of the genre.  Every type of photography has its cliched aspects and infrared is no different.  As a corporate event photographer in Scotland, people also have stereotypical ideas, particularly in relation to wedding photography and it is our job as photographers, to provide the public with an alternative modern view of photography.  In relation to infrared, I once had a client who loved my infrared work but was a bit wary of distributing it on the walls of his hotel, as it may have been too over the top with the white trees and weird spooky contrasting scenes.  Whilst this type of infrared photo can be created, the converted infrared camera can also be used to produce contrasty high dynamic range black and white photos that fit into a more conventional photographic genre. I particularly like using my infrared camera for this purpose. A converted infrared camera is after all, a very good specialist black and white camera - see what you think of the photo attached to this blog, only close inspection of the grass gives away that it is infrared.  Even colour infrared can be used in a realistic manner, depending on the filter you use, it can be a way of bringing out the blues in the sky and creating a nighttime effect.  Of course, I also like doing totally over the top infrared in both colour and black and white, but that's the subject of another blog.

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Cove Bay in infrared by fine art and event photographer Edinburgh Colin Wright

Infrared Photography from Port Seton Infrared Photography, Edinburgh Scotland by professional fine art and event photographer Colin Wright

As you know I have been adding to my infrared photography in Scotland project, with a collection of images, which will be available as merchandise soon.  I am also in the process of completing a book on infrared photographs taken in Scotland and I will be negotiating with publishers.  This will be a book showcasing the images, with short descriptions of each photo and will include black and white and colour infrared.  It won’t be an instruction book,  although I will give some insight into how to. Instruct an infrared photo and the editing involved to form the final image.  A short description on how infrared photography can be applied to corporate photography commissions in Scotland will also be included in the book.  So watch this space for more information.   

All the best.

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

I have often been asked what got me into infrared and why I like it so much. You may be surprised by some of the reasons, so anyway here they are below:

1. I started shooting infrared in film as a student and always wanted to get back into it.  When converted digital cameras made it more accessible, I couldn't wait to return to the genre

2. You can shoot infrared in bright midday sunshine and still get dramatic results, none of this getting up at 5am for the best shots nonsense

3. Infrared is like film photography, you really don't know what the final result is going to be until you start editing

4. The final results take you to an enchanted place

5. There are no rules, you can go all whacky with the editing if you want to, or you can have a very good contrasty black and white photo with lots of structure

6. it's great fun and a little different from what is out there today, in an environment with millions of photos

7. The results make great fine art photos for exhibition purposes

8. It is a good extra project to have from the more conventional corporate and event photography commissions I do in Edinburgh and around Scotland, although I can also introduce it into my corporate work as an added extra for the client

9. It looks great on social media

10. It gives the world an insight into an entirely different genre of photography

So there you are, an some of the reasons why I am really into infrared photography

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

With the Festive season well and truly over and the conference and event photography commissions starting to come in at venues in Edinburgh and Scotland, I thought this would be a good time to take a quick reflection, as a professional event photographer, on the do's and don'ts for conference photographers, so here we go:

Do's

1. Take only the equipment you will need, don't overload yourself with gear

2. Make sue you have all the timings right and the key shots the client wants

3. Be creative outwith the client requirements, they will thank you for it later

4. Use flash but not constantly, give the speakers and delegates some peace

5. Be helpful and responsive to the delegates and organisers, this is crucial, as it will likely effect whether or not you get booked again

Don'ts

1. Don't overdo the number of pictures of the lead speakers, give them some space and limit flash if possible

2. Don't use large lenses all the time, keep it small where possible, this should be more achievable with mirrorless cameras, as they have smaller lenses

3. Don't shove to the front all the time and get in the way of the conference, a good professional event photographer should hardly be noticed at all

4. Don't use the event as a means of selling your services and only give out business cards if asked for them

5. Dedicate yourself to the conference, keep a professional attitude, don't be seen on your phone all the time.  I now have a mirrorless Canon, which can transfer the images to my phone as a back-up.  if I use this facility, I make sure I let the client know what I am doing and the reasoning behind it

So, hope this helps. until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotography.com

Having just published my collection of the top 15 infrared photos I have taken in Scotland, I have decided, as a break from my corporate photography commissions in Edinburgh and around Scotland, to pick one image and talk about it each week.  These will be quick blogs just to give you a flavour of the where, when and how behind each photo.

The image I am concentrating on today took at Dunbar Harbour about 2 years ago.  The clouds were looking good on this lunchtime in Dunbar, with a perfect amount of infrared light. A fishing boat had just moored, which helped make the composition interesting and just to add to the photo, a seal came in, hoping for some fish from the fisherman.  It was one of these photoshoots where it all went well and everything came together just at the right time.  I did it in black and white and colour infrared but I think the black and white one is best.  it is also one of these infrared photos where you can't really tell it was taken in infrared.  I sold a copy of this image and it also received a positive reaction on Instagram, especially from local East Lothian people.

