PHOTOGRAPHY BLOG
Thoughts
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Simon Woolf: Award-Winning Photographer
At Woolf Photography we pride ourselves on being award winning, and having our images regularly selected for major exhibitions, either here in New Zealand or overseas.
The studio prides itself on pitting itself against the best, and attaining honours and accolades in the process. It enables us to strive to high standards and gauge ourselves against our peers.
Woolf photography hold a few records too. As a studio, we hold the most Kodak Gold and Silver awards in the 20 year history. We also have the most Wedding Album Golds, and also the most Golds and Silver Awards in a given year. Epson Iris Awards, Australian APPA Awards, and Wedding and Portrait Photography International awards and accolades have also been accumulated over the years.
The Photographic Society of New Zealand Canon National Exhibition has seen a number of Woolf Photography photographers win major awards, and gain exhibition selection. The proudest achievement is having so many young photographers, who have had involvement with the studio,have gained both exhibition success, and also won the PSNZ Youth Award.
This year Simon Woolf gained an unprecedented seventh print Gold Medal for Photojournalism, adding to his two Champion Projected Image Golds, and two further Open Category Gold Medals. Simon also gained a Bronze Medal this year to accompany the Gold Medal and The Shirley Peverill Award.
To win consistently takes dedication and discipline. An image needs to different, unique and hold an x factor, and ultimately needs to be immaculately presented.
Simon has won Gold Medals over 4 decades, and like all the Woolf Photography Photographers strives for excellence, while giving our clients great value and service too.
Architecture 101
Commercial Photography by Doug Mountain for Shand Shelton: The War Memorial Theatre, Gisborne.
Shand Shelton, New Zealand's leading architecture firm specialising in live performance & creative spaces, came to us recently with a request to photograph the War Memorial Theatre in Gisborne. Their wish: to enter the images into several industry competitions, including the prestigious NZIA Regional Awards. After 40 years, this venue was upgraded and fully earthquake strengthened, creating a modern, functional and safe theatre, for up to 500 guests.
Our man Doug Mountain was just the photographer for this job: With his inimitable eye for line and form and his love of architecture, he was sure to find the angles and shots that would wow the judges. See for yourself, these images need no further explanation. The beauty is in the details and sometimes, it can be found in the most surprising elements that would otherwise be overlooked.
That is why our clients choose Woolf Photography for their commercial projects: Our team is made up of professional individuals who see things others can't through their lens and bring beauty to life in their images. Judge for yourself.
Teds, Toys and Tots Special
As most of you know Hospi, Wellington Children's Hospital little lion mascot, travels everywhere with me.
Well, he has been a bit lonely recently, so I have enlisted the assistance of Woodward, from Bears with Attitude in Featherston Street, to be his buddy for a while...
Woolf Photography is offering a "Teds, Toys and Tots" Special for March:
For $95.00 you get a Studio session with a 20x25cm enlargement for a Tot, Toddler or under five year old.
Children can be photographed with their favourite toy ( maybe even that special Teddy Bear from Bears with Attitude), and from each session we will donate $10.00 to The Wellington Children's Hospital.
Additionally, each child will have the opportunity to win one of Woodward Bear's great bear-friends, a little Hospi, and also a framed A3 Super enlargement printed on stunning fine art paper.
These sessions are only available during weekday mornings. You can bring the whole family in for a photos as well!
This is a great deal,and you need to be in quick to take advantage of limited booking spaces. Please ring Toni on 917 6861 to book your session now.
Oh, and keep watching out for where Woodward, and Hospi get to next!
When The New Zealand School of Dance invited us to collaborate with them and the Canape Company on a photo-shoot to promote their fundraising event, this is what happened...
Woolf Photography is often called upon to photograph celebrities and important events around Wellington…
… So when the New Zealand School of Dance approached us to participate in their exclusive fundraising event (they turn 50 next year, you know!), it was no surprise that Simon put his hand up and got his camera out in anticipation!
We promptly met with the School’s marketing team and dreamt-up a fun photo-shoot with a group of dancers, to help promote this event. This was a full collaboration between Woolf, the New Zealand School of Dance and the Canape Company , whose cakes and food will feature at the "High Tea with Darcey Bussell" on the 2nd of April 2016.
