Gander Media Solutions

07/08/2024

Ever wondered why some videos just feel more engaging and professional? The answer might be B-roll!

It's the supporting footage that adds depth and context to your main video content. Think of it as the spice that turns a bland dish into a culinary masterpiece.

Why should your brand care about B-roll?

1️⃣ It breaks monotony, keeping viewers hooked
2️⃣ Shows, doesn't just tell - demonstrate your product in action
3️⃣ Builds credibility by showcasing your workspace or team
4️⃣ Evokes emotion, creating stronger connections
5️⃣ Boosts engagement - varied visuals get more shares!

Worried about time or budget? Don't be! B-roll is an investment that pays off. With some creativity, you can capture great footage even on a smartphone.

Quick tips to get started:

• Plan ahead - brainstorm ideas before shooting
• Capture details - close-ups add depth
• Show your environment - gives context
• Highlight your team - humanizes your brand
• Use time-lapse or slow-motion for visual interest

Remember, every business has a story. B-roll helps you tell it in a way that captivates and converts.

Ready to elevate your video content? Start looking at your business with fresh eyes. What moments or details represent the heart of what you do? That's your B-roll gold mine!

Don't settle for ordinary videos. With B-roll, you can create something extraordinary that truly showcases your brand's unique value.

It's time to roll with it – B-roll, that is. Your audience is waiting to see the full picture of your amazing story!

22/05/2024

Branding Images What's the point ?

It's really great that you want to have branding images. Even better if you want me to take them for you.

Before you start creating or choosing the images you want in your library ask yourself this. "What am I using these for and what's the objective?"

Or in other words. Create the goals that accompany the brand message and your audience will love.

Here's 5 key things to consider

1. Identify Your Goals:
What do you want to achieve with these images? Are you looking to increase brand awareness, drive sales, engage your audience, or showcase a new product?

2. Define Your Target Audience: Who are you trying to reach? Understanding your audience helps in selecting images that appeal to their preferences and needs.

3. Align with Brand Identity: Ensure your images reflect your brand’s core values, mission, and tone. Consistency in style, colour, and theme is crucial.

4. Determine Usage: Where will these images be used? Consider the platform—social media, website, print, or ads—each has different requirements and best practices.

5. Measure Success: Establish metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of your images. This could include engagement rates, click-through rates, or sales conversions.

By clearly defining the purpose and objectives, you ensure your branding images are strategic and impactful, contributing to your overall marketing success.

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I'm Jules and I've been a creative headshot photographer for over 10 years. I'm here to help guide and coach you through the daunting task of creating great visuals that are bold, dynamic and creative. Visuals that resonate with the people you want to talk with and work with.

If you want to know more then drop me a DM and let's chat

16/05/2024

Want to revolutionise your branding photography?

It's time to drop the old and tired questions like ones that cover ...

❌ Forget about digital slimming or erasing people from memories.
❌ Bargaining down prices undermines the value of expert photography.
❌ No one can promise perfect weather, but a pro adapts to any condition.
❌ Over-requesting photos leads to quantity over quality.
❌ Copying poses or demanding raw photos limits the creative process.

These are the types of questions you should ask instead

👍 Discover your photographer’s unique style and ensure it matches your vision.
👍 Ask to see a full gallery for a comprehensive view of their work.
👍 Understand exactly what’s included in their packages.
👍 Confirm they have backup equipment and can handle unexpected events.
👍 Discuss the possibility of providing a shot list or specific requests.
👍 Know the turnaround time for final photo delivery.
👍 Learn how to secure your date with them.

Can you think of any more for either list ??

08/05/2024

Adventures in Networking

Some networking events feel like a treasure hunt, others like a cozy chat with friends.
Building relationships or making quick connections? There's a networking style for everyone.
And in 2024, follow-ups are gold. Who's slipped through the cracks in your contacts?

If you're in the London area, I'm cooking up something special—a networking group that's all about vibrancy, excitement, and growth.

4N - Business Networking is a superb nationwide networking organisation that really works. Along with Lorraine Caplan and Paul Smith I'm part of the team launching a new group in Hayes. and the first meeting is on 14th May 2024 at 10:00 am. Do the school run, miss the traffic and meet us there. Even better the Elizabeth Line is just 5 mins walk away. There's a 4sight about how to make the best out of networking from Steve

I'm not here to rope you into anything. I want you to meet an incredible bunch of business owners, just like you—ambitious, driven, and ready to take on the world.

