Properly labelling and storing images is a big preoccupation of mine, and means that from time to time I run through my files and folders to check what's what and what's where. However, it's not without challenge, as I come across images that make me stop and remember where I was and what was happening when I took them, and I end up wandering down memory lane rather than being an effective administrator.

It's so good to have some blue skies again, after such a lot of overcast, drizzling, grey days. Yesterday, when I was supposed to be scouting locations in the Northern Quarter, I couldn't stop looking up. It was glorious! 

I'm organising a photowalk in Manchester's offbeat and interesting Northern Quarter for Sunday 22 April, starting at 1pm, and ending at 4/4.30pm after a drink and chat.  It will be a relaxed, sociable event, for photographers of all levels of ability to walk, talk and shoot together. While I'm organising it with The Guild of Photographers, everyone is welcome - and it's free. I'll sort out the route, as well as starting and finishing places, over the next few weeks, and would welcome any ideas/thoughts. 

I do lots of portraits for people who, when they first contact me, tell me that they hate having their picture taken.  I can well understand it - if its an unpleasant experience and then you don't even like the results, who wouldn't feel negative? I like the challenge, and enjoy spending the time and care it takes to organise a good experience, a relaxed and enjoyable shoot, and get great results - whether the pictures are for work or personal use.

Well...what a wonderful day that was. And how lucky am I to have such generous and hospitable friends who can cook so beautifully! Thanks, guys! 

So - here we go! Have a great holiday, everyone - and here's to a wonderful 2012 for us all. 

I've just finished another shoot for the gorgeous iSleeve - capturing images of more luxury materials for the beautiful iPad and iPhone covers of sumpuous leathers. suedes and patents. iSleeves are hand made in Manchester, and although only just launched this month, are flying out of the pop-up shop at 6 King Street in Manchester. Great to be part of the team, guys!

I didn't know I'd turn into a yellow tram geek, but I did, somewhere along the line(!). So - being asked to go to the depot and get some images for the Transport Authority meant it was beginning to feel a lot like Christmas.  Things I found out on my visit:  1. The yellow trams are referred to as 'bananas' by the staff. Not too inventive, but I can get that... 2. They're 'stabled' at the depot. 3. The toolkits are red with yellow dots. Love that. 

In a week of the worst weather since last winter, I've been struggling to fulfil a brief for a favourite transport client: I have a list of locations and have discussed and understand what the shots are needed for, but have had to endure grey skies, high winds, hail and general unpleasantness for several days. Last night, the "Blue Hour" came to my rescue, and despite rain and wind I got some shots at Media City that hit the spot. Phew!  Here's a couple. I should add that I really, really love the yellow Metrolink trams. There's just something about that new shape and great colour.

St Ann's Hospice organised their first outdoor "Tree of Lights" event in Oak Meadow Park in Cheadle Hulme, last week, where people of all ages came togethr to remember loved ones. It was an extension of the indoor services held annually at Manchester Cathedral, and was such warm and moving event. Lights are lit in memory of someone special, and the sight of these lights, shining so vibrantly, is a fitting tribute to the warmth these people brought into the lives of others.