These elegant flyers are one of my favourites birds to shoot.
Lightning fast they dart across the sky making a lot of noise for such small units.
The upwellings of kelp that occurs during the spring and summer months attract this
beautiful bird to our Strong Island.
High tides wash in uprooted kelp and the little fish that call it their home, the Tern can
be found raking the shoreline, hunting skills evolved over millenium, these prolific and efficient
predators with eyes tuned to the sudden flashes of silver, dive swiftly, plunging vertically into
the Ocean.
My shot of the summer hasn’t been captured yet. A new Autofocus Telephoto zoom may
help achieve this goal, what will really help out are a couple of summer storms, patience
and very quick reactions, keep posted for the shot I want 
The Tern featured here is fishing inside the harbour at Portsea Hard, an historic
and still to this day a converging point for peoples from all over the world.
(But mainly just Frenchies and Yanks)
]]>My plan was to visit Glenshee deep within the Cairngorm National Park and depending on the conditions and light, capture some Highland winterscapes.
Arriving at the resort’s carpark which had a good dusting of snow and some very interesting and dynamic skies overhead, my winter adventure deep in the highlands could start in earnest.
My preferred mode of transport in the mountains are chairlifts and snowboards, Glenshee has an abundance of leg sapping puma tows and not so many chairlifts, the challenge I had set myself was to catch a chairlift or tow to each peak, then hike to find the most interesting view points capturing the epic scenery before strapping in and free riding back to the lower slopes, before ascending a different face.
Clicking the image below will open the Gallery which contains a variety of snowy Highland views that I’d like to share with you.
View to Cairnwell
Lang Jaap Lighthouse near Den Helder,
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I last visited this location 3 years ago, and captured images of this gargantuan lighthouse during daylight hours.
I have had an itch to return and capture this 65m high lighthouse at night and in action.
The return visit I knew would be more of a challenge, I had my mind set on capturing some nightshots, and in the dead of winter with the temperature hovering around around the brrrrrrr can’t feel my toes temperature, I set off for a night trek.
The beams this lighthouse throw out are truly magnificent, multiple beams that when you are standing underneath the lighthouse looking out, feel like a massive umbrella with spokes of light being spun at a leisurely pace.
To capture the beams in their full glory a bit of a compromise had to be made.
Needing a fast shutter speed to freeze the beams, this technique required required the ISO’s (Sensor sensitivity) to be ramped up. I used a tripod and shutter release with an exposure time of 1/3 of a second.
Since then Southsea Gallery has gone from strength to strength, opening a bigger unit three years ago, their ability to turnaround bespoke requests is unrivalled. Working with Paul and Sarah I always know that they cherish print quality as much as I do and my images have to be of the highest quality to be displayed and presented to the public.
Paul is a successful photographer in his own right, respected throughout the UK for his ability to capture big named artists in live and difficult lighting situations, we tend to chew the fat and immerse ourselves in photo geek banter in my regular visits to the shop. Siring and raising junior photographers and master printers and framers is another skill Paul and Sue have mastered 
The boys make an appearance below, pop in and see what my printed products look like click the image for the Southsea Gallery homepage
Currently there are 5x framed prints and 1 deep backed canvas displayed and on sale in Southsea Gallery, the image shown above “6 Light Minutes” comprises of 12 long exposures stitched to form a panoramic view of Portsea Harbour reflecting in the solent.
Based on Milton Road in Portsmouth, this shop promotes high quality land, sea and city scape photography.
Their print expertise is of the highest quality, reproducing fine art it is obvious this outfit is dialled in, when it comes to providing the highest quality print and framing options.
High lustre paper with claims from the manufacturer that if left in a cupboard for 400 years there would be no appreciable drop in the quality of the print 
not sure how you’d prove it but a definite indication that the print produced will stand the course of time.
My decision to undertake a 3 month project capturing images of Portsmouth at Night resulted in lots of drenchings, countless honks from motorists, (dodged an egg tossed from one) , and hopefully some startling city scapes.
So for pictures from around the way taken with techniques that really do change the way you see the everyday things, pop into Island Pictures and check out the Flashspix long exposure Portsmouth at Night shots that are printed and mounted ready for you to choose your frame. Go on they deserve a wall to adorn and would make a lovely Christmas present.
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Based on Milton Road in Portsmouth, this shop promotes high quality land, sea and city scape photography.
Their print expertise is of the highest quality, reproducing fine art it is obvious this outfit is dialled in, when it comes to providing the highest quality print and framing options.
