Quantum Photographic

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Blue Barn

2011-01-04T11:01:00.005Z

Images from this event are now available on my new blog via my HomePage
Make sure you refresh your browser page.

This blog will no longer be updated so please make sure you remove any RSS feeds linked to this address and bookmark the new one...

Thanks
Graham

Merry Christmas to all...

2010-12-21T09:49:00.002Z

With the last equestrian event of the season over and all orders printed, packed & posted, I'd like to wish all of you a very merry Christmas and a happy new year.

Just one more wedding to cover today then I can relax and start my Christmas shopping....

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Willow Farm

2010-12-12T22:00:00.004Z

I couldn't resist using this shot for the blog. It's not a one off either, he pulled the same face a few times. Click on the photo to see the rest of the show and then read on to find out about my special offer if you order in time for Christmas.

Ditch the Mounts

Buy any three 6" x 4" prints without mounts and get three more for Free!!!

Order any three 6" x 4" prints from the website by 19th December and not only will you get free postage & packing but if you ditch the mounts, you can choose another three absolutely FREE!!!

Just send me an e-mail (with the subject line "Ditch the Mounts") after you've placed your order telling me your choice of three free prints and they will all be sent together in time for you to give them out to friends or family for Christmas.

Last Orders - Midnight 19th December 2010

The Quantum Archive Project

2010-11-15T11:09:00.004Z

I seem to be getting an increasing amount of orders for photos taken a long time ago. Some as far back as 2002. Yes, all my images have been safely archived since I started back in 1996 and I can pretty much lay my hands on them straight away - if the customer knows the reference number. And there lies the problem... most people can't remember the date of the event let alone the photo number. A few years ago, due to technical reasons, I had to remove my entire archive from the website. Now that technology has moved on, I thought it would be a great project for the winter to put them all back on.

Look through my archive pages then hit the comments button below with your suggestions on which events should go up first and I'll start straight away with the most popular.....

Colette's Team Dressage at Willow Farm

2010-11-06T22:00:00.005Z

Although today didn't quite go as I planned, I think the results were actually better than I was expecting. First, it soon became clear that not all riders were aware that I was only taking photos to order, so some of you were photographed anyway. I think it worked out for the best in the end when people realised how good today's offer was. Second, the lighting was far worse than I expected. Apart from the shift back to GMT and darker evenings, not all the arena lights were working. I really had to push my cameras sensitivity to the limit and time my shots to when you were in the best lit area (and on the right leg). This wasn't always possible so I took some more photos just to make sure you had some good ones. Since the original plan was cut down on the amount of pictures I had to take by only taking photos of those who specifically wanted them, I ended up taking far more than usual - 2,040 to be exact with each test having between 20 and 100 images. Either way, £10 for the lot (if you paid on the day - or order more than one test) is a BARGAIN!
To achieve this low price I couldn't possibly check every image let alone process them ALL for the website. So I've just uploaded one image of each test (without any adjustments or colour corrections) for identification purposes and those who order can have their whole set of pictures for the price of one. Once ordered, I'll batch process your images to achieve the best possible quality and zip them up in one - easy to download - file. Those who have pre-paid on the day, please e-mail me and I'll send you your download link tomorrow.

Click on the photo above to see your sample images....

Digital Downloads for less than £1 at Colette's Dressage this Saturday

2010-11-02T22:36:00.007Z

That's right, less than one pound each!

For some of you, it could be less than 50p...

That's because I take, on average, 12-25 photos during a dressage test. This Saturday I am offering all of them as full screen digital downloads - without watermarking - for just...

£10 per test!

There will be no viewing screens or printing on the day because there will be no need to spend time choosing your photos.

YOU GET THE LOT!

Just make sure you book me BEFORE you start your test and your photos will be available for download the following day.

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Blue Barn

2010-10-23T22:00:00.000+01:00

To be honest, as soon as I looked out of the window, I was in two minds about attending today. I knew the weather would improve, I just wasn't sure what affect it would have on the competitors. I needn't have worried though, when teams are involved, the competitive spirit goes up a few notches and no one wants to be the one who lets their side down.
Lots of entries, lots of action and lots of great photos...

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Barville Farm

2010-10-10T18:00:00.005+01:00

While not the busiest of shows this year, it was one of the more relaxing (for me, anyway). A glorious day without a cloud in the sky, the sun producing a wonderful low light across the jumps and a steady stream of competitors eager to make the most of Colette's last outdoor event of the season. What more could I ask for...?

Click on the image above to see your photos...

Southern Counties Horse Show 2010 at Barville Farm

2010-09-19T22:00:00.002+01:00

Colette certainly pulled it all together this year with a great line up of championships across all four rings. From show jumping through to in-hand and ridden showing there were plenty of entries keen to compete for the titles and prizes. I concentrated on the showing classes to start with, trying to make sure I captured all the winners but the jumping got the better of me as the competition got serious when the jumps increased in height. With over 1500 pictures taken throughout the day, the option to have all your images burned full size on a CD proved extremely good value for money for many riders. If the interest is still there, I may be able to give you a similar offer via e-mail.
Click on the photo above to see how many I've taken of you....

