Avant Photographic Blog

Avant photographic NEW BLOG

2011-09-25T15:33:00.003+01:00

this blog is now closed.

for up to dat event news and to see recent portraits and commissions, please go to www.avantphotographic.com

Special offers
portrait galleries
complete sessions
News
child portraits
family portraits
baby portraits and photos
location shoots
eastbourne
east sussex
Brighton portraits
Tunbridge Wells portraits and family photos
Hastings family photos

and lots more family photo and portrait interest.

Manythanks

Phil Burrowes Avant photographic, Eastbourne

Airbourne 2010

2010-08-10T17:47:00.000+01:00

We're here again, the time of year for Airbourne!

With a completely new stand, new pictures and exciting new products to show, there will be a huge buzz around the Avant stand this year!
We will be at our same spot, on The Wish Tower Lawns. Come to see us if you are there,

facebook

2010-07-02T13:06:00.000+01:00

We are now on facebook, and have a whole new website as well as a new blog!

You can leave comments more easily, see your friends pictures, share the pictures you like and have a more interactive experience of Avant Photographic's website.

New Website

Facebook page

thanks for sharing, sharing is cool!

family portrait favourites

2010-07-01T12:48:00.019+01:00

here are some recent favorites. Collected from various stages, some just shot, some justedited, some are from collections that people have just taken home!

Enjoy!

recent eastbourne family portrait.

2010-06-23T12:22:00.001+01:00

This is David, Vicky and their children, Daniel and Sophie.. I just love this family shot, intimate and really shows the relationship within this family.

They partook in the Cystic Fibrosis Trust Charity offer, paying £25 to the charity and getting a voucher for a full session, a framed 10x8 portrait and £50 off the portraits they decided to display on the walls of their home. I can't wait to show them the finished products.

click here to see more offers to visit Avant Photographic

Avant Showreel..

2010-05-21T17:51:00.001+01:00

Hopefully this works...:

Avant Photographic showreel

If you have a facebook account, you can have a look at my new showreel of images. They are all recent works and I put this together as a treat to maybe do these more frequently. I have found a way to post these without facebook, but for now, I am unleashing it on fans only.. so become a fan of Avant Photographic on facebook and you can see the new video..!

Phil

family portraits, Eastbourne Photography Studio

2010-05-15T13:46:00.000+01:00

This is Jo, Sean and little Jack..

and i love this one of Jack on his own..

Another Eastbourne family in for family portraits!

2010-04-17T15:30:00.001+01:00

Sally and Aaron came in today for their portraits of little Owen. I have already photographed their eldest daughter, this time last year in fact.

So here are some initial edits of Owen's first baby portrait shoot in the studio, just 12 weeks old, and already fantastic at it.

It was great to show a customer of mine the new set-ups and refreshed studio, and to be able to shoot some very special baby portraits for Sally and Aaron.

recent portraits of Eastbourne families

2010-04-16T13:22:00.001+01:00

my new backgrounds are causing quite a stir and people are loving how different they are! No more hi key white backgrounds, more natural and soft, to suit my style of family portraits.

Here are some recent favourites.

This is Jayden and Jasmin.. both so photogenic and the perfect little brother and sister!

ICT 4 Autism

2010-03-29T13:51:00.000+01:00

This is Sally and Andy Huggett.

Sally is the mother of Daniel. Earlier this year Sally struggled to get a proper diagnosis for daniel, and fought to get him recognised as having Autistic Spectrum disorder. Something which is very hard to do.

one is 65 boys, or 1 in 100 children are born in the UK with Autistic Spectrum. Sally is campaigning hard to increase awareness of Autism in the UK and to get Autism higher on our governments agenda. The cause is a tough one, as it is so hard to diagnose so early in children, and there is not much provision to deal with the associated problems.

Today is the date for the launch of the "Look into My Eyes" campaign, trying to highlight the fact that there is a child behind the eyes of each person with Autistic spectrum. At the moment these poor children are little more than statistics..

At Avant, i try to capture the essence of a person in my photos, and this is done with the power we have to communicate with the eyes. A famous person once wrote, "the eyes are the insight to the soul", and this i keep close at heart with all my photos.

One of the main issues with children with Autism, is their reluctance to make eye contact. Something i know i would find hard as a parent to live with each day. To not have my son Morgan look into my eyes and smile would be heartbreaking. Sally hopes to raise funds to buy specialist equipment to work with autistic children to help develop their interaction and help give more fulfilling live to those with the condition.

for more details on this amazing charity campaign click here

Kodak wedding & Portrait Awards 2010

2010-02-18T15:52:00.007Z

Competition Time Again!

Your chance to win £1000 for being in a portrait!

If you have been wanting to have your portraits, here is a great opportunity not to be missed.

You will have a full session, and I will be shooting with the competition in mind. For truly unique and exciting images, something completely different from the norm..

You pay £20, this is for the session and a 10x8 complimentary print of the image chosen to enter. EVERYONE who takes part in this competition will have their portrait entered into this national Professional competition.

The Kodak Wedding & Portrait Awards 2010 is only open to full time professionals, and is judged at 2 judging sessions.. one in April, and one in September.

First entries therefore, must be in by the end of March 2010.. For entry to round two, sessions must be shot by 15th August.

Call now to book your session. 01323 738 566 or email studio@avantphotographic.com The first judging is on in April, so entries for this first stage must be in by 31st March!

This is as great for newborns as it is for a little treat to yourself, there are many categories, and even an 'OPEN' category for those wanting to be really adventurous!

The Avant Photographic Cherub Club

2010-01-26T16:13:00.004Z

The cherub club is a unique scheme inviting new parents to the studio for an amazing offer.