Already in the room are, amongst others
Millpress Print for branding your work wear and other items
Paul Smith who can get you places and save you money
Judi Judicorn Hampton with a kitchen equivalent of a Swiss Army Knife .. I'm not sure if it can get stones out of horses hooves but you can try :-)
Steve Westrop who can make a web site sticky
Simon Fluffy Caplan can build it for you, with bricks and mortar, so they will come

So what have you got to loose. So many fresh faces let's get the room full.

I can book you in as a guest and you'll get a special rate. So message me ... and say I'm in ... and I'll get you booked today.

It's casual, it's fun, and there's always a plan. Want to experience it yourself? Drop me a line! Let's network like never before

03/05/2024

Imagine a world where your first impression isn't just seen it's felt.

Every photograph is a conversation starter. Every image makes the viewer want to reach out and ask you more.

Photos are invitations ... use them wisely.

If your branding image needs an overhaul, a refresh, an update then drop me a message and let's chat. Let's capture the authentic, real you and invite people to start talking with you.

02/05/2024

Over the last 10 years in business one of the greatest things has been meeting people from all over the place. Networking has been a main stay of how I make friends, build business and discover the people who do what I need.

I've been in may groups. 4N - Smile, Meet, Chat... Join in! has been a part of that journey. What's great is that, whilst you sort of have a home group, you can go to any meeting you like. With both In Person and Zoom I have travelled the country and in some cases the world. There's no lockouts, which is great because knowing people who do what you do is a fabulous thing.

I'm the Group Leader for a new In Person meeting in Hayes. The first meeting is Tue 14th May at 10am, after that it's every 2nd Tuesday of the month. Come along and meet a bunch of new people and maybe some old friends. We're going to have a great offer on the day. Transport is easy, there's lots of motorway connections and the Elizabeth Line is 5 mins up the road so Reading and Essex you have no excuse ...

4N London Hayes 10:00 Tuesday May 14th - Business networking with Steve Westrop presenting ABC 4Networking This meeting is Heathrow, Face-2-Face, Brunch

08/03/2024

Ladies ... want a complimentary 90 min branding shoot to celebrate International Women's Day ?

Celebrating International Women's Day with a Special Offer!

Ladies, in honour of International Women's Day, I'm thrilled to announce a special offer just for you!

As a portrait and branding photographer, I believe in capturing the essence of each individual, celebrating your uniqueness and empowering you through the art of photography.
Here's what some of my amazing clients had to say about their experiences:

"Jules has a wonderful gift of enabling his subject to be completely at ease which allows him to capture shots that really show you as a person, in your comfortable state. I would highly recommend him!" - SJ

"On every occasion I have always been made to feel very comfortable and he has a way of getting the best out of me. It's great working with Julian, we always have so much fun in the studio and on location." - LG

"Julian is not only the BEST photographer around but also a wonderful creative to work along side. He understood my vision and made it exactly that and so much more. I can’t thank him enough!" - SG

To celebrate the incredible women in our community, I'm offering a complimentary 90-minute studio headshot shoot!
Whether you're an entrepreneur, a professional, or simply want to capture your essence in a stunning portrait, this is your chance.

To join the waitlist for this exclusive offer, I'm asking for just 2 things
Simply comment below, tag anyone you think might be interested
AND
Fill out the form in the link

Names will go into a hat, and the lucky winner will be drawn on Monday. Don't miss out on this opportunity to shine and capture your beauty!

Let's celebrate the strength, resilience, and beauty of women everywhere. Happy International Women's Day!

The shoot must take place in the Gander studio, Central London. The shoot will last for 90 mins and you will receive 3 edited images.

28/02/2024

AI is here to stay and the photo generators are starting to get quite good.

All that said just as selfies haven't completely replaced photographers I don't think AI ever will.

Here's why

A.I. has been making significant strides in various fields, promising efficiency, accuracy, and convenience. However, as a seasoned headshot and branding photographer with over a decade of experience, I firmly believe that there's one thing A.I. can never replace: the authentic human touch. While A....

19/02/2024

Hey there, lovely people of London! I'm Jules, the face behind Gander Photography. For over a decade, I've been capturing the essence of individuals and brands with my bold and dynamic style. Ready to stand out from the crowd? Let's create something amazing together!

16/02/2024

It's been quite the week here at Gander Media Solutions with lots and lots going on.

I'm getting ready to launch some fantastic new offerings from photography right the way through to creative consulting and direction.

Many new shiny things coming your way soon !

15/02/2024

In today's complex business world, clarity is key.

Graphical representations, animated infographics, and engaging videos offer a dynamic solution to simplify complicated ideas. Imagine trying to explain a sophisticated financial strategy or cutting-edge technology without visuals - it's like navigating a maze blindfolded! But with graphics, animations, and videos, these concepts become more accessible and easier to grasp.

