In at the Deep End { Fashion at the Victoria Baths, Manchester)

If you hadn't already realised, I am totally in LOVE with photography in fact many would call me a bit of a camera geek ... but it's more than that. Photography for me is not just about capturing people but meeting the most incredible individuals who make my job ... well, not feel like a job (does that make sense?). Customers who trust in me to capture their most treasured memories and fellow photographers who have supported me along the journey and continue to make such a difference in my life ... thank you.

Right, gushing over and on with the show. And what a show it was! When I found out that the very talented Jo Rutherford was arranging a workshop in the Victoria Baths in Manchester I just knew I couldn't miss it. Check out the venue and you'll see why. The Victoria Baths is an abandoned swimming pool in the centre of the city which is being painstakingly restored by a dedicated group of volunteers. You may recognise it from the BBC TV programme Restoration and also as the backdrop to shows such as Life on Mars. This wasn't just any venue - this was special and not the type of place that is readily available for photo sessions. I HAD to be there.

The workshop itself (as with all of Jo's events) was not a training day. It was the chance to get together with like minded people to play, experiment and just have fun. If I'm honest, this type of photography does not come naturally to me. Give me a bunch of kids and a camera and I am in my element but fashion models - gulp! I knew that my usual tricks were going to have to take the back burner for the day - not sure they'd appreciate the mouse who lives inside my camera (sorry Bob!) or my extensive catalogue of classic kids nursery rhymes.

Enough chat and on with the images. I wanted to really make the most of the venue. I wanted to show the contrast between the flawless models against the gritty environment. I wanted images that evoked high fashion. I wanted to test myself. My Dad always used to say "I want doesn't get". Hopefully I've proved him wrong ...



Model: Zanna O'Connell


Model: Stacey McKenzie


Model: Michelle


Model: Zanna O'Connell


Model: Sarah Naylor


Model: Sarah Naylor


Model: Rebecca Cordell


Model: Stacey McKenzie


Model: Rebecca Cordell


Model: Zanna O'Connell



I am so pleased with the results from the day but these final images are my favourites. I never tire of looking at the simple, timeless beauty of Florence. Who'd have thought it was her first modeling assignment. I'd love to think that I've captured a star in the making.

Thank you to all of the models for their patience the make-up artists (Corrine & Sian) for making the girls look even more stunning and to all of my fellow photographers who made the day so much fun. Final big thank you to Jo Rutherford. Whether you are a pro or a budding photographer, I urge you to check out her workshops - you will not be disappointed and you'll have a blast!

Would love to know what you think - good or bad. Please feel free to leave a comment below ...