Those first few months of your new babies life are exhilarating, rewarding and fly by so fast. Make sure you capture these cherished moments with high quality photography.

Over the first year of babies life, bring him in 3 times, at 4 month intervals. You will finish the year with a comprehensive collection of stunning portraits of your baby, and Avant will present you with an ART leather folio, with a portrait from each session mounted beautifully, which will show the exciting developments your baby has made in his first year.

Of course, you can buy extra portraits from your session, but the scheme makes it all so easy.. You will even see your portraits straight after the session..

So, what does this cost?

£29,99.

A small registration fee only. That's it.. until you come to buy more portraits.. which we are sure you will.. but you are under no pressure to do so..

To see more cherubs pictures, go to www.avantphotographic.com and click on 'galleries' then, 'babies'.

or to book, call 01323 738 566 or email studio@avantphotographic.com and speak to Phil

Snow Portraits

2010-01-07T14:03:00.003Z

Hi All!

Wow! what weather, eh?

This has meant a quiet studio, due to cancellations, but my camera still works in the cold and the snow..

so..

For a limited time, (until the snow melts!) I am going to offer the unique opportunity to have some family portraits in the snow!

Call me and arrange a session in the snow for £195 and get a full location shoot, e.g. from 11am until 2pm shooting in the snow, wrapped up in your woolies and get some really unique portraits of your family.

For this 'one off' opportunity, you will get;

A full session. Family shots, kids together and individual shots
an edited session, retouched finished images for you to choose from
a framed and mounted 10x8
plus 2 8x6 prints..

this will be a first come first served deal.. and will take a brave soul to do it, but the results will be incredible. Sessions will take place near to the main roads which are accessible near Beachy Head, so will include rolling snowy hills.. dramatic skies and incredible backdrops for your portraits...

so don't miss this chance, call now to arrange your session...!

for more immediate and guaranteed response, email me on studio@avantphotographic.com

Merry Christmas..

2009-12-24T13:02:00.003Z

Well, this is the last post of 2009..

Merry Christmas everyone, i have had a ball this year, and have met so many of you wonderful families.

It is always a pleasure photographing you, and this is my chance to thank you..

so..

THANK YOU

I look forward to seeing you all in 2010, and even more of your friends, (remember you can do a recommendation for them, just send them to the website, get them to contact me quoting YOUR name..)

I am going to be refreshing all the display pictures in 2010, and will have lots of exciting new products including acrylic frames, and even a 'wall of portraits' which you will have to check back and find out about..??

It feels so great to be so involved and sewn into Eastbourne's community, with my involvement in the Little chelsea Christmas evening, which was a huge success, as well as work we do with local schools and charities raising funds for their special projects..

(please contact me to find out how we can help your child's school or local club) ..

So, that is me, done for 2009, we are open again on the 5th january 2010, 10am..

only slightly fatter with all the food, but i will soon work it off with our fist sessions..

Thank you all so much..

Phil, Hayley, Morgan and all at Avant Photographic..

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Morgan own post...

2009-12-24T12:52:00.004Z

I am being selfish and posting a load of pictures of my son Morgan..

'cause he's just the best.. sorry, but he is... : )

just after a bath..

play time!

urgh... who's that? Yuk! what am I doing in a photo?

Daddy makes me giggle..

So does Mummy..

good ain't he?

Phil

Recent faves

2009-12-01T19:41:00.005Z

Just to prove it isn't all bikes and boy toys.. Here are some recent faves from the last weeks shoots.

It has been great doing some child portraits of some slightly older children recently. They enjoy it just as much as the babies do, and as i always like to do something different on each portrait photography session, it keeps me fresh and the creative synapses sparking.. First, the Maynard girls.... ( who should have their own t.v. show!)

Second.. on a wet and windy tuesday, i had the pleasure of photographing this pair with their mummy..

This shot stood out to me, as it was a bit of a grab shot, I was concious of her reaching the limits of the suitable lighting area, but her expression, which is what i alsways want to apture, is perfect, and her stance i could not have manufactured.. completely at ease in the studio, she was a joy to photograph. This result is a perfect example of how i want to get something unique from the child each time. That is what makes a perfect family portrait..

Here are some of the boys from the family portrait above. This is such an emotive picture... Ilove it!

Here is a fantastic seasonal baby portrait, and not a bit of tinsel in sight! A proper little poser.. but still a natural baby portrait, full of character and life!

Shaw's Harley Davidson Shoot

2009-12-01T12:52:00.007Z

Me and my good mate Peter Prior have had a wonderful photography assignment these last few mondays. Shooting Custom Harley Davidsons for Shaws's Harley Davidson at Holmes Hill, East Sussex. In all, we have photographed 16 of these marvelous machines, and each shoot produces more and more stunning results and the itch down to my boots wanting to dust off my leathers and get on a bike again..

So, here are some of my favourite shots.

We have just done another 4 bike yesterday, includng a Buell racing tuned and chopped custom Buell Lighting XB12S.. which is just incredible. Once i have edited the shots i'll post them too. This thing really has to be seen to be believed.. it is just the bike for me. A real street racer idea for waking up half of sussex on a sunday morning.. (sorry, that is my latent 'ooligan rearing up..).

Me and Peter Prior also photographed a Services tribute bike with battle scenes and Remembrance references in the intricate artwork.. It was quite stirring shooting it, knowing many people would see it, and have a sacred place for it in their thoughts..

From now until Christmas it is portraits, printing, child portraits, baby portraits, family portraits and more and more printing.. so a very busy time....