Anyway, watch this space for more photos from the collection.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com 

Infrared Photography Scotland by professional fine art and corporate photographer Colin Wright

Infrared Photography Gosford by corporate event and fine art photographer Colin Wright

People often ask me what the most important aspects of being a professional photographer in Scotland are and the answer is varied, as there is more to it than just making sure you have quality unique images you can offer the commercial client or the fine art photo customer.  Whilst that is vital there are other aspects which often scare people away from the profession and that is not even including the financial side of things.  When I was in Edinburgh yesterday, the every day pressures of life kicked in.  I had to drive my daughter to diving practice and during this time I went and did the weekly shopping, I had 15 minutes left with my infrared camera on my own and the weather was perfect, what do I do.  I quickly went into Pollock Halls in Edinburgh, remembering that the foliage in the grounds was good, even in winter with fir trees and tropical plants, under time pressure I came up with some really good infrared photographs to add to my Infrared Photography in Scotland collection, quickly edited them at home and started to post on social media right away.  This made me realise one of the most important aspects of professional photography is the ability to operate quickly and effectively.  I learned this from 10 years of working in the newspaper industry when you had lots of jobs with limited time and I think it has helped me in my corporate photography commissions in Edinburgh, Scotland and also with wedding photography when capturing the moment is crucial.  now there will be times when you have all the time in the word to compose your photo etc, but this doesn't happen very often, especially in Scotland, where the weather often changes every few minutes and you have to act quickly.  So practice at how to operate effectively in short bursts within a limited timeframe, it will help your photography in the long term.

All the best

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Rugby sports photography from professional corporate and event photographer Colin Wright, Edinburgh Scotland

I was photographing a football match, or should I say soccer for our American friends, on Saturday at my local club in Dunbar.  Now one of the things I find about sports photography and other corporate photography commissions in Edinburgh or throughout Scotland, where you have a strong interest in the subject you are photographing, is how do you separate the professional aspect from the fan or the interested spectator, well you tend to be so focused (pardon the pun) on the subject matter, your professionalism wins over.  the desire to get that perfect photo, combined with the need to appear professional and impartial tends to be so strong that you are in concentration mode and you don't say or do anything daft. I have often been so determined to get a good goal photo that I have wanted the side playing my team to score so I can get a cracking sports photo.  There are exceptions to the above, when photographing my local team, I will cheer after they score (but only after I have that goal photo and celebration photo of course).

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Green edit on an infrared photo taken last year. A bit different colour edit for me on this one

Had a good day on Monday photographing a Whisky Blending event at the Nauticus Bar in leith for Douglas Laing, whisky blenders and bottlers.  As a corporate photographer in Edinburgh, I have been getting a wide range of commissioned work these days and this was one of the more interesting ones.  I have been to the Whisky Experience venue at the Castle in Edinburgh before but this event was held at the Nauticus Bar in Leith, a fantastic old oak bar with interesting decor.  Although I had a brief of photographing the participants with their whisky and few other still life photos, I was also able get creative with my gear, getting used to the touch screen on the Canon EOS R now, although I am still pretty annoyed at the hassle of having to send the photos to my phone as a back up because Canon in their wisdom, decided to only have a one card slot, still it's a great camera.

Hope you like the photos on the site, getting ready for some sports photography in East Lothian and more corporate conference photography around Scotland soon.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

As I start a new year and begin preparations for corporate photography commissions coming up in Edinburgh, I managed a quick half hour of landscape photography on Sunday.  The light was OK, although no detail in clouds, which is something I prefer, but at the very least it was dry and good practice for long exposure effect photography.  When I moved to Dunbar 13 years ago, I was one of  a few photographers photographing the landscape at Belhaven Bridge, near Dunbar, I held a couple of exhibitions, tried new techniques and achieved success in promoting and selling my work, but when I arrived on Sunday, there were at least 8 photographers, with all the latest gear, I may add, all with tripods etc.  It made me realise just how things have changed in the last 10 years or so, photography is very popular now, you need to keep a step ahead of the competition.  It's a good thing but it also saturates the market and makes it difficult for the good work to shine through, with the many millions of photos on the internet, also it has reduced the ability of professional photographers to earn an income through stock photography.  It just means you have to find different ways to promote your product ie social media, word of mouth, networking etc.  For this reason, I will keep taking landscape photos but I will try and find new locations and infrared photography will be my main focus, as I still feel this is still a fairly unique area of work for Scotland.

Anyway better go.  Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

My first photo job of the new year, apart from some infrared stock photos in East Lothian, I was primed and ready to photograph some junior football at Dunbar.  I have started using my Fuji XT2 and 100-400mm lens for outdoor sport.  It copes great with the low light, some issues with focusing but I can revert back to my Canon when the light improves.  I  love photographing at this time of the year.  Apart from the lack of light at night time, I like the freshness of it and as a professional photographer in Scotland, it has been over a month since I did a football photoshoot.  This was a junior game between Dunbar and Camelon.  It ended 0-0 but was still great to photograph.

It made me think of compiling a few tips for football sports photography and here they are below:

1. Dress accordingly, especially in the winter, find ways of keeping your hands warm, ie thin gloves, wear waterproofs etc

2. Take at least at 1/800 speed, even more if possible, to freeze the action

3. Try and keep concentration, especially when there is a possibility of a goal

4. Make sure you are standing in the correct position ie this depends on who you are covering the game for, if neutral then the half way line is best, if for one club, I like either behind the goals or near the corner flag

5. Don't forget the non-football action ie arguments between players, crowd reaction, celebrations etc

The above are just for starters, more later in the year.  So with the new year upon us, I am now looking forward to some corporate event and conference photography commissions in Edinburgh and around Scotland.  I will keep you posted.

