LuxS Studio Decor Blogging Spot

Will January end with a bang????

2012-01-30T16:17:00.001Z

Or will February begin with one? We certainly hope so, and are on tenterhooks to offer some fantastic (mad??????) one day only deals IF our hopes come to fruition in the next 48 hours or so.... Be sure to keep your eye out... These deals will be ONE DAY, and ONE DAY ONLY

Hmmm...

2012-01-22T09:35:00.003Z

Been following the comments posted on various forums and sites after last weekend's SWPP Convention in London

This speaker ... wow... That Speaker... fantastic.. Anyone got a spare kidney?..... Fantastic time meeting you all.... See you next year.. Thanks to the staff... Ouch, my overdraft hurts...

Sadly nowhere a mention for the 500 odd people staffing the trade show stands, very few (if any) of whom have any contractual requirement to work over a weekend which culminates in the ultimate working stress of a show breakdown.

Is the trade show of any value to the event, other than as a cash cow to keep the cost of the seminars to the delegates down? It seems many delegates are more concerned with spending in the bars than researching what is on the market to aid and develop their businesses.

Those that do get into the Trade Show are often on flying visits between seminars as their multi seminar tickets mean they are in seminars for most of every day, and their brains are often so pummelled by what they have been listening to that they are effectively brain dead or brain washed, and unable to collate any information they may glean from the trade show.

Anyway.. the event runs as it runs... I say what I think.... Its a good event for a photographer to attend to learn, but as a member of the photographic supply trade I continue to question the value of the Trade show other than as a cash cow as stated above. Shame... it could be so much more....

And on a brighter note...

2012-01-17T16:09:00.002Z

Whilst the SWPP Convention is far from my favourite event - especially as it involves working over a weekend - it was really great to catch up with a lot of customers, past and present, and also to meet a lot of aspiring professionals with whom we look forward to doing business in the future.
The international contingent were much in evidence, and we were pleased to supply equipment to Janneche Stronen from Norway and Michi Watanabe from Japan.

Once again I failed to persuade Chris Hill from Slough to replace his white vinyl background - He bought it originally in 2002, and meticulously controls what footwear goes onto the background: It just goes to show that it lasts with care.

The show moves next year to a new venue at the junction of the Edgware Road and the M40 - Bigger it will be... Better? Who knows? We'll have to wait and see!

What we go through to get to our customers...

2012-01-17T15:58:00.002Z

I drove into work on Monday morning: The sun hadn't yet got over Axe Cliff and the river was still in the frosty shade, but the sun was bright on the frosty bank beyond. The golden reeds glowed brightly, and the far edge of the water shimmered silver. A few miles further on I was rewarded with the sight of the Marshwood Vale bathed in glorious winter sunshine as the sun crept towards its zenith. Over the miles the fields lay in their varying shades of brown and green, and the trees stood proud. The farms and villages absorbed the energy from the bright sunlight.

How different from the day before....

Sunday morning...Soon after 7.30am, Starbucks in hand, I wandered along the gum and spew encrusted pavement, a glorious sunrise obliterated by high rise buildings, the sound of anything natural obliterated to equal effect by the roaring traffic. I trudged my way into the windowless environment of the virus factory, not aided by inadequate air conditioning, and set about preparing my stand for the last day of the SWPP Convention.

Colorama Roll Easy

2012-01-09T11:16:00.002Z

The Rolls Royce of background handling.

Sadly the absorption of manufacturing and transport costs for this most excellent bit of kit has had to stop, and we have received substantial increases on this item, but against other systems it still offers great value for money, and we continue to recommend it. This includes the Coloredge paperweights for controlling paper rolls.

Please confirm prices with us if ordering from our 2011 Price list.

Heading for London

2012-01-09T11:13:00.002Z

It seems like only yesterday we, along with other exhibitors, were being herded out of the SWPP Convention like cattle.....

But here we go again... Preparations well under way, and we look forward to meeting customers old and new once we have waded through the foul trade entrance of the Novotel for hopefully the last time (The show is moving for next year)

Our show offers are displayed throughout our website, and these are also available to those not attending the show, so give us a call if you arent coming to the show.

Another year bites the dust!!

2011-12-30T13:52:00.002Z

As I write this update, there are about three hours of the working year left, and outside its raining lead shot as a gang of mindless morons tramp the countryside murdering any living thing that cares to fly up in front of them.

Our Boxing Day Sale has been a great success... you have until 5pm on Tuesday to grab the bargains!

Our first task is to prepare for our pilgrimage to Hsammersmith for the SWPP conference in a fortnight's time - just hope they have the A4 flyover fixed by then, or it will be mega chaos

Look out for some good deals on posing gear at this event - the Montys will be making an appearance, having been strictly a Focus thing until now.

Our best wishes for a prosperous 2012 - and dont forget to come and see us on the Bigger Picture Roadshows: The programme has been finalised, and will be released in a few days. Aberdeen, Cork, Plymouth.... and that after Norwich last year.... North South East and West - we will try and come and see you at some time!

Seasonal Opening Hours.. And our Boxing Day Sale!

2011-11-29T09:47:00.004Z

As ever, we at Lux S Studio Decor continue our battle against long term Christmas shutdowns!

We will close at 5pm on Friday 23rd December, and reopen at 9am on Wednesday 28th December, and then close again at 5pm on Friday 30th December, re-opening at 9am on Tuesday 2nd January.

Please note we may operate on a diverted calls service through this time, so anyone wishing to call in person must make an appointment.

Deliveries during this time will be subject to carriers stated schedules which are not yet to hand - please enquire.

We will be running a Boxing Day Sale, starting at 9am 28 December - several items will be at list price IVAD - INCLUDING VAT AND DELIVERY, so be ready to grab a bargain while 'er indoors is out doing the same in the shops!

Seasonal fun!

2011-11-29T09:42:00.003Z

The Bigger Picture Roadshow ended the 2011 season at the Pastures Hotel, Mexborough, S Yorks last week, and we were all pleased to meet the enthusiastic band of photographers from the area.

It's been a great season of shows, with good attendances at all venues, and we look forward to next years events, with a lot of miles to be travelled, with venues as far afield as Brentwood and Grantham in the east, Hamilton and Aberdeen in the north, Dublin and Cork in the west, and Plymouth in the south... Watch for the full list of venues and dates to be published shortly.

Also a Get Well Soon to John King of Border Frames, who was taken ill while researching venues for next year - Rest up well John, and we look forward to seeing you at the London Convention or Focus.

Ton up in South Wales

2011-11-03T11:42:00.013Z

An extremely successful Bigger Picture Roadshow event in South Wales this week, with just on 100 businesses and individuals visiting. We were also pleased to welcome Hardy Haase from FLAGHEAD PHOTOGRAPHIC, and we hope he has seen enough to make him come on board for all our 2012 events next year.

Venues planned for 2012 include: Bristol, Telford, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Newbury, Brentwood, Belfast, Dublin, Cork, Stockport, Preston and Plymouth - more details to come shortly.

Some images from the day:

Background Hire - Make it work for you!

2011-11-03T11:40:00.001Z

Customer Zoe Richards from Liverpool recently hired our CP6016 Peeking Santa background - See how she put it to work on her blog HERE - Liverpool Wedding Photography

SAFETY MESSAGES

2011-10-07T12:11:00.002+01:00

It has come to our notice that studio owners are failing to regularly inspect equipment with moving parts: We recommend that any moving part is inspected at least quarterly, or preferably monthly, and any wearing parts or anything malfunctioning is either serviced or replaced.

This applies to all background support systems, ceiling tracks and wall booms of all types.

We recommend that a schedule of inspections is kept to demonstrate prudence in studio management in the event of any claim arising.

Further, it is important to understand that plasterboard alone is NOT adequate to bear the weight of any studio hardware: Fixing must either be made into the structure bearing the plasterboard, or a specifically provided raft which spreads the load of the equipment.

Please don't hesitate to call or email if you require further advice on this.

The journey goes on!

