Whilst most of us are looking to ease ourself into the New Year, Bishop Burton based photographer John Denton, has hit the ground running in 2011.
Next week he will be in London, breaking records and new ground at the International Convention of the Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers.
“I was first invited to lecture there in January 2010”, he explains. “It’s an annual event that draws thousands of photographers from across the world for eight days of lectures, workshops, trade shows and a little partying! In 2011 I’ve been asked to undertake an unprecendeted schedule of speaking and teaching on every single day of the Convention. It’s going to be exhausting but so much fun.”
On the 12th January John will be taking a group of photographers into new territory, an abandoned Underground Station. “There are a number of stations on the system that aren’t used anymore and the Aldwych has been mothballed since the 1950’s. I’ll be the first to lead a group of photographers down there and I can’t wait. I’m honoured that the Society have put such trust in me. It’s cost them a fortune to gain access and I’m aiming to repay them with some spectacular images. I’ve got a fantastic model to work with, Vivienne Edge. I previously worked with her this Autumn when we toured Cyprus and Malta but I don’t think the light will be quite as good down in the tunnels! It will be extra special for me though as it’s my birthday too that day.”
John’s work is fashion styled but he works on weddings and personal shoots from his studio in Bishop Burton. “I love shooting pictures but love teaching photography too. My work now takes the best of both worlds. I work with clients to make them look and feel amazing and also show other photographers how to get the best from their skills.”
January will be a very busy month for John. He gets back from London and almost immediately embarks on a teaching tour of Ireland. “That’s another one I’m looking forward to immensely. I’ll be teaching my wedding photography techniques, mixing fashion with ceremony, all over Ireland. After that I’m away to Scotland to teach Boudoir and Bridals and then to Birmingham to teach lighting. I love my work and the fact that my camera takes me all over the place, meeting new people and taking beautiful pictures. I will be back in Bishop Burton for much of next year though and so the residents will get used to seeing photographers of all nations gathered around me as we explore the fantastic locations the village has to offer.”
As well as professional level courses John will be introducing some entry level digital photography courses to his catalogue next year. “My studio is part of an artists collective at Calf House Studios in Bishop Burton, we’re pushing forward to make it a hub for all kinds of creative businesses. 2011 promises to be a big year on all kinds of fronts so it will be good for us that the traditionally quiet month of January will be anything but!”