Animated videos, in particular, provide a step-by-step guide through complex processes, making them understandable for everyone. Whether it's breaking down a complicated workflow or illustrating a revolutionary product, animations captivate attention and convey messages effectively.

Moreover, visual content is highly shareable and memorable, ensuring your message sticks with your audience long after they've seen it. By embracing graphical, animated, and video content, businesses can simplify their communication strategies and make meaningful connections with their audience.

So, if you're struggling to explain a complex idea, remember the power of visuals. They're not just eye candy - they're essential tools for simplifying how you talk to others and ensuring your message is heard loud and clear.

Ready to simplify your business communication? Contact me today to learn more about how visual content can elevate your messaging and engage your audience

05/02/2024

When ... ?

When was the last time you had professional pictures taken for your business ? Last month, Last Year, Longer, Never ?

Here's a few good reasons why if it's been over a year it really is time for some new ones.

Your business has evolved: Your brand is a living entity, and it's grown since your last shoot. Let's make sure your visuals reflect the incredible journey your business has taken!

Stay relevant in the digital age: Trends change faster than we can blink. Ensure your online presence stays fresh and engaging with up-to-date, on-brand imagery that resonates with your audience.

Capture your essence: If you've undergone changes and let's face it most of us do, it's essential to showcase the vibrant personality driving your success.

Connect with your audience: Authenticity is key. Updated photos help you connect on a deeper level with your audience, building trust and loyalty. Show them the real face or faces behind your brand.

Elevate your professional image: First impressions matter, and your visual identity is often the first encounter clients have with your business. Make sure it's a lasting impression that screams success.

Ready to level up your visuals ? I have an offer running until the end of the month. Your brand deserves to be big, bold, dynamic and original. Take a look at

https://www.gandermediasolutions.co.uk/2401b

and let's chat.

31/01/2024

'If you build it, they will come.' We all need a vision.

I recently revisited Field of Dreams, a film I believed I had watched numerous times (perhaps just once or twice), only to discover I hadn't.

We're all familiar with the phrase, 'If you build it, they will come.' It narrates a sentimental story of a man's connection to his late father, their bond through baseball, and the misconceptions our hero holds about his family.

But let's transition from the sentimental to the strategic, taking this lesson to our creative design consultancy.

Build it, and they will come.

It resonates with the essence of 'Trust the process.'

Our social media journeys are diverse, much like the experiences on a baseball field. Identifying the spectators, observers, and those choosing not to engage is a puzzle, even with limited stats. While quality triumphs over quantity, expanding our reach remains a goal.

As January concludes, a pivotal time when new habits either solidify or fade, I've committed to regular posts here in February.

I'm still building and waiting, akin to our hero played by Kevin Costner anticipating 'Shoeless Joe Jackson' and his comrades in the movie.

If you haven't experienced it, I recommend Field of Dreams for a cold rainy day. Share your movie recommendations in the comments below

09/01/2024

25% off a headshot session to start of the New Year ...

A headshot is more than just a photo ..

It's a virtual handshake to a room full of people all at once. It introduces you, puts people at ease and bridges the gap, transforming you from faceless stranger to familiar connection.

Done right it distills all of your best assets into a single approachable and familiar version of who you are.

In a world of filters, AI and selfies a good headshot isn't a mere photograph it is a way of opening doors to new connections, opportunities and friendships.

I've got a special offer you don't want to miss.

Click on the link and find out more. 25% off a headshot session before the end of Feb. A great way to step into 2024.

All the details are here

Experience a 2 hour photo session in the heart of Central London.  The studio is 5 mins from London Bridge.  Easy to get to from all locations.

05/01/2024

The first week if January us drawing to a close and for many it's been the first week back at work. Do you know what I've really enjoyed being back at the desk. Taking almost all of December off has been a real tonic and I'm fully refreshed with renewed vigour.

New Year's Eve
As we advance through the years NYE becomes less of a party and more of a chore. When you are little it's a wonderful thing to stay up midnight. As a young adult the parties and the clubs are a different kind of excitement on NYE than any other night. As a parent of young children, the glamour wanes a little as babysitters charge premium rates. These days, in my 50s, NYE is a dinner party with a just a few close friends. These are the friends that have shared many special times with and as we get older support us and we them. Although much quieter affairs than they used to be NYE are still special times.