2011-10-07T12:00:00.006+01:00

This week found us in Swaffham, in North Norfolk where we met an enthusiastic band of East Anglian photographers, many of whom were glad that we had made the effort to get out to their part of the world.

Around 70 attended the day, and whilst it was a long trip over, to be greeted with warmth and enthusiasm makes it all worthwhile.

Next week we are out and about again... Kegworth, near East Midlands airport, and we look forward to meeting more regional clients there.

And Back on the Road we were...

2011-09-16T16:30:00.006+01:00

Hello to the 70 or so businesses that joined us at the Bigger Picture Roadshow this week in the glorious Kent countryside near Tenterden.

A busy day for all companies present, and good, as ever to see faces old and new.

We are now putting together our programme for the 2012 series, and whilst there are no promises of anything spectacular, you can be sure we will be in different venues than we have been this year, so watch this space!

Bigger Picture gets back on the road...

2011-09-09T13:20:00.003+01:00

For those who might have forgotten, Bigger Picture Roadshows start their Autumn season next Tuesday (13 Sept) at the London Beach Hotel, Tenterden, Kent

Please see the Bigger Picture Roadshow website for more information.

All welcome.. All FREE.... No fixed session, No pre-registration

Just turn up and leave as you wish between 10am and 4pm and discuss your professional imaging input and output needs with any of the 15 companies in attendance.

Besides Lux S Studio Decor, the following companies will be exhibiting:

Hot Press, Border Frames, Dunns, On One Software, Jorgensen Albums, Denis Wright, Bob Rigby Photographic, Perma Jet, Breathing Colour, Aaduki Insurance, Pro Select, Fuji, Ideal Gallery, and joining the Bigger Picture Roadshow for the first time will be Graphistudio

Denny Floors and backgrounds

2011-09-09T12:59:00.004+01:00

On the Denny Manufacturing blog there is a useful video demonstration of using the new ROLL UP FLOORS

Link to it HERE

As ever, please call or email us to discuss this or any other Denny Product - the range is so large, so if you are not sure, please ask for our assistance.

One very recent case we were able to help with was for Ocean Images, who used a background several years ago for 50s nights, and could no longer see it in the catalogue or on the website.

Through our knowledge of the archive we were able to find the background CP302 Neon Diner, and our good friends at Denny retrieved the file from their archive, and produced a couple of crisp new backgrounds which are now earning their keep on the oceans of the world.

A new 20/30 special! (20th of the month for 30 days!)

2011-08-17T15:02:00.003+01:00

Our summer promotion on BACKGROUND PAPERS (see below) runs out on 20th August.

The next 20/30 offer will be on DENNY BACKGROUNDS and FLOORS

Order ANY DENNY BACKGROUND OR FLOOR between 20th August and 20th September and claim 15% discount off the Ex VAT goods value of your order.

All usual business terms apply.
Offer does not apply to quotations issued before 17th August 2011

New things - Portabench & Denny Floors

2011-08-17T14:45:00.006+01:00

Two new things in one here...

Firstly... the PORTABENCH - A simple bench for the mobile or school photographer to carry round with the minimum of space required - or tuck it away in the back of the studio.

Ideal for two smaller botties or one large posterior.

List price for the Portabench will be £55+VAT, but initial stock is available at the reduced price of £49 +VAT with free delivery if settled by Debit Card

And secondly... See the floor in the image above???

No - its not real - its one of Denny's new ROLL UP FLOORS.

Produced by the same process as the Computer Painted Supercloth and Freedom Cloth backgrounds, the floors are in effect like a giant mouse mat that simply rolls up. They are available in a variety of finishes including wood, tiles, brick and stone - see the Denny website or catalogue for more details.
There are four list sizes - 4ft x 6ft, 4ft x 8ft, 8ftx8ft and 8xt x10ft, but please note that the latter two sizes are supplied as two 4ft wide pieces that match together.

The background is CPM6778, Ivory Vintage.

Another image using this set up:

Summertime Special....

2011-07-20T09:56:00.002+01:00

From 20 July to 20 August....

A summertime special on Background papers....

10% off all stock shades 2.,72 x 11m (Arctic White, Black, Seal grey, Storm Grey, Chromagreen, Chromablue, Cherry and Aqua) - Just £29.90 per roll +VAT and delivery

Non stock colours - 10% off per roll - £31.50 +VAT & Delivery

BUY 4 ROLLS FOR FREE DELIVERY AS WELL

4 Rolls of stock shades for a total of £143.52 ALL INCLUSIVE (£35.88 per roll)
or
4 rolls non stock shades for a total of £151.20 ALL INCLUSIVE (£37.80 per roll)

A glorious July day....

2011-07-05T11:34:00.004+01:00

...found us joining BIPP SW region at the magnificent surroundings of Taunton School for some bright and informative banter from David McGirr.

Quite how one manages to sell plain white umbrellas on one of the brightest days of the year, I dont quite know... but somehow I did!

Somehow yours truly managed to find himself back at the lectern where he read a lesson at a school carol service some...errrr.... a lot, shall we say?.... of years ago.

For those who travel heavy for weddings, forget it... David works light, works quick... and above all, plans and researches diligently to maximise the use of the best surrounding features - even if it is a bride from Frome getting married at Trowbridge registry office with a reception at Westbury rugby club... Say no more.

Anyone wanting to learn more about wedding photography could do a lot worse than listen to David.

Congrats to Janet Young of Wadebridge on drawing the lucky number out of the hat for the roll of Background paper we donated... Let us know what colour you want, Janet!

If you want to learn more about the job, these seminars offer not only good chances to gather knowledge, but also ideal opportunities to network and discuss areas of mutual concern - most certainly not a wasted day. And last but by no means least... a good venue usually means good grub!

Blog & Twitter Special.... Friday 17 June

2011-06-15T10:31:00.002+01:00

For Twitter and Blog followers only... for one day only....

20% off the list price of any of our posing kits ordered between 9am and 5.30pm on Friday 17 June 2011.

You must be registered as a Blog or Twitter follower by close of business on the day before to qualify for this offer.

New dates for your diary...

2011-06-15T10:15:00.003+01:00

MONDAY JULY 4th - We will be supporting the BIPP SW Region event at TAUNTON SCHOOL
featuring the well known and forthright views of DAVID MCGIRR

The school - which suffered yours truly and his older brother for a number of years in the 50s and 60s - has a substantial chapel, offering the chance for some good church shooting opportunities.

Further details from Sorcha Holloway, BIPP Regional Treasurer 01752 662801

TUESDAY 22 NOVEMBER - BIGGER PICTURE ROADSHOW
An additional event has been fixed at the Pastures Hotel, Mexborough, S. Yorks, just off the A1/M1/M18/M62 near Rotherham/Doncaster/Barnsley.
Please see www.biggerpictureroadshow.co.uk for further information

The end of the first half...

2011-06-08T12:46:00.002+01:00

Well.. a good end to the first half with an encouraging turnout of around 50 professionals at the June Bigger Picture Roadshow event at Ilminster in Somerset.

Good to see several of our very local customers there, although our good friend Martin Smith from Chard wasnt able.... (allowed????) to attend.

Bigger Picture Roadshows now take a break until September, when we gather at Tenterden in Kent.

Have a good summer until then - but dont go too far away!

LAUNCHING BACKGROUND HIRE

2011-05-25T14:55:00.004+01:00

And a little more news...

From July 1st Lux S Studio Decor are please to announce that backgrounds will be available to hire.

A number of scenic backgrounds in the Denny 'Freedom Cloth' format will be available in 10x10 or 8x8 size.

The backgrounds will be available on a weekly hire arrangement, with return of the background the responsibility of the Hirer.

Suitable background supports will also be available.

More details on our website shortly..... SEE HERE

Bigger Picture Roadshow.... Our Home fixture!