High lustre paper with claims from the manufacturer that if left in a cupboard for 400 years there would be no appreciable drop in the quality of the print 
not sure how you’d prove it but a definite indication that the print produced will stand the course of time.
My decision to undertake a 3 month project capturing images of Portsmouth at Night resulted in lots of drenchings, countless honks from motorists, (dodged an egg tossed from one) , and hopefully some startling city scapes.
So for pictures from around the way taken with techniques that really do change the way you see the everyday things, pop into Island Pictures and check out the Flashspix long exposure Portsmouth at Night shots that are printed and mounted ready for you to choose your frame. Go on they deserve a wall to adorn and would make a lovely Christmas present.
]]>If you feel inspired by some of the images in the gallery and are interested in discussing a shoot, please call between 9am until 8pm any day of the week.
Following the photo shoot you will be presented with an A4 30 page photobook and also your own removable disc, containing the high quality jpeg versions of the images, if that wasn't enough, also for a limited amount of time you will have access to a private galley from where you can invite friends to view the pics, the website is innovative and provides you with the ability to easily share your images on Social networks.
Online Webpage You can allow friends to order photo books, wall art or calendars.
Booking is easy, I love to meet potential new clients so just call me for a chat 07913 896886 , or click the link below for the contacts page,
www.flashspix.co.uk
The venue makes a great backdrop, ideal for contemporary lifestyle portraits, the shoot is fun and includes a complementary glass of wine, or beer.
My pop up studio, creative ideas and eye for a shot provide stunning results and my easy going approach, coupled with the relaxed vibe and ambient music will help to settle any nerves, my previous portrait work can be viewed by clicking on the featured image.
As a guide I would be looking to capture 30 high quality lifestyle and stylised shots of you, these shots would feature in your own Online Webpage from where you can select images that you would like to transform into wall art or perhaps a quality photo-book or calendar.
Booking is easy, and my portrait sittings are very competitively priced. £85 will provide you with an amazing experience and some beautiful images to cherish. I love to meet potential new clients so just call me for a chat 07913 896886 , or click the link below for the contacts page,
www.flashspix.co.uk
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Word of mouth in the Wedding business is King, with such an important role to play on the day, there are no second chances, so I took no chances. Kit was checked and and restocked immediately.
The location for the venue was incredible, I immersed myself and visited the location regularly in the build up to the big day, sunshine and blue skies were the order of the day for our little run through, this pre wedding activity is so important in connecting with the couple before the big day, that I now include this as standard in all weddings I shoot.
Helping both Jane and Neil to relax and enjoy being photographed was fun, I hope my thorough and creative approach is reflected in the images and attracts the kind of clients that I love to work with. With a mix of reportage and posed shots I aim to capture the character and personality of my clients and also a real sense of the importance of the day both to the couple and their family and friends.
I am humbled and proud that I was chosen to preserve their memories of the big day, Jane was utterly stunning and Clem looked like the proudest man on earth.
]]>
Word of mouth in the Wedding business is King, with such an important role to play on the day, there are no second chances, so I took no chances. Kit was checked and and restocked immediately.
The location for the venue was incredible, I immersed myself and visited the location regularly in the build up to the big day, sunshine and blue skies were the order of the day for our little run through, this pre wedding activity is so important in connecting with the couple before the big day, that I now include this as standard in all weddings I shoot.
Helping both Jane and Neil to relax and enjoy being photographed was fun, I hope my thorough and creative approach is reflected in the images and attracts the kind of clients that I love to work with. With a mix of reportage and posed shots I aim to capture the character and personality of my clients and also a real sense of the importance of the day both to the couple and their family and friends.
I am humbled and proud that I was chosen to preserve their memories of the big day, Jane was utterly stunning and Clem looked like the proudest man on earth.
I am inviting members of the public to perhaps for the first time, take part in a professional photoshoot.
The concept is simple
I am dividing the day into 45 minute shoots, the customer receives access to the basic service.
Basic Service £85
I Provide an online gallery, that only the customer has access to. (Customer can invite friends, make it public or keep it private.)
I provide a CD with the high quality jpegs.
I like to encourage fun and a bit of cheek and I look to capture personality and bring a creative and individual style.
Additional services are all completely non obligitory, my real hope is that my clients are so impressed with the images presented, that they will wish to use our extensive and innovative printing resources to provide elegant and contemporary wall art.
]]>
I am inviting members of the public to perhaps for the first time, take part in a professional photoshoot.
The location is the Little Johnny Russells pub in Southsea's Albert Road.