East Kent Hunt Pony Club - Open Show at Knowler Farm, Stelling Minnis

2010-09-05T21:00:00.000+01:00

Another well established and organised annual event that has seen it's numbers dwindle due to other event organisers lack of research and forward planning. C'mon you guys, it's not like there's a shortage of weekends out there and it doesn't do anyone any good to compete for competitors. Maybe there should be an independent body to organise the organisers!
Meanwhile, they can click on the photo above to see where their missing entries were...

Unaffiliated Jumping at the Eastminster School of Riding

2010-08-30T22:00:00.003+01:00

Stepping in to help Gary Coulson from Take My Picture, this was my first visit to Eastminster School of Riding. Although there was only one ring to cover, the organisation was such that the competitors flowed quickly and smoothly throughout the day. If it were not for Gary's son, Tom, helping out on the sales side (thanks Tom) I would not have kept up with the action and taken nearly two thousand images - all of which have been uploaded here, just to give you one more chance to view and purchase your photos.
Click on the image above to take a look....

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Bookham RC field

2010-08-29T22:00:00.003+01:00

Our second visit to Surrey this season and a much bigger turnout with three rings this time round. I managed to cover a couple of the earlier showing classes but the jumping kept me pretty busy for most of the afternoon.
Click on the pic above to see all the photos....

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Barville Farm

2010-08-22T22:00:00.002+01:00

Considering the original forecast, we got away pretty lightly today with only one major downpour that just lasted a few minutes. It didn't seem to put that many people off though with entries still being made throughout the day. It's a shame my new marquee wasn't delivered in time for today as it would have made it just that little bit more comfortable.
Hit the image above to view the pix...

MXCP Open Day, Dover

2010-08-14T22:00:00.001+01:00

With more riders than the usual Saturday I was torn between the extra photo opportunities and the hog roast that was on offer right next to my truck. Mmmm, it was a tough one!
Click the photo above to see the pix...

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Ingatestone Hall

2010-08-08T22:00:00.004+01:00

Well, what a great day out! Brilliant weather, lots of competitors and some great riding. Couple that with the largest entries for the dog show so far and this is one event to put in your diary for next year. Click on the photo above to see all the pictures...

Bexley Borough Riding Club Horse Show at Footscray Meadows

2010-07-19T14:39:00.005+01:00

Although a bit chilly to start with, the day soon turned into a bit of a scorcher at times. While I managed to cover most of the classes, I did lose track of which class was which in Ring 1 a couple of times so forgive me if the headings are not strictly accurate. Please try the other classes if you cannot find yourself and let me know if any of the class names are obviously wrong.

Click on the photo above to see the pics...

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Ingatestone Hall

2010-07-13T16:44:00.005+01:00

Our second visit to Essex this season and despite the hot weather, there was a real sense of competition especially in the jumping arena where I spent most of my time.
I did a lot of dog portraits this time including one in the best fancy dress I've ever seen.
Take a look by clicking on the photo above...

MXCP Practice, Dover

2010-07-13T16:41:00.005+01:00

My second visit to the Motocross Challenge Project and with a little better idea of what I was after. I had to contend with a lot of dust kicked up by the lead rider which created a few problems getting the ones behind but I think I managed it.

Click on the photo above to view the pictures....

West Street Pony Club at Cobham Manor, Maidstone

2010-07-04T22:00:00.003+01:00

Another new venue for me and I was very impressed. With a massive turnout from all the local pony clubs it was packed to bursting and the brilliant sunshine was tempered by the cool wind for a change. This was just as well as I didn't stop from the moment I took the first photo. Over one thousand and six hundred pictures later and I was ready to drop. Even my camera battery was about to give up and it's never done that at a single event.

Click on the image above to see all the action...

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Farming World

2010-06-27T22:00:00.003+01:00

Hot or What!!!!

I don't know about you guys but I lost the will to live after 3pm, so hats off to those who were still taking part in that searing heat. Thanks also to Jim for sticking with it in Ring 1 while I tried to flit between the showing rings, dressage and printing orders.

I lost the plot in trying to keep up with the class numbers in rings 2-4 so I've just grouped them in time sections of when I took the first picture of that class. Hopefully you will remember the time you went in and will be able to find your photos. I know I didn't do all the showing classes but I hope I got most of you at some time throughout the day. We should have got all those who jumped especially if you went into more than one class.

Click on the photo above to see the pix...

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Ingatestone Hall

2010-06-20T22:00:00.005+01:00

Sorry for the delay in getting this post up, I've had a few distractions these past couple of days.

Colette's first visit to Essex this season kicked off to a great start with some good weather albeit a little chilly to start with. Hey, one day it will be perfect, trust me! There were some lovely horses in the showing classes so this is where I tried to concentrate my efforts.

Click on the photo above to see the rest...

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Bookham RC field

2010-06-14T15:46:00.006+01:00

What an absolutely beautiful day with everyone totally prepared for another one of Colette's massive days in Surrey. It was unfortunate that there were another two events on nearby but that didn't stop those who attended from having a great day out. It also enabled my new assistant to get to grips with my printing set up without any added pressure. Lots of photos to see so click on the image above and have a look...

