Nine Dots - Photographers Head Swap Day - Digbeth

Hello, I'm Ed, one half of the dynamic duo that forms Lovely Creatures – a Documentary Wedding Photography team. Alongside my incredible partner in both life and art, Victoria, we've turned our passion for photography into an extraordinary journey, capturing the beauty of love in its rawest and most authentic form.

Our story isn't just about the stunning images we create…

… it's about the soulful journey we embark upon with every couple we work with.

Our goal?

To encapsulate their love story in vibrant, timeless frames that forever echo the whispers of their special day. Our name, Lovely Creatures, is a testament to our belief in the inherent beauty of every individual, every couple, every moment we are privileged to capture.

It’s an unusual partnership, in some ways

I hold the camera, always seeking the perfect shot, the unforgettable moments. Victoria, however, she's the captain, the guiding force, the backbone of this team. Her attention to detail, her organizational skills, her warmth, and her charisma keep us and our clients in seamless harmony. Every shot I take is imbued with her input, her vision.

Our paths in photography have taken us to places we've never dreamt of. One such memorable experience was with the Nine Dots Community, a network of like-minded photographers dedicated to their craft. I remember a specific meet-up where we broke the ice in the most photographer-esque way possible – by taking portraits of each other.

As we swapped the photos, laughter echoed around us, mingling with the warm glow of the setting sun. The camera had a way of peeling back layers, revealing to us the raw essence of each photographer. It was a testament to our shared love for this art form, each image a tangible representation of the camaraderie and the kinship we felt with one another. These weren't just photos; they were memories, crystallized in time, tokens of our collective passion.

Victoria and I have always strived to bring the same warmth, the same authenticity, to our work at Lovely Creatures. Every couple we photograph isn't just a client; they're part of our extended family, sharing with us their love, their joy, their journey. It’s a beautiful process, and as the photographer-captain team, we feel privileged to be a part of it.

Whether it's a tear trickling down a groom's cheek or the radiant smile of a bride, the flurry of flower petals in the air, or the stolen kisses when no one's watching – we're there, capturing it all. We're more than just photographers; we're storytellers, immortalizing every tear, every smile, every moment of pure, unadulterated love.

Together, Victoria and I are Lovely Creatures, a dream team – always ready to encapsulate your love story, one frame at a time.

The Nine Dots Community

Hey there, lovely people! We're Ed and Victoria, your friendly faces behind the award-winning Lovely Creatures, and today we want to talk about something that's pretty awesome. We are excited to give a shout-out to the 9 Dots community, a place that inspires us and so many others to 'Create Your Own Awesome' every day.

Imagine a global playground for wedding photographers, where learning, growing, and sharing are at the heart of everything they do. That’s NineDots. It all kicked off with their spectacular wedding photography workshops. Then came the unparalleled NineDots Gathering, and let's just say, it was like the best summer camp for photographers you could ever imagine.

The fabulous, cheer-on-each-other kind of community that blossomed from those events brought us the NineDots Membership in 2018. We're so stoked to see this progressive, welcoming band of wedding snappers and business owners from around the globe grow and thrive.

In NineDots, it doesn’t matter where you come from or who you are - they welcome and support all photographers with open arms. They believe in fostering an industry that’s as diverse and inclusive as the people in it. Wherever you are in life or your career, you are welcome in NineDots. How cool is that?

Let's not forget the brilliant minds behind NineDots - Rahul Khona and Andy Gaines, two top-gun wedding photographers from our neck of the woods, the UK. They are all about capturing magic in every moment and creating extraordinary wedding photography regardless of where, when, or how.

Meet Andy Gaines, the guy who swapped his guitar for a camera and has been bringing the 'wow' to weddings ever since. Andy is our very own Northern star based in the ancient city of York, with a resume that boasts international wedding shoots and a mantelpiece filled with awards. His work showcases his creative spirit and his knack for capturing life in its raw and honest beauty. Andy's golden nugget for all of us? "Never stop working, there is always something happening, you just have to look for it and be ready!"