The concept is simple
The shoot starts at 12.45 and the day is divided into 45 minute shoots, I look to capture a variety of stylized shots, so sitters are encouraged to bring a variety of accessories and if at all possible a costume change or two.
To help capture professional images my portable studio equipment list includes:
2x500W Halogen continuous lighting.
2x 300W Studio Lights
3x Flashguns
1x Radio Transmitter and 3 Radio Receivers for wireless lighting.
I Provide an online gallery, that only the customer has access to. (Customer can then invite friends, make it public or keep it private.)
Customers have the option to download the full sized high quality jpegs.
I like to encourage fun and a bit of cheek and I look to capture personality and bring a creative and individual style.
Additional services are all completely non obligitory, my real hope is that my clients are so impressed with the images presented, that our extensive and innovative printing resources will provide an opportunity for potential customers to own elegant and contemporary wall art that is a creative reflection of their own lifestyle and character.
Our Initial meeting was very productive and the informal conversation included dates and key timings, location photo opportunities and ideas, ceremony details and the event organizer’s contact details.
I look to provide a consultative approach which leads to a picture commentary of the special moments during the day and evening, I use a mixture of reportage and contemporary styled images.
Research
Planning is a serious consideration. I gain confidence ideas and inspiration by getting to know the venue inside and out well in advance of the big day.
The Deveres Hotel nr Swanmore is an amazing venue set in extensive grounds, I have visited the venue several times now and have taken several test shots indoors and out.
Preparations
The venue tour is now complete, test shots at the location have been taken and a run through has been carried out with Jane and Neil.
During the Wedding preparations, I will look to capture reportage (documetary) style images of the bridal parties preparation. Still life’s of shoes, hats, giggles, tongs, juxtaposition of wedding dress and curlers or other observances, posies, trinkets, satin and all shiny things.
Will capture group and individual shots of both wedding parties. The exquisite decor and extensive grounds of the New Place hotel are perfect for capturing memorable images.
The Ceremony
It is when the bride and groom meet for the first time that I’ll be looking to capture some close up images of tender moments. I will position myself discreetly and be in the perfect place to capture the vows, exchange of rings and the “You may kiss the bride moment”.
Signing The Register
With such a beautiful venue for your ceremony, I have been working with Fern and the team to ensure that photographs of this occaision are captured carried in an idylic setting
as I’d like to capture a stylised sequence of images of this Landmark Occaision.
The photography on the day will be a mixture of reportage and organised shots, working with guests and the bridal party to capture a fun and vivid collection of images from Neil and Jane’s big day.
Interactions And Staged Photography
I capture the posse throw and catch, then the interactions as your guests interact with you for the first time as a married couple.
I will look to capture some reportage and contemporary guest and group shots, focus will be on key family and friends. During my research, I will have identified the best areas within the grounds for the outdoor Bride and Groom shots, followed by a selection of family and friends shots in a variety of beautiful locations.
Wedding Breakfast
Cake shots, artistic shots of cake, cutting the cake. food presentation shots, cutlery and flower arrangements. reportage shots of guests interacting.
Reception
Meet the couple shots, speeches, toasts, laughter emotions. First dance, couples family and friends dancing and partying.
The Wedding Album.
Preserving the special memories of the day is a very important factor for Jane and Neil. I use professional studio software to create the album design and to layout the images, I edit using non destructive techniques , always preserving the original raw files.
Preparing the album will be a fun task the bride and groom have tentatively selected the top quality “Renaissance” album, this is a beautifully handcrafted leather album. Neil being the print wizard he is, has seen and approved the album spec, Jane has discerning tastes, so the style and design concept will be a collaboration with Jane and Neil playing an active role in how the finished product will look, this normally occurs 2 or 3 weeks after the big day, this is when I catch up with the couple and relive some of the day’s great moment selecting the couple favourite images.
PRINT LAB
All images are sent to a print lab where they are checked and any colour corrections made before the high quality images are transferred to the high quality lustre paper that my print partner is renowned for.
A4 photobooks, framed prints and other high quality products will be available to purchase following the big day.
]]>
Our Initial meeting was very productive and the informal conversation included dates and key timings, location photo opportunities and ideas, ceremony details and the event organizer’s contact details.
I look to provide a consultative approach which leads to a picture commentary of the special moments during the day and evening, I use a mixture of reportage and contemporary styled images.
Research
Planning is a serious consideration. I gain confidence ideas and inspiration by getting to know the venue inside and out well in advance of the big day.
The Deveres Hotel nr Swanmore is an amazing venue set in extensive grounds, I have visited the venue several times now and have taken several test shots indoors and out.