Using pen and paper again
Last year I got a Remarkable device. Whilst it is a work of well wonder it still doesn't feel like pen and paper. There is something rather nice about how a pen, or pencil feedback in your hand as it moves across a page. Add to that, that it is always ready and frankly its still hard to beat.

Planning
I'm a bit guilty of taking my business for granted over the last year or so. It seems that the dip at 10 years or so is not uncommon and can be hard to survive. Some say harder than the first few years. It's not hard to see why times change, what you want to do changes and so does the client base. So I've gone back to my roots and really planned well. Deep dive reviews. New products. Revised prices. I've even gone so far as to produce a document that us effectively the 2024 Bible.

AI generation
It's time to face facts that AI is here to stay, and it's only going to get better. It seems that you can't get through a week without a new AI engine, for something you didn't know you needed to AI is released. From helping to do research and complete text, create images, auto edit video and so many other things it cannot be ignored. So I've been putting some hours in, getting the prompts right and having fun. It's remarkable what you can achieve.

The last of the Christmas Snacks
I'm coming out of the holidays with a thin veneer of chocolate and probably 90% Mince pie. Even though we set resolutions for better living I hate to waste good things so as the last of the Mince Pies takes a noble journey from it's plate with my morning coffer it's time to say Hello to celery and apples until December rolls back in.

Let me know how your first week back has been...

03/01/2024

I took the whole of December off and oddly it was one of the best things I did for my mental health and for my business.

I've come back to work with a refreshed attitude, and an urge to work rather than a "Is that is Xmas is over" attitude.

It's all here in the blog..

As the curtain closed on 2023, I found myself at the brink of burnout, navigating the challenges that the past year had thrown my way. Business had been undeniably tough, prompting me to reassess and explore new avenues. Amidst this transformative period, chaos reigned. By the time December rolled a...

02/01/2024

What are your words for 2024 ?

I go into each year with 3 words to guide everything I do in the year.
They are written on the office walls and act as a constant reminder for the way to operate in the year.

The first of these is Dynamic

Looking deeper it is a reminder to
1. Experiment with different genres and not get stuck in a creative rut. Photography is an ever evolving medium and there are always new things to add to the skill set both shooting and editing.

2. To continue to play with light and shadow. For me lighting is a huge part of what I do and finding new ways to light things is always a great techincal challenge.

3. Collaborations. These can be a great way to create new ideas. Working closely with others, often leads to great ideas where the result can be greater than the sum of the parts.

4. Embracing the Imperfections. This is a big one. One I started dabbling with at the end of 2023. As photographers we can be obsessed with super clean, crisp sharp images. There are so many other ways to take an image that include movement, focus blur and so on.

5. Story telling. This is a big part of how I work. Every shoot is a conversation between me and the subject. In order for this the authentic and honest I have to be just as open as the person on the opposite side of the lens. I've learnt many truths about myself this way !

Being dynamic in photography is about pushing boundaries, constantly learning, and expressing creativity in various ways. It enables photographers to evolve, stay relevant, and stand out in a constantly changing field.

01/01/2024

Want to test how well you know me ?

I love helping you sell what, why and how you do what you do. It's based around uncovering the aspects of you even you don't know are there and presenting them in fresh, bold, dynamic ways.

So here's a few things about me

1. I've been a creator for over a decade. Give me a camera, a lens and a light source and I'm happy as a kid in a sweetie shop. No that's a lie I'm happier.

2. I'm a tecno-nerd, but I hide it well. Whilst the various dials and k***s are always in use on my camera and Photoshop is my very good friend, you would never know, it would bore you to tears and break the mood.

3. I left a career in banking and the City ten years ago for something more rewarding and enriching. I picked up a camera, shot a few parties and here I am almost a half million pictures later. Proud of have worked with many business leaders, exhibited on gallery walls and having sold art to art collectors.

4. How do I sum up what I do? I help people fall in love with themselves, to see what others see that they often do not. I capture you in bold, dynamic and original ways that make you stand out in people's minds.

5. Everything I do is built about relationship and trust. Working with me is working together, collaboratively. If we get things right, and we always do, then people will fall in love with who you and your brand will shoot off into the stars.

6. I'm a self professed workaholic ... that's why I'm writing this on New Year's Day !!

👉 If you know me drop a line in the comments about how we met.
👉 If you know me well then tell me something I've missed off
👉 If this is the first time me met then say Hi in the comments and let's chat

If you want an image like this one then contact me and I'll make one for you

31/12/2023

🌟 Embrace 2024 with Determination! 🚀

I'm Leaving 23 Behind for a Year of Bold Achievements!

As we bid farewell to 2023, a year filled with both ups and downs, I'm setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in '24. Determination fuels my vision for a year brimming with innovation and original creations.