2011-05-25T14:42:00.004+01:00

The next outing for us on Tuesday 7th June sees us undertake the strenuous journey from our workshop. Once through the safety barrier of Beaminster Tunnel, we will journey across the Mosterton mangrove swamps, through the Crewkerne Canyon, over the Roundham Rapids, around the Dinnington desert, over the Col de Kingstone to arrive at the SHRUBBERY HOTEL, Station Road, ILMINSTER TA19 9AR.

We will be there, along with 12 other companies drawn from across the professional photographic supply trade to discuss your requirements and offer friendly advice in a relaxed atmosphere. Have a complementary coffe, and network with other local photographers.

(Please note that Bob Rigby Photographic are unable to attend this event)

There is NO FIXED SESSION, NO ADMISSION CHARGE, and you are free to arrive and leave as you wish between 10am and 4pm.

We look forward to seeing you there, as long as the wild monkeys that live on Windwhistle Hill dont ambush our convoy on the way over......

LIVE BROADCAST....

2011-05-11T13:35:00.002+01:00

A big Northumbrian HELLO to our followers from the grand setting of the Derwent Manor Hotel, near Consett where we are at the latest Bigger Picture Roadshow, along with 13 other companies providing products and services to the professional photography trade.

Yes.... 13 other companies! The Original 10 have been joined by Breathing Colour, Fuji, Aaduki and OnOne Software to make a broad based rounded offering to visitors to our shows.

For further information please see the Bigger Picture Roadshow website

Our newest offerings to the trade, namely the Supersoft backgrounds and EZ Stands are receiving much interest, and we are enjoying meeting clients old and new in the gentle relaxed atmosphere of these popular shows.

Once we are home at the end of the week, we will be setting out immediately on the journey to the next event (nahhhh.,... not really!) which is at the SHRUBBERY HOTEL, at ILMINSTER on Tuesday 7th June.... See you there!!! No pre pregistation... no fixed session... just turn up between 10 and 4.

May has come...

2011-05-03T12:58:00.002+01:00

The last couple of weeks of April have been more like the last couple of weeks of June, and we've been taking full advantage of the sunny lunchtimes and weekends.

Sadly, the wind has got up, the clouds have returned, and the double header bank Holidays have passed....

We are getting ready for next week when we journey northwards for our double header engagement with the Bigger Picture Roadshow crew, now with 14 companies following the co option of Aaduki and OnOne software into our merry band.

So if you are in Central Scotland on Tues May 10th or near Newcastle the following day, please come and meet your suppliers for a friendly chat...

More at the BIGGER PICTURE ROADSHOW WEBSITE HERE

NEW STUFF... EZ STANDS...

2011-04-13T11:21:00.003+01:00

Ever been in a crowd - say at a wedding - and had a Speedlight or flash head on a stand that you wanted to move.... but either had to fight your way around with an open stand, or had to dismantle it to move it?

THE ANSWER IS HERE.... EZ STAND....

Simply put the stand down, and the legs open automatically.... Pick the stand up and they fold in straight automatically - with no loss of stability.

Ideal for anyone working in a cramped or crowded area.

Available in two models - Standard, suitable for Speedlights and small flash heads (up to 8ft/2.5m high) or Heavy Duty for large flash heads (up to a massive 3.8m /13ft high)
Prices to be confirmed, but in the region of £80+VAT for the Standard, and £105+VAT for the Heavy Duty

Stock arriving shortly - see them at BIGGER PICTURE ROADSHOWS

BLOG AND TWITTER SPECIAL

2011-04-07T15:52:00.003+01:00

FRIDAY 8 APRIL... 9AM - 5PM ONLY

Blog followers and Twitter Followers ONLY...

You may buy a roll of 2.72x11m Arctic White background paper for the bargain price of £25 +VAT & delivery(Normal list price £33+VAT & delivery)

One roll per customer.

Call 01308 867100 to book your order soon after 9!

Offer subject to stocks. Call before 10am for same day despatch.

Back on the road again...

2011-04-07T14:16:00.004+01:00

Our first engagement after Focus was with Kevin Cheeseman's School Photo Pro at Coventry for their annual conference.
This fledgling organisation, born from an internet forum, offers a think tank and platform for independent schools photographers across the UK, and the gathering was an enthusiastic collection of like minded business, supported by a good number of trade companies, and deserves every encouragement as it has a definite niche in the market place that they directly cater for away from the very much larger American style organisation which is the alternative for most schools photographers.

The Bigger Picture Roadshow held its first event of the 2011 season this week (5th April) at the Vine Inn, Ower near Southampton, and all the Associate companies were pleased to see a good turnout of both seasoned professionals, newer professionals and high end amateurs.

Our next events are in the North - Tues 10 May at Hilcroft Hotel, Whitburn, Lothian (Just off the M8) and the next day, Weds 11 May at the Derwent Manor Hotel, Alensford, near Consett and Newcastle, just off the A68 and A66.

For these events we will be welcoming Aaduki Insurance as a new exhibitor.

For further details of these and other events please go either to the 'Where to see' pages on our website, or the BPRS website HERE

The rest of Focus and Post Focus hocus pocus...

2011-04-07T13:42:00.010+01:00

Our apologies, but our coverage from Focus was interuppted by sickness in the team which meant our resources became a little stretched - not quite to the limit, but one well established client doesn't know quite how near he came to being vomited on!

Anyway.. all packed up and home safely, but some supply chain problems have occurred firstly owing to the various Middle East problems and then from the Tsunami in Japan - nearing resolution now, and outstanding orders should be sorted out within the next few days. Our apologies, and thanks for your patience.

A few more shots from Focus

The stand ready to receive visitors to Focus 2011

Lauren waits patiently perched on one of the Roving Posing tubs
Backgrounds: Warehouse, Inferno, Dated Mortar

Lauren with the new Supersoft Black background (image courtesy of Chris Burfoot)

A visitor takes the chance to grab a few shots of Lauren with Funky Town behind

Lauren with Funky Town (Courtesy Chris Burfoot)

Lauren with Warehouse behind (Courtesy Chris Burfoot)

Chris Burfoot & Lauren demonstrating

One down - Three to go!

2011-03-07T07:18:00.008Z

Here we are in our country cottage a few miles from the NEC,.. one day down... three to go.

Ever wondered what the build up looks like? Well.. this is what greeted us when we arrived on Friday....

Flash Centre stand

Seating area at bottom of Hall 9 - Flash Centre Stage on left

Even more about Focus

2011-02-22T11:28:00.002Z

We are delighted to advise visitors to our stand (F60) that they can expect to see our special guest demonstrating lighting and backgrounds.

Who is our special guest? None other than Chris Burfoot, AMPA ASWPP - Renowned studio lighting specialist and teacher, formerly of The Flash Centre.

He will be running several live shooting demonstrations each day, covering white vinyl, the NEW Super Soft Black background, and also the Denny Scenic Super Cloth and Freedom Cloth scenic backgrounds.

Between demos we may also persuade our other demon demonstrator, Dave Tipton, to demonstrate our range of posing equipment for all to see.

The usual hardware demonstration unit will be there as well so if you are thinking of setting up a studio, or making your existing studio more user friendly, please come along and have a chat with us.

More about Focus...

2011-02-18T16:38:00.003Z

Preparations for this years show are well underway here in the deepest greenest Dorset countryside, and we hope to bring you some exciting news early next week regarding our larger than usual stand.

One question we are frequently asked is why we no longer have posing kits to take away from the stand at the show... well... its down to simple economics!

To hold stock on the show stand means renting additional space - somewhere about 8 sq m. At £220/sqm this works out at £1760, and also means that we would need a larger vehicle, so by the time fuel is added in, make it around £1900 just to have the space and hold stock..... well.. to ship a posing kit works out at £8, so for £1900 we can ship an awful lot of kits, so its far better for us to offer cheaper prices with free delivery... And its a lot less confusing for those on the stand too!

We'll be there...

2011-02-15T15:57:00.002Z

yes.. at last.. ITS BOOKED! Stand F60 is where we will be at Focus this year - basically the opposite side of the Flash Centre stand to where we have been in other years.