Preparations
The venue tour is now complete, test shots at the location have been taken and a run through has been carried out with Jane and Neil.
During the Wedding preparations, I will look to capture reportage (documetary) style images of the bridal parties preparation. Still life’s of shoes, hats, giggles, tongs, juxtaposition of wedding dress and curlers or other observances, posies, trinkets, satin and all shiny things.
Will capture group and individual shots of both wedding parties. The exquisite decor and extensive grounds of the New Place hotel are perfect for capturing memorable images.
The Ceremony
It is when the bride and groom meet for the first time that I’ll be looking to capture some close up images of tender moments. I will position myself discreetly and be in the perfect place to capture the vows, exchange of rings and the “You may kiss the bride moment”.
Signing The Register
With such a beautiful venue for your ceremony, I have been working with Fern and the team to ensure that photographs of this occaision are captured carried in an idylic setting
as I’d like to capture a stylised sequence of images of this Landmark Occaision.
The photography on the day will be a mixture of reportage and organised shots, working with guests and the bridal party to capture a fun and vivid collection of images from Neil and Jane’s big day.
Interactions And Staged Photography
I capture the posse throw and catch, then the interactions as your guests interact with you for the first time as a married couple.
I will look to capture some reportage and contemporary guest and group shots, focus will be on key family and friends. During my research, I will have identified the best areas within the grounds for the outdoor Bride and Groom shots, followed by a selection of family and friends shots in a variety of beautiful locations.
Wedding Breakfast
Cake shots, artistic shots of cake, cutting the cake. food presentation shots, cutlery and flower arrangements. reportage shots of guests interacting.
Reception
Meet the couple shots, speeches, toasts, laughter emotions. First dance, couples family and friends dancing and partying.
The Wedding Album.
Preserving the special memories of the day is a very important factor for Jane and Neil. I use professional studio software to create the album design and to layout the images, I edit using non destructive techniques , always preserving the original raw files.
Preparing the album will be a fun task the bride and groom have tentatively selected the top quality “Renaissance” album, this is a beautifully handcrafted leather album. Neil being the print wizard he is, has seen and approved the album spec, Jane has discerning tastes, so the style and design concept will be a collaboration with Jane and Neil playing an active role in how the finished product will look, this normally occurs 2 or 3 weeks after the big day, this is when I catch up with the couple and relive some of the day’s great moment selecting the couple favourite images.
PRINT LAB
All images are sent to a print lab where they are checked and any colour corrections made before the high quality images are transferred to the high quality lustre paper that my print partner is renowned for.
A4 photobooks, framed prints and other high quality products will be available to purchase following the big day.
]]>
Our Initial meeting was very productive and the informal conversation included dates and key timings, location photo opportunities and ideas, ceremony details and the event organizer’s contact details.
I look to provide a consultative approach which leads to a picture commentary of the special moments during the day and evening, I use a mixture of reportage and contemporary styled images.
Research
Planning is a serious consideration. I gain confidence ideas and inspiration by getting to know the venue inside and out well in advance of the big day.
The Deveres Hotel nr Swanmore is an amazing venue set in extensive grounds, I have visited the venue several times now and have taken several test shots indoors and out.
Preparations
The venue tour is now complete, test shots at the location have been taken and a run through has been carried out with Jane and Neil.
During the Wedding preparations, I will look to capture reportage (documetary) style images of the bridal parties preparation. Still life’s of shoes, hats, giggles, tongs, juxtaposition of wedding dress and curlers or other observances, posies, trinkets, satin and all shiny things.
Will capture group and individual shots of both wedding parties. The exquisite decor and extensive grounds of the New Place hotel are perfect for capturing memorable images.
The Ceremony
It is when the bride and groom meet for the first time that I’ll be looking to capture some close up images of tender moments. I will position myself discreetly and be in the perfect place to capture the vows, exchange of rings and the “You may kiss the bride moment”.
Signing The Register
With such a beautiful venue for your ceremony, I have been working with Fern and the team to ensure that photographs of this occaision are captured carried in an idylic setting
as I’d like to capture a stylised sequence of images of this Landmark Occaision.
The photography on the day will be a mixture of reportage and organised shots, working with guests and the bridal party to capture a fun and vivid collection of images from Neil and Jane’s big day.
Interactions And Staged Photography
I capture the posse throw and catch, then the interactions as your guests interact with you for the first time as a married couple.
