Photographers widen their vision for new business venture

Two award winning photographers in Teesside have joined forces to deliver top notch photography training in Teesside and across the UK.

Michael Cartwright, managing director of Michael Cartwight Photography based in Stockton, and Geoff Perry from Darlington based Geoff Perry Photography, met at a business meeting three months ago and after spotting a gap in the market and recognising each other’s talents - they decided to join forces to develop a new photography training business.

Their long term plan is to roll out a number of “Making Photographs” franchises across the UK.

Michael who specialises in wedding, commercial and portrait photography said: “People often talk about ‘taking’ a photo but in fact good photography is all about ‘making’ a photo as it’s all down to creativity, composition and settings and you must get the balance right to get the best pictures.

Michael, a former chef added: “Before I set up my photography business, I used to be a chef for ten years and it’s a bit like cooking really - you have to get all the ingredients right to get the best possible result.

“Pictures are so precious – they are an important record for future generations so they need to be good quality and capture the moment well.

“So many people have expensive digital cameras but don’t know how to use them to create the best possible pictures.”

Michael’s partner Geoff, a former teacher who worked in education for over 35 years before becoming a landscape photographer in 2008 added:

“Our courses are designed to ensure that people of all abilities understand all they need to know to get the very best shots. The course gives participants a thorough grounding and knowledge in all aspects of photography. Whatever kind of image people want to create; we open their minds and help them to develop new skills.

“The business of photography is not just about taking award winning images but it is also about being in the right place at the right time. We take our budding photographers to various sites to get them to experience the landscape around them and capture what they see.

“Our first training course was held at Hummersknott Academy at the weekend and included a trip to Gainford on Tees so students could capture the beauty of the landscape. It was a great success and we had 12 people from diverse backgrounds all keen to transform their photographic skills.

The youngest participant was 13 year old Millie Hartigon. Millie, from Darlington who attended with her father Jason said: “I love being creative - I’m passionate about art and drawing and love taking pictures of wildlife.

“I got a camera for my birthday and I really wanted to learn to take good pictures so dad enrolled me on this course. I have learnt so much and can’t wait to put my skills to the test tomorrow when I go out for the day with my family.”