All the best.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

One of the great things about being a professional photographer in Scotland, is that you can combine your professional photography skills with your day to day leisure time.  Often on family days out in East Lothian and beyond, I take my camera and combine trips to castles with some infrared photography.  As a fine art photographer, these photos can often have commercial value and it is enjoyable taking them.  You can also shoot family portraits, still life, urban photography etc, all of which can be added to your portfolio and used to boost your website presence and keep you "out there" from a social media point of view.  Many of my Instagram photos come from day trips with my family, or photos I have taken on the way home from somewhere.  I know we all have phones now, but the age old saying of "always carry your camera" still holds true and this is now easier with smaller mirrorless cameras.  Infrared photography can now be undertaken without a tripod, so the option for quick grab shots hand held is always there.

So, here is a photo taken with my infrared camera, depicting the view from Hailes Castle in East Lothian, Scotland.

Happy New Year.

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2019 - Edinfringe 2019Photos from the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2019 by professional event and corporate photographer Edinburgh Colin Wright

Photos from the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2019 by professional event and corporate photographer Edinburgh Colin Wright

As a professional event photographer who regularly works in and around Edinburgh and Scotland, at this time of the year, I always reflect on the year, what was good, what needs to change etc.  This has been a good year for me with an abundance of business over the spring and summer period and also a good variety of professional photography commissions spread around Scotland, everything from sport, to award ceremonies, graduation events, birthday parties, conference photography and fine art infrared photography around Scotland.  In fact one of my challenges was fitting all the commissions into the summer and autumn period.  However, here is the seasonal problem facing most photographers. As mostly an outdoor event photographer, I could work twice during the spring and summer months, but often have periods of inactivity in the winter ie now.  Whilst this gives me the opportunity to spend time on my marketing, social media and my website, you still need finances to see you through all seasons and this is the challenge.  So one of my targets of the year will be to find other markets which generate income between November and March.  I already have plans for my infrared work next year, more presence online and I am sourcing the possibility of producing an "Infrared Photography in Scotland" book. I have purchased some new equipment to enhance my corporate, conference and event photography in Edinburgh and around Scotland.

The highlights of the year, well that's a difficult one but I think I have 2, the first was a golf photography commission to cover the Deer Park Masters in August, this was my first attempt at golf photography and I loved it.  Also, whilst I have been selling infrared photography prints depicting locations around Scotland, I received my first infrared photography commission from CrossReach, to photograph Charis House in Edinburgh, this provided me with total creative freedom to depict the garden area and the building in infrared.  All the client had to do was to choose their preferred print.  It worked out well and everyone was pleased with the print.

Anyway, have a great Christmas and New Year, can't wait to get going next year.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotogrpahy.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Then you also need to be able to respond quickly and effectively to unexpected requests for group shots, often large numbers of people in confined spaces, with very limited time.  Finally, there is the editing of hundreds of photos, often required immediately, or very soon after the event. The final photos should be what the client requested and more. They should tell a story and be of the highest quality. I hope this convinces you that it is worth employing a professional event photographer to cover your event.  You won’t be disappointed.

For further details. contact Colin Wright, professional event photographer Edinburgh, at [email protected] or through his websites at www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk, or www.edinburghphotographer.com

I thought I would use this blog to update you on an exciting project I am about to embark on.  As you know, as a professional photographer operating in Scotland, one of my main areas of work is concerned with infrared photography and throughout the years I have been photographing colour and black and white infrared fairly diligently throughout Scotland.  I am about to put together a digital collection, which will encompass up to 15 of the best infrared images I have taken around Scotland. These will include images from the Highlands and Islands, my home county of East Lothian, Edinburgh, Glasgow and other locations from this great country.  The collection will be varied and will include different subject matter.  The aim will be to publicise the collection on Social Media, my websites and other publications.  Watch this space.  Even in this atrocious weather I have been able to get out and about shooting infrared and managed a shot of the new fantastic work of art - the Dunbar Bear, photo attached.   At this time of year in particular, I enjoy the contrast of my commercial conference and event photography in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland, in comparison with my infrared, it keeps me creative.

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

I was out last week on a commercial photoshoot at Giancarlos in Tranent for Just Eat.  As a professional photographer operating in Scotland, it is always a pleasure to get a variety of different commissions.  Food photography is something I enjoy.  This particular commission has some strict guidelines/requirement from the client and this is fine but it got me thinking of a few tips for food photographers.  Here they are:

1. Use a tripod for consistency and sharpness, especially if shooting with natural light

2. Get creative with where you focus, this adds interest to the photo

3. Try and get the food to shine.  This can be achieved by spraying it, or lightly topping it with oil so that it glistens

4. Better brighter than darker or under-exposed where food photography is concerned, it makes the food more attractive

5. If photographing something fairly basic such as a hamburger shot side on to show the fillings

6. Where flash is used, always diffuse the light and only aim straight at the subject if you are using a fairly large softbox or light modifier, otherwise the light will be too harsh

7. Use props ie chopsticks, cutlery, salt pepper, herbs etc

8. Try and make the food look colourful and it must look very attractive to eat, sounds obvious but I have seen some food photos that put me of the menu

9. In some cases photograph 90 degrees above with drinks included to give the impression of a 3 or 4 course meal

10. Try some preparation shots, with chefs making the food, it can help to tell the story

Hope all that helps

Until next time

Kind Regards

Colin

With the festive season preparations in full swing, I thought I would look back on some of my Christmas photography commissions as a professional photographer in Edinburgh, East Lothian and throughout Scotland, particularly whilst working as a newspaper photographer in East Lothian and Midlothian.  Its largely a great time to photography people, due to the joy, costumes and general light shows you get at this time of year, but I thought I would look at some of the challenges for the Christmas photographer.  Here we go:

1. Photographing Christmas Light turn on celebrations can be challenging due to the weather and the crowds, make sure you are in the perfect spot when the lights are turned on - be assertive, otherwise you will get lost amongst the crowds and get poor photos.

