Nat Jag Pictures

Winter time

2012-01-12T22:05:00.002Z

Car driving on road, Finland
© Nathan Hulse

In the UK the winter is currently very mild. In other parts of the world it's business as usual. I've just returned from seeing family in Finland and took these pictures before going out visiting friends. In the UK, the country would probably grind to a halt when it snows. In Finland however it's business as usual.

Winter in Finland
© Nathan Hulse

Big Brother final 2011

2011-11-21T08:00:00.002Z

I attended all but one of the Big Brother evictions in the latest series on channel 5. I was pleased to be covering them for Getty Images. When I first consider photography on a more series level, submitting to Getty Images was always one of my ambitions. Although I was hoping to submit to Getty Creative rather than editorial. Still, I achieved a goal.

Aaron Allard-Morgan
© Nat Jag

I can't admit to being a huge fan of Big Brother, I only watch it when I'm there at the house. I started to cover the evictions after the show had reached it's peak and started to lose ratings. The last series had poor ratings, however it must be pointed out that for channel 5, it was probably one of their shows getting higher viewing figures.

To the right is a wide angle shot of the winner Aaron walking out from the interview area. You can see the row of photographers at the top right. This was the first time I'm aware a winner was booed when they left the house.

I wonder how the Celebrity Big Brother will be, and if I'll get asked to cover that?

X Factor Childline Ball

2011-10-25T10:00:00.001+01:00

Mary Byrne and Rebecca Ferguson
© Nathan J Hulse

An X factor childline ball was held last week (20th October 2011) at the Savoy hotel. "Great" I thought, a chance to photograph some of the most talked about people in the UK at the moment. Sadly, it was the most talked about people last year that I would get to photograph. In addition, it would only be two of them, Rebecca Ferguson and Mary Bryne. Remember them, I do, just. Also, present was Polly Woodward from the Gadget show, not a large name in the celebrity world, she is very attractive so worthwhile photographing. Also present were Esther Rantzen and Dermot O'Leary.

Big Brother first eviction

2011-10-04T11:20:00.000+01:00

Tashie Jackson with host Brian Dowling is the first evicted
© Nat Jag

I'm lucky to be in the few that are covering Big Brother this season. Channel 5 only have limited space for press this season. However with the shows popularity dropping, the number of photographers would as well, even without the limited space imposed by the new outdoor set. I have also noticed the number in the audience seems to be lower this year. Perhaps they just don't have as many in, or not so many people want to be there on the 'live' eviction.

In addition to the standard shots, I try to get something a little different by capturing the whole scene. You can see the smaller audience with big gaps. Sadly the watermark covers the people in the picture. I'm sure you get the idea.

Big Brother ends as Big Brother Starts

2011-09-20T12:11:00.000+01:00

Paddy Doherty leaving the house after winning Celebrity Big Brother
Host Brian Dowling waits to greet him.
© Nat Jag

I was lucky enough to cover the final of Celebrity Big Brother. Thinking that was the end for the season, only to find out that a new non-celebrity Big Brother was due to start the following day. I was at the start of the new Big Brother for channel 5. With the snappers in a new position looking down made it good for some wide angle shots to capture the whole event.

They are only allow in 10 sometimes 12 photographers. Many of the agencies that used to attend most weeks during the previous series were denied access this season. A shame. I think they look on the mail online to see which agency's pictures are used, forgetting to check the magazines as well. Still I was pleased to be able to cover the start and end of the recent series.

Albelli vs Blurb books comparison

2011-09-12T17:06:00.000+01:00

Both book covers

I recently ordered a book on Blurb.com, then a few months later a similar book from Albelli.co.uk. A friend asked how they compared with each other, so here are my few observations and conclusions. The books weren't ordered as a comparison, therefore wasn't intended as a direct comparison. Both were hardback with printed covers, Blurb book ordered with extra cost luster pages, while the Albelli one wasn't. I couldn't use Albelli's software on my mac as I have an older operating system, their online book creation software worked for my simple book design in this instance.

The print quality of both books is perfectly acceptable for me and the colours matched as close as possible to those displayed on my colour corrected monitor. The first observation is that the cover pictures, which was an extra cost option for both are different. The extra cost with blurb is approx £8.00 and £4.00 with albelli on the book sizes I ordered. With the Albelli book the cover is glossy, while the blurb book is matte (glossy on their softcovers).

While the blurb book was ordered with luster pages as an extra cost option, it's also an extra cost with albelli at 15-20p per page depending on book size. The Albelli book pages were as glossy as the blurb book. The pages in the blurb are thicker, which you can see by the advertised paper weight.

Albelli Book binding

Blurb Book Binding

The other observation is the inside front cover of both book. In the blurb book you can see the stitching, while the albelli book is covered up. On a closer inspection the pages are glued or similar in the albelli book. I did have more pages in the blurb one, there may be a cut off point when they switch to stitching as I have another smaller blurb book which is glued.

Is one better than the other? Should you choose one over the other? I don't think so, they both offer slightly different book sizes. I will continue to use blurb.com for my annual personal portfolio that I have started doing, even if just to keep the sizes consistent. Albelli.co.uk will suffice my other book needs. If you want to be able to offer your books to the public for sale, then blurb is you option as they are the only company that I'm aware of that offer this service. I have used apples book service, via Aperture software, also available via iPhoto. I wasn't so impressed with the quality of that book. Whoever you may use, it's great to look at pictures on pages of a book, rather than on the screen. It's much easier to hand round to other people to look at as well.

Let me know how you get on with your books.

Law and order on Alamy

2011-08-30T11:45:00.001+01:00

Council Chambers or Court Room
© Nathan J Hulse

Well, not quite as the title of this post suggests. More a picture council chambers, that is sometimes used as a court room for film sets. Law and order does prevail in these places, with many decisions being made.

Since the beginning of the year I have noticed that gekko images has been "Closed for re-development work" and still is. Not a good way to see images if no one can access the site. Although my link to log in still works. I have managed to block all my images from being sold, if anyone is able to buy images through the site. Gradually I shall be moving my collection to other picture libraries I use, Alamy seems to be the obvious choice for most of them. I just have to find the original files from my own records.

My stock collection with Alamy is becoming a miss-match of various subjects rather than a specialist style I was hoping to concentrate on.

Pixie Lott lipsy launch

2011-08-25T10:00:00.004+01:00

Pixie Lott leaving the Lipsy launch
© Nathan J Hulse

I mentioned in a previous post that I took minimum equipment with me on one day with a few events on. I was asked to photograph Pixie Lott for the Launch of her Autumn/Winter launch of her Lipsy Collection. The photocall was for 1pm. It was pouring down with rain, I decided not to go. Had I have gone I would have taken a full bag of equipment and missed my last job of the day. Instead, I took minimal gear and decided to photograph Pixie leaving her event at the published time of 7pm. It was a good decision in my opinion. On the way in, she wore a black outfit. Coming out, she had changed to a red outfit, less photographers had the red outfit which in my opinion is a much better one. What do I know, I'm a bloke.

Kelly Brook - did I have a right to be there?

2011-08-23T09:30:00.008+01:00

Kelly Brook at the Bulmers Cider Garden
© Nathan J Hulse

A few weeks ago there were a few events all on one day. The last of the events would be more of a paparazzi style photography than standing in a press. Doing that with a full back pack of gear isn't great. Other photographers are likely to just pull your backpack and make things difficult. I decided to take minimal gear with me one body, 17-40 and 50mm lens. I left my second body and 70-200 lens at home. I knew I wouldn't be to far from the celebrities and I rarely sell headshots, which I use my 70-200 for. I would still be getting the shots I needed. However, one photographer didn't see it that way. He told me I had no right to be there because I had no 70-200. Well, I was accredited I got the shots I needed. You decide. Shot taken with 50mm lens.

Berlin Wall 50th Anniversary

2011-08-13T00:01:00.016+01:00

Today 13th August 2011 is the 50th anniversary of the construction of the Berlin Wall. I'm not entirely it's an anniversary to celebrate, rather a time to remember those lives that were lost during the East/West German/Berlin divide.

I'm not a historian, so my facts and knowledge will be limited. I became interested in the wall last year when a heard a German tell me they use to work at the "War Museum". I didn't think Berlin would have a museum for the war so I checked and miss heard, it was "Wall Museum". This sparked my interest in the Berlin wall, why was erected and what did it stand for? When I was younger I was aware of the wall and I remember it coming down. I didn't really know that much about it. I was invited over to Berlin by friends I had met that lived there and visited three times. Each time I was there, the weather wasn't on my side to get great picture, snow, rain or just over cast. When it wasn't overcast or snowing, it was too dark to get any great shots without a tripod. I may go back another time. Anyway here are my few shots for the 50th anniversary of the Berlin Wall going up.

The Berlin Wall was originally built in 1961 by the communist authorities of East Germany in order to stop East Germans from fleeing west. At least 134 people lost their lives at the Berlin Wall.

Plaque where the Berlin Wall once stood
© Nathan J Hulse

A former section of the wall called the East Side Gallery
© Nathan J Hulse

Check Point Charlie
© Nathan J Hulse

Daisy Lowe at the Girly Show

2011-08-05T16:44:00.000+01:00

Daisy Lowe at the Girly Show Lounge
© Nat Jag

The Girly Show Lounge on Sunday 24th July was the only decent event I managed to get to for that week (24th - 30th) due to other commitments and lack of decent events. Luckily it was quite quite reasonable one with model Daisy Lowe attending (I think also performing) at the Girly Show lounge at the Windmill International. A few other celebs were spotted while waiting outside.

