RIG POSTPONED FOR TIME BEING
Due to the bizarre weather patterns, the cost of living crisis and the financial pressures placed on performers I have decided to postpone erecting the rig for the time being.
I am still able to do stage pole shoots in the orchard and if you have your own tripod system you are welcome to use that here, so please contact me via the contact page if you wish to discuss options.
For early morning or late shoots, there is also a shepherds hut available for accommodation which sleeps 2.
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This is the only purpose built outdoor aerial rig in the UK specifically created to photograph aerialists of all disciplines in a beautiful outdoor environment.
It is located in the heart of a Cider and Perry private orchard and surrounded by trees covered in blossom (early May), wild flowers and assorted grasses, with a backdrop of open skies and endless creative opportunities.
The rig is 5.25m high and 6m wide and has been built at an angle to specifically capture the morning and evening light plus a variety of natural backdrops at all four compass points.
It will support hoop, silks, swing pole, straps, net and any other single support performance apparatus with a maximum weight of 195kg.
The surrounding private orchard is secluded and is also used for photoshoots with stage pole/lyra or any other portable apparatus. This includes beauty and portrait photoshoots. The options are endless.
Packages (2024)
Shared/Duo Performer shoot - £350
The basic package (very flexible) is for a 3 hour shoot using the rig or location in any way time will allow.
The best natural light tends to be at 9am or 5pm onwards and you are welcome to use the 3 hours as you wish. Please allow extra time for set up and take down.
The package is inclusive of 14 fully edited hi-res images with additional images available at £10 each.
You can book as a solo performer or share the shoot with a second person. The frame can also support double acts. If there’s two people please provide extra details in the booking. (NB: 2 People = 7 images each. 14 in total)
As this is an open air setting where weather and wind play a part, if you are a solo performer you are advised to bring a friend or assistant to help you with getting the apparatus in place, poses, costumes and moral support.
Shoots are shown as Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays. This allows for various subject to weather. Please bring your own apparatus. Safety equipment is provided.
Price £250 inclusive of 14 images, extra images £10 each.
Picnic At The Rig - £130 per person
In 2021 so many people loved the surroundings and facility they wished others from their studio could also attend and join in with the relaxed social and photo event, so this package has been created to cater for larger groups.
Open to a set booking of 6 people (excluding instructors and/or support)
Bring a picnic or snacks, arrive around 3pm and settle into the bell tent and shepherds hut taking it in turns to warm up then use the rig and get your images taken.
Then rest, review your images and socialise with your friends while you wait as the group rotates. There's plenty of time during the afternoon and into the early evening to try a variety of techniques so there's no rush.
Please ensure one chaperone from the studio is with you and has a current PLI who will ensure you will work safely within your limits. Bring your own apparatus. Safety crash mat provided.
Price £130 per person inclusive of 6 images, extra images £10 each.
Facilities
The great British weather, at times can be a challenge. Unlike a fixed studio where everything can be left in situ, the rigging and lighting gets moved as the sun moves round. Please allow time for this in your planning.
Changeable sunshine and showers can present the most dramatic background skies. However if the weather on the day of the shoot makes it look impossible to shoot your booking can be moved to another date to be agreed.
The studio is in a rural location, is easy to find and has off road parking for 6 cars. There are toilet and shower facilities with a private area for changing and storing personal belongings. There is also a shepherds hut close to the rig for changing and reviewing images. It is a Covid safe working environment.
The orchard is located on the A4104 Welland Rd, just outside of the little village of Upton Upon Severn, and is only 25 minutes from M5 Junct 7 or 10 minutes M50 Junct 1. Full directions will be provided shortly before your shoot date.
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled booking to allow time to go through the safety paperwork, safety equipment, your requirements, the rigging and set up options.
Safety
You are advised to provide your own performance apparatus and supporting strops, carabiners and swivels for personal peace of mind. However I have available at no extra cost, .5m 1m, 2.5m and 3m strops from Firetoys and several Petzl 27kn William Ball Carabiners plus a large Swivel. There is also a thick crash mat if you wish.
There is always danger of injury with aerial activity. Posing for photographs is more tiring than a moving performance so please make sure you are confident of your skills and what you want to achieve before the shoot.
If you feel tired, unsure, unwell or concerned for your own physical safety at any stage you are advised to stop immediately.
You will be asked to sign a liability waiver, equipment and medical check and read the risk assessment before using the frame.
Public Liability is covered by NFU Mutual Insurance.
If you have any question please click here to contact me directly