2. Most outdoor Christmas photoshoots are in almost total darkness.  The lights themselves won't help overcome this, as exposing to the lights will only show the lights in the photos and not the people.  Use flash to get photos of people in the foreground, then take a tripod long exposure shot of the lights, preferably when there is still some detail in the sky, ie not at the darkest time of day.

3. At any Christmas event, photograph children, with the permission of their parents of course.  They look great in their costumes and their genuine enthusiasm for Christmas enhances any photo.

4. Try to capture facial expressions, always important, but even more so at this time of year.

5. If outdoors, prepare well for the weather.  You will probably be hanging about waiting on something to begin, so get well wrapped up.

Anyway, hope that helps you to create some magical event photography images.

Col

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghotographer.com

Now as we all know digital photography has changed the way we approach corporate photography commissions and as a professional specialist conference photographer operating in Edinburgh and around Scotland, it is vital to keep up with the times, particularly the changing expectations of today's clients.  Here are a few things to be aware of:

1.   Often conferences are based in multiple locations on the one day, so while you may need different equipment for different purposes, it is vital that you keep the gear down to a sensible level keeping you mobile

2. The length of the day is much longer, particularly for private sector photoshoots, so keep your energy up, make sure you keep well fed and watered (preferably by the client)

3. You will take more shots nowadays, gone are the days when you need to supply the client with a handful of shots, it will be hundreds now, so keep snapping and take some arty ones, even if they haven't asked for this, they will almost certainly like them

4. Make sure you are clear about the clients expectations before the start of the event, don't just assume its the same as an event you did recently, they are all different

5. Your personality is very important, you are not just a photographer in the background.  The days of the rude wedding and event photographer are over, be nice but be natural and enthusiastic, remember we are privileged to be doing a great job for a living

Anyway, that's all for now, hope it helps.

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

This blog is really about 2 different issues involved in infrared photography.  The first one, as a professional photographer from Edinburgh, Scotland, I always ask myself, what exactly do I want to achieve as an end result for this photo, ie the pre-visualisation aspect of photography.  Now this is where infrared photography differs from other types of photography, in that the images look nothing like they do on the camera screen, its almost a bit like the film days when you had no idea what the final image would look like and pre-visualisation was vital.  However, the point I am trying to make in this case is sometimes when I shoot infrared I want a realistic black and white photograph and not a weird white tree shot or over the top colours and this is where infrared is fantastic, as the contrast, structure and dynamic range is excellent.  In this case I went up Arthur Seat in Edinburgh and shot mainly with the intention to get dramatic black and white images.  Let me know what you think, there is one attached to this blog and 3 on the website.  The other point I wanted to make was something I keep drilling on about and especially for black and white photography - its the importance of the sky and this photo wouldn't work without the cloud detail in the sky.  Clouds like this actually excite me.

Anyway, of to my final conference photography commission of the year later this week.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

https://www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk/p304082559

www.edinburghphotographer.com

I have just purchased a Canon EOS R mirrorless camera which I think will be ideal for my conference photography commissions in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland, particularly with the improved focusing and ISO performance and the ability to shoot silently, always useful for indoor event photographers.  However, I thought I would test it a bit at the weekend before using it at a corporate conference photography commission on Thursday this week.  As well as shooting indoors for a bit, I thought i would take it outside for some football photography.  I didn't buy the camera for this reason but I thought it was still worth it to test it outdoors.  As expected, it wasn't suitable for this purpose, however it is a great camera and I look forward to using it at corporate event photography commissions.  It also got me thinking that it is good to test ourselves with equipment that is less than ideal for the purpose, it gets you working harder and makes you think about how you can adapt to situations with limited equipment.  It was like this for me when I started as I simply couldn't afford more expensive gear, this improved my skills enabling me to adapt to different situations with one lens and to search if something wasn't right, for a solution with my existing gear, rather than just going out and buying something more modern and advanced.  This is especially true with lighting and flash systems, there is no need to keep buying more up to date gear, just go out and get to know your existing stuff better.  By the way, my recent purchase was a direct response to a need to shoot silently at events and also I am getting older and want to lighten the load on my back.

