Had a fantastic time at the S.W.P.P.Conference in London last week, the largest photographic conference in Europe where I gave my first Masterclass to around 55 delegates. It was quite nerve racking but got into it and enjoyed sharing some of my hints tips and handy ideas. Thanks to all of you who came along and thanks to those who have contacted me since with positive feedback ( also the guys who got involved in the shoot!) As a result of this I have been asked to speak in Cyprus sometime later this year very exciting.I was even more delighted, shocked and surprised to pick up two Awards in Traditional Weddings and Environmental Portraits.It was a great opportunity to meet other talented Photographers and talk and share ideas. I was happy to meet Adam Woodyatt, East Enders Star who was sat next to me at the awards and swooped the Architecture Award. He was so shocked and moved at his award and was a really humble and nice guy. I met other lovely people who were great fun and ended up doing a shoot at 4 am what a laugh!…..with the very talented Gordon McGowan who has been my mentor for several years and has encouraged me no end. Thanks Gordon you are a star I thank you so much for giving me your time and knowledge!I want to thank my husband, Paul and children too as when I go away he has to hold the fort for me, Thanks for releasing me into what I do best!!! Also thanks to my friends Catherine Jolley who is very supportive and a real mate and Bev and Barrie Downie who have also been helpful with marketing my business. Hi also to Andrew and Agnieszka Younger, enjoyed your company. Also thanks to the people in the images Janine Stephens in the wedding image and Rachel Borthwick in the fashion image.
On my return I attended the South West Region Awards for the B.I.P.P and won Fashion Photographer of the Year. So all in all it has been an amazing turbo charge into 2009! Here are the winning images and a few from the awards night.

Environmental Portrait Winner or the 2009 20x16 Print Competition

Traditional Wedding Winner of the 2009 20x 16 print Competition

Adam Woodyatt and myself delighted with our awards Photo by Bev Downie

Myself and Mentor Gordon Mcgowan. Photo By Bev Downie.

BIPP Western Region Fashion Photographer of the Year.