Say goodbye to the uncertainties of '23 with a resounding cheer and a last mince pie, and let's usher in 2024 with strength, determination, and a wealth of exciting opportunities.

🎉✨ Ready to make this your most dynamic year yet? Let's embark on this journey together!

05/12/2023

Know your Extreme close up from your mid wide shot ?

Should you even care ?

What am I even talking about.

Branding photography isn't just about a head and shoulder shot ... in fact far from it. Yes whilst you need a good mug shot for the profile on the 'gram ( or where ever you may use it ) you also need a deep variety of images. Different scenarios, different lengths all for different uses.

So here it is .. an explanation of what we the people behind the lens are doing when we turn a dial, move our feet or ask you to just move your hand a little.

Once you have a library of images you can use them all over again and again for so many different reasons ... and because you don't just have one or two images of your head and shoulder you can build a powerful story over and over again.

Want to know more then comment with a
"I fancy a virtual coffee with you"

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I'm Jules and I'm here to help you educate, inform, entertain and interact by creating content that isn't bland.
Photography, videography and animation that connects and converts.

Like this post ? Make sure to click the BELL on my profile to see more just like it.

01/12/2023

It's time for this week's round up ...

this week instead of the normal piccies and words it's an animation of the week I've put together, and yes that is my voice.

So thanks to all of the people involved in this week. David Chernick and Jenny Stevens . Rob Osborne for being a great sounding board not just this month but for the last 6 months. Duncan Jay and all the 4n online networkers who made Wed such a laugh.

Getting closer to the holidays so if you want a Holiday video there are just a few weeks left to get the orders in. Grab one whilst you can.

Until then see you all next week.

29/11/2023

17 working days to Xmas and the countdown is well and truly on.

I've seen a fair few number of posts this year from people with a big stack of cards to hand write and post. Whilst nothing beats a hand written personalised note many of us have way too many people to reach out to ..

Save time, money and energy and send a Holiday Animation instead.

There a many to choose from, they can be personalised with specific messages, logos and brand colours and are suitable for Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Tik Tok and you can embed them in mail shots.

So reach out and give me a shout ... I'm taking orders until 15 Dec, that's a little over 2 weeks away. Last delivery will be Wed 23rd Dec 23 before the office closes.

24/11/2023

It's been a big desk week this week.

Over a virtual coffee break my coffee partner asked what I was upto.

I said same old same old.

I've completed an edit for a female body builder, look forward to sharing a few when she sees them but the 3 she's seen already have more than made her happy.

I've completed an edit for some not at all bland images for David Chernick. He's a ray of sunshine a true mensch ( look it up )

On top of that I've finish a final draft of a 3D character animation for a client in New York

Oh and I've been blasting socials with Black Friday offers Pay What You Want headshots www.gandermediasolutions.co.uk/bf23

She then said ... It's never same old same old with you !!

I've also taken OzzyDog to the vet. Everything is fine but he didn't really like having his temperature taken !!

On top of that I've met old pal Stephanie Paul for dinner in. She's been in front of my camera a few times and she's a great friend.

I've done some great networking with 4N notably Duncan Jay who spotted a guitar on my hoodie and we went down a rabbit hole of guitars we own and love etc.

Finally because it's almost Xmas we have a tub of Heroes in the house. Anyone know why there's full size Twirls in there now and not mini ones. Caused a bit of a fight !!

Have a great weekend all.

23/11/2023

Is your current head shot tired, old and generally ready for an update ? Then I have the best offer you could want.

Black Friday .. the countdown is on and I have a great offer.

It's a 90 min headshot session in my studio in Central London with 5 edited image at the price you set ...

Imagine that .. you get to set the price. The only catch .. well there is a base price, but you can get that when you contact me.

Only going to give 10 of these offers out so don't delay.

For the first time ever I am giving you the opportunity to Pay What You Want for a studio photos session.  Imagine a photo session in a studio in Central London.  

02/11/2023

With 36 working days to go Xmas is almost here. The flurry of where did the year go. The pressure of a tax return to complete and all of the other things that need to be done.

On the list is probably reaching out to your clients and, friends and followers to wish them a happy holiday season.

What will you say, how will you say it ..

Consider an animated message. Perfect, fun and flexible enough to say what you want to say. They are simple to use, can be used on multiple platforms and get great reach.

I'm taking orders until 8 Dec 23 and will be showcasing a number of ideas here for you to see. So don't wait long to get the order in ...

31/10/2023

Happy Halloween Tricksters ...

30/09/2023