MXCP Practice, Dover

2010-06-12T22:00:00.003+01:00

Always looking for something new to photograph, I happened to find out about the Motocross Challenge Project just up the road from me. I went along to one of their practice sessions to have some practice of my own.
Click on the image above to see the results...

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Barville Farm

2010-06-06T22:00:00.002+01:00

Colette's third outing at Barville Farm this season and, for the most part, it was a very nice day with only a brief and welcome (for me) shower to cool things down a touch. The light was brilliant for the photos and the competitors gave it their all for some spectacular shots including a couple of unintended dismounts captured in almost slow motion.
At the end of the show however, it was a different story with the heavens opening up completely to almost flood the grounds within just a few minutes. Fortunately, I was in my van at the time packing away. Colette and John on the other hand...

Click on the photo above to see the show...

RDA Horse Show at Denne Hill

2010-05-31T22:00:00.007+01:00

Well, another great show by the RDA. Jim covered most of Ring 1 for me while I flitted between Rings 2 & 3 and printed the orders. Class 5 was extremely popular with, I think, 30+ entries and I managed to get some great jumping shots in the Working Hunter although I did feel sorry for a couple of riders who had to retire which may or may not have been due to the commotion made by the dogs running up & down the side of the ring. Feel free to hit the comments if I'm wrong.

Over 1300 photos have now been uploaded and you can view these by clicking on the photo above. Those who purchased their prints on the day will be able to start tagging themselves on my Facebook site later today.

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Ingleden Park Equestrian Centre

2010-05-23T16:56:00.004+01:00

Colette's first time at Ingleden and she was welcomed by wall to wall sunshine. Now, I know we shouldn't complain after all the wind, rain, snow and ice we've had in the past few months but I do think we went from one extreme to the other. Although I have attended indoor events at Ingleden Park before, this is the first time I have photographed an outdoor show there. I must say that it has a very well maintained outdoor arena in a lovely picturesque setting. In fact, there were a few areas where I could have taken some lovely portraits if I had had the opportunity which is something that I don't get to see very often.

Click on the photo above to see the pictures...

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Barville Farm

2010-05-17T16:18:00.003+01:00

Our second outing at Barville Farm and this time we managed to escape with only a few spots of rain in the afternoon. Although the show was very well attended, I am sure there were still quite a few who were put off by the possibility of the predicted downpour at midday. I'm not the only one who noticed that the standard of riding - and turnout - seems to be increasing. I was particularly impressed with some of the younger riders in Ring 1 who were flying over the jumps like their life depended on it.
Click on the image above to see all the pictures and on my Facebook link on the right for a selection that you can tag yourself or your friends. If you add your names (and the horse's name) to the photo they will be included with the images sent to the magazines.

The Kingsdown Band at the Ashford International Hotel

2010-05-15T14:42:00.003+01:00

Any opportunity I get to photograph bands and I'm there. This evening was no exception when James and I were photographing the guests at a function held at the Ashford International Hotel. As soon as the queues died down I grabbed my camera and rushed into the main hall to see this amazing band I had been hearing all night from the next room. I didn't have long as I was called back after just 15 minutes but here is a selection from the ones taken.

Click on the photo above to see the rest...

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Barville Farm

2010-05-02T22:00:00.004+01:00

Well, what a surprise then!

After all this lovely weather we've been having, the one day Colette wanted to be fine for her first outdoor show of the season, should be one of the wettest days of the year so far. Having said that, I was glad to see (although, in some ways, not surprised) at just how many people stuck their fingers up to the elements and came along anyway. Even more so was the fact that I still managed to sell quite a few pictures to these 'die hard' competitors who were soaked to the skin.

As promised, all those who bought a photo will get a free 'Facebook' image file and they will be sent out as soon as I finish uploading the event to my website. For those of you who didn't give me your e-mail address, I will post yours on my Facebook site for you to download and 'tag' from there.

Click on the image above to see the rest of the day...

West Street Pony Club Open Hunter Trials at St Alban Downs

2010-04-25T22:00:00.003+01:00

Well, what happened to weather then? Not only did the sun only turn up after it was all over but we got some of the wet stuff thrown in as well. A gentle reminder, I think, to let us know that winter hasn't quite finished with us yet. As for the jumping, well, that was excellent (as I've now come to expect from any WSPC event), apart from a couple of spectacular falls which I just happened to capture on camera.
Click on the photo above to see all the images...

BTW, after several enquiries from people who were keen on buying lots of digital files, I've now put together a discount structure for 5, 10, 20 & 30 images that can be sent to one e-mail address. I can now offer a substantial discount depending on how many you want and at what size.
Contact me for further details...

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Blue Barn

2010-04-24T22:00:00.004+01:00

Considering that this may be Colette's very last event at Blue Barn and the fact that the weather was so good, I thought that there would have been a much larger turnout. However, as is usually the case with these family shows, fewer people means more time to get to know new faces and encourage those who are less experienced. And, not forgetting, a chance to get into the top six places that normally elude them.
Click on the photo above to see the rest...

