Le Pot au Feu, Damrak, Amsterdam

Actant, a specialist software company required a testimonial shooting in Amsterdam as part of their on-line marketing function so despatched me, with kit to record the piece.  I arrived at LeoPark Options in plenty of time and set up ready for Joost van der Poel, the companies owner and principle trader to deliver the item to camera. (see it here)

"Joost van der Poel" Leopark Options, Amsterdam

The whole team, Paul and the guys, made me really welcome so thank you all for your hospitality and invaluable advice. I had a few hours spare before my flight home so the guys went out of their way with a map and directions so that I could do a quick tour around the city and take in some of the sights. I’ve taken a few typical (Arty black & white) Amsterdam views which I hope you enjoy. All taken on a small Canon compact as I was travelling “light.” (View photos here)

Final thanks to Tony Wardle and David Maskens at Salestorque… the client and the post-production facility in London.

Left to Right. Albert Sutton, Jim Inkester, Pam Sutton.

Operated by Pam & Albert Sutton to provide emergency packs for injured soldiers who often get flown back home with just the clothes they were wearing when they were caught in enemy action. The packs contain towels, shampoo, shaver etc. All the normal stuff we take for granted that they might need to help them in a small but vital way as they receive treatment back home.  Photographed with Pam & Albert is Jim Inkester, formally of the the !st Staffords who was seriously injured in Basra in 2006.  Jim suffered severe head trauma alongside other injuries during a mortar attack on his barracks.  He considers himself lucky and has thrown his support behind the “Troop Aid” initiative.

If you would like to be involved in supporting Pam & Albert in their work, put together a team to enjoy a round of golf and attend the “Tin Cup Challenge” Ball. Please get in touch.

Left to right. Neil Clarke (SD Voice & Video) Pam Sutton, Albert Sutton, Lee Cassidy (SDVV) & Jim Inkester

Shot some interesting action images for the new “Birmingham Press” sports section recently at Solihull Ice Rink.” The Renault Solihull Barons” V “Trafford Metros” Ice Hockey game. Those of you into your photography will understand the demands of low light, combined with fast action which can be challenging. Calls for a high ISO, decent shutter speed to try and stop the action, a fast lens helps plus a smidgin of luck too!. Managed to get a few good shots so the night wasn’t a waste even if The Barons did lose to Trafford. That said they put up a sterling effort against a team ranked much higher in the league. Final score 3 : 6 so well done The Barons I say. Exciting stuff with the odd “Gentlemanly” scuffle thrown in for good measure.

Some of you will know already that I’m a member of a vibrant business networking organisation. Namely BNI and specifically,  Solihull Foundation Chapter of the BNI,  although the network spreads right around the globe.  We are a group of like-minded businesses aiming to provide, a high level of service, quality and value for money, covering skills from property to plumbing… IT &  communications through florestry and top notch solicitors. We meet locally every week to provide both support and to help everyone generate good business.  If you think you would like to join in let me know and I’ll be more than pleased to have you along as my guest. If nothing else you’ll enjoy the breakfast!!! and you my a even add value to your business too.

Thanks to Peter Ritchie of GBNS who was on safety car duty for the British Superleague events at Silverstone recently, I managed to get along and shoot some exciting motorsport images. I took along a talented colleague, Dan Stone for company. We both managed to get some satisfying images and enjoyed the athmosphere of raceday. Included european  Karting and Classic series racing.

In a childcare setting these called for video sequences with children and staff to show both safe and good working practice. The programmes will be put on-line using an interactive training package by Lee Cassidy and his team at SDVV.  This will allow staff right across the UK  to access and maintain their training and safety standards on a day to day basis. Nigel Billing of PES Consulting Ltd oversaw the Fire Safety aspect of the production to ensure compliance with both safe working practice and as importantly…the law!

Shooting over a couple of days in Shropshire (great views …terrible weather!) and also at a local beauty spot where we were able to take advantage of a sunnier day. Also at “The Banquet” a great little cafe in Acocks Green (thanks guys for your help). Check out the album which is available on download at Alans website and enjoy the video too. Great to work with you Alan… a very special talent and a real pleasure.