Check back to the blog tomorrow to see some exciting news about the 'Little Chelsea, Little Christmas' evening on Friday 4th december..

Phil

Morgan..

2009-11-06T16:42:00.004Z

OK OK..

here are some more of Morgan..

who had his first set of 'jabs' yesterday....

and, with Mummy...

just got to find someone to take some of me and Morgan now...

Phil

recent faves

2009-11-06T16:25:00.003Z

Here is Michelle, my PA's family, first her nephew, we really liked the Hear-no, see-no, speak no idea from the website and they wanted to re-create it with him, so with a little coaxing, i managed to get him to perform ..

Here he was having a sulk.. but it makes for a great portrait. I don't always want massive smiles. Children are little people too, with their own moods and personalities and we need to convey that in 'portraits'.

More hear no, see, no.. but this time of all the grandkids.. for Michelle's Mummy....

Abigail and Thomas are old hats at this now, I have photographed them many times, and Thomas I think classes me as an equal..!? I am glad to be, i don't think I am much older than him inside anyway?

Abigail has really blossomed, and is the perfect little model now, after a tough age last time I photographed her last time, she is now full of confidence and loves having her photo taken.

Finally...

sorry michelle.....

here is Michelle and her sister......

I had to do it...

thats me in trouble tomorrow!

oops!

pictures from The Grand Hotel Eastbourne

2009-11-06T15:53:00.004Z

Following on from my previous post, here are the results from the shoots. It was great shooting on a busy saturday at The grand, and the staff helped immensely. I am sorry for monopolising their Great hall for an hour, and hope the chairs went back as they should have? Any way, here are the photos ...

this is the great grand childre,n such a great bunch. There are a few personalities here..

here, we have The eldest brothers and sisters, grand parents to the children above.

..and here, the final result of the full family portrait..

I think the regal nature of the surroundings really make for a unique and beautifully traditional family portrait which will become a valued heirloom.

Thank you to all the Edlingtons and again, the staff at the grand, without whom, the shoot would not have been possible..

Phil

location shoots.

2009-10-14T15:33:00.013+01:00

As mentioned in a previous post, I have been privileged to do some shoots at the Grand Hotel recently.

I shouldn't, but I always indulge myself with their fabulous cuisine when I visit if I have time, and this time on the recommendation of the catering manager, Annie, I had a fabulous Grand Club sandwich.. with fries...and a coffee and a biscuit... Oops!

Here is Annie with her niece, this was done nearly 2 years ago, time for another visit Annie!

Any how, this blog is about photography, not food, so I had better get on with what you come here to see. The pictures.

First, I had a 60th wedding anniversary portrait to shoot. Quite a formal set up and very different to my studio shoots, but great fun to do.

This couple had been together for 60 years. I think that is incredible!

Both husband and wife were full of spirit and it was wonderful hearing their freely given life story whilst shooting them for posterity alongside their commemorative card from the Queen.

As ever, the staff at The Grand were so helpful and made sure I had what I needed, which I did, two happy clients, well fed after their cream tea and sandwiches!

Here is a shoot I did a few weeks ago too. It was a last minute booking for a saturday afternoon, so after a full day shooting in the studio I lugged my gear to the harbour to collect the Loughlin family for a stroll on a very windy beach.!

This is what location shoots are about, fun for the whole family and capturing unique family portraits and having a great day out too! what ever the weather!

And finally, some wedding pictures from Steve and Michelle's wedding on the 29th August a brilliantly relaxed couple and a marvelous wedding!

so all in all a mixed bag of photography this week..

I'm off to wind Morgan again. The poor little feller is a little under the weather with this horrid cold that is going round, but he seems to be on the mend.

recent family portraits

2009-09-23T12:31:00.004+01:00

Phew,

Well, being back to normal has meant just that and more!! After the Birth of Morgan on the first of September, I took some time away to properly settle mummy and baby in at home, but the continued interest in Avant photographic and of course, our record success at Airbourne meant I had to return quite quickly.

A steady stream of families and babies wanting portraits done here at Avant photographic has meant full diaries and many an hour editing your portraits. I have had a storm these last few weeks and am over the moon with the work I am producing.

Here is a taster..

Heres a favourite of Morgan's first studio session.

second,

here is Lewis and his mum and dad, who were guinea pigs for a new idea i had for a family portrait. I think it gets round the problem of parents wanting to not be in the pictures!
These I love, Simon and Louise were at the hospital with having their son the same time as me and Hay's. he had an Airbourne family portrait voucher and we bumped into each other when Hayley was in labor. I had fun shooting the sorts of family portrait i would like of me Hayley and Morgan.
This one was a wicked session! Tracey and her son Jake have a very special relationship and it was great to capture it. He is everything a boy should be, boisterous, adventurous and full of personality! But, at the same time incredibly tender, and mainly a big 'mummy's boy'!
This is little Alex.. rosy cheeked and gorgeous.. what more can I say. just a gem of a little boy..
seems that there is not that many girls around at the moment!

must be something in the water...

remember, if you have not booked your Airbourne voucher you still have time, but please hurry to get your preferred date..

Morgan Michael Burrowes (My son)

2009-09-05T14:55:00.004+01:00

I'M A DADDY!

Morgan Michael Burrowes was born on Tuesday 1st september at 2304 hrs. 8 lb's 8 oz's.

He is a very happy, healthy little boy and both me and Hayley are over the moon. The birth was the usual mix of joy and stress, but with each day the experience becomes less horrific!

We brought him home on Thursday and were relieved to finally get a little sleep, interrupted only a couple of times in the night for feeds and the first of many nappy changes!

his first poo went all over me! I was looking after him whilst Hayley was looked after and he decided the time was good for a little squeeze, all over his birthing blanket! Like a dutiful 21st century man i leapt in to change him, happy to be hands on and to feel useful!