I will look to capture some reportage and contemporary guest and group shots, focus will be on key family and friends. During my research, I will have identified the best areas within the grounds for the outdoor Bride and Groom shots, followed by a selection of family and friends shots in a variety of beautiful locations.
Wedding Breakfast
Cake shots, artistic shots of cake, cutting the cake. food presentation shots, cutlery and flower arrangements. reportage shots of guests interacting.
Reception
Meet the couple shots, speeches, toasts, laughter emotions. First dance, couples family and friends dancing and partying.
The Wedding Album.
Preserving the special memories of the day is a very important factor for Jane and Neil. I use professional studio software to create the album design and to layout the images, I edit using non destructive techniques , always preserving the original raw files.
Preparing the album will be a fun task the bride and groom have tentatively selected the top quality “Renaissance” album, this is a beautifully handcrafted leather album. Neil being the print wizard he is, has seen and approved the album spec, Jane has discerning tastes, so the style and design concept will be a collaboration with Jane and Neil playing an active role in how the finished product will look, this normally occurs 2 or 3 weeks after the big day, this is when I catch up with the couple and relive some of the day’s great moment selecting the couple favourite images.
PRINT LAB
All images are sent to a print lab where they are checked and any colour corrections made before the high quality images are transferred to the high quality lustre paper that my print partner is renowned for.
A4 photobooks, framed prints and other high quality products will be available to purchase following the big day.
]]>
Our Initial meeting was very productive and the informal conversation included dates and key timings, location photo opportunities and ideas, ceremony details and the event organizer’s contact details.
I look to provide a consultative approach which leads to a picture commentary of the special moments during the day and evening, I use a mixture of reportage and contemporary styled images.
Research
Planning is a serious consideration. I gain confidence ideas and inspiration by getting to know the venue inside and out well in advance of the big day.
The Deveres Hotel nr Swanmore is an amazing venue set in extensive grounds, I have visited the venue several times now and have taken several test shots indoors and out.
Preparations
The venue tour is now complete, test shots at the location have been taken and a run through has been carried out with Jane and Neil.
During the Wedding preparations, I will look to capture reportage (documetary) style images of the bridal parties preparation. Still life’s of shoes, hats, giggles, tongs, juxtaposition of wedding dress and curlers or other observances, posies, trinkets, satin and all shiny things.
Will capture group and individual shots of both wedding parties. The exquisite decor and extensive grounds of the New Place hotel are perfect for capturing memorable images.
The Ceremony
It is when the bride and groom meet for the first time that I’ll be looking to capture some close up images of tender moments. I will position myself discreetly and be in the perfect place to capture the vows, exchange of rings and the “You may kiss the bride moment”.
Signing The Register
With such a beautiful venue for your ceremony, I have been working with Fern and the team to ensure that photographs of this occaision are captured carried in an idylic setting
as I’d like to capture a stylised sequence of images of this Landmark Occaision.
The photography on the day will be a mixture of reportage and organised shots, working with guests and the bridal party to capture a fun and vivid collection of images from Neil and Jane’s big day.
Interactions And Staged Photography
I capture the posse throw and catch, then the interactions for about fifteen minutes as your guests, interact with you for the first time as a married couple.
I will look to capture some reportage and contemporary guest and group shots, focus will be on key family and friends. During my research, I will have identified the best areas within the grounds for the outdoor Bride and Groom shots, followed by a selection of family and friends shots in a variety of beautiful locations.
Wedding Breakfast
Cake shots, artistic shots of cake, cutting the cake. food presentation shots, cutlery and flower arrangements. reportage shots of guests interacting.
Reception
Meet the couple shots, speeches, toasts, laughter emotions. First dance, couples family and friends dancing and partying.
The Wedding Album.
Preserving the special memories of the day is a very important factor for Jane and Neil. For me picture quality and album presention is very important, best quality lenses, advanced lighting techniques and a creative flair help to producethe highest quality images. I use professional studio software to create the album design and to layout the images, I edit using non destructive techniques , always preserving the original raw files.
Preparing the album will be a fun task the bride and groom have tentatively selected the top quality “Renaissance” album, this is a beautifully handcrafted leather album. Neil being the print wizard he is, has seen and approved the album spec, Jane has discerning tastes, so the style and design concept will be a collaboration with Jane and Neil playing an active role in how the finished product will look, this normally occurs 2 or 3 weeks after the big day, this is when I catch up with the couple and relive some of the day’s great moment selecting the couple favourite images.
PRINT LAB (Click the link to the print lab website)
All images are sent to a print lab where they are checked and any colour corrections made before the high quality images are transferred to the high quality lustre paper that my print partner is renowned for.
