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OK, a simple question, but one that would take a week to try and answer.... and I certainly don’t have the time to do that!

And the question is... ‘What makes a great photo?’

I said it was a simple question. Just five words!

Of course if you are thinking about trying to answer you will soon realize that there are endless variations/situations/subjects/intentions/preferences etc. etc. etc. that make capturing every photo different from the next.

So, did I say a ‘simple’ question? You now see that it is far from that.

But perhaps I should explain why I was faced with this quandary. Today it was reported that the legendary rock guitarist Wilko Johnson has died.

I have been fortunate to photograph Wilko on several occasions so I thought I would look through my pics of his performances to post a couple as a tribute. As I looked at the gallery I kept finding pics that I really liked. I began to pat myself on the back for doing such a great job... until it dawned on me why so many of the pics had a bit of extra ‘magic’ when compared to my other gig photography.

It was nothing to do with me. It was ALL to do with Wilko Johnson!

My part in taking the pics was simply to ‘record’ what was in front of me. It is proof that if a photographer is ‘assisted’ by having a distinctive and dynamic character as a subject the job is half done before it starts!

I have amazing memories of Wilko’s performances. He dominated the stage and entranced the audience to the extent that you didn’t want to blink in case you missed something!

What a legend. One of the true greats. RIP Wilko. Thanks for the memories.

If you fancy looking at some of the Wilko magic this is a link to a Gallery:
CLICK HERE TO VIEW PICS OF WILKO JOHNSON

Like many 'old school' photographers I started my career shooting on black & white film.

Now more than five decades later I find that my 'first love' has stayed with me throughout life. It seems that there always remains a place in our heart for the 'first one'.

So having completed the edit of the 46th Guernsey Chess Festival (in colour) I allowed myself to indulge in a little nostalgia by selecting a few of the images to develop into black & white.

I have to admit that I loved the exercise and I could so easily give up on colour for the clarity, focus and purity that a mono-tone image produces.

Seeing these images has re-awakened the young photographer in me... from fifty-three years ago. You can expect more B&W pics from me in the future...

Take a look at this small edit of Black & White Chess pics. I hope they grab your attention as much as they do for me:
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE BLACK & WHITE CHESS EDIT

Local musicians gathered at St James to celebrate the life, the music and the friendships they shared with Andy Coleman in a night titled 'Jazz for Andy'.

Many good memories were shared by the musicians as they took to the stage. Some chose to tell us what was so special in their friendship with Andy. They often repeated how he would always offer support and encouragement. Also his natural talent playing such varied genre's of music impressed many.

I think that what touched me on the night was the fact that Andy had almost always played a 'supporting' role in the bands he was in. He wasn't a 'frontman' or 'pushy' to take the spotlight but his wonderful personality shone through and he clearly made a lasting impression on all those around him... without even trying!

It's such a loss that he is gone - but what a way to celebrate such a lovely persons life. Rest at peace in our memories Andy. xx

I've added a gallery of pics featuring some of the performances:
CLICK TO VIEW PICS OF THE JAZZ FOR ANDY NIGHT AT ST JAMES

This was a new event organized by the School of Popular Music in 2022.

SoPM have already established a tradition of offering aspirational musicians and singers the chance to perform on the 'bigger stage' but the 'Music for Everyone' somehow re-invented what has gone before.

The venue was the theater stage at Beau Sejour which offers professional sound and lighting. New talent performed with the full support of SoPM tutors allowing them to enjoy the big stage. I have to say that I thought the concept was fantastic.

But there was more to the show. After each artist finished their act they were invited down in front of the stage for a short interview. This was both a way of allowing time for the change between acts but was much more than that as we were able to enjoy the personality behind the performance and what inspired it.

This was a really great format. Well done to all the SoPM tutors and the support they gave to their students.

This is a massive gallery of pics.... you can tell that I was impressed!!
CLICK TO VIEW THE SoPM MUSIC FOR EVERYONE SHOW

OK, I think we can all agree that Triathlon is a Sport.