Anyway happy snapping.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

As I approach the winter conference photography season with a conference photography commission in Edinburgh next week, I thought this would be a good time to reflect on the challenges and new issues facing conference and event photographers.  I have been photographing conferences around Scotland for over 15 years and it is an aspect of corporate event photography that I really enjoy.  As conferences are mainly held indoors - you may get the occasional outdoor group shot - the development and advances in digital camera equipment is very important for photographers involved in this line of work.  I have just purchased a Canon EOS R Mirrorless camera and I cant wait to start using it at conferences.  The improved ISO performance over the years has been fantastic for conference photographers, you cant always use flash and in some cases they wont allow flash at all, so you need this facility.  One of the reasons I am looking forward to using the EOS R, is the ability to shoot without the loud shutter noise you get from DSLRs.  This is vital in conferences as the constant shutter sound can annoy delegates.  Smaller cameras are starting to show equal performance with the large DSLRs and this will also make life easier for photographers.  I often attend events where some photographers still insist on using large lenses when there is no need.  Large gear can intimidate the delegates and there is also an increased risk you could whack one the delegates on the head with your your massive telephoto lens.  Wifi enablement can be very useful at conferences and often you are asked right away for images, this can be handy and prevents the need to carry a laptop.  The improved focusing and touch screen facilities in new equipment can also be very useful for corporate event photographers.  New lighting off camera flash and more portable equipment is also a boost for event photographers.  All this means of course that more is expected of us, so you may find yourself working harder now at an event, but this is all good, as there is more scope for creativity and in some cases our job is a bit easier due to the technological improvements.

Hope all this helps, happy snapping.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Every photographer is different and my time as a professional photographer in Scotland is largely divided between my corporate conference photography commissions in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland and outdoor events, mostly sports photography in Edinburgh, Glasgow and Fife.  So you can imagine that it is fairly seasonal to a certain extent, although I also photograph a number of conferences, award events and student graduation balls during the winter months.  There is however, a period between November and the end of February where things slow down a bit.  it is probably just as well as I can often work flat out in the spring and summer.  Whilst marketing, training and general networking can dominate these winter months in my case, I also ensure there is time for personal projects and the art of photography.  Indulging in your passion every now and again is essential for photographers.  This year, I plan to extend my infrared photography in Scotland project to try and include some new subjects not normally associated with infrared photography - watch this space.  I also want to re-visit my puddle photography in urban areas in Scotland , in addition to a Three City Triangle project encompassing Edinburgh, Glasgow and Dundee, more details soon.  Whilst winter is challenging due to lack of light and poor weather, it can be a great time for photography due to lack of crowds, dramatic light and night photography. 

So, from next week, all will be clearer, but my advice to you is get outdoors and just go for it in the winter.  it will be worth it, I promise.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

As I finish a very busy period as a professional photographer in Scotland and head into a time when I may have a little bit of free time for a new photography fine art venture, I think this is a good time to reflect on the importance of starting a new project.  As a mainly conference and event photographer, usually at venues in Edinburgh and other parts of Scotland, I tend to base my projects on genres of photography entirely different from my day to day work.  I have in the past completed a number of project based on subjects including the following: scrapyard photos, infrared photography, puddle images and black and white urban photography.  Someone once said to me why not just rest when you are not busy or do something non-photographic but I think there are a number of reasons why a photography project is so important.  here they are below:

1. You can often make money from your projects, I have made a sizeable income from infrared photography and have also sold scrapyard images.  Many a quiet winter has been saved by sales of fine art work

2. You can make your project the subject of an exhibition, which can lead to sales and increase your profile

3. Projects keep you fresh

4. you can use the skills you have learned in your day to day corporate commissions ie I supply wedding clients with infrared photos, in addition to the main images they receive

5. It enables you to explore your creative and artistic side, which is what most of us photographers should be about and I think we need this kind of feedback to keep going

Anyway, hope this helps.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

ww.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Image from the G8 summit in Edinburgh by corporate event and newspaper photographer Colin Wright Edinburgh Scotland

As a professional photographer working around Edinburgh, I often get asked for advice or to complete surveys for students and recently I was asked by a student at Napier University to complete a questionnaire relating to urban photography, particularly Edinburgh.  As a corporate event photographer working in and around Scotland, I enjoy the break from commissioned commercial work to add to my urban photography portfolio.  I also tend to double up and do some infrared photography in urban locations such as Edinburgh, Glasgow and Dundee to name a few.  I have also done some urban photography in Germany.

Anyway, as part of the questionnaire, I was asked for advice for urban photography, so here we go:

1. Try different angles, I do a lot of low angle on the ground shots, they work particularly well when puddles are involved

2. Check the weather forecast

3. Decide on whether you want people in the image ie and then plan the time of your trip accordingly

4. Travel light, so you can be mobile, mirrorless cameras are ideal, maybe just a small fisheye lens also

5. Try something different

6. A small tripod is useful, if not, then a gorillapod - make use of fences and railings if you are using an attachment device

7. Ignore people that give you funny looks.  It will be worth it if you really get that striking photo

8. Study past masters and Social Media.  instagram has some great urban images

9. Urban photography is just landscape photography in the city.  All the rules for landscape photography apply

10. You dont always need people for urban photos, check out my portfolio, I hardly ever shoot recognisable faces

Hope this helps.

Until next time.

www.colinwrightphotogrpahy.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Kind Regards

Colin

urban photography edinburgh by event and corporate photographer Edinburgh, Colin Wright, www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk and www.edinburghphotographer.comurban photography edinburgh by event and corporate photographer Edinburgh, Colin Wright, www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk and www.edinburghphotographer.com

urban photography Edinburgh by corporate event and urban photographer Colin Wright www.edinburghphotographer.com

Just about to get my gear ready for the final bungee jumping photography event of the season, so I thought I would share a few tips on the do's and don'ts of bungee jumping event photography.  As a professional photographer operating in and around Scotland, I always feel privileged to photograph a variety of subjects.  Last week I was photographing a major conference in Edinburgh, whereas this weekend, I will be off to the Riverside Museum, Glasgow for some Bungee Jumping photography.  So what should we look out for when photographing people falling from the sky.  Here are a few do's and don'ts.