Rock Assembly with Tinchy Stryder and others

2011-07-28T15:03:00.000+01:00

Martin Lewis talking about fee's and student loans
© Nathan Hulse

I was asked if I (or anyone from my team) would like to cover the Rock Assembly at O2 on 20 July 11. It's a free event and loud assembly for kids with a few current and upcoming music artists performing. As I am first and foremost a musician, a chance to photograph live shows is always a bonus and good thing for me, what ever musical style. I like to see what is happening on the music scene and what age group like certain acts.

Tinchy Stryder in Arena pointing mode
© Nathan Hulse

The event started with a talk from money expert Martin Lewis talking about university and fee's. Good advice for the young generation about to embark on their next stages in life. Following that it was onto the main event. Top of the bill was Tinchy Stryder, not before one of the Audience sung acappella to the other 16,000 members of the audience, he was surprisingly good.

Other acts on were Chipmunk, Diversity, girl group Parade and SoundGirl, Hadouken plus dance troop diversity. The hosts were AJ and Clara from Kiss FM. Click here for full gallery.

Tech Info:- Equipment used, 17-40mm and 70-200 lens. All files processed through Aperture 3. Quick simple and easy. Pictures shown taken with 17-40mm lens.

Amy Winehouse - 1983-2011 - rest in peace

2011-07-25T14:47:00.001+01:00

Amy Winehouse July 2010
© Nathan Hulse

Like many others I have been shocked and saddened by the news of singer Amy Winehouse death. I only got a chance to photograph her as a paparazzi twice, the final time thanks to photographer Danny Martindale who told me she was at the Prince Charles Cinema in Leicester Square in London. Where Amy was, there were likely many paparazzi about. Sometimes getting a clean picture wasn't easy. This picture seemed to sum up Amy's personality (that I knew about) quite well. One last drag on the cigarette before getting in her waiting car.

A sad loss to the music world. I often wonder if we are best to remember people in their prime, rather than in old age and they were great once. Amy was still great. Consider Buddy Holly, we only know the keen rock n roller vs Elvis whom many remember for being over weight, rather than the fresh faced rock n roller. Anyway, enough of my rambling.

London Eye

2011-07-13T22:59:00.002+01:00

London Eye, a photo by Nat Jag on Flickr.

On a recent trip into London I took a few friends of mine to see some of the usual attractions that London has to offer. I didn't have my tripod with me, I still managed to get this 30 second exposure by balancing my camera on the wall. I still had the strap around my neck just incase it fell into the Thames below. Unusually for me, just a photo that wont go to any agency.

Taken with my 17-40mm lens

Via Flickr:
London eye (and County Hall) at Night

Recycling on Alamy - latest additions

2011-07-12T15:33:00.000+01:00

Recycling Wheeled bins ready for delivery to residents
© Nathan J Hulse

In my local area the refuse collection is changing which means new wheely bins or wheeled bins. Not being one to miss a photo opportunity I noticed all the bins being lined up in the street and being made ready for collection. I thought this could make for a useful picture. A little different from my normal subjects, now available via my collection on alamy.com.

Joe Jonas in London

2011-07-05T13:11:00.000+01:00

Joe Jonas in London
© Nat Jag

A few weeks ago a had an email from the assignment desk asking if any photographers would like to photograph Joe Jonas. Two pieces of information were given. A chance to photograph him at a hotel in the afternoon and another chance when he went out for a meal in the evening. It was a paparazzi opportunity, not an official photocall. I had a photo job in the afternoon so I took the evening chance with Joe Jonas. I expected there would be a few other snappers and scream girl fans. There was nothing. I was the only one there, other than people that were there anyway. Joe arrived and I did get a great shot. I had a quick look at another job, then came back. I was still the only snapper there. Joe came out and I got better shots. For some reason, I called him "Nick"! Not sure why I made that error. Honestly, I did know his proper name. The following week he was at Radio 1, I understand there were 50 screaming girls outside. How lucky was I to get it so quiet.

The Queen and Prince Philip with the Camerons at Downing Street

2011-06-25T14:09:00.000+01:00

Prince Philip, Samantha Cameron, HM Queen Elizabeth II, Prime Minister David Cameron
© Nathan J Hulse

My first proper assignment at 10 Downing Street, the residence of the Prime Minister of England. I had photographed the door before which can be seen on my stock collection with Alamy. Tuesday 21st I was asked if I could get there in time for the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh's arrival as the Prime Minister was hosting a lunch for the Duke's 90th Birthday. I got there just in time. Balanced on top of my ladder, with my 70-200 lens on my camera, I managed to get this shot and a few other which can be licensed via Wire Image. A photo that 3 years ago I would never have thought I'd take. With the Queens in frequent visits to Downing Street, I probably wont get the chance to again.

If I get asked to photograph someone at Number 10 again, I have a few things I know I didn't do, which I'll remember for the next time. Just like anything, you learn by your mistakes and experience. Nothing wrong with the pictures, just a few more variations I should have done, even in the few seconds we all had to take our pictures of the event.

Natalia Kills at Cherrytree Records Showcase

2011-06-21T12:11:00.005+01:00

Natalia Kills
© Nathan J Hulse

Monday 13th June I responded to an email asking if anyone would like to cover the CherryTree Records Showcase at Kings College, London. Despite replying 30 minutes after the email was send out, I still was first and maybe the only one to respond. Great. I actually miss-read the email expecting to see Taylor Momsen perform, only to be told she was a guest and would be ushered off to a VIP area, where I wasn't allowed to go.

As for the showcase, there was no specific area for the photographers. The few of us there, just stood almost at the front with the rest of the young audience behind us. I had my wide angle lens 17-40 and a long lens 70-200 for head shots. At times, the wide angle wasn't wide enough. The lighting was a challenge for this as it was only in a small room for student events, not major concerts.

As for the concert/showcase, a special guest appearance from Ellie Goulding, followed by Collete Carr, Natalia Kills and Frankmusik. I then left as I thought I saw girl group The Saturdays head towards the lift to exit. I grabbed a few shots of The Saturdays minus Una Healy as she left ahead of me. When I tried to get back in, I was so far away from the stage, I could only just see the top of the artists heads, that was the end of my night.

CherryTree Records brought Lady Gaga to the World and I think Natalia Kills will be the next big thing, but what do I know about modern music, I'm almost 40.

A night in London with Sienna Miller, Jameela Jamil and Bip Ling

2011-06-16T13:10:00.001+01:00

Sienna Miller
© Nathan J Hulse

Thursday 09 June 2010 was an average Thursday night in London. A few events that were average and then visiting the theatres at the conclusion of the night to photograph those celebrities that appear in shows.

The first of two events I looked at was a ShelterBox Pop-up shop launch, I understand Jameela Jamil was DJ'ing for the night. A few other guests arrived including Amber Atherton from TV show 'Made in Chelsea'. I didn't have a clue who she was until a few days previous. I don't watch these programs.

The next event was the launch of the Whisper Gallery in Eastcastle Street. The main guest on our list was Bip Ling. Again if I'm honest I didn't know who she is. I did ask her for a picture.

Bip Ling and Myself
Photo by Lee Tinklin

After these two events I visited a few theatre shows ending up at The Royal Haymarket theatre where Sienna Miller is performing (until 11 June). Sienna Miller is a popular celebrity to photograph so there were quite a few paparazzi there already.

So there you have it, a night out on the town. All with a 17-40 wide angle lens.

Mischa Barton visits Flash Trash in London

2011-06-14T13:05:00.004+01:00

Mischa Barton in London
© Nathan J Hulse

At recent event which was published for 6:30-9:00pm, by 8pm we don't expect anyone else to arrive, more we would look at the door for those leaving. Then from behind and crossing the road, not getting their driver to pull up to the door, walks the OC actress Mischa Barton wearing a rather interesting white and black outfit. Sadly for me, I wasn't on the best side (in my opinion) for this outfit. Check out FilmMagic to see more of my pictures from this event.

Katie Waissel at the Mayfair and Nicola Roberts at Radio 1

2011-06-09T20:00:00.002+01:00

Katie Waissel in London
© Nathan J Hulse

It has been really quiet for me recently, which means I have to be a little more pro-active. Thursday 2nd June was one such day I decided to do just that. I met a friend in London first, then headed to The Mayfair hotel. Always a popular place for celebrities to stay. I had about an hour to kill before looking at something else I had information about. Within a few moments of me arriving I saw Katie Waissel. Katie was in X-Factor 2010. I had previously taken her picture during the x factor live tour. She then left about 30 minutes later. Jedward were also staying at the Mayfair, even though I saw them, I wasn't quite so interested about taking their picture. Although some hysterical girls in the area where over the moon to see the twins. I also left to go and check out something else.

Nicola Roberts at Radio 1
© Nathan J Hulse

As I mentioned already, I had information that Nicola Roberts from Girls Aloud was due to be at BBC Radio 1 for the debut airing of her new single 'Beat of My Drum'. I've not heard it yet myself. Many seem to like it. A slightly longer wait at Radio 1 for Nicola, she looked great and signed for all her fans waiting to see her.

Portfolio book of Celebrities for 2010

2011-06-08T20:36:00.000+01:00

I decided to compile a portfolio book for myself of pictures taken in 2010. Mostly celebrity pictures from the events I have covered. I was just going to add pictures and no text, I then decided to add text to those pictures with a story of sorts behind them. you can preview the book here. If your really interested you can even buy your own copy.

I used blurb.com to order a previous book for myself and thought the quality was great, I just had to do a book of last years pictures. Pictures include The Saturdays, Rihanna, Katie Price, Keira Knightly plus many more.

My Celebrities of 2010 and more by Nathan J Hulse aka Nat Jag | Make Your Own Book

Blue perform at 1000th Thriller Live musical

2011-06-07T16:35:00.001+01:00

Blue perform at Thriller Live
© Nathan J Hulse

26th May 2011 was the 1000th performance of Thriller Live. I've been a fan of Michael Jackson for some years. A chance to see some of this show was a real bonus for me. Blue were due to perform "Man in the Mirror" and I was one of a few photographers allowed to photograph this. A live performance and no miming, a rare thing perhaps these days.