What's more, I don't think anyone will argue that it is a sport that requires commitment, training, strong mental resilience and endeavour.

However I was left a little confused whilst photographing the Guernsey Triathlon Club's Granite Man yesterday. So confused that I had to lift the dictionary down from the shelf to try and understand what I had experienced 'track side'... especially in the depths of the energy sapping Ronez Quarry section.

Let me explain. I looked up the definition of 'Sport'... this is what I read. ' Sport: an activity involving physical exertion and skill in which an individual or team competes against another'

So Triathlon is most definately a Sport. So what's my problem?

Well I investigated a little further.

The above quote states that when taking part in a Sport you 'compete against others'. So what is the definition of compete?

Quote: 'Compete: to strive to gain or win something by defeating or establishing superiority over others'.

Now this is what was troubling me as this simply isn't what I was seeing as competitors faced the gruelling climb and heat in the quarry as they neared the end of the three disciplines of the Granite Man Triathlon.

By dictionary definition each competitor should have been trying to beat down their opponents. They should have been pressurising them into failure in the pusuit of a win.

But instead the atmosphere was of huge support between competing Triathletes. Encouragement was given to others in the knowledge that maybe each competitor wasn't actually competing against the other but only against themself. There was a respect for all others who were also facing the same challenge.

So my summary of Triathlon as a Sport... at least at our local level is that it is perhaps unique in offering competitors a competition where they don't leave the start line with a win as their outright goal. And it is all the better for that!

I've added a new gallery featuring my Granite Man pics. You will see a surprising amount of smiles too! How do they still have the energy for those? I don't know!
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE 2022 GRANITE MAN TRIATHLON

I guess it is one of those unspoken rules of photography that when a photographer attends a Mega-sized (interesting) event he will be left with a Mega-sized edit to work through when he returns to the studio!

At least that seems to be how it works for me!

I've already posted a Blog commenting on how fantastic the 2022 Vale Earth Fair was for the sell-out crowd who flocked to Vale Castle.

Well I managed to take around 600 pics of the festival during the twelve hours I was there! This is quite impressive I think as I also found time to drink MANY pints of ale too!

The easy part was actually taking all those pics as the atmosphere was amazing... and who wouldn't feel lucky to be able to call standing in front of a live band on stage whilst drinking and taking pics their actual 'day job'!! That's me. Yes I know I'm pretty lucky.

However the actual edit can be a drag, but once I get into a rhythm I seem to be able to fly through the pics. The tip is to only use the tools that Lightroom offers and not to get too 'fancy' with the edit.

Even then a 600 pic edit takes hours and I'm pleased to say all VEF pics are now online, yeay!

I hope you like them.... they can be purchased online - hint, hint!

This is a link to all VEF 2022 Galleries:
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE 2022 VALE EARTH FAIR GALLERIES

Today was a sad occasion. My good mate Andy Coleman was laid to rest after passing away much too young.

Andy was an incredibly talented musician - but far more than that.

He adored his family above all else but he had room in his heart for a huge group of friends too.

Andy affected and charmed all those who got to know him. He was generous and caring by nature and such great fun.

It can be said that some people never fulfill their potential in life. That certainly can't be said of Andy. He faced up to the challenges before him and always maintained his sense of humour.

Now his family have amazing (and happy) memories to help them through these hard times.

I will always remember how much fun Andy was be be with. He always had a story to tell but was also there for anyone who needed a friend.

Rest in peace Andy with Tracey. I hope you can handle arranging the music score for the harps!!

Who’d have thought that so many people would be into looking at pictures of hardcore action?

Those pictures are some the most recent ones that I’ve taken and they feature guys and gals in hardcore slippery action.

And before you get too worked up let me be clear. I’m talking about the weekends Petit Bot hill climb... the one raced in torrential rain!!