Do - 

Take plenty of waterproofs, you will be exposed and there probably wont be anywhere to hide

Make sure you have plenty lens cleaning cloths, you will be looking into the sky after all and your lens will get probably wet, especially in Scotland

A speed of about 640 or 800 should do it, your subject wont be moving too fast and that should be enough to freeze things

Try and capture the emotion on the face of the jumper before and after, as well as the jump

Pay attention and don't miss the jump - this can be difficult as you will have to crook your neck to wait on the jumper and some people will hesitate and take a while

Move your position, try and get right under the jumper and move round as they swing down towards you

Expose in manual, if you use auto exposure without any adjustments you will be exposing for the sky and not the jumper

Don't -

Underestimate the weather, especially in Scotland

Ignore safety issues ie not watching for the cage on its way down to the ground, or you could get crushed

Ignore exposure changes.  the light will change and exposure is one of the trickiest aspects of bungee jumping photography.  Make sure you check your photos regularly to see if the subject is correctly exposed

So, hope that helps, have a happy event photography day in Scotland.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

After a very busy, but also enjoyable week photographing a 3 day conference for the Intercontinental Hotel Group in Edinburgh, i thought in this blog I would reflect a bit on the hidden aspects of conference photography ie some of the things you overlook.  As a professional conference and event photographer operating in Edinburgh, Glasgow and other parts of Scotland, I have learned a fair bit about conference photography and some of the main challenges are not necessarily related to technical photographic skills.  Modern conference events are a bit like weddings, you can't miss key moments of the day, you may also be covering evening dinner receptions, with dancers pipers etc, so make sure you are fully aware of the timings and to keep your energy up.  Most of the organisers will feed you, so make sure you don,t skip this, otherwise you will flag, especially if you have been up since 5am.  Try and persuade the venue to put the lights as high as they can tolerate, even though modern cameras are great in low light, darkness is still the enemy.  Make sure everything is pre-arranged ie your car should be fine, you should know the route, traffic etc and leave an hour earlier than you need to.  This is not an office job, lateness will not be accepted and you could be in deep trouble if you miss a key moment.  Think about any possible disasters ie have loads of charged batteries, extra lenses, lens cleaning clothes, flash etc, at least 2 of everything.  I know a few photographers who only have one camera at events, that would scare the hell out of me and to be honest, it is not very professional.

So happy conference photography shooting.

Until next time.

www.colinwrightphotogrpahy.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

As I approach one of my busiest ever spells as a professional corporate and event photographer in Edinburgh and Scotland, for once I had a weekend off and it was good to spend it with the family at a battle re-enactment event in Dunbar.  We went too early and had to leave before the battle but that's another story I wont bore you with but I did take my infrared camera and managed a few shots for something a bit different to add to my Infrared in Scotland project.  I have been selling the infrared images online and this has been a success but I am also in the process of finding a suitable retail outlet, more news on that front soon.  People in costume can often be good to depict in infrared and metallic objects such as swords and helmets can be shown in an entirely different way due to infrared light - see it's not just all about white trees you know.  I think there is no subject that is taboo where infrared photography is concerned and I plan to expand my range of subject matter soon.  In the meantime, here is a photo from the event.  Starting to get prepared for a 3 day conference in Edinburgh next week, really looking forward to this one, as it takes place at various venues throughout Edinburgh, including a couple of top class restaurants.  Overall, this will be one of my biggest conference events as an event photographer in Edinburgh, due to the duration of the event, cant wait.

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

A short blog this week, before I embark on a busy period of motor sport photography and some corporate and event photography in Edinburgh.  At the weekend I had the privilege of doing some infrared photography in the Pentland Hills, Midlothian.  Now as you all know, you need sunshine for good infrared images and it was certainly sunny at the weekend, but almost more important than sunshine is clouds and detail.  To demonstrate, the attached image would be extremely boring without the wonderful detail in the sky - by the way I never use composite skies, preferring reality to a sky that is super glued to a photo.  Now my daughter Gina is also integral to this photo as she appears in the distance but it is the sky that makes it, whether in colour or black and white, the photo works due to the sky.  In fact in landscape photography in general, you need detail in the sky.  Everyone was wondering why I was so excited before I left the house, it was because I just sensed the sky was perfect for infrared photography.  it is one of the things as a professional landscape photographer in Scotland that I really like about this country, the changing weather, clouds and yes, you guessed it, detail in the sky.