Colette's Indoor Showjumping at Willow Farm

2010-04-09T22:00:00.077+01:00

Another fairly busy show this time at Willow Farm. I matched Colette's theme of 'Friday for a Fiver' with my own special offer of 'Fotos for a Fiver' if purchased on the day. The Digital Files were particularly popular with one person buying nearly all of her images in this way at a very special price. I think this is going to be the way forward now as more people are relying on their computers and phones to store their images rather than having loads of prints with nowhere to put them. The added benefit of course is that purchasing in bulk can dramatically reduce the costs even further so get your friends together and contact me for prices.
Click the photo to see the rest...

Colette's Indoor and Team Showjumping at Blue Barn

2010-04-02T22:00:00.047+01:00

We all knew today was going to attract more than the average amount of competitors to Blue Barn because of the team jumping class but neither Colette or myself were prepared for the invasion of over one hundred horses and ponies to make it the busiest indoor show of the winter season. Looking back, I think we all coped rather well.
I was especially pleased with way that my new arrangement of actually having the laptop and printer setup in the ring while still maintaining the viewing screens outside. This enabled me to take pictures, download to the laptop, update the viewing screens (every couple of minutes), take orders and print the photos all at the same time. Who said that men can't multi-task? Click the image above to go straight to the photos...

Office Phone Number Change

2010-03-29T17:26:00.001+01:00

Due to all the technical problems people have had with my office phone I'm pleased to announce that I now have a new provider and hence a new number which, I hope, will be more reliable. I've managed to get a number that is similar to my mobile so, hopefully, it will be easier to remember.

Please update your phone books with the following;
Office: 020 8133 7620
Mobile: 078 4148 7620

The old office number will be terminated in a couple of weeks.

Colette's Indoor Showjumping at Blue Barn

2010-03-28T22:00:00.004+01:00

With dressage outside and showjumping inside I was spoilt for choice. In the end I decided to go with the showjumping so that I could be next to my printer and supply photographs straight away for the competitors to take home. Click on the image above to see all the photos complete with a new speedier ordering page.

Colette's Indoor Showjumping at Willow Farm

2010-03-14T22:00:00.002Z

It had to happen eventually. No rain, no snow, no ice and a bonus helping of a little sunshine! End result being a good turnout and hence loads of photos. Click on the image above to view & order your photos.

Colette's Indoor Showjumping at Blue Barn

2010-02-28T16:00:00.002Z

Well, we've had snow, ice and now torrential rain. I wonder what else the weather is going to throw at us to ruin a show this year? Anyway, for those that did brave the elements, there was no chance of not being placed. As for the photos, not that many but still some good'uns...

Colette's Indoor Showjumping at Blue Barn

2010-02-17T22:00:00.005Z

As I wasn't quite sure what to expect in the way of competitors I decided not to set-up my on-site printing at the show today. Opting instead to put them on the website for a couple of weeks and see what happens.

A £5 'cash back' is on offer if you're quick enough to place your order...

Click on photo to see the rest

Colette's Indoor Showjumping at Blue Barn

2010-01-02T22:00:00.008Z

Due to the weather the turnout was understandably low. However, it was still very enjoyable and, as I didn't print on the day, I've uploaded the images for you to view.

Colette's Indoor Showjumping at Willow Farm

2009-11-29T22:00:00.005Z

Despite the massive downpour 30 minutes before the start of the show there was a remarkable turnout for this event. Unfortunately the lake just inside the indoor arena put paid to me setting up my view screens so I've put up a link here for you all to view the photos.

Colette's Indoor Showjumping at Blue Barn

2009-11-08T22:00:00.007Z

One of the busiest indoor shows for a while and the coldest so far this year. I suspect it's going to get a bit colder from now on. There was a period when when everybody was jumping exceptionally well so I managed to capture some really good images.
E-mail me for a link and take a look...

Colette's Indoor Showjumping at Blue Barn

2009-10-28T22:00:00.012Z

Half Term means another opportunity for some midweek showjumping at Blue Barn. On this occasion I took the opportunity to do some portraits in the arena after the show. Similar photos seemed to prove popular at the last event so I've posted a selection below to show you how they look when they have been fully processed. If you would like some of your horse or pony please don't hesitate to give me a call or come and see me at the next show. They would make ideal Christmas presents...

Colette's Dressage at Willow Farm

2009-10-24T22:00:00.002+01:00

I had to go past Willow Farm today on my way out for the weekend so I popped in for a couple of hours to grab some random photos while the light was reasonable. I managed to cover most of Class 2 and a few riders in Class 3. Drop me an e-mail for a link to the photos...

South East Strongest Man 2009

2009-08-22T12:55:00.001+01:00

At last, so many images, sooo long to get them sorted and uploaded but they are here at last.