I’m commenting about this as my website has been taking a lot of hits in the last 24 hours... over 35,000 picture views!!

Not all visitors have been looking at the hardcore racers as there are thousands of other pics in the Galleries but thanks for the interest.

If you want to see what you have been missing follow this link:
CLICK TO VIEW THE PETIT BOT HARDCORE RACING

I was asked to cover the annual HMS Charybdis and HMS Limbourne remembrance service again this year.

Four hundred and sixty-nine lives were lost when the Germans torpedoed the British ships during WWII. Some bodies were washed up on the Guernsey shoreline and Islanders paid their respects when they were buried by the occupying forces with full military honours.

It's a couple of years since I last photographed this service which is held in Le Foulon cemetery alongside the graves of the sailors. This year the service was attended by around five hundred people.

The format was familiar and formal - following established etiquette. Something that you would expect from an event organised by the military!

I've added a small gallery of pics here:
CLICK TO VIEW THE HMS CHARYBDIS & HMS LIMBOURNE GALLERY

I've had a gentle reminder that I hadn't uploaded my pics from the 30th August hill climb. That is now sorted!

But I did have a sort of excuse... carry on reading to be informed!

This is my sick note to the Clerk of the Course that tells the story.

Dear Chemy – Clerk of the Course.

I’ve written this sick note to you to explain that Andrew isn’t feeling very well today.

It seems that yesterday someone made Andrew drink a lot of beer at the Vale Earth Fair.

When I asked how much he’d drunk all he could remember was that it was lots and lots and lots! Poor thing.

This is also why he was late arriving at the hill today.

I hope you will show him some compassion and give him credit for making the courageous effort to get out of bed this morning.

I also ask that you make allowances if the standard of his work isn’t as good as normal.

I’m sure Andrew will be fine in a couple of days... or after having another beer.

Love, Carol

OH, and in case you are wondering. It was me who forged the sick note.... just like I used to do at school.

My wife is amazing but there is as much chance of her showing me any sympathy when I have a hangover as there is of me breaking the ‘Terres hill record!!

The picture above confirms that I wasn't functioning fully :-)
CLICK TO VIEW THE 30-08-2021 HILL CLIMB GALLERY

It’s OK, I’m fine.

But that was a shockingly close encounter for me.

Whilst photographing the start of the Graniteman Triathlon I found myself (nearly) taking a landscape picture!! Strictly speaking it was probably more like a seascape really!

This has left me quite unsettled as I haven’t ventured near that genre for nearly twenty years. In fact not since I started taking pics professionally!

Somehow the types of photography that gave me so much pleasure during my Royal Photographic Society and Camera Club days don’t seem to have space and time in my current working week.

Whilst editing the photoshoot of the 2021 Guernsey Graniteman Triathlon I realised that maybe I need to re-awaken some of that old passion. However I also have to concede that there are many truly talented landscape photographers in Guernsey who produce outstanding work.... and also don’t mind getting out of bed for the early morning atmospheric light.

I’m definitely more of a night person. So upon further reflection I think I’m going to stick with what I do.

I’ll leave the scenic pics to those who know what they are doing... and can get out of bed!

Oh, and if you are wondering what made me start thinking about all this, the photo at the top of this Blog will help you understand.

My full Gallery of Graniteman Triathlon pics can be viewed by following this link:
CLICK HERE TO VIEW PICS OF THE 2021 GUERNSEY GRANITEMAN TRIATHLON

The 2021 edition of the School of Popular Music Corporate Battle of the Bands was performed in front of a sellout audience in the theatre at Beau Sejour.

This was also the venue for the previous nights Under 18's Battle of the Bands... a full gallery of pics will follow.

The atmosphere in the theatre was fantastic, full of anticipation and no doubt quite a few nerves, but once the bands took to the stage they were supported by the large and vocal crowd. There was a mix of seasoned performers together with 'first-timers' but the bottom line is that everyone did brilliantly.