The shop has been neglected for a few days and i can only apologize for my absence over the past few days. Service as usual from tuesday 8th september 10 am..

I am franticly trying to reply to all the messages and emails. Please bear with me at this joyous time, i will be in touch soon, I promise...

Thank you so much for all the well wishes and cards, they mean so much to us both.

many thanks

(Daddy) Phil Burrowes

Airbourne 2009!

2009-08-12T17:38:00.004+01:00

wow, it's here again...

this time of year is so busy but it is also the time when we exhibit at Airbourne. It helps with the awareness of Avant Photographic immensely. We are now so much of a familiar face at Airbourne that we have people visit us year on year and customers also bring their friends to get their voucher, which is probably the best recommendation we can get!

We will be selling our popular portrait vouchers as well as trying to raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis trust with our successful charity offer.

see website for special offers.

I can't resist taking a few pictures of the planes too, and hopefully my favourite, the Typhoon euro fighter will make a grand appearance again this year. ( OK, i can't wait to see the Guinot girls again!!!)

Me, Hayley my Mum and a few other helpers will be on hand to help with the strain, but, as the photographer, obviously most people want to speak to me! I enjoy meeting every one but am shattered by the end of the 4 days..

So, if you have been to the shop and wonder where I am, I hope this explains? I will be back in the shop as usual from tuesday 18th August 10am.. hopefully not too sunburnt..!

The Grand Hotel

2009-07-24T12:09:00.003+01:00

Me and Hay's got engaged here, and it is a very special place to us, and now we are going to be shooting some events here!

here is their website: The Grand Hotel

Firstly I am shooting a celebratory event in the Great Hall. Amazingly it is a 60th wedding anniversary portrait! 60 years married. Wow. It will be a formal portrait of the couple now well advanced in years, (though I won't say how advanced). I am thoroughly looking forward to this, and the possibility of afternoon tea at The Grand!

Secondly, come the 29th August, I will be shooting a wedding at The Grand. It will be the small and intimate wedding of Steve and Michelle. They are doing it in style, with a short stay in the opulence of The Grand as well as getting wed in the luxuriousness of the Dukes room followed by unparalleled service with dinner and their reception in the Arlington room. It promises to be a very special day, and I thank them for letting me record it for them.

Photos of the events will be posted soon, with permission of course..

I love my studio and the practicality and control it gives me, but as a photographer, I revel in the unpredictability of weddings and events. Primarily I am employed to record the day and show it in the best possible light, and tell the story of what happened. But, anything can happen. It is the level of alertness that keeps me fired up on these sorts of occasions, and why I enjoy them so much.

MPA (SE) Print competition 2009

2009-06-16T15:39:00.005+01:00

Holy Moly!!!

I've done it again! I amazingly won the title of the Master Photographers Association (SE region) Cherubs Photographer of the year.

THAT'S 2 YEARS IN A ROW!!!!

Dennis Hylander FMPA FBIPP judged the competition and his knowledge and experience showed with his knowledgeable critique of the entries. Qualified master Photographers from the south east Region of the master Photographers Association were invited to enter the awards and show off the regions talents. It is a region that includes last years national Kodak Portrait and Wedding Photographer of the Year as well as previous winners of the prestigious awards from the same competition.

I am chuffed to pieces with the results and I wanted to thank a few people without whom it would not be possible. so, firstly, i would like to thank Jane, mum of Marty... ( yes, the Marty from previous posts.. ) he helped me win the award of MPA (se) Cherub Photographer of the Year 2009 with this image.

I posted this image a few months ago, but knew as soon as i took it that I would enter it into the competition. It melts your heart. Thanks so much Jane.. Yes, a copy of this will find it's way to you I'm sure!!

Also, a massive thank you goes out to Lisa, (Jane's sister) who brought her son into the studio for his shoot when I captured this image. Dennis thought this shot was 'cute'. I have to say I agree. His expression is fantastic..

Here again is Payge. Payge's image won me 3rd place, a merit, in the cherub competition too. Paul, her dad, didn't believe me when I told him this was one of the best photos i took last year, but was over the moon when he saw it on my brochure and used on my website. All visitors to the studio comment on it, and all love the delicate nature of the subject, she was only 14 days old... I have been desperate for the competition to come around to get this entered. I jknew it would do well.. Thanks Paul, Andrea and Payge.

Finally, Joe, Karen and Mia.

I always want to get something unique and different for people coming to the studio for their portraits, and with this image that won a 'Highly Commended' award for Family Portraiture, the real sense of fun and love felt within this family has been captured. I knew, again, that it was a strong image and wanted to enter it in the competition. I am over the moon with the resultant 'Highly Commended' award. Thanks Joe, Karen and Mia..

I now have to find some space for all the certificates!!!

The regional results have given me a buzz and lots of enthusiasm for the Nationals that are coming very soon now. I will be making my final selections for my entries over the next few weeks and still have limited spaces in the diary for competition entry shoots.

remember you could win £1000 if your image wins...!!! click here to go to information about it, or check the website offers page here to see how to book..

I look forward to hearing from you..

Phil

Recommend a friend!

2009-06-13T11:09:00.003+01:00

I am glad to announce that we are running the popular 'recommend a friend ' scheme again. Prompted by more and more requests, I have decided a little drive is required to inform those of you that still don't know, you can recommend as many people to Avant Photographic as you like....

If you have visited Avant Photographic and have friends asking where you had your portraits done? tell them!