Just so no-one is under any illusions as to the cost of us making our wares available to you to view, the cost of the stand itself is a matter of confidence - but I can tell you that to rent two 13 amp sockets and five floodlights including fitting and electricity for the four days of the show runs to £550 +VAT... OUCHHHHHH!!!!

Anyway, to soften the blow - or to let everyone else share our pain maybe.... How about this...

OUR SHOW OFFERS WILL BE OPEN TO ALL CALLERS AND EMAILERS OVER THE PERIOD OF THE SHOW - WATCH FOR THE LINK ON OUR SITE WHICH WILL GIVE FURTHER DETAILS AND CONDITIONS

And also check in early next week when we hope to be in a position to announce a very special guest demonstrator on our stand.....

A taste of things to come...

2011-02-11T14:14:00.002Z

Preparations are well under way for Sue's annual holiday... better known as Focus on Imaging.

New items to look out for this year...

SUPER SOFT BLACK - 3m wide super soft backgrounds - the way to get a BLACK background. And as a bonus, the fabric is ready flameproofed (NDFR)

MISTIQUE - Our old friend Cascade is no longer available, but its replacement MISTIQUE is LESS THAN HALF THE PRICE

Our usual deals will be operating for those seeking to kit themselves out, so come along to our stand, now confirmed as F60

Back from The Swamp

2011-01-17T11:41:00.002Z

A big hello to everyone who came by and said hello at the SWPP Convention this last weekend.

Its always good to put faces to names with people who we have helped to a greater or lesser degree over the last year, so a special hi to Diane Brown and Gary Roebuck among others.

Next year Chris Hill is going to be offered a contract to tell everyone repeatedly that he had his white vinyl background from us in 2001, and its still going in 2011!

But you all saw the show, and saw everyone else who was there, so enough said about that.

Next post will tell the uninitiated a little more about the trials of running a trade stand at an event like this.

Off to Hammersmith!

2011-01-05T13:22:00.003Z

We look forward to meeting friends old and new at the London Convention Trade Show between 14 and 16th January.

We will be offering 10% discount deals on all our posing products that are manufactured in house, and also the usual take away deals.

BACKGROUND PAPERS will be on offer as follows (Only for orders taken at the Convention)

2.72x11 - Stock Colours (Arctic White, Black, Storm Grey, Seal Grey, Chromagreen, Cherry, Lagoon, Chromablue) - 10% off list price - £29.70 + VAT and Delivery per roll....

Order 4 rolls and get free delivery as well - £118.80 + VAT, DELIVERY INCLUSIVE

All other colours/sizes - 7.5% off list price - 2.72x11m - £32.38 +VAT & Delivery per roll

Please come along and discuss your equipment needs with us at the show - We are in the Upstairs room(Champage Suite0 (YES... THE TRADE SHOW IS IN TWO BITS - Every year people miss one or other!) near Epson and Colour Confidence.

See you there.

Happy New Year...

2011-01-05T13:13:00.002Z

... to all our friends and followers.

We hope you enjoyed a peaceful Festive Season, and we very much enjoyed the company of those who took advantage of our seasonal opening hours to enable clients to take advantage of the last few days of the old VAT rate...

Sadly Chancellor Osborne's measure are now in effect, and whilst our VAT exclusive prices will not change, the bottom line on most orders will nudge up slightly.

2011 Roadshow dates

2010-12-10T10:02:00.002Z

Dates and venues for the first season of the Bigger Picture Roadshow are now published on the 'Where to see' pages of our website.

Hoilday opening...

2010-12-10T09:53:00.002Z

Remember.. VAT goes up on 1st January!

AND WE WILL BE HERE BETWEEN CHRISTMAS AND THE NEW YEAR FOR YOU TO GET THOSE LAST MINUTE PURCHASES.....

We will close at Midday on Friday 24th December.. and then...

OPEN Wed 29 December - 9am - 5pm
OPEN Thu 30 December - 9am - 5pm
OPEN Fri 31 December - 9am - 5pm

The kettle will be on... THERE WILL BE NO FOOD - so come and get away from turkey leftovers - bring the camera and try out some lights and other gear!

We will be closed on Monday 3rd January, and open as normal from Tuesday 4th January onwards.

Learning Lighting

2010-11-22T16:36:00.000Z

As many will now know, Chris Burfoot, formerly Mr Elinchrom at The Flash Centre, has moved on to pastures new, and is rebranding his courses under the marque Learning Lighting.

Courses will still be run at Lacock, and elsewhere by demand - links to the new websites etc will be posted on our site shortly.

Best wishes to Chris and Pam with their venture.

And the final word on shows!

2010-11-22T16:33:00.001Z

Thanks to all who came by our stand at the BJP Vision10 show last week.
A first for us I think, as we saw no one we recognised as a client, so really out there preaching to the unconverted!

If anyone in the trade out there reads this, the Business Design Centre really is a great venue, with plenty of shops off site for those little emergency needs... wander up the little street by M&S - there is all sorts up there, including at the far end, a proper old fashioned DIY shop with everything you need for a show!

Shows... shows... shows...

2010-11-09T09:29:00.002Z

And more on shows!

After the success of this years 'Onward and Upward' show programme, in association with our partner companies we will be launching another series of shows for 2011 under the banner 'The Bigger Picture Roadshows', with the accent being on advice and help for photographers of all grades seeking to develop their image creation, presentation and marketing skills with assistance from the varied team of professional suppliers at these events.

Towns confirmed at todays date are:

- Swaffham, Norfolk
- Ilminster, Somerset
- Tenterden, Kent
- Southampton, Hants
- Cardiff, S Wales
- Newcastle, N'humberland
- Livingston, Edinburgh
- Kegworth, Notts

Full dates and arrangements will be posted on our webite shortly, but dont worry... the first event is not until April 2011, and we have the London Convention and Focus to get through before then!

Another new show date!

2010-11-09T09:24:00.003Z

At short notice we have booked to exhibit at the BJP VISION10 show at the Business Design Centre, Islington.

This one day event is on Friday 19th November and open from 10am to 5pm, with many free seminar sessions through the day, and a host of other trade exhibitors.

To find out more, and for pre registration details, please visit the show website

See you there, if not elsewhere!

Double header next week!

2010-10-21T14:27:00.002+01:00

See us in two places on the same day next week... and if you ever wondered what that nice lady who answers the phone is like, she is on the loose next Tuesday at the Onwards and Upwards Roadshow to be held at Perma Jets new HQ at Stratford: See the 'Where to see' page on our website.

Meanwhile Jon will be representing the company at the Canon Pro Solutions show at the Business Design Centre in Islington, London on Tuesday and Wednesday next week - Again, see the Where to See pages on our website for further details and links to registration.

October Storms...

2010-10-01T13:37:00.002+01:00

Well.. its blowing and raining well to herald the arrival of October! Not at all like the weather of just over a week ago when the photographic trade converged on the banks of the Rhine in Cologne for the bi annual Photokina show.

Sadly the weather didnt match the show which showed an uncertain industry, seemingly devoid of ideas and major investment.... all of which means that, for you guys who like new toys on the cutting edge there wont be too much to spend your money on when th UK national show season starts after the Festive Season.

We cant promise you anything very exciting for our catalogue next year - thats the way it is at the moment folks!

In the meantime, have you seen Elinchrom's Photokina specials with reductions on most 2 head kits, but the time of the offer isnt definite, so bag yours now while there is still stock!

DOWN in price!!!

2010-09-16T11:28:00.002+01:00

Those awfully nice Swiss lighting folks - Elinchrom that is - have recently announced reduced prices on many modifiers and attachments.

Also announced is the extension of the Try Before You buy scheme to include the BXRi 500 2 head kit, in which Lux S Studio Decor will be participating, so if you are interested in purchasing either this or the Quadra Ranger set and need convincing just how good they are, contact us now for further details.

And if you need any convincing about the difference between cheap lights and the likes of Elinchrom, Bowens etc... I was recently asked to demonstrate this with a pair of cheap heads of far Eastern manufacture...