So no moaning about our weather in Scotland please, it is great for photography.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

I had a rare day off on saturday and a couple of hours to spare in Dunbar, so I took myself off to the Dunbar RFC v Penicuik rugby game.  it was just like old times, as a professional newspaper photographer, I used to photograph a lot of sport and events in and around Edinburgh and throughout Scotland.  As always, I have been trying to do something a little different for my own personal projects.  Recently I did some infrared photography at a football match.  This time I decided to do some contrasty HDR images at the rugby match, including a few black and white images, utilising On One and Silver FX Pro software.  It took a little more time post processing, but well worth it, I think.  As a professional event and sports photographer
working in and around Edinburgh and Scotland, my philosophy is to keep trying new things - not easy in for professional photographers in Scotland - but still achievable.  Let me know what you think.  Dunbar won by the way.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

https://www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk/
 

https://edinburghphotographer.com/
 

As you have probably heard me explain before, infrared photography only works well with sunshine, even better if it is in the midday sun.  As you know most of us professional photographers in Edinburgh and around Scotland don't necessarily see much of the sun, although that's a bit of a myth to be honest, its just not that warm really.  Well on sunday I had the opportunity to take some infrared photos midday on a bright hot scorching day in Edinburgh.  Great you would say, but was it.  There was absolutely no cloud, or if there was, it was a tiny wee thing hardly anything you would notice. This can make infrared photos a bit boring, as blue sky with white cloud is the best, for detail in the sky.  Its the same with sunset shots in conventional photography, you want some cloud.  So what was I going to do.  Well you can make sure you find some prominent trees to fill the frame, also don't include much sky in the frame.  Colour infrared is also better in cloudless days, than black and white.  You can also fill the top half of your image with something to give it some interesting detail ie leaves from a tree in the foreground.  Also you can concentrate on a striking foreground, so the sky wont matter that much.  So it wasn't a bad photoshoot after all.  Let me know what you think of this shot taken at Dynamic Earth with the Scottish Parliament in the background.

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

ww.edinburghphotographer.com

Today's blog is looking at the weather and how this can seriously affect the outdoor professional photographer around Scotland especially.  I love my job and while working as an corporate event photographer, when I am wandering around Edinburgh and the surrounding area, I tend to spend a lot of time outdoors and here are some of my key tips.  They may sound like commonsense, but its amazing the amount of times I have seen people in trouble by neglecting to take these things seriously.  So here they are, for what its worth:

1. Check the weather forecast and bring clothing accordingly, then also take clothes suitable for the opposite type of weather.  Yes, even in this day and age the forecast can be drastically wrong.

2. Take suntan lotion, even in the winter.

3. Take some towels to dry your gear with.

4. Get yourself the most expensive boots you can afford and they will last you a lifetime - this is the one thing you shouldn't try and save on.

5. Take a hat, sun stroke is not cool, I had it once after a supercar photoshoot.

6. Get some protective waterproof housing for your camera, nothing too complicated mind you, if you are fiddling with it too much, it won't work in the rain.

7. Use your car for cover, where possible - I even managed to do this at a golf tournament once.

Anyway that's all for now.

Until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

Just had a good couple of days photographing the Deer Park Masters annual PGA golf tournament in Livingston.  I really enjoyed it, although the weather did present us with some challenges, however for the professional sports photographer in Scotland, this can also provide you with some unique photography opportunities, the lone golfer picture attached demonstrates how bad the weather was at some point and play was abandoned not long after this point due to thunder and lightning.  However we had play for most of the 2 days and as a freelance event photographer operating in Edinburgh and around Scotland, I can now add golf to the list of sports that I enjoy photographing.  Here are the challenging aspects of photographing golf listed below:

1. Although a fantastic sport, it can be difficult to make it look interesting in photos, as the participants are not running or moving fast, so you have to keep thinking how to get creative.

2. It is difficult to get the ball in all shots and you shouldn't worry if you don't for every shot, it's good to include it if you can, so fast speeds when you can and take more shots of pitching and putting when it is easier to capture the ball.

3. As with all sports, positioning is the key, so get in the right place and keep moving if you are permitted.

4. The main thing when you are close to the players is shutter sound, so put it on silent if possible, and if you are close do not click the shutter until the ball has been hit, otherwise you could seriously end up in the bad books of the players.

5. Weather can be an issue for golf photographers, with little shelter available.  Trees are good, but not this week when we had some serious thunder storms.

The above just added to the challenge and it is a sport I love to photograph.  I even managed some sport infrared photos as part of my infrared photography in Scotland project.

Anyway, until next time

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

An the eve of my 2 day event trip to Deer Park Country Club as one of 2 commissioned photographers at a PGA golf tournament, I thought this would be a good time to go through some do's and don'ts for sports photography.  One of the main things is to study the sport.  Although I have been working around Edinburgh and throughout Scotland as a professional freelance event photographer, I am also a sports fan and as a previous track athlete, tennis player and golfer, I have a good idea about these particular sports.  Like a lot of guys, I am also a big football fan.  There is no substitute for knowledge when it comes to the sports photographer and if you don't have it, them acquire it, watch clips, read up on the sports etc.  It would be difficult for a non golfer to photograph the sport for instance.  You need to know where to stand, when not to click the shutter etc.  One of the main issues in sport is to be able to anticipate what is going to happen next and have your camera move to that position in advance, this is particularly relevant in football and rugby photography.  Focus on the crowd sometimes, or the players celebrating, or an off the ball incident - don't just relax after you have caught the goal in football.  My best selling images have not been goals or dramatic action shots, they have been celebration shots - see attached.    Take most sports at a fairly fast shutter speed ie at least 1/800, unless you want to create motion through an intentional blur, then move the camera smoothly in line with the subject using a slower shutter speed - this is particularly useful in motor racing.  Try and get some close ups of the participants faces if your lens is long enough, emotion is a key aspect of sports photography. 

More tips for the professional sports photographer later, but for the moment, here is the final one - enjoy the day.  