All you need to do is tell your friends to quote your name when they book and they will qualify for a free session and a 10x8 print.. What's more, if they buy one more portrait, I will print a favourite from your session as a thank you. You can recommend as many people as you like. If you forward 10 people to me, you could get 10 free prints of your family...! How cool is that?

As well as this great deal, there are loads of new offers on the new website, click the link opposite to take you to it, this also can be forwarded..

so.. get recommending... I look forward to speaking to your friends soon...

Thanks all,

Phil

unreal....

2009-06-10T16:42:00.004+01:00

I thought i would post this as a little look into the other side of portrait photography..

There are some real champion portraits here..

I thank Mr Johnson for the link....

awkwardfamilyphotos.com

Tinyest ever!

2009-05-19T17:27:00.002+01:00

This is Sebastian. He is the youngest baby ever photographed at Avant Photographic!

at 11 days he beats Payge, who is the star in my banner above in the title header of the blog. A picture a lot of you know, I'm sure. He was so alert, and was when he was born.

He made no fuss when being arranged for the photos and seemed to really enjoy the experience, I know his mum and dad did. I love seeing the babies as young as this, it allows us to really get the great, tiny newborn shots that are so cherished by parents.

This is the whole family together at the end of the session. I love the contrast in size, and this shot seems to translate the attention involved in having a new baby to care for.

Limited Edition Location Shoot

2009-05-19T17:11:00.002+01:00

as previously mentioned, spring is here, and to celebrate the arrival of semi-decent weather, I want to be outside...

so, for a limited time, I will be offering location shoots for a special price of £50! This includes a full edit of the images free of charge. For a totally unique location portrait session this is great!
We can go up the downs, or to the beach, Cow gap is a favorite place of mine, but I am open to suggestion. As long as it is in the Eastbourne area.

I know we'll get some great images. The shoot is a 2 hour shoot, so in tha time your family will really relax in front of the camera and if the location chosen is a family favorite some very personal images can be captured.

please call me as soon as possible to arrange a midweek shoot. This will be a popular offer, so please book as soon as possible.

Phil

more faves.....

2009-05-19T16:55:00.004+01:00

Hi folks..

spring has arrived and so, therefore, has the energy levels in the studio risen. Have I had some energetic kids in here lately!
As you can see in these though, it makes for great images. These are all from Edens final cherub session where we included her cousins too for a portrait for nan.

some more favorites

2009-04-30T09:52:00.006+01:00

Well, as I was asked to I had better do it, eh?

Many of you have asked to see more favorites, so as a special treat, here is a post full of them!

First, as he was so popular, some more of Marty. Jane collected her latest collection with her sister Lisa on tuesday, I was in late after the late finish on monday with the seminar (sorry Jane and Lisa) They were both waiting outside the shop at 1015, looking in Garnish's window.... The first picture is of Marty and his cousin, and I just love his expression..

This on above is exactly what Jane had, In it's full 24 inch x 24 inch size it looks absolutely incredible. I am going to do one for display I am that happy with it.

This next one is actually from last year, but Natalie, who's kids it is, came again yesterday to have the twins final cherub session and viewed these from the previous session again.. We photograph alot of feet here at Avant Photographic

I get some more together for next week.. I promise.....

regards

Phil

MPA Seminar

2009-04-30T08:57:00.005+01:00

On monday I opened my studio to the SE region of the MPA for a seminar for professional photographers to come to learn how I operate my business. As a dedicated member of the SE regions committee I volunteered my services and was amazed by the turn out. In total we had 23 full time professional photographers in the studio, including Doug Brown and his wife Sheila. Doug won last years UK Family Portrait Photographer of the Year Award. a massive achievement and very well deserved.

As well as Doug and Sheila, there were colleagues who have been in the business for 20 years or more, including Graham Scott and Bruce Neville. both fully accomplished and award winning photographers in their own right. but last but not least, the largest name by far present on the day was world renowned Eastbourne based wedding photographer PETER PRIOR

Peter has won over 50 national and Regional awards for his incredible wedding photography, including 2008 SE MPA Portrait Photographer of the year and 2007 Cosmopolitan Bride Magazine Wedding Photographer of the Year. To say it was a little intimidating is indeed a massive understatement. However, the day had to go on, and they were here to hear my presentation and to see recent examples of my work and to learn tips for their own businesses from me!

I am greatful for the thanks i received. here are a few quotes from some of the emails I received:

Just want to say a big thank you for yesterday we both had a really great time. It was lovely to meet you....... great topics and interesting conversation.

Kind regards

Sheila & Doug

www.kent-wedding-photographer.com

Many thanks for an excellent day yesterday, Phil – you were truly a breath of fresh air.

I look forward to seeing lots of new born pics on your web site later in the summer.

With all my best wishes to you and to Hayley..

Christina

Christina Chelmick Photographer

www.christinachelmick.com

Thank you Phil Burrowes for the seminar

A massive thank you to Phil Burrowes for such a fantastic day. He showed us all what made him 'Cherubs Photographer of the Year 2008' SE Region

Phil put a lot of effort into his seminar and the comments that came back included 'A proper seminar with very useful information for real world photographers' and the way the majority of people sat scribbling down hints, tips and poses etc showed how well it was received.

Phil gave his time and studio completely free of charge and created an opportunitity for us to all to network together. If there is anybody else who would consider being so kind then please contact me.

The studio was packed full and the buffett lunch was superb. Phil officially finished at 5pm but questions and chatting went way past 6pm and then most of us went over the road to the Dolphin pub for a drink and then something to eat.

Thank you to everybody who supported this seminar and a again - Thank you Phil.