Having set the lights up, I repeated the flash cycle with my Sekonic 308S meter reading every flash.

Over 50 cycles the output from the cheaper lights varied by anything up to almost two stops - that is a quarter of the power....
I then ran the same test with an Elinchrom BXRi 500, and over the same 50 cycles the output varied by only a tenth of a stop throughout the test...

You pays for what you gets! The sweetness of buying cheap is often tempered by the long term bitterness of mediocre quality and performance...

Coming up...

2010-09-16T11:26:00.004+01:00

The 10th anniversary of the change of ownership of Studio Decor as it was then is coming up in a few weeks time.

We will be making an offer to followers of our blog to co-incide with this, so sign up as a follower before November 13th to take advantage of this offer.

Onwards & Upwards Shows - hello!!!

2010-09-16T11:21:00.002+01:00

A big hi to our friends who came to meet us and our trade partners at the Statham Lodge Hotel, Lymm, Cheshire this week, and also a big hello to Phil Flowers and Barbara who joined us with their Pro Select marketing and management software package for the first time.

Our next outing will feature the debut of Jorgensen Albums on the Onward and Upward series of shows, with the familiar face of Chris Woods, known to most professional photographers in the south of England as the face of Spicer Hallfield until their sad demise. Please come along to Hot Press Ltd at Fishponds in Bristol any time between 10am and 4pm on Tuesday 12th October - further details on our 'Where to See' pages.

New show date...

2010-08-20T13:21:00.003+01:00

We will again have a stand at the Canon Pro Solutions show at the Business Design Centre, Islington, London on 26 &27 October.

Admission to the event is free with pre registration.

Besides a host of Canon information and freebies, there is a supporting trade show with Mannfrotto, Wacom, Adobe and other companies represented. There is also an interesting selection of seminars available from leading speakers in the industry.

For further information and registration go to: Canon Pro Solutions Show

In the meantime if you cant travel that far, we have three roadshow dates in the 'Onward and Upward' series remaining this year:

14 Sept - The Statham Lodge Hotel, Near Lymm, Cheshire

12 October - by kind invitation of Hot Press Ltd, Fishponds, Bristol

26 October - by kind invitation of Perma Jet Ltd, Warwick Road, Stratford on Avon

Half day closure...

2010-07-22T09:16:00.004+01:00

Just to let everyone know that we will be closed on the afternoon of Friday 30th July.

We will however be monitoring messages and emails in the evening, so if you require a quick reply, please leave us a message.

A month or two...

2010-07-17T16:13:00.002+01:00

Hoping all have been enjoying the good weather of the past few weeks - we wont discuss the sporting endeavours of the nation...

The wedding season is in full swing, and we hope you are all taking advantage of the conditions to get some cracking shots to bring tears to the eyes of every mother and bride in the land!

Just remember.. now the weather has returned to its traditional frailty that we do hold stocks of plain white umbrellas for those wet days - or they make superb diffusers for those very difficult very bright and clear days.

Call us to order - if you can call before 10 we will endeavour to despatch the same day for these small items. (This does not apply to larger items)

RPS South visit us

2010-04-23T12:44:00.004+01:00

Last weekend we were pleased to host a studio flash day for RPS Southern branch, and a group of 8 spent the day learning about flash, and how simple one and two head set ups can produce stunning images with our good friend Chris Burfoot.

Our model for the day was Sam Smith who lives locally and thankfully was free to take the booking at short notice after another model had to pull out. Thank you Sam!

A few images from the day...

Single honeycombed light with Denny CP6601 Warehouse background

'Butterfly' lit image with Lastolite Triflector and Black Velvet background

Single light and reflector, with second light burning out lower part of a traditional blue background

WEBSITE UPDATE

2010-04-21T08:59:00.000+01:00

Please to tell you that the website now has a new look, and over the coming weeks there is some updating to catch up on as well, so please keep looking in to see whats new.

Our thanks to Immortal Eye for their almost exact interpretation of our requirements for the overhaul - we hope the site remains a reasonably speedy browse over the main elements with detail hidden below.

Onwards and Upwards - 2010 Roadshows

2010-03-19T15:40:00.003Z

In conjunction with other partner companies, we are pleased to announce a series of 6 Roadshows for 2010.

Entitled 'Onwards and Upwards Roadshows', we are encouraging newer professionals to meet a selection of established suppliers to the professional trade, with experienced representatives on hand to offer advice on all aspects of the professional photographic trade. Also on offer will be a free critique of a small number of images by Len Dance, FBIPP FMPA, an established and respected figure in several aspects of the photographic industry.

Established professionals are cordially invited to give those newer to the industry a chance to network and discuss mutual problems over a coffee and biscuits (complementary at all events)

Besides Lux S Studio Decor, the other companies represented will be:

Border Frames - Quality Frames
Dennis Wright - Quality Album, folder and mount suppliers
Dunns Imaging - Lab services
Hot Press - Framing and image presentation
Perma Jet - Papers and inkjet printing
Ideal Gallery - Websites and other aspects of IT

Other companies yet to be announced will be joining us.

Shows for 2010 are arranged as follows:

18th May 2010
Gatwick Moat House, Longbridge Roundabout, Gatwick, Horley, Surrey RH6 OAB

17th June 2010
The Bridge Hotel Wetherby LS22 5HS

27th July 2010
The County Hotel, Rainsford Road, Chelmsford Essex CM1 2PZ

14th September 2010
Statham Lodge Country House Hotel, Warrington Road, Statham, Lymm, Cheshire, WA13 9BP

12th October 2010
Hot Press Ltd. Filwood Road, Fishponds, Bristol, BS16 3RY

26th October 2010
Warwick area - location to be confirmed

Please dont hesitate to contact us for further details.

We're back!!

2010-03-13T09:34:00.002Z

...and in one piece this time!

Hello to the thousands who we met at Focus last week. As ever, a very busy event for us meeting friends old and new, and we hope you enjoyed the show as a whole.

For a relatively small company it is an extremely large undertaking for us, and we are heartened by the feedback we receive - other than one or two sanguine individuals who take a negative attitude towards anything.

Our grateful thanks to our neighbouring stands... Nomad, The Flash Centre and System Insight for making the whole experience memorable - oh... and a quick mention to the Wandering Bear as well... Thanks Terry! And to anyone thinking about an event system or event training - get System Insight to throw in a massage - Much appreciated by yours truly.

OK... not the most exciting Focus - but with the economy in the latter stages of recession, and with Photokina coming up later in the year, new exciting stuff wasnt going to abound, and exhibitors were naturally going to be a bit thinner on the ground.

We look forward to your enquiries through the year - please call or email if we can help or advise on your studio and location equipment requirements.

Holiday... holiday.. holiday...

2010-03-05T09:47:00.001Z

(well.. thats where Sue thinks she's going... heheheheheh!!!!)

Our office will be closed from 5pm Saturday 5th March until 9am Thursday 11th March as we will all be sunbathing under the bright yellow sodium lights at Stand G30 at the NEC - ie at Focus on Imaging for the uninitiated!

During this time, the telephone will be diverted to a mobile, so please call as usual - but please be prepared to leave us voicemail to call you back if we dont happen to be free when you call.

IF YOU ARE CALLING ABOUT ORDERS PLACED AT THE SHOW IT WILL HELP CONSIDERABLY IF YOU HAVE YOUR ORDER NUMBER - Thank you!

Three days to go.. for you!!

2010-03-04T15:43:00.002Z

Here we are on the verge of another Focus! Three days until the show begins for you... It began weeks ago for us, with the usual round of catalogue, pricing, stand planning, booking what we needed, and dealing with the ever increasing volume of junk correspondence that exhibiting at a major event brings as a most unwelcome aside.

The last few nights for us have seen plenty of midnight oil being burned in an effort to be ready to load our van at 9am tomorrow (Friday) for the journey to the NEC.