I am, of course, talking about the South East Strongest Man 2009 show at Newbeach Holiday Park. A local version of 'Britain's Strongest Man' that you may have seen on TV, it was a completely new type of event for me. So, not quite knowing what to photograph - I shot everything! Hence, I have over three and a half thousand images for you to choose from. Now, since there will be over a hundred images per competitor, many of which that will make a good sequence for a particular round, I'm going to offer you guys deals on multiple print sets or digital files that you can download and print at home.

Send me an e-mail with your name and how many images you are likely to want. And, don't tell anyone how much I'm letting these go for 'cos it won't be repeated any time soon.

See the photos here...

Think Pink - Blue Barn Charity Show

2009-08-04T16:50:00.004+01:00

I very nearly didn't go to this show and if I had missed it, I wouldn't have seen how just a few people can get together to make a fun day for all and raise some much needed funds for charity at the same time.
A brilliant day out....

Featured Riders

Area 11 Team Showjumping Qualifier at Godinton House, Ashford

2009-08-01T22:00:00.005+01:00

With all these 'bugs' going around I thought I was going to have to attend Ashford Valley's second hosting of the annual showjumping qualifier on my own. But, at the last minute, I had the offer of help from my good friend and colleague Gary Coulson from Essex. Between us I think we managed to photograph pretty much every competitor at least once and it also gave me the chance to print quite a few orders during the various breaks that occured throughout the day. However, if you didn't manage to catch me or had to leave when the heavens opened up, then drop me an e-mail and I will send you a link to the images so that you can have a second chance to place your order. Please include the names of the rider, horse and which class you want to view.

Featured Riders

Moat View Riding Club at the Kent County Show

2009-07-18T22:00:00.009+01:00

After a week of having.... something, which rendered me flat on my back for nearly all of last week, I wasn't sure I was going to make the Kent Show on Saturday. But, after taking every precaution possible, I did managed to meet with Colette for the drive up to Detling. My two main objectives were to get a decent hat and to photograph the Moat View Riding Club competing in the Team event. I managed to get not one but two good quality hats which should last me a bit longer than the cheap ones that I keep going through. As for the photos, I was a little disappointed as when the class finally started, the lighting went downhill really fast. However, I did manage to capture all the team at some point and also some other riding club members who I knew and who asked me to take some of them. I had no intention of photographing everybody as I wasn't the 'official' photographer so I apologise in advance if your not included in the photos.

Here is a quick slide show of my favourites of Moat View...

...and here is a link to the rest.

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Barville Farm

2009-07-05T22:00:00.004+01:00

While this event was a relatively quiet, as Colette's shows go, the requests for photos was anything but. We have a huge choice of images ready to go to the mags this time and a few of them can be seen below.

Featured Riders

Otterden W.I. Fun Horse Show at Otterden Park

2009-07-04T22:00:00.006+01:00

This, to me, is what a horse show is all about. A hot sunny day in a beautiful country estate with lots of people freely contributing their time to make it as enjoyable as possible. And, at the same time, raise some much needed money for charity. With a bacon roll, a cup of tea and still getting change from two quid, it was almost like stepping back in time...

Featured Riders

Colette's Evening Jumping at Blue Barn

2009-07-01T07:25:00.007+01:00

A very pleasant evening of showjumping complete with a parade around the arena by Elise Pilbeam on Gucci who won the Leading Rider of the Year. To round the evening off, she also won two of the three jumping classes.

Well done Elise...

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Ingatestone Hall, Brentwood, Essex

2009-06-21T13:08:00.003+01:00

My first day out with my new "Portrait Studio" trailer and all new computer systems. Even if I do say so myself, it all worked perfectly and I am really pleased with the images produced in what is, as studios go, a very small space. I'm also happy that I can now offer you something new and a little bit different. I've posted my two favourite shots below to give you an idea of what can be achieved on the day.

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Blue Barn

2009-03-22T22:00:00.010Z

Ah well, it was a lovely day for Mother's Day. Quiet for horse shows but nice for the mums. My new ordering system was so clear and understandable when I designed it last week but by the time I finished explaining it to many of you I ended up being confused myself. Obviously a simpler package is required that is easier to understand - at least by me!!!

Here's a slide show of just some of the best images...

Two of my favorite models at Kearsney Abbey

2009-02-22T13:28:00.014Z

Despite being quite drained after two shows on the trot, I still managed to drag myself up the road to join two of my favorite models at one of my favorite locations. I only managed an hour though because I forgot to take extra cards with me for the camera but we still managed to get well over 200 images. I plan to do much more portraiture this year both family and equine so, hopefully, I will be posting a lot more images like these.
Let me know what you think...

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Blue Barn

2009-02-21T10:07:00.000Z

My first Colette's show of the season. A beautiful day, a steady stream of entries and a small taster of how I will be approaching pretty much all of the horse shows that I'm booked for in the future. More about that in a later post but let's just say it was one of the most relaxed shows I've done for a long time with no noticable loss of sales.
I'll add a small slide show here later in the week...

