Finding time and space for creativity again.

I mentioned it in the 'Bury a Friend' behind the scenes video - but making 'photoshoots' is something I've been doing since I was a kid. That - and making YouTube parodies in the summer holidays with friends. The most cherished memories. Just the kids who took a DSLR and random clothes in a bag to a field to simply make stuff.

Doing the same thing recently when I felt the need to change up my reference person (from myself) - it felt like stepping back in time - galivanting around with a bag of outfits and at one point
​- a large fake sword...

​ I've added some examples of baby Zoe and gang below.

I went through many stages with how I felt about this hobby.
I think we all go through those phases that we cringe at as we get older.
But I think I've somehow managed to come full circle!
Because, at the end of the day - it's harmless fun and childlike creativity. Not putting too many structures in place and going - hey - let's make something.

We seemingly had all this 'free time' as kids.
Our brains weren't as full thinking about bills for one!
I think time was more relative, slower even. We got this 6 week block of time we knew was coming each year smack bang in the middle of summer.
I've found the best thing is sticking the photoshoot in my diary and keeping to it. Once my brain recognises 'oh, we're taking this seriously? It's actually in the diary?' - it gets done.
Something else more important will always take over otherwise.
It's not always something more fun either.
But if I know I've scheduled in creative time then I somehow find time to do the hoovering.
They are both 'important'.

I did it!
I finally made another YouTube video.
I just wanted to capture the day a bit more and thought people might be interested in the process a bit more.
So here's some mind ramblings in video form of how I build concept into shoot.

They will be performing at May Hall (Trent College) Long Eaton from the 8th - 12th April.

​Tickets here:

I love a big shoot day!
Very happy to have been asked to shoot the promos for LEOS Made in Dagenham.
They will be performing at May Hall (Trent College) Long Eaton from the 8th - 12th April.

​Tickets here:

Made in Dagenham is not a musical I'm familiar with so my concepts came from a run by session with my sister who is Assistant Director.
I like my photos to tell a story and have a clear vibe to them so naturally I had a million questions for her (thanks for your patience Laura).
I love a location shoot so much as there's always inspiration strikes from the surrounding area.
Giant tire?! 
Amazing. Let's use it!
I planned each shot individually with stick men doodles and a spreadsheet.
On the day I ended up using... the stick men doodles. What can I say I'm a visual learner!
Shoot days are ALWAYS rapid. The more people, the more shots? The faster time moves!
Planning each shot saved my butt.
I'd like to take a moment to thank my human guineapig Lilly for standing in so I could quickly test each area for 
a.) are you being blinded by the sun?
b.) can i see you
The usual.
Many thanks for everyone who also brought me the chair or my stick I left behind during creative, chaotic flow mode TM.
There were shots we couldn't get and people missing and time running out etc - the usual so to that I have my favourite phrase:
Always aim for perfect and be happy with good enough.
​
The weather was on our side and the cast were excellent sports.
We had a good laugh and I am absolutely looking forward to seeing the show!

That reminds me. I need to book my tickets!

Best way to cure any camera nerves - make 'em laugh.