A few of the last minute panics have occurred - quite usually and naturally... last night at about 10.30 it was a question of whether the second pack of laminate flooring would cover the base of the stand (it did... just... with a bit of bush carpentry from yours truly)
Today's dilemna has been how many of the niggling back orders that have suddenly turned up can be sorted before the Focus rush gets into full swing - and the answer is that one member of staff has been busy all morning sorting them out.

There will be more comings and goings before the van departs, that is for sure (And thanks Mrs Brown for increasing our load... we look forward to seeing you on the stand on Wednesday as ever!)

Please dont forget to check out our show offers HERE

See you at the show... Stand G30 - very near the Flash Centre - Listen to our good friend Chris Burfoot extolling the virtues of his wares to all and sundry, and we will not be far away.

New Backgrounds from Denny

2010-03-01T08:10:00.007Z

What a month... the first working day hasnt officially started, and there is YET MORE NEW STUFF!!!

New backgrounds from Denny - not even in their 2010 catalogue as follows - AND DONT FORGET.... 10% off ALL DENNY CP, OM, and CPM backgrounds ordered at Focus, starting next weekend....

First we have the NEW DIAMOND TUFT COLLECTION..... Clockwise from top is CPM6717 Green Diamond Tuft, CPM6721 Brown, CPM6718 Ivory, and CPM6719 Red!

CP6727 Smoky Gray

CP6729 Rebecca

CP6730 Lord Peter

CP6734 Zebra

CP6735 Peace Baby

Watch this space for more new exciting stuff!

New day...new week.. new month... NEW US!!!!!

2010-03-01T08:04:00.003Z

1st March 2010
*** PRESS RELEASE***

STUDIO DECOR BECOMES LuxS

The Directors of Studio Decor (UK) Ltd, West Dorset based suppliers of photographic studio equipment and fittings, are pleased to announce that from 1st March 2010 the company will trade under the marque LuxS

All other details of the company, including ownership, remain unchanged.

Studio Decor is well known to photographers of all grades and styles throughout the UK and Ireland as a supplier of studio equipment including hardware, backgrounds, props and lighting.

Managing Director Jon Eaves says “The Studio Decor name and logo have served the company well since its creation in 1986, but it was felt for the company to continue its development a facelift was in order, and I am confident that under the LuxS name we can continue to develop in the ever more competitive studio equipment market.”

“Our business activities as a leading 'One Stop Studio Shop' and our renowned range of studio posing aids, manufactured in house, remain unchanged, and will continue to be supported by the other brands that the company represents including Denny, Elinchrom and Bowens.”

The company is a regular exhibitor at shows and events throughout the UK, and the company's first outing under its new marqu will be at Focus on Imaging from 7-10 March at the NEC on Stand G30.

For further information, please contact Jon Eaves on 01308 867100 or by email at office@studiodecor.co.uk

Complete Focus 2010 Offers leaflet...

2010-02-27T13:04:00.003Z

This will be available to download from here or through the website from Monday 1st March...

Besides the offers already outlined, there are the usual offers on Posing kits, including the Montys - 20% discount packages of posing gear, ideal for anyone seeking to upgrade their studio or just starting out.

This time next week will be the hardest day of our working year as we prepare our stand ready for the show to open at 10am on the Sunday morning... think of us this time next week (Saturday.... )

Another Focus offer...

2010-02-26T10:39:00.002Z

Order any OLD MASTER, COMPUTER PAINTED or FREEDOM CLOTH BACKGROUND from us
at Stand G30, Focus on Imaging 7-10 March, NEC, Birmingham and receive 10% discount on your order.

All three types of background will be on display on the stand, and there will be browsing copies of the full 182 page Denny 2010 catalogue to assist your choice.

Please note - Allow 5 weeks for delivery

Another Focus offer!

2010-02-22T15:45:00.001Z

We will be displaying the new ULTRA BLACK paper from Creativity International on our stand, with the standard black paper alongside.

At the show, you can purchase the Ultra Black paper at the price of the standard Black paper, a saving of over 10% when you purchase any other paper rolls from us.

FOCUS ON IMAGING DEALS...

2010-02-18T10:33:00.004Z

Yes.. its that time of year again! And over the next few weeks we will be listing some of the deals we will be offering at Focus (7-10 March, at the NEC)

THESE DEALS WILL ONLY BE AVAILABLE TO VISITORS TO THE SHOW PLACING ORDERS ON THE SHOW STAND AND WILL FIRMLY CLOSE AT 5PM ON THE LAST DAY OF THE SHOW

Our first deal for the 2010 will be on Elinchrom lighting... 2 packages, One for the professional studio and one for the keen amateur/prosumer... The Pro Studio package will be priced at £2010 PLUS VAT, and the ProSumer package will be priced at £2010 INCL VAT

The kits will comprise: 4 heads and stands (2 no 2 head kits) plus a selection of attachments to allow effective lighting of high and low key sets.

The ProSumer package will be based around the NEW D Lite IT - they are going intelligent.... with intelligent fans AND integral Skyport radio trigger, similar to the BXri range.

This offer will be conditional on purchase of studio hardware or background products from the Studio Decor range.

More offers to come on Posing Kits and backgrounds over the coming days... Keep looking in for more information.

ONE DAY LIGHTING COURSE - Sat 18 April

2010-02-17T18:49:00.001Z

In conjunction with the RPS, we will be hosting a one day Studio Flash course with Chris Burfoot AMPA as the tutor.

Chris is well known as a national demonstrator and is frequently seen at all the major events demonstrating Elinchrom lighting and runs hugely successful and well regarded courses all over the country.

The emphasis of the day is practical experience in a tuition situation, and there will be a model available for you to practice posing as well as lighting.

The one day course costs £60 , including buffet lunch and all the tea and coffee you can drink.

There are at present a few places remaining - Please contact us for further details

FOCUS ON IMAGING

2010-02-01T14:14:00.001Z

We can confirm that we have now booked space at this show, fairly near our usual spot of recent years, Stand no G30, near The Flash Centre demonstration area where we look forward to meeting customers old and new over the four days of the show from Sunday March 7 - Wednesday March 10.

A new month...

2010-02-01T14:11:00.002Z

Are we complaining? No....

We've just totalled the sales for December and January, and despite losing ten days for the Festival break and another ten days with snow, sales for both months are the best we have ever had.

The world is obviously waking up, and maybe Messrs Darling and Brown arent so far wide of the mark when they say the recession is receeding. Certainly enquiries for studio fittings and design are massively above those during the same period last year, so we look forward to Focus with some hope.

Show Stands

2010-01-20T12:44:00.003Z

Just a couple of shots of our recent showstands - apologies for the photography: They are taken with a pocket point and shoot largely so we dont forget what was on the stand at any particular show.

Anyway... our aim is to look lively and busy - and show as much of our extensive range as our often tiny stands (these two stands were 2x2m and 2x3m respectively)

Please remember if there is anything from our range you would like to see at any of our shows, please contact us well in advance of the event and we will try to arrange for it to be displayed.

Canon Show November '09

London Convention Jan '10

Roadshows 2010

2010-01-18T14:43:00.001Z

Dates have now been published for the 2010 roadshow series. Unfortunately the early dates co-incide with other events and we will be unable to join the partners at the South Wales and Cirencester shows in the first week of February.

London... London..

2010-01-18T14:41:00.000Z

Hello to all who passed by our stand at the London Convention... and an even bigger hello to those who stopped to discuss business with us.

We should be there next year all things being good for the next 360 days or so!

Weather.. weather.. All together!!!

2010-01-13T08:31:00.000Z

Apologies to those who have suffered delays in deliveries owing to the recent adverse weather conditions: We have tried to work with the carriers to get orders away, but as our workshops are away from Council maintained roads, they have had no priority and have remained covered in packed snow for the past week.

However, the thaw is now imminent, and as the saying goes, normal service should be resumed shortly.

No problems are anticipated in relation to our attendance at the London Convention this weekend, and we look forward to meeting customers and friends, old and new, at this event. Details on the post below.

Back to life... back to reality...