I only had my 17-40 wide angle lens with me, luckily I was close to the stage. Shots only processing in Aperture 3, no photo manipulation. All shot between iso 1000-1250.

Stacey Solomon Book signing in Essex

2011-05-31T10:10:00.003+01:00

Stacey Solomon in Chelmsford
© Nathan J Hulse

The past few photo events I have done have been book signings. I don't get to do many of these. I noticed Stacey Solomon was doing a book signing at WH Smith in Chelmsford, Essex, which is not too far for me. So I headed over there. A nice little drive and nice town. There were only half a dozen photographers present for this. Had it been in central London during the week, it would have been different.

It amuses me how people can publish their biography at such a young age. Their life has only just started. I realize that celebrities have to cash in on their fame while they have it these days. Gone are the time people release their biography after a life full of events. I also thought it amusing that the books were being offered at half retail price, I'm told this is usual for new releases.

Katie Price signs books in Welwyn Garden City

2011-05-17T20:17:00.002+01:00

Katie Price in Welwyn Garden City
© Nathan J Hulse

Katie Price latest book signing seemed to avoid the big London stores, instead she went to a smaller shopping Mall called the Howard Center in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire as well as a few locations after. Also looking on from the side was Leandro.

Picture taken with 24-70 lens and processed in Apples Aperture 3.

Boyzone at GAY @ the Astoria - 2008 prints available

2011-05-14T13:24:00.001+01:00

Boyzone perform in London 2008
© Nathan J Hulse

Back in 2008 I was asked to photograph Boyzone at GAY @ the Astoria, this venue has now closed. The night was a reunion for Boyzone and my first live show I was asked to photograph. They went on stage at 2am. I should have been tucked up safely in my bed at that time.

Shortly after I photographed the event I uploaded some pictures to photobox, where the general public can view and order prints should they wish. I actually forgot about this until a recent email I got from photobox. In all their glory, here is a link and a photo you can view and purchase should you wish from them.

Cat Deeley during the Royal Wedding preparations

2011-05-04T09:20:00.001+01:00

Cat Deeley at Buckingham Palace
© Nathan J Hulse

During the week leading towards the Royal Wedding there were many celebrities near the media areas at Buckingham Palace. I only managed to see Cat Deeley. I was really lucky, I just walked through Green Park as I got to the bottom she appeared. Moments later many other photographers were also there pointing their camera lens through the wire fence. At the time she was probably presenting a spot for a news report on the forthcoming nuptials.

I went there to photograph some of the pre-wedding preparations and capture some of the atmosphere leading up to the Wedding.

Gambling on the Wedding at Westminster Abbey

2011-04-28T12:16:00.001+01:00

Bookmaker at Westminster Abbey
© Nathan J Hulse

During the build up to the Royal Wedding there is much activity around the main areas connected with it. Mainly Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey. Red, White and Blue is everywhere you look, apart from the floor. One thing the amused me were two bookmakers taking bets on the wedding.

This picture was taken with a 17-40 lens at 17mm, using a flash for the foreground (bookmaker) plus a heliopan polarizer to increase saturation and contrast. The foreground was a little darker than the bright sunlit Abbey, using the flash allowed me to expose for both subjects and keep the sky deep blue.

Note:- In the gallery at Famous pictures, only those pictures without restrictions are mine. Those with restrictions of No Germany are taken by a photographer from a partner agency, in Germany if you hadn't already worked that out.

London Preparing for the Royal Wedding

2011-04-27T12:55:00.001+01:00

The Mall - 26 April 2011 © Nathan J Hulse

The Royal Wedding is almost upon us. I thought it would be interesting to have a look along the route for anything interesting in the build up and preparation to the big occasion. I only really got a few landmark shots. My favorite was the flags along The Mall towards Admiralty Arch. A few others are available at Famous Pictures.

Taken using a 70-200 to compress the perspective and used a heliopan polarizer to boost contrast and saturation.

Liz McClarnon of Atomic Kitten's 30th Birthday

2011-04-19T14:30:00.000+01:00

Liz McClarnon at her 30th Birthday

It's still very quiet in celebrity land in the UK. You can see interesting some interesting information at People Press about this from a Red Carpet photographer, who does report the April is the quietest month.

On to the main subject of this post. Liz McClarnon from girl group Atomic Kitten became 30 with a celebrity party to match. I was there to photograph many of the celebrity guests arrive. Sadly for me, I was going to France the following day and had to get up rather early, which meant I missed the last few guests arrive; the rest of Atomic Kitten. Was I upset? Yes I was. I have a few CD's in my collection, so it's always great to do events like this. One thing I did notice, which you will to if you look at the pictures, no one seemed to bring gifts for the birthday girl. How Mean.

Sucker Punch UK Film Premiere with Vanessa Hudgens

2011-04-12T18:30:00.001+01:00

Vanessa Hudgens at "Sucker Punch"
UK Film Premiere 30 March 2011

Last Wednesday (30th March) was a busy evening for celebrity events. It has been quiet compared to previous years, so this was a good thing. I was really excited to be asked to cover the UK film premiere of "Sucker Punch". High School Musical actress Vanessa Hudgens was one of the leading actresses. I've wanted to get a picture of her for ages. We were asked to arrive at 5pm, two and a half hours later I had my pictures and went home a happy man. I felt 16 again, I couldn't let all the other snappers around me know that. Until now, if they happen to read this.

Photos are processed as quick as possible with this type of work. Basic adjustments in aperture 3 were all that was needed on most shots. Some were sent into the agency (famous pictures) as they were taken with no further adjustments.

Enrique Iglesias (and Lemar) at the O2 arena in London

2011-04-05T15:15:00.013+01:00

Enrique Iglesias at The O2, London
25 March 2011

I've been really lucky to get ask to photograph a few music events recently. As I'm a musician it's always good to do concerts. The only downside is, I have to concentrate on taking pictures more than the actual concert itself. Friday March 25th Enrique Iglesias was performing at the O2 arena on London.

Prior to the concert I tried to find out the shot position. This would usually be; front of the stage or the mix position (half way up the auditorium). We were told front of stage. Great, no need to carry super long and extra heavy lens with me. I took my 24-70 and 70-200. When I got there, I was told, we're shooting from the mix position. Great! While it's not great to hear that, it's not so bad, as shooting from the front of the stage, you tend to have shots looking up the performers nose. Not very flattering. Despite not having the correct lens with me, Enrique did walk down a long walkway. When he done that, I got most of my shots. Lucky for us, he done that on the 3rd song and not after we had to leave.

Lemar at the O2, London
25 March 2011

The support act was Lemar. We were front of the stage for him. Notice the up nose type shot.

You can still see the audience hands in the way, on reflection I perhaps should have done a few shots and made the audience part of the shot, rather than try my best to avoid it. The things you think of afterwards eh. Something to consider next time. A great show and my sister was quite Jealous at me getting there and doing it.

JLS and others perform at Rays of Sunshine Concert

2011-03-29T10:45:00.001+01:00

JLS performing at the Rays of Sunshine Concert

Friday 11th March I was lucky enough to be asked to cover the Rays of Sunshine concert held at the Troxy in East London. This was a charity event, the Rays of Sunshine charity raises money to turn wishes into happy memories for children living with serious or life threatening illnesses between the ages of 3 and 18.

Performers at the concert seemed to be all x reality tv talent show contestants, including JLS who were headlining the event, Olly Murs, Joe McElderry, George Sampson and Spelbound. Also performing were Tinchy Stryder and The Saturdays. Spelbound were amazing to watch, but difficult to photograph. As I was at the front all night, I made sure I had some hearing protection, this wasn't because I don't want to listen to the music, just to stop my hearing getting damaged.

Pictured is JLS performing at the concert.

Myleene Klass at the Ivy

2011-03-22T10:30:00.008Z

Myleene Klass arriving the Ivy Restaurant

Wednesday 9th March was a surprisingly good day for me. I arranged to meet a friend outside the Ivy Restaurant, a popular place for celebrities. Except, it hasn't been so popular recently. Knowing that it's not so popular I thought that to make my trip into London worth while I would photograph something else after meeting my friend; that has now been put on hold until my next visit into London of a day time.

While a few celebrities arrived at the Ivy including Myleene Klass carrying a soft toy and frying pan, the Ambassadors Theatre opposite was a special music night, with a few guest stars. These included Members of the Rolling Stone, Charlie Watts and ex bassist Bill Wyman. I left before Ronnie Wood arrived - gutted. The whole few hours gave me and a few autograph collectors a nice addition to our collections.

Jet Harris 1939 - 2011

2011-03-18T12:19:00.003Z

It is with great sadness that I write this post. Jet Harris the original bass player with Cliff Richard and The Shadows passed away last night 17 March 2011. Jet had been ill with cancer for the last few years and struggled on with performing. The Rapiers worked with Jet for the last 25 years. He will be missed by us all any many others that have known him and influenced in those early years by him.

This is a rare picture I took of him playing and using my bass guitar. I was normally on stage with him.