Inter-Schools Team Showjumping at Blue Barn

2009-02-20T14:08:00.004Z

What a great way to start the new season. Yet another flawless event put on by Emma & Co. which made my first job of 2009 a pleasure to attend. The amount of organisation and attention to detail at, what I can only describe as, the largest team event in this part of Kent, makes me wonder how other shows manage to get through the day.
As mentioned on here before and on the day, there will be no photos going on my website. If you were unable to purchase on the day and you have the number of the photo(s) you want please use the order page on my website. If for some reason you didn't get to see your photos then please e-mail me with your details and I will try and find them for you. However, there will be a small charge for this service.

Featured Riders

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Blue Barn

2008-11-01T22:00:00.012Z

Pretty much the same as Wednesday except with different competitors.

Featured Riders

Colette's Mid-week Show at Blue Barn

2008-10-29T22:00:00.010Z

Mid-week shows used to be very busy not too long ago but with the current climate (not just the weather) and Christmas looming, I think this may be the norm for a while. With only 128 photos taken, it's no surprise that the slide show is going to be very small for this event.

Featured Riders

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Willow Farm

2008-10-26T22:00:00.005Z

Not the busiest of shows at this venue but still a fair amount of competitors for this time of year. No takers on photos though so no slide show on this occasion.

Colette's Unaffiliated Dressage at Willow Farm

2008-10-25T22:00:00.009+01:00

Dressage is quite unique in as much as it's the only event where I am told in advance how many entries there are going to be. Today's tests had quite a few entries with some new faces so I thought I'd go along and see if I could get some good photos. Those who placed an order can download their photos in digital form from my new Facebook page. Meanwhile, the slide show can be seen below...

Featured Riders

While I was there...

2008-10-19T19:00:00.001+01:00

As soon as my daughter knew I was in Canterbury today she didn't waste any time asking me to photograph her new ponies. I got to her field just as the sun was going down so it was a case of shooting as fast as I could before we lost the light altogether. As many of them were still wild I couldn't get as near as I would have liked - except for one who just wanted to nibble my camera. In the end, Stacey 'persuaded' them to gallop round the field and I managed to captured some great action shots. Again, I'll post some images here as soon as I have time.

Portrait Session - Canterbury

2008-10-19T15:00:00.006+01:00

Still recovering from the night before (has anyone noticed that you get a bigger headache from all the loud music when your not drinking?), I managed to get all my gear together for a home visit portrait session over at Canterbury by 2pm. It took a little longer than usual to set my lights up due to the limited floor area and the fact that they wanted a pure white background (which requires more space than usual). However, I was trying out a new variation of my set-up which resulted in some excellent images. I think everybody was really pleased with the results. I'll put some up once I have their permission.

Simon's 40th Birthday Party - Gillingham

2008-10-18T23:00:00.009+01:00

A quick dash home to get showered and changed, then up to Gillingham for Simon's 40th birthday party at the King Charles Hotel. The function room was a photographer's lighting nightmare (dim lighting, black ceiling, etc.) and once the festivities were in full swing, nothing was still long enough to get a clear shot. Back to old fashioned manual mode on my 'state- of-the-art' camera, a remote flash with my radio trigger and I just may have got a few decent shots out of the 240 odd that I took.
Many thanks to Paul James (photo) for supplying me with a soundtrack to go with the slide show. Paul, along with his 'partner in crime' Taz Taylor provided the entertainment in the form of the Blues Brothers and kept the dance floor packed all evening.

Click photo to see the slide show or
click here to see the rest of the party...
( password is Simon's surname )

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Blue Barn

2008-10-18T18:00:00.007+01:00

Our luck with the weather seems to be holding. It was just as well, as it allowed the showing classes to be held in the sand school and enabled me to get some great shots in the autumn sunshine. Pretty much all the jumping was covered as usual with me only missing class 3. A technical hitch with my printer meant I was unable to print on the day but, in the end, I sold more than I usually do at this venue. Strange...

Featured Riders

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Iffin Farm

2008-10-12T22:00:00.006+01:00

Our first time at Iffin Farm. Is this a show ground and a half or what? Actually, it was more like a show ground - and another show ground! Competitors have been requesting a bigger ring, and that's what they've got. About twice as big. Trouble is, it took them a lot longer to get around than before. So, instead of being in the ring for just a couple of minutes it was more like five or six. It did seem relatively quiet today - or was that because they had so much space?

Featured Riders

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Willow Farm

2008-09-28T16:00:00.010+01:00

When I first arrived I wondered if I had the wrong day but then I found Colette and realised it was just going to be one of those days which starts very slowly. It was. By mid-morning the numbers had increased but it was still a very laid back day which gave some competitors a chance to get the placings that can elude them at bigger shows.

Featured Riders

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Barville Farm

2008-09-21T22:00:00.013+01:00

I do love a nice day at this time of year. The air is crisper, it's not too hot and the slightly lower sun produces a much better light. Considering there were other events on today, the turnout was quite good with a steady flow of entries for each class. This was our last show at Barville Farm for 2008 with only one more outside event scheduled before the indoor season starts.