The Photo-shoot took place last week at our City Studio. Beautiful cakes and panna-cottas in gilded glassware turned up first, closely followed by four lovely dancers, their choreographer and Marketing guru. The eight of us packed into the Studio, the dancers struck their poses and we styled the shoot with cakes and ballet in mind…
We also wanted to provide the students with the opportunity to pose for portfolio images, which they can use later on in their careers (and to share on social media, of course!). Portfolio images for dancers, actors and models is something we enjoy doing time and again! You can view the ones we took of Daniela , our Opera star…
The results from the photo-shoot were thrilling: We ended up with a selection of strong, evocative images, four of which will feature in posters to promote the high tea.
Simon will also be there on the day to take photos of guests with Darcey, so make sure you grab your opportunity!
Here is what you can expect when you attend:
On the 2nd of April this year, the New Zealand School of Dance is hosting a 'High Tea with Darcey Bussell', where guests will not only meet the world famous ballerina (and Ambassador to the School), but they will be treated to a glorious high tea (courtesy of the Canape Company), as well as a whole afternoon of supreme entertainment.
During the afternoon there will be silent and live auctions of a wide range of glamorous items from tickets to the Royal New Zealand Ballet and WOW, to pointe shoes signed by Hannah O'Neill of the Paris Opera Ballet. A diamond pendant from Partridge Jewellers will be auctioned, along with art objects, experiences, and a personal photo-shoot with Woolf Photography.
In addition to the High Tea there are a limited number of seats available to watch Darcey Bussell coach selected NZSD students.
There is still time to purchase tickets for this event and you can view the list of the auction items here.
Supporting The Neonatal Trust
Woolf Photography in support of the Neo Natal Trust- Read more.
Woolf Photography is delighted to be partnering up with, and supporting, The Neonatal Trust.
There is a personal rationale for becoming more involved, as both of Simon Woolf's children required neonatal care, and there first weeks of life were tended to by the wonderful Special Care team:
Simon recorded both his children's very early pathways into the world, and in 2001, a portfolio of his son Noah's birth and early care were submitted to The Photographic Society of New Zealand's Honours Board. The set of black and white images, were the first set to be awarded a coveted Fellowship of"The Society" taken using a digital camera. You can view them here.
Noah is now a very healthy sporty 15 year old, and enjoying life, as his daughter Lily-Jane, who also had a pretty tense start to her life, which was also made less stressful by the wonderful Neonatal Special Care team.
To mark a longstanding relationship Woolf Photography is providing framed photography of Wellington to adorn the walls of both Wellington and Hutt Hospitals' Neonatal wards.
We are also offering, as a fundraiser, the opportunity to have a Family Photo Session, where not only does The Neonatal Trust receive a third of the proceeds from each session, but participants also receive a special discounted price for having their photos taken.
We thank you all in advance for your support. To see the help you are enabling, click here.
The Team at Woolf Photography.
Baby Photography: Meet Jagger
Another stunning Bump-to-Baby photo-shoot by Jess Dewsnap...
Another stunning Bump-to-Baby photo-shoot by Jess Dewsnap...
"Meet Jagger: Check out this kid's style of clothing over the shoots- he is one cool wee dude!
I've had heaps of fun photographing Jagger and his family. He is an energetic kid with such a cool personality. It has been my pleasure capturing him as he has grown over the last two years. And it was so awesome at the most recent shoot: Jagger thanked me personally before they left and said "Thanks, Jess!". It was such a gorgeous wee moment.
Hopefully we will see Jagger, his Mum and Dad in the future for more family shoots."
Bump-to-Baby photo shoots take place over 3 sessions. And the cool thing about that is, as you can see, our photographers get to know you, your family and your style. We develop a bond with you over time, and it's this bond that puts everyone at ease and makes these sessions fun. Read what Jagger's mum had to say about the experience!
In the end, Jagger's family did two lots of Bump-to-baby shoots with us, so six sessions in total! Plus they got one of our free "Fortune Cookie" sessions which they used to bring in the grandparents!