Jet Harris in Weymouth, 2008

Here is some more information on Jet Harris's career:-

Jet Harris was a UK pioneer of the electric bass guitar. He was the first person in Britain to play the Fender Precision Bass guitar in a band.
Jet Harris was the original bass player with world-renowned instrumental group the Shadows. Some of (Cliff Richard and) the Shadows greatest hits came during his time with them.
Jet Harris thought up the name the Shadows
With Cliff Richard and the Shadows - Jet's chart career was staggering.
When the Shadows won international fame in their own right with their chart-topper “Apache” in 1960, Jet’s driving and innovative bass playing was central to their sound.
Jet Harris left The Shadows in 1962. He broke new boundaries in the 1960s by transforming the bass into the lead instrument on his number one hit “Diamonds” and chart-topper “Scarlett O’Hara”
Jet has appeared on 24 No.1 hit recordings - the singles include: "Living Doll", "Travelling Light", "Please Don't Tease", "I Love You", "The Young Ones", "Diamonds", "Apache", "Kon-Tiki" and "Wonderful Land".… Jet was a pioneer of 6-string bass playing. The sound was dubbed “The 6-string Thunder Thrill”
In 1964 Jet received the New Musical Express Award for Top Instrumentalist of the Year
Jet has inspired and been revered by guitarists who followed in his wake including, Sir Paul McCartney, Sting, Bill Wyman and Fleetwood Mac’s John McVie
"Nivram" has become a 'standard' and is acknowledged as a classic example of a bass guitar solo.
Jet received a Lifetime Achievement Award from Fender guitars in 1998 and he continued to actively tour until a few weeks before his death
In January 2010 Jet Harris received an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in the Queen’s New Year 2010 Honours List
In 2009 Jet Harris was diagnosed with a form of cancer. The primary site of the cancer was unknown. CUP (Cancer of Unknown Primary site) accounts for 4% of all new cancer cases*

*Figures taken from the Cancer Research UK website www.cancerhelp.org.uk/type/unknown-primary-cancer/

X factor live tour - Cher Lloyd

2011-03-15T15:15:00.004Z

I was lucky enough to be asked to cover the Matinee performance of the X factor Live tour on Sunday 6th March at Wembley Arena. Normally with live shows photographers will only get the first 3 songs. I once had 1 song only. With the X factor show, because they had pyrotechnics, we weren't allowed to shoot any acts then. In addition, all the top 10 acts from the X factor finals were spread across the whole show. This meant for some a long day, or a chance to see more than one song from the show. Great.

Cher Lloyd performing on the X Factor live tour

I was very pleased to see they actually used a real band with real musicians, playing real instruments rather than just backing tracks. It was good to see more of a show than normal, I still left just before the end to avoid thousands of people all catching the same train.

The link to famous pictures also includes pictures by another photographer taken on the previous day 5th March. My pictures are those dated 6th March. I also need to point out that these pictures have restrictions for use. They are not available for use after 6th June 2011 and must only be used in within the context of the concert. I'm sure a pictures caption mentioning the concert would be sufficient. Other use needs to be arranged by contacting syco. Sadly I don't have the contact details.

Latest images on Alamy - Internet shopping

2011-03-07T10:45:00.011Z

Attractive female internet shopping

A few more images have been added to my collection with Alamy. The bank card is out again, this time I have used the theme of internet shopping and added a laptop. The Model I used was Gemma. She is smiling because she is using her partners card. I've worked with Gemma a few times over the past few years. Each time she has had a different image, I think the technical term is change of hair style, it helps to keep the images different. We've had a few images published together in the past.

Minimal processing on these shots, just some level adjustments and clean up of any dust spots.

If you would like to do similar lifestyle modelling for me, please contact me for more details. You need to be healthy looking as I don't airbrush/photoshop pictures for this purpose.

Jaime Winstone and Paloma Faith at PPQ fashion show during London Fashion week

2011-03-01T11:30:00.003Z

Pandemonia at PPQ Fashion show

At the time of writing, I'm in the middle of Jury service, which is interesting, yet it restricts me be able to get to events to photograph. It's a busy time at the moment as well, London fashion week is in full swing. I manage to get to one event to photograph some outside arrivals. Really I need to do much more than just one event, it's still great fun to get out to one though. I managed to get to the PPQ fashion show at Somerset House. A few people arrived including Paloma Faith and Jaime Winstone. I don't just photograph celebrities arriving at these event, here is one character that looked great Pandemonia.

I used to shoot film; I'm now selling my 35mm film Scanner - SOLD

2011-02-26T21:10:00.001Z

Film Scanner and accessories for sale

I used to shoot 35mm film, mainly transparency. Much of my early stock photos are taken on 35mm transparency film. As I now shoot digital and my film stock is either already scanned or has no commercial value I have decided to sell my dedicated film scanner. You can check in out on that popular trading site. The scanner is a Konica Minolta diMAGE 5400 35mm film scanner. It scans both positive and negative films, b&w and colour.

As you can see everything that came with the scanner is included.

SOLD

Financial worries on Alamy - My lastest stock images

2011-02-25T15:00:00.006Z

Bank card being cut in half

A recent photo session with Gemma gave me the chance to update my stock with Alamy. We had a great afternoon together, along with Billy, Gemma's partner, despite Gemma being hungover. Just as well I don't like early mornings or we would have been in trouble.

One of the themes I considered for the shoot was debt, financial worries and struggles. Seen here is a picture of someone (Gemma) about to cut up my credit card. I'd been saving some for about seven years in anticipation of this shot. I have a few more left if anyone else would like to cut a card in two. While I'm on the subject, cut a card into at least three pieces if you want to discard it. That way, it's not just snapped by chance, should the card full in the wrong hands.

Minimal processing on these shots, just some level adjustments and clean up of any dust spots.

If you would like to do similar lifestyle modelling for me, please contact me for more details.

Important note:- My heading is not relating to the financial position at Alamy, just a use of words for my picture content recently added to my stock collection with Alamy.

Nancy Sorrell at Stephane St Jaymes fashion launch

2011-02-22T13:00:00.002Z

Nancy Sorrell

Currently I'm doing Jury service, which restricts my work for the next few weeks. It seems to be usual that I miss all the fun stuff when I'm busy with other commitments. I did manage to get to one last event before my service started. The fashion launch for Stephane St. Jaymes Spring/summer collection. Just before London Fashion week starts, although by the time this post goes live, LFW will have ended. I could have stayed to cover the actual fashion show, I decided not. Here is a shot of Nancy Sorrell, wife of comedian Vic Reeves. Also in attendance was ex Eastenders actor Ross Kemp and Princes Michael of Kent.

As I normally mention, all the photos on my blog and on the first link included are taken by myself (except where I state otherwise). In this instance they are available for commercial use via Famous Pictures. If you are interested in prints of my pictures contact me for details.

Nathan Hulse - Have you ever Googled your name? I found religion.

2011-02-20T11:00:00.062Z

Vicar conducting a Communion

service in an Anglican church

Have you tried to google your name and see what the results are? I did. One Nathan D Hulse was charged with trying to bomb a Seattle Strip Club, while another Nathan Hulse is Doctor of Philosophy Medical Informatics University of Utah. While the Nathan Hulse I know (thats me) is a Photographer and Musician.

I also found a few pictures I took a few years ago that I had forgotten about. One picture library I used to deal with, E&E Images deals with religious and other curiosity related pictures. As I used to go to a particular local Church frequently, I asked the minister there at the time, if it would be possible to take some pictures during a few services in return for a split of any income generated. He obliged. A few such pictures were brought to my attention from Googling myself. These pictures are being sold via sub agencies. In this instance e&e are selling via fotosearch.com and Imagestate. However, only a small selection of my library with e&e are online with these agencies. I haven't done much photography in the Church since as I felt the shutter was too loud and distracting. Nobody complained or even told me they could hear it. Plus, I'm currently concentrating my energy on celebrity press photography and lifestyle shoots when I get the opportunity.

If you are a model and would like some pictures, perhaps we could help each other. I'm always interested in healthy looking models (limited retouching/photoshop) that maybe able to help with lifestyle shoots. This could be anything from drinking a cup of tea, to standing by a car stranded in the middle of nowhere. In return, you will also get some suitable pictures for you own portfolio, plus a percentage from any sales that may be generated.

If you are interested please contact me. I will be able to give you more information.

Are you a Family that keep Chickens?

2011-02-05T11:36:00.000Z

Are you a Family that keeps Chickens? If so I would be interested in hearing from you. Ideally you would need to live in North London, Hertfordshire or Essex area. I have a magazine that is after shots of families, preferably with children that keep their own chickens.

If your interested please contact me. I will be able to give you more information.

Jodie Gasson and syndication splits

2011-02-02T13:00:00.004Z

I wrote a post on Glamour model Jodie Gasson in 2009. At that time I was hoping to make available picture sets for sale to my usual agency for this type of shot. Unfortunately on this occasion no reasonable agreement was made between myself and the models manager at that time for a syndication split. Such a shame as I've had a a lot of interest in the images from this shoot. They will now only be seen on flickr and this blog.

Much glamour photography is done on this basis and the photographer and model would only receive money if the photos sell to magazines or similar. Some photographers even deduct a value for their expenses before any such split is made. Jeff Walker of Epic Pictures explains how syndication works on his website.

Note:- I have reprocessed the shot posted here, you can see the original version here. Also a brief note on syndication and my photography; At the moment I am not shooting glamour pictures. I do sometimes shoot lifestyle pictures (you get to keep all your clothes on) which I submit to one of my picture libraries I deal with. I don't pay any money up front, I do pay a split as per syndication should the picture/s sell. Pictures can sell more than once or not at all. If I do this with a model I was also endeavor to get some pictures that the model can use for their own portfolio. If you would like me to consider you for something like this in the future please contact me.

Berlin - Brandenburg Gate on Fotolia

2011-01-28T17:10:00.007Z

I recently went to Berlin, Germany to Visit a friend. I didn't get to take as many pictures as I would have liked to have done. Also the weather wasn't in my favour for quality images for stock use. I did however, manage to capture a few of the Brandenburg Gate, or Brandenburger Tor, if you live in Germany.

NatJag - Fotolia.com

As they were only taken on my 8MP camera I didn't feel the quality would be good enough to upsize and submit to my collection at Alamy. Instead I sent it to a microstock site called fotolia.