Then we have Rahul Khona, who exchanged his graphic design toolkit for a camera, and boy, are we glad he did. Rahul's love for the visual arts blazes through in his wedding photography. He's traveled far and wide capturing beautiful wedding stories, earning multiple accolades along the way. What makes Rahul’s work stand out is his unique blend of candid photojournalism and stunning editorial-style portraits. He continuously pushes his creative boundaries, all while being an adoring husband and a doting father. Rahul's words of wisdom? "When posing your couples, don’t forget about their hands!"

In short, the 9 Dots community is more than a collective; it's a powerhouse of creative minds and kindred spirits. So, if you're in the wedding photography biz or even just a budding enthusiast, hop on the NineDots train. Trust us; you won't regret it.

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LOVELY CREATURES on the Move: A Wedding Voyage through Birmingham and West Midlands

Hello, all you beautiful people!

It's Victoria here, your ever-enthusiastic captain, and Ed, our ace photographer, ready to guide you on a joyride through some of the most captivating wedding venues in Birmingham and the West Midlands! We've set sail on numerous adventures, capturing love stories in amazing, awesome, cool, and quirky wedding venues. Never a dull moment, never the same scene twice!

You might think, "Isn't it easier to anchor in one spot?" But let me tell you, we thrive on variety!

It keeps us inspired and excited. And today, we want to share some of that excitement with you.

Ready to dive in? Let's go!

Arty and Cultural Gems in Birmingham

Are you ready for some distinctive venues that buzz with artistic and cultural vibes? Buckle up!

The Electric Cinema

Imagine declaring your love in the oldest working cinema in the land. How's that for a memorable wedding script? This art-deco picture house is as cool as they come, with red and black velvet and an irresistible movie theme.

Birmingham Library

Ever dreamed of a wedding in a modern marvel resembling a gigantic wedding cake? Enter Birmingham Library! Its Shakespeare Memorial room, with 19th-century wood paneling, offers a delightful contrast and an excellent setting for your ceremony.

The Rep

Got a flair for drama? Then tie the knot on the stage of The Rep, with Centenary Square and the library next door offering excellent architectural backdrops for Ed's photo magic.

Think Tank – Millennium Point

Our science lovers might fancy an out-of-this-world ceremony in the planetarium of Birmingham's Science Museum, followed by a reception under a soaring Spitfire!

Ikon Gallery – Brindley Place

This acclaimed art gallery in a neo-gothic former school building promises a fusion of old and new architecture, with the city's waterways right at its doorstep.

Kitchen Garden Café

For those seeking tranquility with a hint of rustic charm, this oasis in Kings Heath could be your perfect choice, with its commitment to home-cooked food, ethical sourcing, and a welcoming atmosphere.

### The Blue Piano Bar & Restaurant

Celebrate your love in this characterful Edwardian building in Edgbaston, offering an independent restaurant, bar, and guesthouse for your reception and party.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

For lovers of nature and history, the 1829-founded Birmingham Botanical Gardens provide beautifully landscaped gardens, a sun terrace, and peacocks to boot!

7 Historical, Urban, and Cool Birmingham Venues

For those with a penchant for history, urban vibes, or simply looking for something cool and alternative, here are seven of Birmingham's best:

1. Fazeley Studios

2. Digbeth Old Library

3. The Bond Company

4. Factory Works, Digbeth

5. The Engine Room, Digbeth

6. The Button Factory

7. Sherbourne Wharf Canal Boat

From restored Unitarian Chapels to old free libraries, former factories, and canal boats, each of these venues offers a unique backdrop for your love story. Whether it's saying 'I do' amid Victorian ecclesiastical architecture or celebrating under the roof of an old custard factory, there's something for everyone's taste.

And remember, we're here to capture each magical moment. With LOVELY CREATURES, we make it all about you!

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