a Curious Canadian in Provence
As the Spring wildflowers give way to the blooming lavender, I present to you my Spring wildflower cyanotype series for 2019. A big thank you to Nicky at the NG Creative Art Residency in Eygalières that allowed me to use the studio space and exhibit there.
May I brag for a moment? Just look at how beautiful these landscapes are, even at this time of year. Most of these pictures were taken with my phone, as many were impromptu pit spots on the side of the road. Which is your favourite photo? Let me know in the comments below.
Early morning in Gordes.
I’ve noticed a sudden change this weekend in more visiters to the area. (Basically in the form of jostling for the parking spot outside my house).
Early Spring is wonderful time to visit Provence. Easter weekend is when many businesses re-open after the restful winter months. Although the poppies may not be out yet (soon), the evergreen Cypruses and olive trees colour the landscape as well as the flowering blossoms. I’ve learned to appreciate the low season pastel light in the villages because without leaves on the trees, you can see more clearly the beautiful architecture.
Here are some photos from my travels around the area in the last 3 weeks. Enjoy!
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Vacation photography is a growing genre of photography offered by professional photographers living all over the world. Selfies are great but they don’t compare to professional photos.
I know so many couples or families that don’t have any good photos of everyone in the frame. That is where I come in…
We decide on a stunning backdrop for your photos depending on where you’re staying in the region or where you’re visiting that day. Photo shoots are generally in the morning or evening to take advantage of the golden light. Trust me, it’s worth it.
Photo shoots are generally in the Luberon or Alpilles regions. Keep in mind that the Côte d’Azur (Nice, St Tropez etc) is a little far from here.
If you’ve rented a villa and would like a photo shoot on the property, that is no problem.
The most popular destinations are hilltop towns combined with a nearby landscape that includes either lavender fields, sunflowers, mountains, olive groves or vineyards depending on the time of year.
After coordination and date and location, you pick the length of the photo shoot. This ranges anywhere from 30 minutes to a whole day, with 1 or 1.5 hours being the most popular. The longer the photo shoot, the more locations we can explore. Combining photos of both the countryside and a beautiful hilltop town is ideal.
On the day of the shoot, you meet me wearing whatever makes you feel pretty at the designated location. High heels are often tricky on cobblestones or fields, but possible for the determined. I would suggest wearing lighter colours, something evocative of Provence! Wardrobe changes are no problem.
The meeting points are chosen with care so that you can find the spot easily, such as a local café. Or, in the situation of a surprise photo shoot in a field or other such romantic secluded location, (in the case of a proposal photo shoot) we make sure that the hopeful groom/bride to be knows where’s they’re going!
The photo shoots are great fun and clients often comment that the photo shoot was the highlight of their Provence experience. I provide a relaxed atmosphere during the photo shoot with a priority on capturing natural reactions and joy. Nothing too posed.
The edited digital files are delivered to you within 12 working days and often sooner. This quick turn around time allows you to share with your loved ones memories from your vacation as soon as you get back home. Turnaround is closer to 3 weeks in July, during lavender season due to high demand.
Photo shoots range in price from 180€ (30 minutes) to 650€ (half day flat rate fee). Prices may change depending on the location of the photo shoot so don’t hesitate to email me for more information. Possibility to add a picnic, or rosé champagne for a special occasion.
curiousprovence@gmail.com
To see more examples of my photography, head to the gallery on my photography website: www.PhotographerinProvence.com
This is easily done! Check out Curious Provence Market Tours for more information.
See Tripadvisor for reviews on combined market tours, photoshoots and itineraries by Ashley.
You may be curious, if you’re a regular here, where I’ve been during recent weeks. Well, I’ve been busy with photo shoots, itineraries and market tours.
Provence truly is a magical place. The light is stunning and the landscape is stunning. I always say that if you’re visiting the area, you absolutely must rent a car. Provence is about meandering winding roads through olive groves, vineyards, cherry orchards and lavender fields. Of course, there is also the sport of seeing how many hilltop towns one can sip coffee (or pastis) in during one day…
I have the opportunity to be able to dapple in many different types of photography. However, vacation photography is all the vogue right now- and for good reason. Many people are tired of not having any decent photos of their vacation, or themselves for that matter. Hiring a professional not only gives you great photos but an insight into local culture. Some of my lucky clients even get treated to a bumpy ride in Sterling! (my vintage mini).
Here is a sample of some of my recent photo shoots in the area:
There are abundant possibilities for romantic photos the countryside. (Forgive me, I’m a romantic.) The landscape is forever changing here. Last month was poppies, this month is tall grass and next month will be lavender!
Nothing about a blue shutter I don’t love…
Eygalieres Market.
If you’d like a quote for a photo shoot in Provence then feel free to send me an email: curiousprovence@gmail.com
You may wonder why there haven’t been many posts on CuriousProvenc recently. Well, I’ve been busy photographing couples in the villages of Provence.
Vacation photography, with sites like Flytographer, is growing in popularity. Couples are not only getting married in gorgeous environments but they’re having their vacations documented too. It’s a great souvenir. I’ve even had someone approach me about catching the moment his girl says “I do!” in Provence. Talk about pressure.
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During our recent stay at Mas d’Augustine in Languedoc-Roussillon, we took a quick drive to check out the nearby village of Saint Quentin la Poterie. Saint-Quentin has had a history of pottery making for centuries. Kilns (where the clay is baked) date back to the 13th century here. Today, it’s full of ceramic artist workshops. As I have a strong interest in pottery- I was able to drag Robin away from the pool for a couple hours to check it out.
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