2010-01-04T09:37:00.002Z

Now the season of gargantuan greed and marketing mayhem is over... might we get back to some sensible business??

And the weekend after next we make our first show appearance of the year at the London Convention - We'll be there somewhere on the upstairs floor... in through the main entrance on that floor and turn left... either that or work your way round the outside walls... you'll find us somewhere!

I'm sure you have all seen the adverts and know all about it, but in case you havent... here is how the organisers describe their event....

2010 London Photographic Convention and Trade show

An invitation to everyone who is interested in photography!

The event is by far the largest gathering of like-minded pro photographers
eager to share their knowledge and friendship and with 10,000
pre-registrations so far this is the event not to be missed.

Trade show highlights:

300 Seat lecture Area; Attendees are able to attend FREE lectures by many of
the leading lectures in the photographic industry over the three day Trade
Show. Subjects cover such topics as: Portraiture, Marketing, Adobe
Photoshop, Digital Imaging, Landscapes, Architecture, Weddings, Fashion,
Events, Lighting and much more...

Meet 200+ plus exhibitors - All the important players within the industry
are exhibiting at this event, so meet the key personnel who can help you.

Convention highlights:

The Masterclass programme is a veritable 'who's-who' in the photographic
industry, with three plus days of solid lectures on a wide range of
photographic subjects. These include; Children, Events, Digital imaging,
Fashion, Fine art, Glamour, Landscape, Macro, Lighting, Marketing,
Monochrome, Nature, Pets, Photojournalism, Photoshop, Weddings, Portrait,
Posing, Pregnancy, Sport, Travel...

*Free Trade Show - See what is new at the 2010 Tradeshow
Over 350 hours of Masterclasses to choose from, over four days!
Over 12 hours of Business School
Over 40 hours of FREE Seminars and Demos
Superclasses
Full-Day Photographic Seminars
Photographer of the Year Awards Night

Convention: 12th-18th 2010
Trade Show Dates: 15th-17th January 2010
Novotel London West - Hammersmith

New Pricing - Lastolite and Sekonic

2009-12-14T22:55:00.004Z

New pricing for January 2010 has just been released by Lastolite and Sekonic.

In the Lastolite range there appear to be gentle increases across the board, although the VAT increase on Jan 1st makes them appear more draconian than they are.

In the Sekonic range, the lower end of the range (308S and 358) are taking a small increase, but the higher models in the range are unchanged in price.

Product updates...

2009-11-16T09:32:00.002Z

Two product updates to announce:

1) Catalogue no 203 - White Step Ladders.
We have been unable to source further supplies of the previously illustrated designs,
and these have now been superceded by a single 3 tread ladder of a much more stable
design. Unfortunately the price has had to rise accordingly to £65+VAT.
These are available in White and Clay.

2) Catalogue no 530 - Metal Wash tub - A revised type is now available in White only: If demand is sufficient we may get some done in a galvanised finish.
The dimensions are slightly smaller, but still quite adequate for a child.

Please see the web pages for further details and images.

And before the Festivities begin...

2009-11-09T11:18:00.003Z

NOVEMBER REDUCTIONS ON STOCK SEASONAL BACKGROUNDS

We have in stock the following seasonal backgrounds available at discount for immediate despatch (All 6'x8')

CP6017 Winter Bench - £175
CP6016 Peeking Santa - £225
CP6242 Homely Holiday - £225

All ex VAT and delivery. See them on our Seasonal background page HERE

FESTIVE SEASON 2009-2010

2009-11-09T11:11:00.002Z

As ever, we will endeavour to maintain as near normal operation as possible throughout the Festive Season: Where possible we will despatch by carrier, but please note that these services may be restricted. Visitors wishing to try equipment are most welcome - Please call or email to make an appointment first please.

We will close at mid day on Thursday 24th December, and re-open at 9am on Tuesday 29th December. We will then close again at 5pm on Thursday 31st December, and re-open on Monday 4th January, and hours will be as normal thereafter.

Whatever you are doing, wherever you may be, whatever you believe or not as the case may be... let it be peaceful.

Nice to see you!

2009-10-29T17:26:00.002Z

Hello to all those who came by our stand at the Canon Pro Solutions event at the Business Design Centre in London this week.

It was great to meet lots of potential new customers all out to see what Canon and other exhibitors had to offer in an excellent show in a good venue for Central London. Several took advantage of the free trials of the Elinchrom Quadra system, and it was good to be able to take time and discuss various studio problems and situations that Studio Decor can help overcome with a number of visitors.

Plans for next years event arent yet finalised, but with Photokina coming up next year, as well as another major European event for Canon in France, it may be that this event will become a bi-annual.

Meanwhile, we travel to The Yew Tree Lodge,Kegworth, Nottinghamshire next week for the last Roadshow for 2009 - Very convenient for Nottingham, Derby and Leicester: We look forward to seeing you there - 11-4pm, Free admission.

See us in London at the Canon Pro Show

2009-10-12T14:22:00.003+01:00

Better late than never!!!

Studio Decor are pleased to confirm a stand at the Canon Pro Photo Solutions Show at the Business Design Centre, Islington, London

Date - Tues 27 & Wed 28 October

Opening - Tues - 11am - 8pm
Wed - 10am - 5pm

Admission free by pre registration through the show site - Link HERE or £8 on the door on the day.

Our stand will be in the Business Support Solutions area - see you there!!

Elinchrom Quadra = TRY IT FREE!!

2009-09-18T13:54:00.000+01:00

Studio Decor are pleased to announce their appointment as Platinum Dealers for the Elinchrom Quadra portable flash kit.

As part of our appointment, we now have available a two head Quadra kit which is available for all clients to try by appointment in any reasonable situation or location. This is without any charge to the client.

At the end of the trial, you have the option to purchase the demonstration kit, or we will be happy to give you a competitive deal on a brand new kit.

We are quite happy to travel to you - please call to arrange.

TRAINING TRAINING TRAINING

2009-09-04T09:27:00.002+01:00

In the current knowledge hungry market, we work with several companies that provide training at all levels, besides our own studio acquaint courses that we tailor to your requirements.

For those who are familiar with the equipment, but need to develop some deeper understanding of the principles and all the jargon involved, Terry Hewlett has just launched a one day course designed to take the mystery out of working with strobist type flash gear in all conditions - and at only £65 it looks to be good value.
See more on his blog HERE He also runs courses for Wedding and Event photographers which many have found of great benefit.

For those looking for more in depth understanding of working with studio flash for portraiture and art/glamour work, Chris Burfoot of TFC courses has regular courses running which take you from the very fundamentals of the parts of a flash head, and measuring the quantity of light to composing and lighting a picture of a nude model precariously balanced on top of a tree stump deep in the countryside. For more details see his site HERE

Background paper price CRASSSSHHHH!!!

2009-08-26T17:58:00.003+01:00

Please go to the Background Paper pages to see new low prices, and some very special offers on the most common shades and sizes for SEPTEMBER 2009 only.

New Roadshow date

2009-08-26T09:04:00.002+01:00

Another date for your diary if you are in the Manchester/Stockport/Cheshire area:

There will be an additional roadshow on Monday 5th October at The Bredbury Hall Hotel, BREDBURY, Stockport.

Running as usual from 11am - 4pm, other participating companies are yet to be confirmed, but GF Smith Photomount will certainly be there, and there is likely to be a free training session of some kind which will be announced shortly.

Admission to these roadshows is free, and you are welcome as you wish to discuss your requirements in a relaxed atmosphere.... or just come along and get the craic!

NEW..NEW...NEW......

2009-08-06T08:19:00.004+01:00

Studio Decor are pleased to announce the addition of the BELLWOOD range of Photographer's Toolboxes to their range.

These are simple to use (full instructions provided) enhancements to any suitable image by using Photoshop or other maniupulation programmes.

Examples of the enhancements available are the addtion of confetti, bubbles or fireworks to wedding images, a range of moon and skyscapes and a wide selection of frame options.