Our Baby packages can be purchased for yourself or as a gift Voucher for new parents- look out for our flyers and vouchers in your next Bounty Baby Pack from your Plunket Nurse!
Terre & Mike
This year, Woolf Photography teamed up with Foxglove Bar & Grill and Scent Floral Boutique, two iconic Wellington Businesses, to spread some love on Valentine’s Day...
“He’s my Rock”, she said...
This year, Woolf Photography teamed up with Foxglove Bar & Grill and Scent Floral Boutique, two iconic Wellington Business, to spread some love on Valentine’s Day.
To win our #WoolfLovesFoxtail competition, participants simply had to tell us why they deserved to win. We wanted to read a story that would move us deeply... You see, love is universal, but everyone’s story is unique. So we were privileged to participate, for one night, in Terre and Mike’s story.
These two met only a few years ago, over the Internet, and are both in their late 50’s. Mike is retired and spends his days looking after Terre who still works, even though she has been diagnosed with Stage IV Cancer.
Here is what Terre had to say:
"Mike Nicholson deserves to win this (with me!) because of the incredible support he gives me. I was diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer three years ago. Stage IV has no cure; the best you hope for is "no progression with good quality of life". The average time from diagnosis to death is 26 months. I'm lucky - I'm stable with no progression. But it's a hard disease to have - physically, mentally, and emotionally. Mike keeps things running and ticking along at home, lets me do tons of cat rescue while ignoring the housework I should be doing, and reminds me not to believe the statistics. He's my rock and puts up with my mood swings, hot flashes and days when I can barely walk (all side effects). He doesn't complain when I'm gone for weeks at a time for work. He puts my needs before his own. And he's an amazing cat daddy! :) Your consideration is greatly appreciated!"
We were moved, and inspired by their love and their courage.
Our winning Couple were met by Simon Woolf at 6:30 pm for their Photo-shoot upstairs at Foxtail Bar and treated to lovely Cocktails. Scent Floral Boutique provided a stunning bouquet, and our friends at Foxglove took care of the meal, straight out of their romantic Valentine’s Day Menu...
“The mains and the flowers were divine. Great service, food, and cocktails!”
Simon had a fabulous time on the photo shoot, as you can see by these lovely images: He captured the love between them and the laughter in their eyes. The setting at Foxtail Bar was beautiful, as were the flowers.
So we hope you were inspired by Terre and Mike’s story, which they so generously shared with us.
Join us in wishing them all the best for their future together.
“The evening was just amazing, amazing, amazing. We had so much fun with Simon... Truly a special, magical, once in a lifetime event and evening for us. We will never be able to repay you for the kindness and for such a fabulous evening and prize!”
Event Photography: The Heineken Big Pour Off
Our Event Photography is usually fun, and often you learn a lot in the process. Tonight I learnt how to pour a Heineken properly. Believe me there is a huge skill to it! It was the Wellington segment of The Heineken Big Pour Off, where bartenders from throughout the region compete against each other. The winner of the National competition heads off to The Netherlands, to compete in the World Comps!
All Black Beauden Barrett was one of the judges, and proved again he was a clas s act, and not just with a rugby ball. The only frustrating thing about tonight was that Wellington was hugely hot today.
Being the photographer, as much as I would have liked to, I couldn't indulge in the sponsors product!
Website Photography: Woolf & Te Omanga Hospice
As you know, Woolf Photography has been taking Wellington's visual Biography for over 80 years. It stands to reason, then, that we have many incredible connections throughout the community, for which we are so grateful.
One such connection is Te Omanga Hospice, which provides palliative care to those living with a life limiting condition in the Hutt Valley.This is an organisation that touches the lives of so many people at a vulnerable time: they need to know that the mental and physical needs of their loved ones will be met with kindness, dignity, comfort and love. Palliative care is provided through an interdisciplinary team of specialist doctors, nurses, therapists and specially trained volunteers and is free of charge to the community.
So when Woolf Photography was asked to work with Leanne McLean, Te Omanga’s Fundraising & Marketing Director, and their web designer, Scratch to supply the imagery for the hospice's new website, Jess Dewsnap jumped at the chance!
