17/05/12

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Things have been difficult across the whole retail spectrum generally so we all have to focus even more on keeping things flowing sweetly. The early part of the year started surprisingly well with a couple of nice commissions and quite a few canvas orders. The retailers that I supply are quiet during the Winter months but now into May things are picking up.
One part of the business that has proven very buoyant are the workshops. It seems there are more people than ever looking at Photography as a hobby, interest or even potential income. The weather during the early part of Spring was challenging to say the least with some workshops needing re-organising. I feel sorry for other Pro photographers that organise larger groups over a number of days with accommodation and then the elements decide to throw a curve ball. I cant think of anything worse than spending a cold, windy and wet day on Dartmoor. My philosophy has always been to re-arrange the workshops if the conditions will spoil the day rather than struggle to keep people 'enthused' in poor conditions....
One pleasing thing is the testimonials I receive without any prompting from happy photographers. I recently ran a number of 'War Horse' workshops and had to re-arrange one from mid April due to very heavy rain. The three photographers were a little older and really enjoyed the day including the walk to Ditsworthy Warren farm in pleasant conditions to photograph where the movie was filmed. They all sent very nice emails the next day.

My new book 'Devon Food Heroes' co-authored with top Chef Peter Gorton is out on Friday 18th May. I am really looking forward to seeing a copy. Peter has been doing a fantastic job of promoting the book and all sorts of enquiries for related work have started to come in....

Here's hoping for a busy Summer.