Dave Cosens

SE Chairman

www.photogenicimages.com

Thank you so much everybody who came and for the messages of support and thanks.

here's to the next one!

Phil

Recent fave

2009-04-17T11:43:00.001+01:00

So this is a image of Grace and Olivia.. They were my first ever clients almost 2 years ago.

It was great to photograph them again, and this time with Mum! The girls have grown so much, and it really highlighted how much I have achieved in such a short time.

The funny thing was, when Rebekah first came to Avant, the studio had just been painted. Easter weekend was spent refreshing the paint work so again, Rebekah had to endure the smell of fresh paint..

As my customers you a re always welcome to return to the studio. Please don't hesitate to contact me to ask for a session. I'm happy to oblige...

Thanks for bringing the girls back to the studio Rebekah.

Wanted: Booking agent/receptionist...

2009-04-17T11:28:00.002+01:00

Fancy working at Avant Photographic?

seriously...

Phil is looking for a member of staff to help book in all the enquiries.. This is not cold calling, but genuine enquiries that need booking in.

I am looking for someone to call clients between 10 am and 1 pm Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. There may be other tasks that I will need help on, but if you are interested, please call me or email as soon as possible for immediate start.

My thought is this would suit someone who drops the kids off at school or nursery in the morning, comes here for a few hours then home to pick the kids up?? It's a fun job, talking to people, and telling them all about how much fun it is having portraits done at Avant Photographic...

But please, call me if you are interested...

01323 738 566 or email me phil@avantphotographic.com

I look forward to hearing from you...

many thanks

Phil

Spicer Hallfield

2009-04-03T14:01:00.004+01:00

Unfortunately one of the longest serving photographic frame and album suppliers, as well as supplying other photography peripherals, Spicer Hallfield, has gone into administration this morning. The news comes as quite a shock, and I for one will be sad to see them go, if they cannot find a new buyer..?

Unfortunately, several of my recent customers chose to have their portraits framed in SH frames.. I am frantically trying to get these supplied, and have it on good authority that these will be supplied without issue next week... I hope...

I am going to call all customers who have frames on order from SH to inform them and will remain in touch with any news as i hear it.

NO OTHER ORDERS ARE EFFECTED IN ANYWAY BY THIS AND IF YOU HAVE NOT HEARD FROM ME TODAY, YOUR ORDER IS NOT EFFECTED

Kodak Portrait Awards 2009

2009-04-03T13:53:00.002+01:00

We are still taking bookings for the kodak awards 2009.

see below for details on how to enter.

Remember, you could stand to win £1000 as the winner of this years award...?

details..

Argh! Look at Marty!

2009-04-03T13:35:00.005+01:00

Marty, my cherub photographer of the year 2008 winning image model, came in again for a shoot today. WOW has he changed. He is still really photogenic and we got some incredible images on wednesday..

Its his expressions, he gives such a look. It's the something different and unique that I love to capture. Kids are a whole lot more than just smiles... If I can bring out and shoot the entire range and not just a smile for nana i am very happy..

Thanks for bringing him in again Jane.. It was great to see you again.

Family Portrait

2009-04-03T13:20:00.004+01:00

I. LOVE. THIS. PHOTO.

This is Debbie and her boys..

She wasn't keen on having her portraits done, as is usually the case with Mum's!! but i persuaded her and with a little encouragement from her friend who came along we eventually got this shot. I sat Debbie with her boys and coaxed her eldest into position. Gently calling the boys names got them to look up, and I captured this shot. It's incredible, very natural and in black and white the mood of the shot is emphasized.

Debbie collected her portrait the other day and was over the moon with it. Framed and completed the image was complete.. I believe it will be placed as the centre piece of her home...

It may be entered for the Kodak Wedding and Portrait Awards mentioned earlier in the blog.

Recent Faves.

2009-03-06T12:00:00.005Z

Oh well, the new year lull has passed and Avant is very busy again. I was just getting used to the less stressful level of portraits too. I know some of you will be glad to see me working hard again!

I thought I would post a couple of recent favourites from the studio. Something a little different. Jayke here had a whale of a time. He came in with his family for a family shoot mum, dad and younger brother. These were some shots i wanted to try out, and Mum was nice enough to let me try to work with Jayke. I think i have made a friend for life. A typical 4 year old, he is interested in everything, full of limitless energy, and has stacks of personality. This is why I do this for a living..

Any way, heres my creation from the session.

Some others from this session are in the running for my competition entry this year!

Secondly, here is Harry..

This is a shot from his second cherub session. He is now a year old. We did a family session too. I have to ask his dad but, maybe I will post a shot of Harry pulling out his hair... whilst on his dads shoulders.. it looked terribly painful, and I felt somewhat guilty for dad having to bear the pain! (I am sorry!) It was me that suggested the pose?

This one of Harry is great though, really stark and simple. But full of expression and a stunning, graphic inspired image..

Kodak Portrait Awards 2009

2009-02-17T14:54:00.007Z

Ok.. for years I have have wanted to get an OSKAR and I am going to attempt to this year. But I need your help.

All great portrait photography starts with the subject. Without a subject its just me, standing in my studio.... which isn't much fun. For your chance be entered as a subject in this years Kodak awards please contact me.

You have a chance to win £1000 if your portrait wins a category, or a kodak camera.

sorry, it's £1000... OOPS!

For competition entry sessions I am offering a discounted session fee of £20 and a free copy of the entry to the competition from your session. (size 10x8)

The Kodak Awards represent the highest level of photography, worldwide. Open only to professional Photographers. Click here to view the competition website, which is currently being updated for this years awards.