A4 photobooks, framed prints and other high quality products will be available to purchase following the big day.
]]>
Visit The Link and Send Billy to AlaskaI first met Billy, just a few hours before the featured shot, introduced to me by Luke Paull, Billy is the ultimate Maverick, he didn’t get good the conventional way, he got spectacular his own way. Working hard all Spring Summer and Autumn on building sites, part of the UK South Coast Ill Eagles Crew <> crew, when not working hard he was riding hard on local artificial slopes Warmwell, Southampton, Plymouth, Avonmouth all the time being encouraged by Luke to adopt a Professional Snowboarder’s attitude. His first winter season under his belt I caught up with Billy at the start of his second season.
In the 2008/2009 Winter season in Morzine/Avoriaz there were Green eyed monsters everywhere, this young gun who had no Reputation in the sport killed it every single time, to make matter worse he didn’t have a seaonal job, for those that do have to support their season by washing dishes, cleaning toilets and generally doing stuff to be on the slopes that they would never have contemplated doing back in the UK, this is a cardinal sin, however I think deep inside Billy’s mind, he knew that if he was to become what he really wanted be, he would need to ride mountains fulltime and so he did, hard, sometimes way too hard.
Tearing through Avoriaz it became painfully clear that I was riding with a freak, an insanely taleted freak and I had better reign myself
in if I wasn’t going to do myself some real permanent damage and so I did what I did best I started shooting. Loved Billy’s approach it was considered, his execution and this is what a photographer loves was Take 1, pretty much every single time.
As Billy sessioned the Featured Cliff Jump, the fox hole I had dug out in the waist deep snow was the best place on earth to be. In the presence of the world’s besk kept secret I was being treated to an impromptu masterclass of snowboarding. The week that I spent riding and shooting with Billy presented the most exciting photography I had been in a position to take.
After our week long shoot, relaxing with Billy and Luke at Jimmy’s with a well earned beer, the topic of conversation, (once Billy stopped doing standing backflips at the bar) turned to sponsorship, I understood at once Billy’s frustration at being an unrecognized unsponsored rider, I proffered the best advice I could, made a promise to myself that I would do all I could to highlight Billy’s Talent, I drove back to the UK next day emailled all of the UK’s Top Snowboarding Industry contacts and alerted them to the new kid on the block.
Fast forward to 2012, Billy is now well on the journey to being not just an established pro, but maybe just maybe, is on the way to becoming one of the most iconic snowboarders of our generation, his Triple Rodeo and World Cup form are off the scale, snowboarding is a dream, it’s all a crazy beautiful dream, my dream is to provide the world with more iconic snowboarding images of Billy, by you clicking “Like” on the image, my dream of heli- boarding (The Mission) with Billy in the Alaskan Outback might just come true. Keep the Dream Alive- Go Like !! click the link below
http://www.tetongravity.com/contests/the-north-face-photo-contest/CliffFlipper-14219/
]]>
Visit The Link and Send Billy to AlaskaI first met Billy, just a few hours before the featured shot, introduced to me by Luke Paull, Billy is the ultimate Maverick, he didn’t get good the conventional way, he got spectacular his own way. Working hard all Spring Summer and Autumn on building sites, part of the UK South Coast Ill Eagles Crew <> crew, when not working hard he was riding hard on local artificial slopes Warmwell, Southampton, Plymouth, Avonmouth all the time being encouraged by Luke to adopt a Professional Snowboarder’s attitude. His first winter season under his belt I caught up with Billy at the start of his second season.
In the 2008/2009 Winter season in Morzine/Avoriaz there were Green eyed monsters everywhere, this young gun who had no Reputation in the sport killed it every single time, to make matter worse he didn’t have a seaonal job, for those that do have to support their season by washing dishes, cleaning toilets and generally doing stuff to be on the slopes that they would never have contemplated doing back in the UK, this is a cardinal sin, however I think deep inside Billy’s mind, he knew that if he was to become what he really wanted be, he would need to ride mountains fulltime and so he did, hard, sometimes way too hard.
Tearing through Avoriaz it became painfully clear that I was riding with a freak, an insanely taleted freak and I had better reign myself
in if I wasn’t going to do myself some real permanent damage and so I did what I did best I started shooting. Loved Billy’s approach it was considered, his execution and this is what a photographer loves was Take 1, pretty much every single time.
As Billy sessioned the Featured Cliff Jump, the fox hole I had dug out in the waist deep snow was the best place on earth to be. In the presence of the world’s besk kept secret I was being treated to an impromptu masterclass of snowboarding. The week that I spent riding and shooting with Billy presented the most exciting photography I had been in a position to take.
