Red Creative Image from the United Kingdom specializes in portraits, fashion and wedding photography/videography.

Andy from Red Creative Image writes to us:

“Photography has a passion of mine since my early teens. (I am now in my fifties) I left school early to pursue a career in photography. In those days there wasn’t the choice of opportunities in terms photographic qualifications and it meant you had to get out there and do it. I worked with various top companies in photo news, commercial and fashion. Starting off as a runner (basically, a do anything they ask job!). Working hard and long hours I managed to make it as photographer’s assistant in a top London studio, which at the time was quite a prestigious position to have. I was in my absolute element and love every minute of it. In my spare time did as many photographic assignments as I could possibly fit in. However, I got married and needed to get a ‘proper job’ which paid a decent wage as I had a child on the way and mortgage to support. I left the photo business and became an engineer. Now I am in fortunate position to be able continue with my love of taking pictures. Even after all these years I still get that buzz of excitement when I see good picture especially if I’ve taken it. However, I do see lots of great photographers out there with some extraordinary work, this only inspires me to try harder and to get that perfect shot.

I like all photography, but if had to choose I would say firstly, wildlife, especially wild cats, followed by travel, people and fashion photography. I am also very happy to photograph a vase of flowers. I am always on the lookout for interesting shots to take.

I guess my first would be a lesson in making the most of an opportunity when you have it in your hands. I was assigned to a US battleship (USS Bellnap) as communications engineer for CNN. It was during a 1989 Peace Conference being held in Malta. President G W Bush was about to land on the ship and group of selected press photographers were being assembled to record the event. I happened to have a press pass and I had my camera with me. I was standing next to this jostling bunch and I was at the front of them. However, I was deliberating should I or shouldn’t I. What if I got caught! Would they throw me in prison or worse!!. It was agonising, there was a chance in a million and I was there. However, I lost my nerve and decided not to go for it. I do regret that now and I think I should have taken the chance while I had it.

However, it’s not all bad. I was on my way the Falkland Islands when the captain of the ship called out that he could see a whale in the distance. We all rushed to the decks to see a grey spot about a mile away, so far in fact as not to even bother lifting the camera up. Everyone was focused in that direction. Just for moment I looked back in the opposite direction to notice a black shadow very close to the ship. Suddenly, three Orcas leapt from the sea in magnificent formation, a sight I will never forget in my life. Unbelievably, (am I one for fumbling!!) I was ready and took the shots with my trusty Nikon. And as quickly as they appeared, they disappeared. I was the only person to get any photos of them. I think I can say they are the best photos I have ever taken.

I was first attracted to SmugMug as a hosting site because of the way they sold themselves, friendly and inviting with terrific support. Above all, it was the facility they were offering. I’ve seen many photographic template type sites and none match up to SmugMug in terms of flexibility, versatility and incredible quality.

First off, I tried to build my own site but with a lack of talent and website build knowledge was never going to produce anything what I would call worthwhile.

I was looking through the SmugMug Digital Grin forum for help with my efforts, I came across jR Customization. After some initial discussion of what I wanted, and that was a nice simple, effective but above a functional site from I could best display both my photos and video work. I did not want gimmicks or razz (flying graphics all over the place!!). After a agreeing on what I would call a very fair price, I decided to let Jerry of jR Customization build my new site for me.

The site was delivered to me on time and I can’t say enough how I’m so pleased with the finished result. It looks absolutely superb. It was exactly what I asked for, simple, straight forward and without the razz. Jerry has added his own touch to it and to me gives an elegant feel and a touch of class. The photos might not be all that, but the site looks excellent which gives my work a fighting chance.”

I can’t thank Jerry enough and would recommend his website building to skills to anyone looking for an exceptional web presence.

LT recently had the opportunity to work with SPC Creative Photography. SPC Creative Photography from Houston Texas specializes in portraits, sports and event photography.

Shelly writes to us:

I am convinced that given a nice cape and a tiara I could save the world – or at least photograph it for posterity.