This gallery features all the bands, the atmosphere in the theatre and the opening band, Sonic Bomb, fresh from winning the Under 18's Battle the previous night.

Follow this link to view all the pics....
CLICK TO VIEW THE 2021 SoPM CORPORATE BATTLE OF THE BANDS

On Saturday the 'King of the Ring' returned to KGV for 17 bouts of White Collar Boxing offering a full late afternoon and evening of entertainment.

The huge gathering was reported to be around 2000 for Round 4 of the King of the Ring.

The warm summers evening relaxed the supporters who needed little encouragement to drink and party from late afternoon and through the evening. The Breda can count on some of the tables would have needed a calculator to tally!!

Revelers clearly enjoyed the entertainment with many of the fighters ticking the 'try boxing' box.

This gallery showcases some of the atmosphere and all seventeen bouts....
CLICK TO VIEW THE KING OF THE RING ROUND 4 PICS

Whilst I was enjoying the party atmosphere in the Vraiceaters Arms at the West Show this website smashed through another milestone of picture views recorded.

Once again I have to thank you for the continued interest in my pics. It is rewarding to see how many people visit the picture galleries every day. The running total of views is now more than THIRTY-FIVE MILLION!

I study the analytics and statistics of the viewings to understand what coverage is the most popular but it's fascinating to see that every genre of my work gets it's 'moment' of taking top spot.

It seems that the people who pop along here for a few minutes all have their own different interests.

I'm pleased to say that I continue to enjoy my profession... a LOT! It is a real privilege to photograph so many different events and people and my time spent behind the lens has expanded my knowledge and love for the community we share in Guernsey.

I hope I am able to continue taking pics for many years yet - if only to give me an excuse to buy new kit!

There is another new mirrorless Nikon camera (the Nikon Z9) on the way and I can't wait to see how the technology has continued to improve.

One thing is certain. There will be no shortage of news, events, sports, gigs and occasions for me to feature in my galleries. I hope to see you viewing them again sometime soon.
START EXPLORING THE GALLERIES BY CLICKING HERE

Last night at the West Show the huge Vraiceaters Arms was splitting at the seams as a huge'er (is that even a word!??) crowd overflowed it for the second time as live bands took to the stage.

It was certainly a challenge to capture any pics in a ram-packed crowd but I did get a few :-)

Worse still, it was an even bigger challenge to get to the front of the queue at the bar. Even though it must have been more than 60ft long!!

But looking how the 'party' went I think that many people DID get a drink (several)... their mid-week hangover this morning would have proved that!

I've just added a new Gallery featuring the ever popular Last of the Light Brigade.

The edit of headliners City Limits awaits. This set was even harder to photograph as I experienced maybe the tightest packed crowd ever in front of the stage as the young West Show crowd discovered what live music is all about.

Did they miss their usual distraction of the Fun Fair... judging by appearances, I don't think so!!!
CLICK TO VIEW THE WEST SHOW LIVE MUSIC

The 2021 Guernsey Agricultural Show was a vintage edition in all forms.

The idea behind this popular show is to take us back to how things used to be in farming, transport, fair grounds, military service - and the list goes on.

This year there were visiting shire horses, steam engines and a vintage fair. Sheep racing, straw baling, tractor displays, fur and feather tents and live music all added up to two full days of entertainment.

A particular highlight this year was a very impressive military display which was beautifully presented and featured many vehicles and 'battlefield' tented displays. The range of equipment on show offered endless interest. Well done to those involved in organizing it.

The length of the line of vehicles waiting to get into the car park was proof that many of us have a soft spot for the past. Maybe we imagine that life was so much better then?

However I think that most of us would have quite a shock if we actually had to go back to those times.

Just as well that we can enjoy both periods by visiting this wonderful vintage show.

I have uploaded a huge gallery of pics for you to view here:
CLICK TO VIEW PICS OF THE 2021 GUERNSEY AGRICULTURAL SHOW

Well it's safe to say that Guernsey is buzzing again with action and entertainment!