There have been many discussions about micro stock sites on photography forums as they sell pictures at a very low price. This is very good for many people that have personal blogs and want quality images to use without the huge cost that businesses would be able to afford for slightly more exceptional images. I only have a small collection on this site as I removed much of it a few years ago. They still have strict quality controls and one of my images wasn't accepted. Next time I visit Berlin, I will perhaps take my tripod and get some exceptional images of the city.

Also see a rejected image by fotolia on my rarely used blog site at Shutterchance.com

Radio times party with Terry Wogan

2011-01-25T13:00:00.002Z

Terry Wogan

Last week on 18th January there was a Radio Times Cover party at Claridges Hotel in London. The event was listed as 'No Press Access'. This didn't stop many photographers from turning up outside the hotel anyway. I was really pleased to have photographed broadcasting legend Terry Wogan. Although it wasn't a posed studio shot, it was still nice to have seen him through my lens.

I am now away in Berlin for a few days.

As I mostly try to to point out, all the photos on my blog and on the first link included are taken by myself (except where I state otherwise). In this instance they are available for commercial use via Famous Pictures. If you are interested in prints of my pictures contact me for details.

Hollyoaks actress Melissa Walton celebrates her 21st Birthday in London

2011-01-18T13:50:00.001Z

Melissa Walton

It is very quiet for me at the moment. Things should be picking up soon, with few lifestyle shoots being planned.

The other week I went to the Café de Paris in London for Melissa Walton's 21st Birthday. This was as a paparazzi photographer rather than being in a press pen or something similar. Melissa Walton is in Hollyoaks. I was hoping a few of the other actresses from the show would also turn up. Sadly for me they didn't. I'm sure it didn't stop Melissa enjoying her night.

2010 - A few favorite or special pictures

2010-12-31T10:10:00.003Z

Jodie Marsh

I thought it would be interesting to have a look through my pictures and post a few pictures that either I like or were special to me for a reason. I've not included any shots that I have already posted. Non of these pictures were very successful for me. That's not always the point for me.

This first shot of Jodie Marsh was taken in February 2010 at a Haiti Earthquake fundraiser at the Roundhouse in Camden Town. There weren't many photographers at this. There weren't many celebrities either. As a result, many photographers left after an hour. Another photographer Brian Jordan of Celebrity photos UK and myself stayed, the promotors/pr promised free beer. Jodie Marsh arrived and Brian asked a busker outside the venue if we could borrow his guitar, he obliged.

Nicola Roberts

The second shot of Nicola Roberts of Girls Aloud was taken after a day in London. I had a few events to cover. A free concert "Music for Mum's" for Cancer in Covent Garden, with Gabriella Cilmi, follow by the variety Club annual dinner and ball at the Hilton Hotel in London. On my way back to the station I walked past the Mayfair Hotel to see a friend of mine. Within 10 minutes Nicola Roberts walked out wearing this stunning outfit.

Rihanna

This final shot was taken of US singer Rihanna at London's o2. It isn't technically a great shot. I found out the day of the concert photographers would be at the mix position 2/3 back in the venue. I would need to longer focal length than I had. I couldn't have hired a lens (which I didn't think about at the time) I decided to purchase a 2x extender. This creates problems,as I will loose 2 stops of light, in addition the quality isn't great unless stopped down to at least f8 (f5.6 is the minimum on the 70-200 f2.8 lens). There were many other photographers there with nikon cameras (great at high ISO) and 400mm prime lens. I was surprised how good some of the shots were, although not tack sharp, I had caught what I needed to of the concert. This taught me a few things; next time I should hire a lens.

Finally I would like to wish anyone that reads this best wishes and blessings for 2011. Thanks for looking and following.

Saturdays help for Breast Cancer

2010-12-21T13:00:00.003Z

The Saturdays

Not much from me this week as I went to Berlin for a few days. The night before (13th December) I was given a choice of events to go to. I choose one that supported Breast Cancer, Concert For Cure. For a few reasons, one being that it was for a good cause and the second was that I would get to shoot some live performances. Girl group The Saturdays were the headline act. Other acts on were Daisy Dares you and Lauren Pritchard. We only got 1 song from each act. Here is my favorite shot from the night.

Technical info:- Lens used on this shot was 17-40 (we were right on top of the stage), Other lens used for head shots (pictures seen in link) 70-200 processed the RAW file in Aperture 3.

As (almost) always, the direct link includes all shots taken by myself on the night, including posed shots on the promotional boards.

Craig Douglas Benefit Concert

2010-12-14T13:00:00.006Z

Craig Douglas
© Nat Jag

Craig Douglas is a singer from the early 1960's. He was still performing up until last year (2009) when he was suddenly taken ill. His legs are now paralyzed which prevents him from doing all the things he used to, as it would anyone else in the same situation. Saturday 11th December a benefit concert was arranged to raise money to help him. They raised nearly £5000. Craig sang 3 songs at the end of the night including his No. 1 hit Only Sixteen.

While this picture isn't how Craig should be remembered, it shows how brave he was to perform in front of people while in his wheelchair.

The Links in this post show some of the other performers who performed for free on the night. All pictures are available for commercial use via Wire Image and Getty Images.

Extra Info added 20 November 2011:-
I've noticed this posts gets many views and comes up early in a google search of Craig Douglas. For this reason I decided to add a picture of Craig before his illness. This was taken back stage during a tour I was involved with called 'Made in Britain'. I play bass guitar in a band called The Rapiers, for that show we backed Craig (and other artists) singing his hits. Craig was a true gentleman and always had time for fans at the end of shows. I keep hearing rumour he may do some live performances again, that is all I've heard.

Craig Douglas
© Nathan Hulse

I have received messages for Craig which I do forward on to the his manager.

I'm back in the country with Kylie Minogue on Sunday

2010-12-07T11:30:00.002Z

I'm now back from my 2 month tour of Holland. This means I'm back to taking photos. My first job back was the 2nd day of the Jingle Bell Ball. The main person I wanted to photograph was Kylie Minogue. 20-25 years ago being in front of Kylie and taking her photo would have been a dream come true. It isn't the first time I'd been fortunate enough to take her picture. The first time wasn't so great for me. Unfortunately, concentrating on taking a picture means I don't remember the moment. I have to make sure I get the picture, rather than be in the moment. She looked stunning as you can see from the picture.

Please note:- not all pictures in the event gallery at famous are taken by myself.

I'm Out the Country

2010-09-30T13:52:00.001+01:00

I'm now out the country for 2 months touring Holland with a Cliff Richard and Shadows Tribute show.

See you in December

Links with Cat Deeley and Lily Allen in disguise

2010-09-28T12:27:00.005+01:00

Cat Deeley

Week of 13th September was a busy week. Here are a few selected pictures. Thursday was particularly busy and it would have just been impossible to cover all events. I choose to cover Lily Allen's store opening and a big brother reunion party. On the way from one event to the next I had a look at Cat Deeley's Links of London Party. I'm pleased I did, as you can see Cat Deeley looked stunning.

Lily Allen with her Sister

Lily Allen has opened up a Pop-up shop in Covent Garden call Lucy in Disguise. I didn't know what a pop up shop was. I've since found out, it's a shop which wont be permanent. Lily came out and posed for pictures with her sister Sarah Owen.

Please note:- not all pictures in the Lily Allen gallery are taken by myself, some are taken by Awais Butt. All pictures displayed on my blog are taken by myself. All are taken using the 17-40 lens.

Ultimate Big Brother Final and Parties to Follow

2010-09-20T13:12:00.004+01:00

Winner Brain Dowling with Davina McCall

The end of Big Brother (or is it) with the final on 10th September. If you watch big brother you will know who the winner is. Here I have presented a favorite picture of mine from the Ultimate final. I wasn't a fan of the program, it was however great to be at the eviction nights. The crowd were great and I got friendly with a few regulars. In this picture is the winner Brian Dowling with the shows presenter Davina McCall. I wanted to try top capture spirit and excitement of the event, with the house in the background the other photographers and camera crew. Taken on the wide angle 17-40 mm lens.

Naturally following the end of Big Brother is the wrap party. Sadly, I found out about this too late and missed many of the housemates who arrived before I got there. Similarly, Josie had a reunion party later the same week. Again, I expected they would all arrive later in the evening, once again, they were early.

Pixie Lott in Blue; or is it Black

2010-09-14T12:00:00.006+01:00

Following a quite August, it has started to get busy again now. Fashion week is just round the corner, Wednesday (8th September) was called fashions big night out. There were many events on, I only got to one as I was going on to the semi-final of Big Brother that same evening. The only event I did get to was with popular singer Pixie Lott at Juicy Couture. The organisers told us she would be wearing a blue outfit, which looked more black to me. What do you think? She still looks great what ever colour it is.

All images are taken by myself and copyright exists on all images. They are available for use via Famous pictures. Clicking on the picture or link takes you to the gallery for the events at Famous Pictures.

1st Ultimate Big Brother Eviction

2010-09-02T12:00:00.002+01:00

General Atmosphere

Fans of Big Brother will know that John McCririck was the first person to be evicted from Ultimate Big Brother. What do will all think of him. Well some people in the crowd showed us. John McCririck is actually a fan of the show and I've quite often seen him at the studio.
As usual, All pictures are taken by myself including the pictures the first link (clicking on the picture) takes you too. They are all available for commercial and probably individual blog use via Famous pictures.

Katie Price flashing with her ipod range

2010-08-31T12:00:00.001+01:00

I had an unusually early start (for me) last friday - 20th August. Katie Price launched her iPod range and the photocall was in Parsons Green. After a usual wait past the published start time, Katie Price arrived saying "I've got them out today". She obviously knows what she needs to do to get her picture used and ultimately promote her new ipod range.