Kind Regards

Colin wright

www.edinburghphotographer.com

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

Just back my holidays from the Isle of Mull.  As a professional photographer operating in and around Scotland, it is always a treat to have a vacation in Scotland.  As a landscape and infrared photographer, Scotland is one of the best locations in the world to visit and this time I also had the weather on my side.  As I was with my family, the opportunities for photography were pretty limited, along with the potential to visit a variety of locations, but I manged some good images, which I will be able to include in my art portfolio for future sales. When most people go on holiday, they are encouraged to forget their job for a bit and certainly the lack of email and internet was good for my soul.  However, it is a bit different for freelance photographers in Scotland, who are always on the lookout to add to their landscape portfolio and as we all love our job, it is no hardship to continue taking photos on holiday.  I tend to travel light on vacation, not using heavy gear and I don't get obsessed, as my kids really do come fist when I am on holiday, but I have a whole batch of infrared photos to work on.  I also must be one of the only professional photographers who exclusively photographs their children in infrared - I think this is maybe worth a book sometime.  Anyway I have a masters golf tournament to photograph next week at Deer Park Country Club, Livingston, near Edinburgh, very much looking forward to the photoshoot next week, also more supercars and some wedding photography in East Lothian.

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

Colin Wright Photography

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

As a professional event photographer working in and around Edinburgh and throughout the UK, this is a busy time of year, with sport, gala days and all sorts of events taking place.  While I seldom have any time these days to just pop along and take photos for fun at the weekend, event photography was a great way to start and I urge all amateur photographers to get themselves along to a local event as it is ideal practice.  Often these events can be attended free of charge, or if its a local junior football team, you can offer to give them photos for a priority position at the games.  Airshows are great events to attend with all sots of opportunities.  This was how I got a foothold in local newspaper photography in Edinburgh and Scotland, I was approached at a rugby event by a newspaper photography who asked me to contact them with my portfolio.  As I had been attending events for a few years, I had a good varied portfolio which is ideal for the type of photography required by newspapers.  Working for the press also enabled me to raise my profile locally and I was approached for private interior and wedding commissions.  This type of marketing is invaluable, even in these days of social media.  I do appreciate it is a bit more difficult nowadays with the surge in digital photography and there are probably more rules in relation to the taking of photographs, but its still worth a try and a great way to gain valuable experience and to experiment and find your photographic niche.

So out you get photographing, there is plenty on.

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Just finished an intensive 2 day photoshoot at a conference for Connect Gov at various locations in Edinburgh.  Sometimes as a professional photographer operating around cities such as Edinburgh, Glasgow and Dundee and other locations in Scotland and the North of England, one of the most difficult things can be getting to the location early with all your gear, parking etc.  These can be the things that break your back and this conference also had an 8.15am start and went on until 10pm at night, within various locations throughout Edinburgh.  This is all part of the job and my aim in this short blog is not to moan about it, but to delve into the wonder of the human body and its endless capabilities.  I love taking photographs and in these situations I seldom feel tired during the photoshoots and seem to find the energy to keep going with enthusiasm, often with very little sleep and lots of physical work too.  It never fails to amaze me how as humans we can find energy easily for the things we love.  I turned professional a bit later in my life and you would think this would make it more difficult, especially working as a professional photographer in and around a city like Edinburgh where you can never park, however I can give any of the youngsters a run for their money.  Ask me to work long hours in an office without much sleep, sitting at a desk, well that's a different story.  Attach is a photo from the Connect Gov conference.

Anyway, until next time.

Kind Regards

Colin

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

As a professional freelance event photographer working in and around Edinburgh and throughout Scotland, every now and again, you get to do a commission and when you can really identify with the project.  Earlier last week, I had one of these commissions at Musselburgh Grammar School, who were having their first Sports Awards Ceremony for the coaches and children.  I was well impressed with the overall organisation and the enthusiasm shown by the staff, particularly the PE Dept at the school.  The event had some impressive guests, including the main invited speaker Kieron Achara, basketball star.  It goes to show you that its not all about funding and all it takes is a few enthusiastic people to make things happen. Positive attitude and enthusiasm cant be bought and all our schools throughout Scotland should look at successful projects like this and try to replicate their success.  Well done to all and best of luck for future events.

Kind Regards

Colin

Colin Wright Photography

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk

www.edinburghphotographer.com

Most professional freelance photographers in Edinburgh, Scotland or anywhere else for that matter, will have seasonal periods during the year when they are busy.  If you are a corporate event photographer in Scotland for instance, this will occur when everyone else starts to chill for the summer holidays, they go on vacation, attend lots of outdoor sports events etc.  This is just when I get my most busy.  I have lots of supercar photography, golf, a conference and later today, an award ceremony at a local grammar school.  It is however, always good to get some time to spend with the family and at the same time, indulge in my passion for infrared photography.  This time it was Belhaven Bay near Dunbar, so no trees, but that it not to say that it is not suitable for infrared photography, on the contrary, the clouds provided great contrast and the sun was shining bright.  It is a wonderful spot, so it is no hardship to photograph, just watch that sand in your camera and dont drop it.  i have lost 2 cameras to salt water in my time and the insurance company wont insure me for water damage any more, unless I pay a fortune.  So here we are at Belhaven Bay.  Hope you like the photo.

Kind Regards

Colin

Colin Wright Photography

www.colinwrightphotography.co.uk