As a child, I was the one who always brought home stray dogs and people – and then wouldn’t rest until they were safely fed and cared for. Then when I grew up, I learned that I really could do my part to save the world by working for a variety of nonprofit and health awareness organizations. In 20 plus years I did it all: Public relations, program management, fund raising, event planning, education, volunteer management, grant writing — and naturally photography often fell into my realm of responsibilities.

Just any old snapshots simply wouldn’t do; I wanted mine to be great, so I signed up for a lighting seminar with portrait guru, Dave Newman. Suddenly I saw everything with fresh eyes. It was like falling in love for the very first time, and I couldn’t think of anything but the pictures around me waiting to be captured.

So . . . I added more classes to develop and polish my skills and then launched SPCcreative as a sideline business. Before long, I was blessed enough to take it full time. My nonprofit/PR background gives me a unique perspective for telling my clients’ stories through imagery.

I believe that the photography experience should be stress-free and fun for everyone involved. I enjoy portraiture, weddings, action sports , product photography, nature, and travel. Most recently, I have added boudoir photography with a special niche for women who are 40 and older. After all, beauty doesn’t stop at age 25 and 125 lbs. The women who have paid their dues DESERVE to show off their beauty – if only for themselves and their husbands. The other day I had a session with a gorgeous 59 year old. Talk about FUN!

Few things make me happier than sharing a picture with someone and seeing them smile. It doesn’t matter to me if the picture is a portrait or candid snap, a game-winning touchdown, or the intricate stamen of a tiny orchid. I still get downright giddy at my prospects when I see a beautiful child in perfect golden-hour light. I love to watch storms approaching. Teenagers moody expressions light up my engines just as much as their million-dollar smiles. God gave us a beautiful world and I just want to photograph every square inch of it, every special occasion and every day-to-day moment that will become a memory only if it is recorded for the future

One of my funniest photography stories included a big lesson learned. I started shooting high school football for our athletic booster club. At my very first game, I positioned myself on the field after halftime alongside several other more seasoned photographers. We were going to catch the team running onto the field behind a couple of brawny flagmen who carrying huge flags. These banners are at least 8 x 12 feet, no joke. I had a fantastic shot of one of these guys coming straight at me. As he got closer, I decided it was time to get out of the way. BIG MISTAKE. He and I danced left and right all the way to the sideline. That was when I learned to stand still and get as small as I can. If the ball is not in play, these guys will go around me. During play . . . I am pretty strategic about where I stand, and I place a great deal of trust in my guardian angels who protect me every day.

Visit SPC Creative Photography to see more images..

Back in 2008, I had the opportunity to work with Cathy Hartman Photography on the customization of her smugmug site. At the time, her photography business was “Treasured Moments” photography.

Cathy recently contact us for ‘an extreme makeover’ to her site with new colors, banner, logo, slideshow, content and music. LT worked with the Cathy on implementing the modifications. Most importantly, LT did not have to ‘recreate’ the customization of her smugmug site. The customization is design specifically for ‘extreme makeovers’ and enhancements for photographers who change there market brand strategy. This results in both a savings in time and money and expedites the redesign process. LT also work with Cathy to design and develop her wordpress blog which looks exactly like her smugmug web site.

Cathy writes to us “I have loved photography since I was a kid. It was always a great hobby, but not something I had time to pursue professionally. Most of my images were of my six children, 10 grandchildren, and students at my dance studio. Three years ago I sold my dance studio and last year became an empty nester. This gave me the opportunity to take my photography to the next level. I am very passionate about my photography and feel so blessed to spend every day with my camera. Some days I think I only want to be a baby and child photographer because I absolutely love the little ones. Then the next day I change my mind as I have a blast with a senior. Weddings are awesome – who doesn’t love a wedding! It means so much to be able tell the story of the couple’s special day through my images. And, I still have my passion for dance, but now as a dance photographer. There is nothing like capturing the beauty of a dancer whether on stage or leaping through the park. ”

Before – Treasured Moments Photography

After – Cathy Hartman Photography

After – Cathy Hartman Photographys Blog

Congrats to Cathy Hartman Photography on the new implementation of her market brand and “awesome” job LT!
Visit Cath Hartman Photography to see more images..