Also available are a selection of background images suitable for use with chomakey 'green screen' shots

We will be incorporating information onto our own website shortly, but for further information now, please link directly to the Bellwood website HERE

After Yorkshire...

2009-08-06T08:13:00.002+01:00

Hello to those who got to the hastily convened roadshow at the Gormersal Park Hotel near Bradford yesterday - a good turnout considering the time of the year, and we hope you enjoyed being able to discuss your needs in a rather more relaxed atmosphere than at the major shows.

Our next outing in a fortnight is at the Imperial War Museum at DUXFORD, Cambridgeshire. The show runs from 11am - 4pm, and we understand there is FREE ADMISSION to the museum for families attending the event.

Please contact us in plenty of time if there are specific items you would like to see at the show, or if you would like us to visit you en route to this event.

Another roadshow goes by...

2009-07-23T09:29:00.002+01:00

Hello to those that came along to the latest Roadshow at the Kettering Conference Centre yesterday. Hoping you found it a benefit to meet several suppliers in the same place at the same time - as well as being able to meet other local photographers for leisurely discussions over a coffee.

THE NEXT SHOW HAS BEEN ARRANGED AT THE LAST MINUTE - WEDS 5 AUGUST AT THE GOMARSAL PARK HOTEL, CLECKHEATON, BRADFORD - 11AM - 3.30 PM

As usual, no admission charge, no fixed session... just turn up and have a browse at your leisure.

See you there!

Jessie at Studio Decor - 25 July

2009-07-17T12:38:00.003+01:00

Our good friend Jessie will be available for studio bookings next Saturday afternoon 25th July, and we are offering special rate rentals for this.

2 hrs - £30, 3 hrs - £40 4 hrs - £50 Location - £25 per booking.

This does not include the model - please contact her though Purestorm or Net Model to arrange with her.

Images

2009-07-16T10:00:00.002+01:00

Its coming round to catalogue time again - Do you have any images that you think show off our products well and might be suitable for inclusion in our next catalogue, due out for Focus in March 2010?

Please get in touch with us - credits are always given where images are used, and its always good to incorporate different styles into our publications.

Confirmed..

2009-07-16T09:55:00.001+01:00

The proposed roadshow at the Gomarsal Park Hotel, Cleckheaton nr Bradford is confirmed for Wed 5th August, but please note that the show will run from 11am to 3.30pm, finishing slightly earlier than usual.

As usual, if you are coming to the show and would like to view anything specific, please call us at least a couple of days prior to the show.

Given the recent wet weather, a reminder that we usually carry a good stock of plain white umbrellas to all roadshows, so save yourself the shipping!!!

Summer sizzler on 12ft Vinyls... !!!

2009-07-09T09:32:00.003+01:00

ANOTHER VERY SPECIAL OFFER FOR YOU!!!

3.7 x 6m (12'x20') white vinyl backgrounds - INCLUDING Aluminium core
on offer for a limited time at £312+VAT delivery inclusive...

List price normally £445+VAT for the same package.. so if you've got the width and the length is right.. Call us now on 01308 867100

NOTE - This offer applies to this width, 6m long backgrounds only

Our apologies...

2009-07-09T09:29:00.000+01:00

Our apologies for communications problems in the last few days, thanks to a friendly local farmer who managed to demolish a telegraph pole complete with our line in over last weekend.

Its taken BT 3 days to repair it... and in the meantime, owing to the scarcity of Orange signal here, we have been working in the upstairs bedroom without fax or email.

Anyway... normal service is now resumed!!!

NEW ROADSHOW DATE

2009-07-03T10:25:00.002+01:00

STOP PRESS!!!

Owing to demand from a number of our Roadshow partners an extra date has been added in the M62 Corridor.

We will be at the Gomersal Park Hotel, Near Bradford on Weds 5 August from 11am - 3pm. (Postcode BD19 4LJ )

This is subject to final confirmation, so please check again before making it a firm date.

See the 'Where to see' pages on our website for other forthcoming show dates at which you can meet us and discuss your requirements.

Scotland Roadshow - An unusual venue!

2009-06-25T09:57:00.003+01:00

A big HELLO to those who visited us and our trade colleagues at The Tall Ship in Glasgow this week.

The venue was an interesting change from the usual hotels, the show being on board the ship 'Glenlee', moored on the Clyde as a tourist attraction.

What we didnt bargain on was it being a totally cloudless sunny day, and by early afternoon the side of the steel ship, beam on to the sun, was acting as an extremely efficient radiator, and it was getting pretty warm below decks!

Some things dont change though, and as ever The Image File had problems finding headroom for their pop up, and some hasty improvisation with assistance from Paul Taylor's trusty pocket knife had to be made.

We are back south of the border for our next show on 22nd July at the Conference Centre, Kettering, so we look forward to seeing our East Midlands clients there.

For further details of where to see Studio Decor on the road, please see the 'Where to See' page on our website

2nd hand bits...

2009-06-17T16:17:00.004+01:00

A couple of new items from clients wishing to sell gear they no longer need...

1) Full Ceiling track system - Buyer to arrange collection from N London - Offer £200 (no VAT) and it will be yours. Contact details for the seller from our office

2) Nursery/Children's background with free standing cardboard animals - Somerset based customer asking £70 inc VAT. Excellent condition. - See the Studio Decor Offers page for more details and pictures.

Do you have any studio gear around that you rarely use? Existing clients are welcome to advertise for free with us.

UPDATE - July 13th - Both these items now sold - without charge to Buyer or Seller - Clients of Studio Decor are welcome to advertise unwanted studio equipment on our website free of charge. Please email for details.

On the road again

2009-06-16T10:32:00.005+01:00

The Annual series of Roadshows continues next Tuesday 23rd June, with the furthest for us to travel this year.

The venue is the TALL SHIP, GLASGOW, G3 8QQ on the north bank of the Clyde, fairly near the M8 which should be convenient for all visitors.

The usual companies beside ourselves will be there - GF Smith Photomount, Hot Press, PermaJet, Border Frames, Marrutt/Lyson, SWPP, and other companies serving the professional photography trade. Admission is totally free, and the events run from 11am to 4pm. There is no set session - arrive and leave as you wish.

For details of other roadshow events at which Studio Decor will be represented please click HERE...

20,000 divided by 14......

2009-06-15T15:13:00.000+01:00

Wow.. what a weekend!!!
Our annual visit from Chris Burfoot's TFC Courses for their Advanced Indoor and Outdoor Lighting (Figure and Glamour) course.

14 delegates... including delegates from Canada, Poland and Norway...2 models and 2 tutors descended on our HQ to work on 19 sets over two action packed days.
At the end a quick poll showed that in excess of 20,000 images were taken by the 14 delegates.
The sets included - Low key art nude style ( black background), Dune buggy (kindly provided by 'Flags'), Industrial pallet heaps, Orchard/meadow, Log cabin, MX-5, Tree stump and tree with stunning landscape behind. (See the link to Terry Hewlett's blog below for more sample images)

A great variety and done in some testing conditions, but a learning curve that even with bright sunlight, reflectors and added flash can add that little bit extra to make those special images stunning.

And...... Not a white background in site.... The shape of things to come????

See Also: Terry Hewlett's blog and Chris Burfoot (TFC Courses) blog for more information on this and the other courses this natural double act offer.

New from Colorama

2009-06-11T10:36:00.000+01:00

NEW FROM COLORAMA!!!

Are you one of those who are fed up with the standard 9' rolls of paper being too big for your vehicle..... but the standard half rolls (4ft6in) being too narrow for portraiture???

Well.. those helpful people at Colorama are trialling a 6ft width paper roll in five colours - White, Black, Smoke Grey, Chroma Blue and Chroma Green

Just made for those working on the move!

Also see their new website at www.colorama-photo.com to see a new range of lighting products, similar to the California Sunbounce system, comprising Black/white reversible... reflectors of all types and diffusion panels.

We look forward to your enquiries for these exciting new products! Call us now - 01308 867100 for up to date prices and information!