heres my new venture

[citrine55]

ive just opened my site ready for the new year and once ive passed a course im currently taking the photos on here arnt staying they were just put up to get it ready so take a look around and see how you think overall how you think my builder has done

http://www.kevinlongphotography.co.uk/index.php

[coffee]

I like your site, and I hope you do well.

First of all, in your FAQ you answer questions about wedding photos, but I saw none in your portfolio to show for examples. You also have no events examples that you also hope to be hired for. I think having the same image show up in two places on your main page isn't necessary. I think it works well in your page header, very nice there. You don't need to show it a second time on the same page.

Now for what I think the biggy is. Almost everything in your portfolio is a head shot. Pets and people portrait alike. There is little creativity in the posed shots. They are all just too similar to one another. Someone looking for a photographer, especially for a wedding, is going to want to see some creative thinking on the part of the photographer. Lots of different poses, angles, creative thinking. I'm sorry, but I don't see it in the series of shots you posted. This is just one man's opinion. I wish you all the luck.

[coffee]

I wanted to add to my comments above. I do think your images on your site are very nice. My comments above come from the standpoint of someone looking to hire a professional photographer. It's very cutthroat. There are thousands of photographers out there, and one has to stand out in the crowd just to get some calls of inquiry, let alone land a job.

Have you done any events or weddings? If not I would suggest working for free with a professional as much as possible and get your feet wet. If you have done some weddings or events, I would make sure you showcase these on your website. After all you have to get the ones visiting to say, "WOW" to your images, and make them want to make that call.

I'm sure at some point Jerry's going to be along to comment. He has been working with professionals for some time to do the very thing you are attempting. I feel he is going about his quest in a very methodical, and proper way. One that lends itself to learning on the job with professionals and becoming familiar and comfortable with the process. This is how you gain experience, and a portfolio you can present in a professional manor. It may not pay well or at all for a while. But will benefit you in the long run.

[citrine55]

thankyou mate for those great tips ..i have a wedding to do for free on the 19th of december and im also shadowing a up and comming photographer who built the site ..the photos that are there are just temp until i get some good shots that i think will be able to go there ..il take your comments on board and everyone elses thanks for that mate

kev

[Pat]

hey kev. You might want to read up on some posing tips (http://www.google.ca/search?hl=en&source=hp&q=photo+posing+techniques&meta=&aq=3&oq=photo+posing).
Also, join your local library. I've read a few wedding photography books from mine and they had lots of good posing ideas. Wedding photography is becoming more artistic. A snapshot/headshot approach just won't cut it.
Instead of hooking up with an "up and coming photographer (unless he/she's very good and in demand), try to see if you can hook up with a pro as an extra photog taking crowd shots etc. (stay out of the pro's way and frame) or as an assistant (you might not get to take pics at first).
Also, be prepared to dress appropriately and maintain a calm, friendly demeaner over what may be a long day or two (rehearsals perhaps).
Best of luck.