Featured Riders

West Street Tickham Hunt Pleasure Rideat Torry Hill

2008-09-14T22:00:00.006+01:00

Well, who would believe it? A Sunday without the threat of rain hanging over us. If it wasn't for the keen wind, you would be forgiven for thinking that we were having a late summer. Amy & I started taking the photos at the first two jumps until riders started to appear on their return. After which I moved down to the log to get some lovely images of galloping horses against the lower autumn light. Amy continued to get riders on their outward journey until just after 1pm when she had to start attending to customers. When it was all over I even managed to chat to a few riders and it was nice to put faces to some of names I chat with via e-mail.

Featured Riders

Colette's Evening Indoor Showjumping at Blue Barn

2008-09-10T22:30:00.002+01:00

I definitely seem to be out of sync with these shows. Again, the last one (when I was on holiday) was busy but tonight - not so. Not much interest either from those who were there so I'm not going to be putting them on the website. Unless, of course, I get a stack of e-mails asking for them.

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Ingatestone Hall

2008-09-07T22:00:00.009+01:00

Never before have I watched the Met Office's rainfall radar so closely. 6am, everything was ready to go, all I needed was glimmer of hope, just a hint, that today was not going to be another total washout. At 7:45 I got it. The rain coming in from the west was just starting to break up. With luck, the remaining fragments would be small enough to either pass us by or only last a few minutes. By 8am I was heading up the M2 to join Colette and the others who had the misfortune to be out in the previous night's downpour. All that we needed now was some hardened competitors that would not have been put off by the prospect of the thunderstorms that had been repeatedly forecast over the previous few days.

By the time I arrived, the rain had already stopped and there were several lorries & trailers being unloaded. By the afternoon, there was hardly a cloud in the sky and everyone was having a great day out. Gary, whose own event had been cancelled, decided to pay a visit and ended up doing a few portraits for me while I was busy printing orders (thank you Gary). Summer didn't seem willing to let us down on our last day in Essex...

Featured Riders

East Kent Hunt branch of the Pony Club Annual Show at Knowler Farm, Stelling Minnis

2008-08-31T20:00:00.009+01:00

Would we have a thunder storm and another wash out or wouldn't we. That was the question that was hanging over us today. As it happens, we miraculously escaped the usual climate change weekend downpour and even managed some welcome sunshine for most of the day. I attempted to spread myself around the various rings throughout the day but ended up hooked on Ring 1 where there was some amazing jumping going on especially in closing rounds of the Puissance.

Featured Riders

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Bookham R.C. field near Leatherhead

2008-08-24T23:00:00.011+01:00

What was a damp, drizzly day slooowly turned into a rather nice one with even some sunshine thrown in by the afternoon. The turnout was equally slow starting but again, by the afternoon, was almost heaving. Amy managed to sell more of her photos than I did but I did give her the best ring to cover. All in all a thoroughly enjoyable show with some great pictures to prove it.

Featured Riders

Quex Park Horse Show

2008-08-17T22:00:00.008+01:00

With the early reports of bad weather, I wasn't sure how well attended this event was going to be. Judging by the number of competitors on Saturday I think many people thought the same. I played it safe and asked my colleague Gary from Essex to help out and he spent the day covering the dressage (his speciality). Unfortunately, the take up for this didn't prove to be viable and fearing a worse day for Sunday we decided that he could have the day off...
However, although it was a similarly slow start, Sunday soon proved to be quite a busy day with Amy & I being torn between taking the photos & getting the orders printed. I'm hoping that most of you took down your photo numbers from the monitors because then you can go here and order them directly. For the rest of you, I'm afraid that you will have to wait until I'm back from a short holiday before the the Featured Riders slideshow and the rest of the photos will be available to view on the website.

Updated: 1/9/08

Featured Riders

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Ingatestone Hall

2008-08-10T22:00:00.007+01:00

Our fourth visit to Essex this year and I am still quite amazed that we are not seeing competitors on the scale that were attending last year. I know the first event of the year was a wash-out but the weather has been fairly kind for the rest of them with today's rain holding off until after the event.

Featured Riders

Vicky & Pete's Wedding at St Mary's Church, Dover

2008-08-09T23:30:00.002+01:00

Although our prime wedding slots are normally fully booked over a year in advance I couldn't say no when an old friend asked me to photograph her daughter's wedding. For once James & I each had to go it alone as he covered a previous booking while I had the pleasure of recording Vicky & Pete's big day. Despite the weather turning against us at the last minute, I think everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves and I hope they will enjoy seeing their images that will remind them of their special day.

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Ingatestone Hall

2008-08-09T18:00:00.006+01:00

As I was photographing a wedding back in Dover, my friend and colleague Gary Coulson from "Take My Picture" kindly agreed to cover the show for today. Now Gary doesn't normally put his photos on the website but on this occasion he has given me the images to give you all a second chance to purchase some prints. Registered users of my event's pages can just log-on as usual and select the event. New users will have to sign-up. Prices are just £1.00 for one day's viewing.

Colette's Evening Showjumping at Blue Barn

2008-08-06T23:00:00.007+01:00

A very sultry summer's evening at Blue Barn with lots of entries. An extra class was added for those who had no home to go to. If anyone could fill-in the details of the unknown riders below, so that they can be eligible for the magazines, I would be grateful.