Tech-Info:- As a photographer I made an error to start with. I left my flash on auto. With the bright reflective outfit, the camera thought the scene was too bright, therefore didn't emit the amount of flash required to light the scene properly. Luckily shooting in RAW and using Aperture 3 I can recover quite a lot. However, with the large number of press photographers attending, I caught someone elses flash with provided enough light for me and a better lit picture. I soon changed my flash to the settings I needed once the podium was moved. We were quite a distance from her. With full length shots being taken on a 70-200mm lens. This also used up quite a bit of flash power.

As usual, All pictures are taken by myself including the pictures the first link (clicking on the picture) takes you too. They are all available for commercial and probably individual blog use via Famous pictures.

Big Brother Semi-Final and Final

2010-08-25T16:30:00.002+01:00

Mathew Firsht and Davina McCall

As many followers of the show will know the winner of Big Brother is Josie Gibson. I'm sure you have all seen pictures in the news by now. It is my aim to show you something different. At all the shows I have been to in the last few series there is always a warm up guy, Mathew Firsht. Mostly he tells the same stories and jokes each week. He does a great job of getting the crowd going. Rarely we see him with Davina McCall, as shown in the shoot to the right. Clicking on the picture will take you to the full gallery of pictures from the Big Brother Semi Final.

Camera Operator

Lastly from the final show. I've always noticed a few camera operators up high. They can't go anywhere once the show starts, if it rains tough. So below one of the many camera crew that bring you Big Brother. Finally a picture from the Final of Big Brother; Josie Gibson, the winner.

Davina McCall with Big Brother 11 winner Josie Gibson

Huggies with Danielle Lloyd and 8th Big Brother eviction rain

2010-08-17T13:00:00.001+01:00

Danielle Lloyd

August is a quiet month which means I've only taken a few photos. Here are a selection with links to the galleries at Famous pictures (you can also click the picture to see the full gallery).

Davina McCall with her Security

The first was from a comedy night hosted by Huggies, the nappy suppliers. Quite appropriate that Danielle Lloyd should be one of the guests, she can get a supply for her new born Child (Alfie).

The second event is the usual weekly eviction at the Big Brother house. I always try to include a picture that you wont normally see in the papers or on the show. Here I've included a shot of the lovely Davina McCall with her security holding the umbrella for her. What ever your opinions of the show, it's always a great atmosphere there even with the rain.

Jedward at 6th Big Brother eviction

2010-08-09T18:15:00.001+01:00

I missed the 7th big brother eviction show on Friday 7th August due to a flight back to London from Finland being delayed. Also being busy last week I never posted any info or extra pictures from the 6th eviction. As many people will already know who was evicted I try to get some picture that you wont see normally in the papers or magazines or while watching the show. Here is a view of Jedward messing around with the camera at the 6th Big Brother eviction on 30 July 2010. Click the picture or link for more pictures from that eviction show.

Audrina Partridge of MTV's "The Hills" in Aperture 3

2010-08-04T12:00:00.010+01:00

A Farewell party for "The Hills" last week on Tuesday 27th July at the Haymarket hotel on London drew a few celeb guests. It was a pool party around the hotel pool. Guests were prohibited from using the pool. Not much of a pool party. The star attraction was Audrina Partridge from the MTV show. She arrived on a Harley Davidson, then got changed for her official photo at the boards.

Tech info:- I send my shots into the agency and they choose one they feel best represents the event, normally with the bigger celeb as the main gallery picture. For a few shots I decided to bounce my flash rather than direct. Being short of time I just pointed it up and hoped I would get the flash from another photographer to make up for the loss of light. It never happened. As I shoot RAW files I had a little bit of play. This was underexposed by about 2 stops. When you increase the exposure too much the picture can get a little muddy and lose some of its punch. Using Aperture 3 I increased the exposure by 1 stop, then brighten using the new curves adjustment tool. Curves wasn't in the previous Aperture 2 version and is a welcome addition in the upgrade. What started as an underexposed file ended up as the agency's gallery image. The adjustments must have been satisfactory.

Click on the picture to see the full gallery of my pictures sent to Famous pictures.

More housemates enter the uk big brother house - 2010

2010-07-28T23:08:00.002+01:00

More new housemates entered the big brother friday. Would you have chosen the same ones to enter the house. Click the picture for link to more pictures from the event.

Just as I went to push the post to blog button, my late catch up of big brother revealed that Laura (2nd from R) had already left the house. No staying power some of these contestants. Not that I'd want to go in the house.

I saw Jesus (and Kate Moss)

2010-07-20T12:20:00.005+01:00

Jesus Luz

As the title reads, I actually saw Jesus. Although the Jesus I saw is pronounced HeyZeus with a slight guttural sound and spanish accent and last name Luz not Christ. Along with a few other guests in attendance including Beth Ditto of the gossip. The event was the autumn/winter launch for the Thomas Sabo Collection. Newspapers reported the Madonna maybe in attendance as well, which would have had an even great religious gathering of names. Sadly she didn't turn up. Jesus (or HeyZeus) did have a picture of Madonna (the religious one) on his t-shirt, perhaps to make up for the real Madonna. The evening was finished up with a picture of David Essex as he came out the theatre next door to the pub a few of us went to.

Jamie Hince and Kate Moss

Earlier in the week (Monday 5th July) was another launch of an exhibition of photographs taken by Mario Testino of Kate Moss. The exhibition was called Kate who? This time the guest we were expecting did turn up. Kate Moss. With a following of other paparazzi and doormen standing infront of the press pen barrier, getting a decent shot wasn't as easy as it should have been. Kate eventually came out with her boyfriend Jamie Hince. A quiet week for me on the photo side of things.

Tech-Info:- All shots taken on 17-40mm lens. RAW files processed in Apples Aperture 3. Most processing is just slight crop, contrast and levels adjustments. Followed by a re-size and compressed file to send off.

Ife Kuku 5th evictee from Big Brother and free tickets

2010-07-18T12:20:00.001+01:00

Any big brother fans will already know by the time this post is live that Ife Kuku is the 5th evictee from the final series of big brother. Pictured here with the shows host Davina McCall.

Equally interesting were the audience at the eviction. Many of them are there every week. A few that I spoke to were there for the past few series of Big Brother. However, they show their support by turning up every week and still struggle to get tickets to the final show. If you're interested in getting tickets for Big Brother or many other shows visit this link. Tickets are normally free. Perhaps I'll see you in the audience next week.

As always, all pictures here and direct links are taken by myself. Copyright exists on all pictures. If you wish to use them please contact famous pictures (via the link).

T4 on the Beach - 2010

2010-07-13T13:23:00.003+01:00

The Saturdays

I was lucky enough to be asked to cover T4 on the Beach at Weston-Super-Mare, Somerset (UK). Great, I couldn't wait. Apart from an early start which is never good for me. I managed to get up at 4:15, the press coach picked us up from Hammersmith Apollo at 6:45am. That is very early for me. We were looked after very well by the PR team. There was a down side, there were so many acts on we had to do our best to fit the live performances with the press runs backstage, where many of the artists pose for pictures as well. This was a great opportunity to photograph the acts on the other stage. For most of the day the weather was great, it did rain, quite heavy towards the end while JLS were performing. I gave that a miss, plus they were on the same time Diana Vickers was due backstage for the press run. The Saturdays (R) were minus Mollie King due to illness and performed as a four piece. They did looked a bit nervous at the start.

Diana Vickers

My notes for the day and future occasions I should do this event again. As a photographer we can take the live performance pictures from the golden circle. In the golden circle are also other members of the public. It's easy to get head in the way of your shot. Take a small step to get above them. The next point, don't try to cover both stages. The second T4 session stage is quite a distance to walk, plus we shot from the crowd, not even closer like the golden circle on the main stage. Finally, trying to edit pictures on a moving coach made me feel sick. Do it either before I get on the coach or at home.

Tech notes:- The main shots were taken on the canon 70-200 lens using the canon 1d mk111, while the shorter lens picture, eg backstage, were taken on the canon 1d mk11n and 24-70 lens. Many of the shot were shot using plus 1-2 stops exposure compensation as I was shooting against a white cloudy background. I have included an HDR image at the bottom of The Saturdays (still with the demo softwares watermark) which shows more how the scene really was; overcast. Clicking on the picture will take you to the shot submitted to Famous pictures. All RAW processed using aperture 3 (excpet the HDR shot). Which brings me to a final note, when the lap top is on battery power, the screen goes darker, remember to take that into consideration when editing pictures, otherwise they all come out a bit bright.

The Saturdays

So there you have it, a brief run down on the event and all the points I need to consider in the future. Also, please note all direct links supplied are pictures taken by myself and sold by famous pictures. They are not other photographer pictures. Clicking elsewhere on famous pictures will show pictures by other photographers.

I hope you enjoy. Click on the picture for the full gallery of images I took and sent to Famous Pictures.

Big Brother 4th eviction - Nathan Dunn

2010-07-11T15:58:00.000+01:00

Nathan Dunn was the forth evictee from the Big Brother house. You probably knew that already. As a press photographer it's a very quite thing. Get in press pen, evictee comes out, take photos, go home. As this is the last series of Big Brother, I've been trying to get some more photos to show the atmosphere, rather than just snap the last person to leave the house. This week I decided to turn my flash of and capture some wide angle shots of Davina Talking to the house. Using flash would just kill the shot and the big screen on the side of the house wouldn't show up.

Click on the picture for more of my shots from the 4th eviction.

Tech info:- All RAW files processed on Aperture 3, using the new brush tools to bring Davina out a little more. Most shots taken using the 17-40 lens.