Scratch supplied the Studio Brief: The images were to be soft, calming, intimate and uplifting. Jess captured the homely colours and textures of Te Omanga Hospice with images of quilts, homely decorations, knitted blankets and warm timber tones. The grounds and the hospice itself were portrayed in a way that absolutely reflects the caring and joyful nature of the place.
Feedback from this photo-shoot has been amazing: everyone enjoyed meeting Jess, working with her and telling their stories. She really captured the nurturing mood of the place, and staff have said what a wonderful experience it was to have Jess capture the essence of the organisation.
Thanks to all the staff at Te Omanga Hospice for their generosity and for everything they give of themselves on a daily basis to make a difference to the Hutt Valley community. If you would like to make a difference too, feel free to donate to this worthy cause.
Wishing you a Merry and Safe Christmas 2015
The team at Woolf Photography
Your guide to Graduation Photography
You’ve done the hard yards. You’ve pulled goodness knows how many all-nighters to hand in your work... So, how are you going to seize this day and ensure that moments are captured correctly? Here’s what you need to know:
You’ve done the hard yards. You’ve pulled goodness knows how many all-nighters to hand in your work...
You’ve met some fantastic people, learned things you never imagined, and soon, you will walk onto a big stage and be handed a scroll that will change your life. Congratulations.
So, how are you going to seize this day and ensure that moments are captured correctly?
Here’s what you need to know:
- Are family and Friends coming? Check your ceremony time and date and allow plenty of time to find both venue and parking (Wellington streets get congested during grad!)
- Order your gown & cap early (check out this link)
- If you are going to the Parade, pack a pair of flat shoes (ladies) if you’re not used to heels- it’s a long walk!
GRADUATION PHOTOGRAPHY:
Sure, you can take your phone for those Instagram shots, but for the serious stuff you’ll want to book your Graduation Photography Portrait session early.
Here are your options:
1. During the Ceremony: The Woolf Photography Team is there to capture you as you walk onto the stage (shaking hands, getting your degree) and as you walk off. These are the action shots, as it were, and are available to view and to purchase straight off our website (they’ll will be online for up to three months)
Remember: You will be walking across the stage from right to left. The photographer will capture your left profile only at that stage, so if your hair is long and you are wearing it down, try flicking it to your right shoulder so we can get a good look at you!
2. If you want something a little more formal: The Woolf Team also offers a “lighting Set-up” package on the day, outside in the Foyer, before or after the ceremony. Here’s how it works:
i. You (and your friends/parents) stand against a background at the venue and smile!
ii. We adjust your gown, make sure we can see your colours clearly,
iii. Our team will choose the best image,
iv. We print it, you collect it (we mail too!).
3. If you want the works, your best bet is to book a GRADUATION STUDIO PORTRAIT:
This session takes place either in our Wellington City Studio or off-site, within walking distance of the CBD. Here’s how it works:
i. Come alone or in a group, and experience being photographed by a Professional Photographer in all your Graduation Glory.
ii. Our 30 minute sessions allow plenty of time for a variety of solo poses, with and without your gown, and if you want to get mum & dad or the whole Whanau in the shots, they are absolutely welcome to join in!
iii. Early bookings essential so you are not disappointed. See below.
What else do you need to know?
- Come on time or let us know if you’re running late: Studio Sessions often run back-to-back!
- Book now or call us (04 917 68 61) if you need to re-schedule .
- We have a powder room in the Studio- you can adjust hair/makeup and wardrobe while you wait.
- Our Gallery has room for prams, and there is disabled access via the Cable Car Lane entrance.
- Our team will adjust caps and gowns; advise you on poses, hair, etc… you are in good hands!
- Nervous? Don’t be! This is a fantastic opportunity to record the moment properly.
- Turn your efforts into a lasting memory by considering our standard or custom-framing options- It takes your image to another level!
- Digital file options are available, of course.
What are you waiting for?
Good luck Grads, and well done! See you in our Wellington City Studio soon!
The Team at Woolf Photography