Monthly Archives: July 2013

THE ART OF PACKING BY LOUIS VUITTON

31 July 2013

Are you relaxed and ready for a master class in packing? I’m not kidding there IS an art to it and Louis Vuitton, creator of some of the world’s most luxurious travel goods since 1854, is letting you in to a few secrets.

So let me set the scene: Enter through some effortlessly gliding doors into a world of low lighting with thick carpet and cream and chocolate brown logo overload, gold hardware and tactile fabrics everywhere. The smell of leather wafts through the air (no cheap ployester anywhere) and a nice and discreet assistant sits you down for your master class in packing. Ok, I might have exaggerated a bit but that’s the experience you’re (almost) getting when watching their very helpful packing instructions online. I must say it’s a beautiful piece of flash animation and it’s well worth the wait once it’s loaded.

Now you might detect some sarcasm here but let me reassure you, it’s pure envy that I don’t have a wardrobe or luggage to replicate the experience at home. On second thoughts if I DID own some LV cases I’d probably have somebody else packing. Hmmm…

Mainly, I just LOVE these beautifully styled shots of luggage and garments.

For all those who want to cut to the chase here are some of their top packing tips:

BASE LAYER:

Put clunky items like shoes, cosmetics (make sure you put liquids in extra plastic bags) and hairdryer at the bottom of the case as a base layer.

MIND THE GAPS:

Roll up all your thinner non-creasing garments like t-shirts and knitwear. Roll from the collar down and use to fill the gaps between the chunky items at the bottom. Fold jeans in half lengthways and roll up from the bottom to the top to avoid unnecessary creasing.

PIECE DE RESISTENCE:

Shirts, jackets and skirts are tricky to fold but try and use as few folds as possible and keep to the shape of the case. Do up the shirt or jacket, turn out the collar and fold back the arms.

BEFORE YOU CLOSE UP:

There’s usually a bit of room under the lid so try and put your most awkwardly shaped items in to the suitcase last to minimise the risk of creasing.

Et voilà, bon voyage!

Enjoy and I hope you’re inspired!

More information | Louis Vuitton

Fashion & Style / 2 COMMENTS /

AWARD-WINNING PHOTOGRAPHER RYAN EDY

30 July 2013

Ryan Edy’s philosophy is ‘to work hard and play hard’ which to me initially seemed a juxtaposition to his photography. His work is incredibly sensitive, emotional and shows maturity beyond his years. During his short career he has already managed to accumulate awards and honourable mentions in various international competitions, like One Eyeland, IPA and Px3.

To find out more about this talented Geordie (for all my American readers, it’s an endearing term for people from in and around the town of Newcastle in the north east of England) I quizzed him about his motivation, his passions and what the future holds.

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO BECOME A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER?

Having always been passionate about art and design from a young age, I always knew I wanted to pursue a career in this field; nothing else was ever an option! But I wasn’t quite sure which direction to go in however I’d always use my father’s camera taking photos at every opportunity which soon developed into my goal of wanting to enter the world of photography.
My biggest inspiration has to be my family, who has always supported me in every decision I’ve made. I’ve also been very fortunate to have some amazing mentors that have helped me along the way including Graham Stopuh, my college tutor and good friend and Alex Telfer, who I assisted for three years.

WHICH PART OF THE JOB DO YOU ENJOY MOST?

I enjoy every part of it, it’s my dream job! But the thing I get the most satisfaction from is capturing some amazing images then seeing others admiring and enjoying my work.

WHAT INSPIRED YOUR AWARD-WINNING PORTRAIT SERIES OF CHILDREN IN ZIMBABWE AND HOW DID YOU MANAGE TO CAPTURE THEIR ‘ESSENCE’ AND MAKE THEM RELAX IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA?

I was born in Bulawayo in Zimbabwe and I have a very close connection with the country, which is why I wanted to capture the striking beauty, character and culture of the locals and surroundings in a way that stayed true to the subject. Therefore I felt the best way to go about photographing the locals was to take time to get to know them so they felt at ease.

HOW IMPORTANT AND ENJOYABLE IS POST PRODUCTION FOR YOU?

I always try and do as much as I can in the original shot in camera as it is crucial for getting a great image. This allows me to do subtle tweaks and edits in post production which really brings my images to life so I feel it is both important and enjoyable for getting the final image just right!.

WHAT TIPS WOULD YOU GIVE ASPIRING PHOTOGRAPHERS TODAY AND HOW IMPORTANT IS SOCIAL MEDIA FOR YOU?

My main advice would be to practice and to learn different techniques, never underestimate the importance of sound technical skills. But don’t be afraid to make mistakes and most importantly enjoy yourself… as this is what makes your work “you”.
And this is why for me social media is a key aspect for marketing and advertising as it allows people to see me, the person behind the picture! Posting ‘behind the scenes’ shots of the shoot to the final images or adverts is a great way to keep people wanting more and wondering what’s next.

OTHER THAN PHOTOGRAPHY, WHAT ARE YOUR PASSIONS?

I have many passions beside photography which include sports, exploring different countries around the world and learning about their cultures and enjoying their local cuisines… but these just add as muse for my photography.

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE HOLD FOR YOU?

At the moment I’m currently working on various different commissions alongside some exciting creative personal projects, which I feel is so important as it keeps me shooting and helps develop my style. I try and keep personal work a little looser and more free, simplicity is key. Some of my projects are my ongoing surfing series, and on the other hand something totally different: Documenting the life of a burlesque artiste.

AND FINALLY, PLEASE COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE: IF I HAD A MAGIC WAND I WOULD…

Leave a lasting impression for future generations with an array of breathtaking images that I’ve taken throughout my career.

My gratitude to Ryan for giving us a glimpse into his work and life.

MORE INFORMATION & PHOTOGRAPHY | Ryan Edy

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MARTHA’S MOST POPULAR SMOOTHIE RECIPES

29 July 2013

It’s smoothie season! With all this sunshine we’ve recently had there’s plenty of fresh fruit around and I’m going to get you in the mood with these top four smoothie recipes by Martha Stewart. In case you’re still slurping your full-fat latte here’s the sales pitch to make the smoothie switch.

Firstly, home made smoothies are delicious. They are a great and healthy way to start the day and much cheaper than shop-bought ones.

The smoothie recipes below are packed with fruit, veggies, milk, yoghurt and more. They give you more fibre and nutrients than juice does, ensuring good digestion and empower your immune system.

But best of all they provide you with the scientifically proven best ‘brain fuel’ in the form of fructose according to Perfect Smoothie. So power up, fill up and feel great!