Business Focus: Andy Dorrington, Dorrington Photography
TSN Business Focus: We talk to Andy Dorrington of Dorrington Photography
Tell us a little about your background
I grew up in Crawley, the youngest of three brothers and had a pretty normal childhood. Never being academically gifted, I found myself attempting to draw as a creative outlet. Unfortunately although I could see what I wanted to draw, it never found its way on to the page. I discovered however, that with a camera in my hand, I was not only able to see the picture but capture it as well.
What inspired you to set up Dorrington Photography?
Simple answer: other people! I have been taking photos for pleasure for longer than I can remember but never had the self-belief that I could make a career out of it. Friends and family have always encouraged me to take things further and I suppose one day I just listened. I was working in a dead-end job and hating every day of it, I found out I was going to be a father the same week I turned forty and I think that was the push I really needed. My wife and I started the business with a lot of support behind us and, hopefully one day, it will be Dorrington and Son.
How do you differ from other photographic studios?
I think that every photographer finds their own style. I have had mine described as ‘reportage’. I aim to capture natural photographs, tell a story and portray the relationships between my subjects. One thing I enjoy doing is to do family photoshoots outside, ideally in the park or somewhere where kids can just be kids. You get much better photographs when children are relaxed and in their essence. One other key thing that sets Dorrington Photography apart is that we believe in giving our customers all the edited photos we take rather than have them purchase each one individually like most studios. We believe that if they choose to use Dorrington Photography they should be able to enjoy all the photos at no extra cost.
Which areas / type of photography do you specialise in?
I suppose you could say I specialise in photographs of people, whether that is a wedding, family photoshoot or even headshots for actors. When I am commissioned to take photographs, no matter what it is for, someone is putting a great deal of trust in me and I see that as a great honour. It is wonderful to then be able to share those photos and see their reactions; a good photo is a lovely gift to give.
How has new technology and social media affected your work?
Well, I used to use a 35mm camera and wait forever to get my photos back. Now I can see my shots in an instant. Not only that, but I can have them transferred directly to my laptop wirelessly in the middle of nowhere. I would say technology has had a huge impact on my work. As for social media, without Flickr and Facebook I am not sure I would have come this far. They have provided me with a flexible and relatively safe forum to share my photographs and receive feedback before taking the jump to becoming professional. Twitter and Facebook still play a big part of my website and will continue to add a social aspect to my work.
How do you unwind after a long days work?
Honestly? I take more photos, whether it is of my son, my car or the moon, it doesn’t matter. I am a photographer because I enjoy it. There is a well known saying, ‘Find a job you love and you will never have to work again.’ I find that to be very true.
Dorrington Photography can be found at: http://www.dorringtonphotography.co.uk/
You can see some of Dorrington Photography's images in the book, Insiders Know-How: Planning Your Perfect Wedding