After our week long shoot, relaxing with Billy and Luke at Jimmy’s with a well earned beer, the topic of conversation, (once Billy stopped doing standing backflips at the bar) turned to sponsorship, I understood at once Billy’s frustration at being an unrecognized unsponsored rider, I proffered the best advice I could, made a promise to myself that I would do all I could to highlight Billy’s Talent, I drove back to the UK next day emailled all of the UK’s Top Snowboarding Industry contacts and alerted them to the new kid on the block.
Fast forward to 2012, Billy is now well on the journey to being not just an established pro, but maybe just maybe, is on the way to becoming one of the most iconic snowboarders of our generation, his Triple Rodeo and World Cup form are off the scale, snowboarding is a dream, it’s all a crazy beautiful dream, my dream is to provide the world with more iconic snowboarding images of Billy, by you clicking “Like” on the image, my dream of heli- boarding (The Mission) with Billy in the Alaskan Outback might just come true. Keep the Dream Alive- Go Like !! click the link below
http://www.tetongravity.com/contests/the-north-face-photo-contest/CliffFlipper-14219/
]]>
click logo above to visit the online picture gallery
LG Freeze 2009
The towers of the Battersea Park power station provided an iconic backdrop for the LG FREEZE 2009, as London hosted this prestigious snowboarding World Cup event for the second year in succession.
The preparations started early on Saturday morning, groomers and piste bashers, ably led by Spencer Claridge took on the gargantuan task of getting the take off and landing zones ready, filling in the ruts created by the previous evening’s “Battle Of Britain” competition and spreading a fresh new layer of snow.
Arriving early I cased out the joint, before the masses arrived, I used this quiet time to shoot panoramic views of the ramp and the power station.
The competition started in earnest at 11am and a flat grey sky had me searching inside by kit bag for an ND Filter, Stefan Gimpl AUT was the first rider in heat one to land his air, stomping a huge 900 to set the bar high, Nate Kern from the UK whipped the home crowd into a frenzy after landing a crazy corked 700, holding his own and relegating some of Europe’s seasoned campaigners to also rans. Benedict Nadig SUI who placed third here last year fell by the wayside, crashing on his first of two runs as did Matevz Petek SLO and Michael Macho AUT. In qualifiying, one run counts, so sketching a landing stacks heaps of pressure on riders, hoping to progress to the final.
Jack Shackleton the other Brit rider in heat one couldn’t match Nates form and after round one languished in mid table.
With their longboat moored nearby, the Norwegian contingent despite the strong urge to loot, pillage and ransack strapped their boards on and instead assaulted the leader board, after round two, three of the five qualification spots were under their firm control Stefan Gimpl AUT and Domen Bizjak did their best to beat back the marauding Vikings joining Sondre Tiller, Gjermund Braaten and Morton Kleivdal in the final.
The second heat saw Ben Kilner and Jamie Nicholls repping for the UK. Jamie’s development into a Worldclass snowboarder continues and an off-axis 720 placed him halfway up the leader-board after run one, while Ben confirmed his status as a top contender with an inverted 720 that ranked 6th overall, setting him up well for run two, never one to rest on his laurels Ben went all out on his second run and was unlucky not to land cleanly as he slightly over-rotated his landing, a nervous wait lay in store, would his first run score be overtaken ? meanwhile Jamie Nicholls stepped up to the plate, stomping a 900 which although not quite good enough to qualify was enough to lay down a marker.
JAMIE NICHOLLS HAS ARRIVED !
The action in heat 2 was amazing, with the scores tallied, the enormity of the Scandinavian threat was apparent 10 of the top 15 riders hailed from Norway, Finland and Sweden. Unfortunately for Ben Kilner (the UK’s highest placed rider) most of them were in his heat, beating him down to 14th overall, a superb result and a confidence builder for Ben who picked up a whopping 180 Worldcup points, an established member of Team GB, Ben like the rest of the squad is looking with relish to the Winter Olympics now less than 4 months away.
Gian Luca Cavigelli SUI cruised stylishly and effortlessly to the final with two massive airs.