Last year I entered the regional awards and won the MPA SE Cherub Photographer of the year, so my aim this year is for the under 5's award, but definitely for the consumer award. Here is my cherub winning portrait

Its little Marty and I shall always love this portrait. His expression is incredible, and the contact and communication from his eyes is so powerful.

This offer is open to anybody, so please tell your friends as well. It's a great chance to get some cool portraits and maybe win some cash too!

phil

Peter Prior

2009-02-05T15:06:00.007Z

I had the pleasure of the company of Mr Peter Prior in the studio today. As a hugely competent and accomplished photographer in his own right, he wanted some exposure (sorry) to the modern digital studio. I was happy to oblige, as Peter has supported me throughout the various stages of growing Avant Photographic and has always been a valued colleague when help has been needed.

Primarily a wedding photographer, just look at his site PETER PRIOR PHOTOGRAPHY Peter came to observe a baby portrait session this morning, and little Oscar Robert's obliged as a perfect model.

It was Oscar's second Cherub session, and as 8 month old babies are more mobile, his Mum had to be on the ball as body guard, keeping him in the right area of the studio for me.

I think Peter was surprised at how physical the session was. As many of you will know, I have to interact with the children quite a bit to get the reactions I want, and expressions are best captured by being entertaining to the children and this usually means being on hands and knees and making silly faces and noises..!!!! I have long forgotten my sense of embarrassment, but it was funny to be reminded of how absurd it must look...?

Here are a couple of images from today's session.

Pet Promo...

2009-02-02T09:00:00.000Z

I have just launched our pet promotion. We are raising again for our friends at The Sussex Wildlife Trust.

For a £25 donation you can have your dog or your budgie photographed, your cat or your hamster, or your tree snake.

After your session you can choose a portrait to be enlarged as thanks for your donation and have the opportunity to choose further portraits too! As an added thank you Avant will give you £20 to put towards your first order.....

Here is a portrait of Andrew, a very brave Yorkshire Terrier who I photographed recently for his owner Mrs Janet Tindall.

Airbourne 2009

2009-01-22T19:38:00.002Z

Woo Hoo!

Airbourne 2009 will be FREE!! This is great news. As so many of you know, I promote the studio every year at Airbourne, it's where many of you found me. Last year was diabolical, and although we still did ok from it, it was a huge disappointment for Eastbourne.

You can see details about this years show here. It looks set to be a good one. Here's a shot of the Guinot girls from last year.

Mia's Christening

2009-01-12T15:45:00.001Z

For recent favorites this week I am happy to post some pictures I took for My nieces christening yesterday.

Whilst I do shoot weddings, christenings and event, I do so very rarely because the shop is so busy. However, please don't hesitate to ask if you require me to photograph your family event.

The Christening took place at Eynsford's beautiful St Martins of Tours, a place I had been past many times, but never been in.

Yes, that is snow on the ground.. we were forecast a little shower, and it gave a gorgeous sprinkle that was only around for a few moments for this picture but gone as soon as the sun came out.

Here's Mia getting blessed, and chewing Mummy's finger! She was incredible throughout the whole ceremony, and the whole day for that matter. She is a very alert baby anyway, but for her to stay awake and not grumble all day was great and allowed everyone to enjoy her, and for Karen and Joe not to stress about her comfort.

One more, just to show the historic font and the setting for the ceremony. After he christening it was back to Karen and Joe's for a feed and a drink. How Karen got everyone in I don't know!!

Well done to Karen and Joe for the organization of the day.

Christmas cont....

2009-01-10T18:25:00.000Z

had better put one of me up!!!

Here's me and my Niece's, Evie and Mia. Evie (the eldest) has such a personality, as you can see. My brother (Evie's dad) always pulls faces for photos, so it is his fault that she does too!

I'm just happy to have a picture with them both. I get to see them very rarely, and I love it when I do get to see them.

Relatives are always welcome to come to portrait sessions, they too can choose to get a great portrait whilst you're at the studio.

Christmas Photos!

2009-01-08T12:35:00.001Z

Happy New Year everyone!

I hope the new year finds you well? Apart from the usual winter blues, I am fine and dandy, but wanting Spring to arrive! I hate winter. Cold, miserable, and snotty noses.. Whilst toasty and warm in the studio, it is freezing in South Street..

So, Avant is open as normal now, after a staggered start after the Christmas break. It's always great to hear your responses to the blog, and it still amazes me that so many people read it!

Anyhow, the Christmas period, for me, as it is for so many, was a family affair! Mia's first Christmas and that was huge fun. Even at 5 months old, she dominated proceedings.

Here she is opening her first ever Christmas present with Mummy and daddy the fireman, just in from night shift Christmas morning. I think we forget or take for granted that the services don't stop on Christmas. I for one am thankful for the dedication shown by those that work over Christmas.

Many thanks to everyone again, for your continued custom, and I look forward to seeing you this year for updated portraits.

Phil

Christmas reprints

2008-12-16T17:16:00.004Z

Hi folks,

THERE IS STILL TIME TO GET REPRINTS FOR CHRISTMAS!!

I am pleased to say I have been able to keep on top of the orders this year. Even though I was surprised by the response to the Christmas mailing, seems many of you were waiting for the offers! Having pulled a few late nights and and putting in the hours I have been able to stay ahead of the chaos. I must have a cut off point at some point, and it is saturday20th December for prints, I'm afraid frames will have to wait until after Christmas.

I am giving myself a little break over Christmas too. I will be here until 4pm on Christmas eve, but not returning until the 10th January.

I look forward to seeing you all in the New year.

Many thanks to you all for your custom this year.