I've had a non-stop weekend but its been fantastic fun in the Sun.

Everything has revolved around taking pics at twelve different events.... so the edit has begun!

Us Guerns have been taking full advantage of our Covid free Island and the variety of entertainments, sports, attractions and scenery available to enjoy in the sun is really something special!

NEVER let it be said that there is NOTHING to do!!

For starters I've added the GVC Frie Baton Long Circuit pics. They can be viewed here:
CLICK TO VIEW PICS OF THE GVC FRIE BATON ROAD RACE

The Guernsey Together Festival owes its existence to the Covid-19 virus.

'Normal' life in 2020 through 2021 was heavily affected and restricted by the outbreak of Covid-19 and as time passed we all yearned for the return to whatever was important to each of us.

For many this meant enjoying live music and the social scene that surrounds it.

So the Guernsey Together Festival was born.

The first Guernsey Together Festival was a sell-out and was blessed with great weather. I was a bit skeptical about how this new festival, which only came about as a 'reaction' to the Covid-19 lock-down, would turn out.

But in the end it was a great success with just a few teething problems. All the line-up was made up of local bands and truly showcased the depth of talent we have here in Guernsey.

But what about 2022? Will there be a need for big name headliners if this festival is to grow and find a permanent place on the calendar?

I've added the first two Galleries featuring the festival atmosphere and the Dance Tent.

Check back later to see the Main Stage bands.
CLICK TO VIEW THE GUERNSEY TOGETHER FESTIVAL GALLERIES

I was asked by the Guernsey Press to photograph the vigil that was held in Market Square, Guernsey, remembering Sarah Everard and all women who have suffered from abuse, domestic violence and harassment.

Hundreds of Islanders supported this peaceful event. A number of individuals stood up in front of the crowd and bravely described some of their experience of abuse.

The evening had a powerful message and in some ways was shocking.

The highly personal nature of some of the stories left no-one in any doubt that our society... yes I'm talking about Guernsey too, must work harder to understand the problems, educate the population and show greater understanding and support to all victims of all forms of abuse and prejudice.

I've added a small gallery of my pics taken on the night as I have been requested to. However the pics are in a password protected Gallery so you will just need to contact me if you wish to view them.

The Gallery is here:
CLICK HERE TO SEE THE PICS OF THE SARAH EVERARD VIGIL

Whatever 'your thing' is it is likely that some of your best memories have been made whilst participating in an event, sport or endeavor.

As you will see if you spend a few moments (could easily run to hours!) scanning my picture galleries I have photographed hundreds and hundreds of different occasions.

I'm grateful that I've been able to sell many of my pics featured in the galleries and many sales are of traditional prints... always a good choice, and the bigger the better if you want to enjoy the detail.

But the modern world seems to favour the Digital version of an image. This does make sense of course as you can load the pic onto your phone and you can carry it with you everywhere.

But I want to try and tempt you if you are considering buying a couple of pics. Maybe you should consider selecting a few favorites and let me design a Framed Montage for you.

The end result - after you OK my design - is an impressive image that will hang on the wall to remind you of that 'special moment'. You will see extra detail in your Montage and everyone else can see it too.

If I've tempted you there is an easy process to ordering your very own custom designed Montage.

When you see a pic that you would like in your montage just select it using the option in the Buy Now button below each pic. Make sure that you choose your preferred 'Main' picture first then simply use the 'add to Montage' button to build the Montage.

The most successful and popular designs usually include five or nine pics but I'll try any design you favour. After I make a design you will be emailed a proof for you to OK.

So next time you are thinking about buying a couple of pics remember to consider ordering a Montage. The end result could be much more memorable!

If you need a little inspiration follow this link to see some of my previous Montage designs:
CLICK TO VIEW SOME PREVIOUS MONTAGE DESIGNS