As the sun went down the crowd grew larger and noisier and the big boys came out to play, Slovenia’s ascent as a force in World snowboarding was bolstered with 2 men in the final, the format this time was three runs with the best two runs scoring, the first two runs saw the bubble burst for the Norwegians as one by one they dropped out of contention , meanwhile Matevz Pristavec and Gian Luca both stomped monster airs in round one to lead the finals only to sketch out on run two. While Stefan Gimpl the Austrian rider who doesn’t fall down shovelled on the pressure with a second round 1080 that was by far and above the best trick of the day, Domen Bizjak picked up the flag for Slovenia and landed his 2nd big trick ratcheting up his score, Gian Luca’s second round air couldn’t match his first, but he was bang on the money in the third round catapulting himself onto the podium with a perfectly stomped 900.
Gian Luca Cavigelli achieved a career best 2nd place, while the Slovaks through Domen Bizjak took home bronze, but no one could stop birthday boy Gimpl being crowned champion, something this legend of the sport and crowd favourite has made a habit of.
Congratulations and happy birthday Stefan, you are the man !
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snowboarding,luke_paull,billy_morgan,will_nangle,morzine,avoriaz,big_air,slopestyle,tree_runs,kicker,cliff_drop,cliff,drop,danger,extreme,awesome,pictures,images,photographs
Quoted from http://www.questx.eu/atomic_board_test_gallery.htm:
ATOMIC BOARD TEST GALLERY
Link to Eazy Riderz @ Morzine feature pageThe ATOMIC board test day was all set up, 5 spanking new boards to put
through their
paces,riders strapped in included Luke Paull, Billy Morgan, Fish, Jenna McGuigan, Pompa, Sarah Jupp, Sarah Sarah Hillon, Alex Nalson and Tom Charlton, we started the morning in the baby parkbefore heading off to session an undiscovered
cliff drop to powder, after the best two hours of on location shooting in my life we encamped to Chungamunga’s the seasonnaires “local” lunch spot to gorge carbs, and to check on the pics we’d shot so far.
Pumped we headed to the stash for a bit of back country jibbery, when I say jibbery, let me re-phrase, these toysare huge! provided by a large well knownSnowboard
Manufacturer they are not for the
faint hearted, this day was a true
test of the new 2009 range of
Atomic boards, and all five boards
on test sailed through the QUESTX mountain session with flying colours.
Send mail to [email protected] with questions or comments about this web site.
Last modified: 12/06/08
]]>Quoted from http://www.questx.eu/Billy%20Morgan%20Gallery.htm:
back to: MORZINE GALLERIES
Billy Morgan
Is a UK Rider based out of Morzine and looking to make it big in 2009.
We think he will make a huge impact this year and proudly present the
Billy Morgan Feature Gallery below.
Send mail to [email protected] with questions or comments about this web site.
Last modified: 12/06/08
]]>snowboarding,Luke_Paull,Morzine,French_resort,uk,alps,france,big_air,off_piste,backcountry,black_runs,danger,extreme,skill,sponsored,atomic_snowboards,atomic,EazyRiderz,chalet,self catered,transfers,geneva airport,questx_film_division,questx,jpegs,gallery,free,high_quality
Quoted from http://www.questx.eu/Luke%20Paull.htm:
back to: MORZINE GALLERIES
LUKE PAULL
Original Calshott ripper who went on to become one of the UK’s great snowboarders,
Luke virtually ran the Southampton slope and was a regular podium hogger alongside Sam Cullum on the Brits Tour, Luke is now a firmly established Atomic team rider and operates the Eazy Ridez Chalet located in the centre of town. Still with an insatiable appetitie for boarding, Luke is sure to provide us with many more memorable snowboarding images.
Send mail to [email protected] with questions or comments about this web site.
Last modified: 12/06/08
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5* TTR Tour event
The TTR SWatch Tour touched down in Crans Montana for the Champs Open Europe’s most established boarding competition which draws the finest riders from our continent and beyond. This year’s 5* TTR Slope-Style event was held on the 8th Feb 08, the park set up was truly amazing and saw Billy Neilson, Jack Shackleton and Sam Cullum repping for the UK and competing against some of Europe’s best snowboarders.
With his baby blue outfit, Swiss rider Anthony Holland came close to a podium position, doing well enough to earn 4th, Fellow compatriats Stefan Maurer and Gian Simmen pushed hard coming 3rd and 2nd respectively, and the winner is…………………. Jaako Ruha of Finland who absolutely dominated proceedings, stomping a huge 1080 over the swatch hip, then following that up with a perfect rodeo 540, his hits through the pipe weren’t too shady either, with super huge airs, stylish grabs, corked spins and soft landings the verdict was never in doubt ….. JAAKO RUHA Champ.
A star of in the making burned brightly in the shape of Alex Evoquoz
QuestX also design custom snowboards
Create your Video Collection at VodPod
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