Featured Riders

Blue Barn Unaffiliated Dressage

2008-08-04T18:00:00.005+01:00

After a last minute phone call this morning to confirm that I could cover the dressage at Blue Barn today, I was there within the hour. Although I was too late for the first few entries I managed to get them on their second test of the day. Photographs were taken in the sand school until just after midday and then in the indoor arena after that.

Featured Riders

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Barville Farm

2008-08-03T22:00:00.005+01:00

After such a wet & windy start I was in two minds about attending myself. I'm glad I did though as I managed to grab a couple of spectacular shots. One of which is in the slide show below.

Featured Riders

Black Horse Shows at Coombe Farm, Alkham

2008-07-27T15:18:00.013+01:00

If you check out the time of this post you will realise how busy it was today. Not that I minded, it was good to have time for a chat and put some faces to some of the e-mails I get. An early finish has also given me time to get all of this weekend's images on-line before I go away for a few days. Unlike yesterday, everyone who bought a photo today put their details on the order form so these are some of the riders who will be submitted to the magazines next month.

Featured Riders

Ashford Valley Pony Club - Area Team Showjumping at Hole Park, Rolvenden

2008-07-26T23:00:00.005+01:00

I lost count of how many horses attended this event but there were enough to keep me and Amy busy taking photos all day long. Unfortunately, we were not kept as busy printing them. The result being that we had our lowest sales figure for a busy show so far this year. If any one cares to comment on the reason(s) why - please feel free to hit the button below...
Only two competitors felt like putting their details on the orders forms so, unfortunately, there will be no slide show for this event.

Colette's Evening Showjumping at Willow Farm

2008-07-25T22:51:00.007+01:00

Not quite as busy as Blue Barn in fact with the PA out of action you could say it was fairly quiet but there were more than enough competitors to make it a pleasant evening.
No time to make a slide show tonight as I've got to get ready for the Pony Club tomorrow but I may add one at a later date.
Log-on here to view the photos...

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows - Senior BSJA at Blue Barn E.C.

2008-07-19T20:58:00.006+01:00

I thought I haven't done any BSJA for a while, so maybe it's worth going along to see if anyone fancies some pictures. Nah!! Despite capturing some great shots I didn't even get to switch my printer on. Oh well, lesson learned (again)!

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Ingatestone Hall

2008-07-13T18:00:00.013+01:00

While not as busy as previous years this was definitely the best show at Ingatestone so far this season. The weather managed to play along and kept the wet stuff away while the sun put in an appearance on more than a few occasions. I really wished I could have managed to get over to see the dog agility but the three rings in the main field kept me busy enough. Even my daughter, Amy, decided to pick up a camera and produce a number of successful images from ring one. Her shots are numbered with the letter "B" in Reference number (and yes I can zoom in if you want to order any prints).

Featured Riders

Colette's Horse & Dog Shows at Barville Farm

2008-07-06T19:00:00.005+01:00

I am really glad I decided to leave the gazebo at home today as I don't think it would have lasted for too long. But, it didn't seem to put many riders off as by mid-morning the place was buzzing. Even the dog show seemed to have a very good turnout. I actually managed to grab a few shots of one of the agility entries and a couple of portraits of our canine spectators including a gorgeous Husky (I think) puppy. Unfortunately, once the rain clouds moved in the show slowly came to an end.

Featured Riders

Colette's Evening Indoor Showjumping at Blue Barn

2008-07-02T23:00:00.004+01:00

Typical! The last evening show Colette had at Blue Barn (which I missed) was heaving. This time it was a lot quieter. Not that we were complaining as it finished at a reasonable hour this time. I would have covered the Clear Round jumping had I not been diverted on my way there to pick up some rosettes (dig). Anyway, Luke (below) had a good evening winning one of his classes so well done to him.

Colette's Southern Counties Show at Farming World

2008-06-29T18:00:00.009+01:00

These are Colette's shows at their best. A lovely setting, great weather, plenty of entries and a relaxed & friendly atmosphere. Ok, the ground was a bit slippery but hey, nothing's perfect. This is a great opportunity to give some feedback on your day out so use the comment button below and let's hear what you thought of the show (and the photos).

Featured Riders

Otterden W.I. Fun Horse & Dog Show

2008-06-28T18:00:00.014+01:00

This was a late booking to attend this new venue at Otterden Park. The recently formed Otterden Women's Institute put on a wonderful event which not only included show jumping & showing but a very well supported dog show. Complete with the obligatory cake stall, the excellent tea/coffee tent and the barbecue it was a brilliant day out. If I'm lucky enough to be invited back next year I will certainly be bringing my own marquee along and doing some doggy portraits.

As promised "Featured Riders" are still being posted. The only change is that they are all in one slide show and only those who have filled in their names at the top of the order form are included. Some of these images will be considered for submission to the local equestrian magazines subject to space available.

Featured Riders

Archive Diaries 1999 - 2008

1999-01-01T17:50:00.000Z