Here is a recent favourite, little Joseph, who I have been scheduled to shoot since July last year! H really had a ball during the shoot and I am super chuffed with the results. Just as well, as his mum works for The Herald!!!!

If I can be of any help for reprints or seasonal sessions, please call asap. If I can fit you in, I will. Remember, Christmas is a time for families and is a great time to have some portraits done.

A recent favourite..

2008-11-20T17:49:00.003Z

This is the full gang of a very happy dad, Matthew Friend, a local DJ, who hasn't given me his web address!!

The 4 of them were great to work with. His boys were typical fun and lively boys, and not shy at all.. we got straight to the fun when we went into the studio.

Matthew had previously warned me that his daughter disliked photographers. They had had varied results when trying to get their portrait done before, but, as normal, I succeeded in getting some great results.. All it took was the usual mucking about and making a fool of myself, as so many have seen me do on your shoots..(!!)

The knees of jeans are testament to the efforts taken in the studio too get the results!

Launch of Charity Offer

2008-11-05T09:58:00.005Z

Hi folks!

Well, it has been a busy month here at Avant Photographic. With the normal Christmas Chaos encroaching, suppliers are already starting to delay their deliveries, but thankfully are still coming in on time.

We are proud to announce the launch of our new charity promotion.

Our aim is to raise £2500 for charity. We will be donating all of our registration fee of £25 to our 2 chosen charities until the New year. We hope this will be popular enough to continue indefinitely, raising huge amounts for charity.

With us this year are the Cystic Fibrosis Trust helping those with the disease and offering support for their families. Also, we are supporting the great work of The Sussex Wildlife Trust Helping to maintain woodland and areas of natural beauty and environmental importance throughout Sussex.

CF trust has a close place in my heart as my Niece, Evie has CF. She is such an incredible little girl, and her spirit is definitely that of her father, (my brother).

Yes, she is as cheeky as she looks...!

The Sussex Wildlife Trust work very hard attaining areas of land that sustain our beautiful county, and the wildlife that rely upon it.

With a donation of just £25 to either of these worthy charities we will reward you with a voucher for £195. This is redeemable against a full family session, and a choice of a 10x8 framed and mounted portrait of your choice as well as £50 towards further portraits!

It is very simple to donate, call us or email us your interest and we will happily guide you through the simple process. You can pay by card or with a cheque payable directly to the charity. Bookings can be made at any time as long as you have registered by the end of December.

I am really excited about this promotion and can't wait to send a big cheque to the charities!

Please support our cause and have some great portraits done too!!!!

Many thanks

Phil

oops! Been busy.

2008-10-01T11:17:00.003+01:00

Sorry folks,

It has been hectic here at Avant Photographic.. The expected drop in bookings seeing as the kids are back to school simply hasn't come..!

We are as busy as normal, and now the Christmas bookings have started. Not long until the sight of tinsel and Santa becomes normal for us. I love the run up to Christmas, always fun, and we see alot more families. It is great to be able to record the gathering of so many families.

Once again Christmas and seasonal greeting cards will be available, have your own image on the front of it, and I will design a layout to suit your taste, with funky text and seasonal effects to really make a unique greeting for this year..

They are priced at £75 for 5 or £100 for 10.. just mail me or call to order, most pieces can be done on the phone and a proof is emailed a few days after ordering for you to OK the design...

Remember that you can still recommend friends for Christmas too! reprint offer will be coming for next week, check the blog again soon!

Regards

Phil

my new neice..

2008-09-09T17:40:00.006+01:00

Well, at long last my new niece came to see me for some photo's.. What was going to be a fairly quick little session turned into a great and enjoyable but, marathon shoot. Though we did have to stop for a little feed now and again, (Mia and us!) we got some great smiles and Mia seemed to really enjoy her shoot..!!

Here she is in a montage I have created for Karen, to be printed to 30 inches wide, and framed...
All this new niece business has put me in a good mood, and I want to celebrate! So, for the next month, I am going to run a little promo....

Montages like the one above, 30x11 inches, framed and laminated, will be available to buy at £295, but, as a celebration for my new niece, I am going to give you 4 10x8 prints for free!!!

All you need to do is call me or email me and ask about the Mia Promo....

S.E. MPA Photography Awards...

2008-09-02T15:29:00.005+01:00

Wednesday 23rd July 2008..

This is the biggest bit of news to happen since Avant opened last year.

I have won a major award for my photography. On the 23rd of July I won the title of Master Photographers Association, (S.E. Region) Cherubs Photographer of the Year!

Despite this being nearly a month ago, I am still floating on cloud nine! There was some serious competition for this award, which was presented at the MPA SE Region Print Competition. There were several categories, including Cherubs, Portrait, Events and of course Weddings. But it was the Cherubs category I was most eager to do well in, but never thought I would win it.

My good friend Peter Prior won the Portrait category for his wonderful portrait entry, and I was lucky enough to scoop 3rd for my entry in the same category.. www.peterprior.com

The winning images are below. Many thanks to Jane Salmon and her wonderful son Marty and to Jill Jarret and her boys...

Winner: MPA (se region) Cherub Photographer Of TheYear 2008

3rd Place MPA (se region) Cherub Photographer of the Year 2008

3rd Place Portrait category 2008

Welcome to the Blog!

2008-09-02T14:51:00.000+01:00

Well folks,

Here we go for a first attempt of a new way to keep you all informed of what is happening in the World of Avant Photographic!

I shall send regular emails with a link straight to recent posts and remember... tell your friends..

There shall be special offers, open only to those who read the blog, for new and regular customers alike.. and with Christmas coming, make sure you check back regularly so you don't miss out...!!