Sunshine evicted from Big Brother then is goes dark

2010-07-07T12:00:00.003+01:00

Yvette Martyn, better known as Sunshine in the last series of Big Brother, became the third housemate to be evicted from the house. If your a big brother fan, you will know that already. Moments after her eviction there was a power failure in the area and the house was in darkness. The live episode went off air. As the eviction is filmed for a few reasons, 10-15 minutes a head of transmission, viewers would have got a blank screen before hand, In fact just before Bens stand up comedy piece

Click on the picture to see this and more of my pictures taken from the third eviction Big Brother 11 eviction. Most of my celebrity pictures are available through Famous Pictures and Features agency.

Tech info:- lens used 17-40 and 70-200 for the head shots and distance shots (on the stairs). All processed through Aperture 3.

Holly Valance and Gemma Atkinson all in black

2010-07-05T12:45:00.001+01:00

Gemma Atkinson

Holly Valance

Gemma Atkinson (R), an actress who use to be in Hollyoaks and grace the pages of many lads magazines is trying to lose her usual vivacious look wearing a black dress with no hint of cleavage at all. This shot was taken at a premiere for a film she is starring in called "Baseline". It was a rather low key premiere with just a few of the key actors and actress' in attendance.

At another event for Elizabeth Ardens 100th anniversary, former Neighbours actress and singer (remember Kiss Kiss?) Holly Valance (L) and others attended.

As nice as black outfits are, nice colourful ones would be much better. It's summer and a time to be bright and colourful.

Photo info:- All pictures were taken on the canon 17-40mm lens and processed with aperture 3 from the RAW file. No extensive retouching is needed or required for this type of press work.

Click on the photos to go to the main gallery at Famous Pictures who license much of my press/celebrity work.

Rock Choir to Queen of the Desert and some Wimbledon action

2010-06-28T12:54:00.018+01:00

A quiet week for me at the moment. A really rewarding job on Sunday took me to Hammersmith Apollo to photograph the Rock Choir. 4000 plus people singing in tune together, amazing. Unfortunately transferring the sound to pictures isn't easy. The Photo is of the choir sitting in the stalls and standing on the stage. Click the picture to go to the complete gallery. This photo was made from 9 shots stitched together in photoshop. Exposures were 2 seconds hence some movement and blurring to some people.

Ben Richards' opening night in "Priscilla Queen of the Desert the Musical" in London on 22 June 2010 brought out a few stars and some bright coloured costumes. Pictured is former Blue Peter presenter Zoe Salmon. Again, click on the photo to view to complete gallery at Famous Pictures.

Another interesting event was a slazenger party for Wimbledon. Slazenger are the ball providers for the yearly sporting event. The actual party was interesting with John McEnroe and Pat Cash playing a quick game of tennis in the street. Sadly, I wasn't expecting to take any sporting photos. Using a wide angle lens (17-40) at night with a flash isn't the ideal lens and camera set-up to capture the action. Pictured is Kirsty Gallacher. Click on the picture to see the full gallery of my pictures at Famous pictures. I found it mildly amusing both tennis players were using dunlop tennis rackets at a Slanzenger event.

Big Brother's Nikki Grahame

2010-06-24T14:14:00.005+01:00

A gala screening of "Shrek: Forever After" in London on Sunday 20th June, brought out a few celebrities and reality stars. Big Brothers Nikki Grahame being one of them, turned up wearing an outfit fitting the current big brother theme of the big top/fairground ring-master.

Click on the picture or link above to see the full gallery of my shots from the screening at famous pictures.

Another Big Brother Party

2010-06-22T11:38:00.001+01:00

Big Brother is now in it's eleventh series and there was A big brother party (hosted by former housemate Billi Bhatti) to be found at Embassy London. Click on the picture for a gallery of images I took for an agency I supply, Famous pictures. Noticed how some older housemates had their names on their clothing of body to remind us who they are.

Picture is Bea Hamill BB10

Recent additions to Alamy

2010-06-17T16:30:00.007+01:00

Here are some recent additions to my stock on Alamy.

Click for my most recent additions to alamy

Picture shown is Worthing Pier, West Sussex, England

Recent press/celebrity images

2010-06-15T12:42:00.007+01:00

Here are links to a few recent celebrity images from recent events.

The First News Fourth Birthday party in London - 10 June 2010

Pictured is Stacey Soloman, former X-factor contestant (© Nathan Hulse 2010). She is carrying a sweet tree made from sweets, sherbet filled flying saucers. More sweets in the base. You can see why she is smiling.

Big Brother - Mole

2010-06-14T16:01:00.003+01:00

I don't claim to be a fan of big brother. After seeing Mario go in I just had to tune in to find out what his tasks were. I have to admit I did find it rather amuzing. Almost like the devilish conscience talking to him with some of the thing he had to carry out. Still he managed to get away with it and is now celebrating being out of the mole costume and back in normal clothes and an official housemate. I probably wont be watching from now on. Only when I'm there to photograph the evictions.

Lensbaby fun (2)

2010-06-09T12:24:00.003+01:00

I met up with a great photographer friend a few days ago. He had just purchased a Holga plastic toy medium format camera. The lens is crap and vignettes so you can't really use it for professional photos. Having said that you can get nice effects with it. The pictures will never be tack sharp. In much a similar way is the Lensbaby Original. The glass isn't the best and unless you really stop down, you're unlike to get sharp pictures. You manual focus a Lensbaby Original LBO by pulling the wobbly lens around. The hold it in position and take the shot. Like the holga, you can get some nice effects.

Here are a few shots taken on a recent talkphotography.co.uk meet in Canary Wharf.

Thandie Newton

2010-05-30T13:08:00.003+01:00

Thandie Newton
Originally uploaded by Nat Jag

THis shot was taken at a recent store launch. Just using available light (no flash). I particularly liked how the colours were very uniform in this shot.

Pictures for Local Papers

2010-05-24T10:50:00.000+01:00

Friday 21st May, there was a cash box robbery at a petrol station local to me. Followed by a car accident at a nearby junction. It was believed these were connected. The accident was the getaway. It was all only 100 yards from my house, no trouble to get to and take a few snaps. It wasn't the sort of things that was worth sending to my usual agents, I decided to contact the local papers myself. Today (monday 24th) I received a call from one of the local papers. I knew they probably wont pay any money and infact offer a credit in the paper. My bank manager would like that. I wasn't prepared for them to have something for nothing, so I suggested a free add (also worth a similar amount to the NUJ rate for the pictures). I didn't actually want the add, I would just let them have the pictures. But, they weren't even prepared to give something back in return. So they weren't allowed to use my pictures. While they aren't great shots, they still provide some visual reference to the incidents.

The Security Van in the cordoned off Petrol Station

The aftermath of the accident

Worthing Pier

2010-05-16T17:28:00.002+01:00

Worthing Pier
Originally uploaded by Nat Jag

I went to West Sussex with a photographer friend of mine. This was the final shot of the day that I almost didn't take. The theatre at the front of the pier. On the left was parked a van and a car. I wanted to remove them to keep the image clear and clean. I decided to copy one half of the image flip it over, then carefully join each half. This has created a slight mirror effect especially noticeable in the sky.

Taken with 17-40mm at heliopan circular polarizer.

Flawless

2010-05-11T19:11:00.001+01:00

I was at the World Film Premiere for StreetDance 3D in Leicester Square. While waiting for the celebrity guests to arrive dance troop Flawless gave the spectators a performance. From the press pen, there wasn't a photo to be had as the weren't facing us. I just happened to click one shot as they finished, to check the exposure on my camera and this was the shot.

Taken in aperture priority at f3.5.

General Election - 10 Downing Street and Houses of Parliament

2010-05-05T18:30:00.003+01:00

6th May is the General Election in the UK and a local election in some areas. I couldn't resist the urge to go and take some images with links to politics in the UK. The obvious ones were 10 Downing Street and the Houses of Parliament.

These images and others are available from my stock at Alamy

Elton John (and David Furnish)

2010-04-07T20:00:00.003+01:00

Last week (1st April) was the 5th Birthday of Billy Elliot the music. The music was written by Elton John. I arrived at the press pen late because I'd not been informed of the correct time to arrive. I got in the media/video pen. Unfortunately I didn't get a great position. We were told that Elton John would arrive right in front of us; he didn't. My flash was set for close range, when Elton did arrive, I didn't have enough time to change my flash settings. Luckily I caught this shot, where someone else's flash provided the main light. A bit of photoshop work to remove some cluttered background and this was the final image. It's not a great piece of photoshop work I know. Of course for press work, I just alter basic levels etc. This wasn't the image I submitted to my agency.

I thought I'd share this with you. Elton John and David Furnish.

Film Transparency

2010-04-04T08:45:00.004+01:00

Digital photography has really helped the photography world. Many more people can buy a camera and get decent results at little cost. Go back a few years and you would have to send you film off for developing and wait to see your results. This could make it much more expensive to experiment with photography. Only the top guys that knew what they were doing would make a decent living from it. In the studio you'd need a flash meter, most likely you'd send your film of for clip testing, then make any adjustments for the rest of the film. Now, you can take a shot and look at the back of the camera.

I started in at the start of the digital age, but with a film camera. I wanted the discipline and technique to take photos, rather than chance them. Only now I use photoshop because certain industries and clients demand picture are retouched. I have scanned a few of my old transparencies. I have noticed a quality that I still don't see in digital. Sure you can get plug-ins that mimic film grain, I've still yet to see a good example. This shot was taken on Kodak Ektachrome 100Sw, great for skin warm skin tones. Also was 50mm @f1.8. Another film I miss using is Fuji Velvia for landscapes and especially low light/night photography. I just think I may have to get a film body again.

Anyway, here's one of my early shots of Laura. This is the photo as taken, no retouching.

Danni

2010-04-01T16:42:00.001+01:00

A studio session I done a few months ago at the end of January with Model Danni who has been published in many publications (not my pictures). Mostly lit with either 1 beauty dish or 1 soft box. I used Adrian Pini studios in Brent Cross, North London.

I used a 70-200 for the head shot picture and 24-70 for the rest. I always try to keep the focal length above 50mm.

Help for Heros

2010-03-24T19:58:00.001Z

A few evenings ago I attended 'Help for Heros' dinner ball, which was hosted by former boxer Joe Calzaghe at Grosvenor House Hotel in London. there were some soldiers in attendance as well and Joe posed for a picture with them. Despite some injuries you can see they are very happy and one chap look very proud to be there. Unfortunately the picture used in the paper was just Joe with his Girlfriend, Kristina. As nice as the picture was, it's such a shame the soldiers didn't make it into the papers.

the picture in the Metro (24 March 2010)

Joe with the soldiers

Gabriella Cilmi

2010-03-18T11:13:00.003Z

I feel I'm lucky to be asked to cover some live events at G-A-Y. They have some great acts and normally the female wear something a little more revealing than the would for a normal show. A few weeks ago I was asked to cover Gabriella Cilmi there. As I like some of her songs, plus I'd never taken her photo before, I jumped at the chance.

The following week, I was asked to cover an event in aid of the Marie Curie Cancer Care "Music for Mums" in London's Covent Garden. The headline act was again Gabriella Cilmi. The 2nd picture shows she was performing in the area where you would normally have classical performers during the day and evening. Anyone in the area could stop by and see the event for free, hopefully with a donation to the charity.

Liz McClarnon

2010-02-11T12:40:00.000Z

I don't check the magazines each week to see where or if my pictures are used. I tend to wait for my sales statements to see what has been used. Quite often I don't even know which magazine or newspaper. Just the name of the personality. I just happened to stumble on this one from last April 2009 in 'more' magazine, while browsing the internet, particularly Liz McClarnon's website. Pure luck that I found it. So here it is, some published work, sold via Famous Pictures.

Katie - new process

2010-02-09T23:24:00.000Z

I decided to try a new processing method on a few pictures. I wanted to compress the tones. I knew what tools in CS3 I should use, it was just getting them to do what I wanted that was the difficult thing. Anyway, I tried with a shot I took of Katie last summer. I always had this sort of process in mind when I took the shot, it has just taken until now to actually try it out.

Tech info: 50mm at f3.2

Weddings

2010-02-04T14:17:00.000Z

I've recently had a few enquiries about weddings. Can I do them. The simple answer is, No. I have no plans to start wedding photography.

I would always recommend getting a photographer that specialises in weddings. In the years following your wedding, the main thing you will have are the memories and the photographs, so choose your photographer wisely. While many of todays digital camera can produce well exposed photos, unlike the film era, where you would have to spend £5000 plus on a Medium Format kit, a photographer that shoots weddings all the time knows what to look for. A pro wedding photographer, will know what to do if it rains, or if it's too bright, you don't want squinty eyes or harsh shadows.

I can recommend wedding photographers and I will always suggest you don't skimp. Quite probably the rest of the day will be costing a lot of money, you want that captured in your pictures.

Shapes at Hastings

2009-12-31T12:01:00.005Z

I recently read a photography article on shapes (and form). It suggested limiting yourself to one focal length to concentrate on composition rather than just zooming in or out to make a composition. On my outing to Hastings, I took two pieces of glass, my 17-40mm and the nifty fifty (50mm 1.8) partly to concentrate on compositions and to limit weight in the camera bag. I tried as much as I could just to use the 17mm end of the wide angle lens. Doing this meant I needed to either get really close to an object to isolate it, which would cause distortion, or work on composing the shot. I then saw this tunnel known as bottle alley and thought it would be a perfect shot for the shapes article I'd just read. I had intended to use my 50mm lens for this type of shot, not wanting to change it over, I used the 40mm end of the wide angle zoom. I saw on a photography forum a similar shot taken at a different time of day. It helps demonstrate how important light and the time of day are in photography.

Tech info:- taken with 17-40mm at 40mm, f/11 for 30 secs, processing includes photo filter to reduce some of the yellow cast caused by the lights; contrast boost using curves and red channel as protective mask - this stops the darks becoming black and the whites becoming white. Although some areas were already blown from the initial exposure.

Congratulations Jet Harris - MBE

2009-12-31T11:51:00.000Z

I would like to dedicate this post to Jet Harris who has just been awarded an MBE on the New Years Honours List for services to music. As many will know we (The Rapiers) back Jet Harris, although recently he has been diagnosed with cancer and currently having chemotherapy for it.

Jet Harris was the original bass player and leader of The Shadows, Cliff Richard's backing band. They also had hit singles and albums on their own. Jet Harris can be heard playing bass guitar on Apache and the intro to Cliff Richard's 1st number 1 'Living Doll' amongst other. He left the shadows and had a solo career then teamed up with fellow ex Shadows Drummer Tony Meehan and had a number 1 single with 'Diamonds' which stayed at the top spot for 3 weeks.

I would also like to wish a Happy 2010 to you all.

Hastings at twilight

2009-12-28T13:58:00.002Z

I went on a photo met with some other photographers. By the time I got there, due to traffic and other commitments, everyone else bar one person had gone. So we got some twilight shots together. Here is one from under a walk way (which had a rather pungent smell toilet) looking out to sea with Hastings pier to the left.

tech info:- 17-40 at 17mm f11 for 30 secs. Post processing, corrected lens perspective and adjusted interior colour balance slightly to reduce yellow cast.

Nicola Mclean at Christmas

2009-12-23T11:42:00.002Z

Another festive shot I took last year. Last years 'I'm a celebrity, get me out of here' contestant Nicola McLean opening the Ultimo store at Debenhams in Romford. She appeared at 3 stores on this day, including Oxford St (London) and Colchester.

I would like to wish all my followers (3 people I think) a merry Christmas and all the best for 2010.

Nathan

Bianca Gascoigne at Christmas

2009-12-18T22:09:00.005Z

All the seasonal shots from previous years are gonna come out now. Well from me they are. Here is a shot of the gorgeous Bianca Gascoigne. I had a santa hat and asked if she wouldn't mind putting it on. She obliged for me, not so sure if she would now.

The shot appeared in the Star and was sold via ISO images last year. I haven't used this agency for a while now. I still use Famous pictures, Film Magic and Wire Image (latter two own by Getty Images).

How to wrap up warm

2009-12-18T11:33:00.000Z

Well after quite a few comments via my facebook on the previous post on the D3, I thought I change completely. As it's cold, I though a shot demonstrating the breast way to wrap up warm for the cold weather would be in order. Aimee Luis is the willing model who I think does a fantastic job with her gloves and scarf.

Nikon D3

2009-12-16T23:35:00.000Z

I just had to post this shot. I just lined up a shot, only for someone to stick their Nikon D3 infront of my camera. Is this trying to tell me I should also jump ship and go to the Nikon system. Probably not, I' have been considering for a while though.

Gold iPod

2009-12-04T13:22:00.000Z

Frank Lampard has just endorsed a gold iPod, with all profits (I understand) for charity. Only limited to a run of 500, which Frank and the creators will have their own ones, leaving approx 496 available, I suggest you rush to harrods post hast for your own special edition.

Mystery Monkey

2009-12-03T13:17:00.002Z

I was walking through an area of London and can across this chap. He handed me a small bottle of Blitz Energy Shot. I then noticed the notice round his neck. It seems he was looking for Stacey from the x-factor. I don't know if he found her, so I took some photos of him.

Mariah Mania

2009-11-24T11:00:00.004Z

Mariah Carey came to London. On her visit she went to Westfield shopping centre (19th November) to switch on the Christmas lights. There always seems to be a lot of hype around Mariah, where ever she goes she is followed by the paparazzi. Why? Well, her PR always contacts the various press agencies to let them know where she will be, including what time she will arrive at her hotel after landing in the country. While at Westfield, it was reported the organizers had lots of demands to meet, including butterfly shaped confetti. One thing that I though interesting was that once inside she wanted to look up, so she could see all her fans looking down from the balcony as well as in the crowd on the floor. There certainly wasn't a shortage of people to fill the shopping centre. It does seem to me that a lot of the hype we see report is manufactured, although, people wouldn't bother if it wasn't worth while.

I was fortunate to be there as a press photographer. She was fashionably late, only 40 mins, which isn't to bad when you consider rush hour traffic in London. I tried to do a hand held panoramic shot of the people in westfield shopping mall. Let me know what you think. It doesn't sum up the event as well as I would have liked. Also a shot of Mariah. Isn't she lovely?

Stormy Seas at Dover

2009-11-16T13:43:00.000Z

Saturday 14th November was a day of severe weather warnings, with 75 mph winds reported in the South Coast. People were warned not to travel unless essential. Great, perfect time to go out with the camera then. The winds were so strong it was really difficult to steady yourself. A tripod would have been useless unless really low, even then the wind would still induce camera shake. Anyway here are a selection of shots from that day that help as best as I could put the weather conditions in pictures.

This is what they were taking pictures of

Check out the cars in the top left

Oops

Waste on the beach

2009-11-15T10:30:00.000Z

I apologize to the follower of my blog that pointed out, my next post (after the lensbaby) would be non-lenbaby shots from the same location. Well especially for that person here are shots taken with a 50mm f1.8 lens. Probably the cheapest prime lens. It always amazes me when I use. The autofocus has broken so it has to be done manually.

All these shots were taken on Dungeness Beach, Kent, England. All the items were where they were. I didn't move any for compositional improvements. The beach has lots of old wooden boats that are just on the beach to rot. These shot were mostly taken at f1.8. All processing has been done in Aperture, which will only be basic adjustments to the RAW files.