Edinburgh fringe photographer

Edinburgh Fringe 2011

2011-07-28T06:09:00.003+01:00

All that happens on the High street during the Fringe 2011; just follow the link below

Edinburgh Fringe 2011

Dubai Street Festival

2011-03-25T05:53:00.003Z

Check out my new blog,
The Dubai Street Festival

and the link to the official Dubai Street Festival website for more information.

Back for 2010

2010-08-05T07:30:00.004+01:00

I'm back for 2010!

blog link below

Edinburgh Fringe 2010

and as a taster a slideshow from

the Fringe 2010

A Birds-eye View of the Fringe 2009

2009-08-21T22:21:00.002+01:00

A Brief History of My Blogs

2009-04-01T20:59:00.007+01:00

A guide to those just arrived.
All the links you need in the list below.

The Fringe 2009

Edinburgh Fringe 2009

From 2000-2005
(edinburgh Fringe Photographer)
Eddie Izzard Stole My Photos
The Biggest Photography Exhibition in the World
Over ten thousand photographs taken in August, over 1000 photographs on display at our exhibition venue.

The Fringe 2006
The Last Picture Show
The Last Picture Show Continues
The Last Picture Show 8 "Lots of "fish-eye" photos"
The year I "retired."

The Fringe 2007
Edinburgh Fringe 2007
Edinburgh Fringe 2007 Part 2
A little on the abridged side due to circumstances that didn't allow me to put the hours in I wanted every day.

The Fringe 2008
Edinburgh Fringe 2008 part 1
Edinburgh Fringe 2008 part 2
Edinburgh Fringe 2008 part 3
The wettest Fringe I've ever photographed, but good to finish a Fringe with one of my finale parties. Thanks to The Fringe for the projector, The casts, the staff and the performers for turning up on the night. The City Cafe for providing the venue and some free food! Which always goes down well.

A few Random photos Shadow Dancing Photography From the Fringe, Edinburgh and other stuff.

And if you get bored there are other links to my many blogs available from my blogger profile.

Hopefully this will make getting around my world a little more managable.

Thanks.

Time To Add More Stuff?

2008-12-12T10:03:00.007Z

It's been a while since I've added anything to any of my blogs.
Maybe it's time to have a look through all my stuff I've shot over the last few months.
Or photos from previous years not yet posted.

There are one or two shots that I think I need to get posted shortly. Maybe I'll just keep them for later. or my facebook pages.

"Hi Firestar Mel." I did say I'd get some photos added soon.

To all members of theatre companies or street entertainers that might have found themselves here or in the pages of my many blogs; you can always join me and the rest of the people you meet on the High Street via my facebook page.

There are loads of photos I haven't posted here. You never know who you might find.

The beauty of a busking photographer like myself is that almost everything I've ever done is not for profit; but for those people in the images. I've never sold out; "I nearly did", but it's just been about the photos. And to everyone out there whose found themselves here something of a bonus.

If I had sold out or been in photography to make a profit I might not have made as many friends over the years. It's always been about being allowed to take photos and my blogs are somewhere for everyone to find themselves.
My philosophy in photography has also gained me repect enough to be asked to do shots for Ian Rankin for Childern in Need, and MTV when they were in Edinburgh.
More recently for Red Crow Events; you'll find articles and photos on the 2009 Fringe blog.

World Domination Achieved

2008-07-04T06:14:00.004+01:00

World Domination Achieved.

The small map shows that these web pages have for whatever reason been viewed now in every continent of the World.

So for those of you that know me; does that make me World renowned, World Famous or just very sad.

After announcing my retirement now for at least three years. You know my addiction for the Fringe will bring me back.

And that may just mean a new blog. And more photos. And I've still hundreds not on display from previous years.

Pluck are back for 2008

2008-06-22T23:07:00.001+01:00

Fringe Guide 2007

2007-07-18T06:58:00.002+01:00

Through the many pages of my blogs you'll find reviews photos and links to various artists shows and performers.

So why mess around with a cumbersome Fringe guide when in one compact package you can get all the information you need right here...

" Here is the Smallbrown Recommended list of Theatre Companies, performers"

Bang On!

http://www.bangon.net/

Comedy On the Square.

Firefly Productions.

http://www.fireflyprod.com/index.htm

Gamarjobat.

Livewire Theatre company.

Seymour Mace

Something Else.

Rabbit

Nothing New- Been there seen it done it.

2007-07-17T06:55:00.000+01:00

Little bit of news which someone passed on to me.

Epson (Uk) Ltd announced its involvement in an innovative exhibition. Yes someone's come up with the idea of taking photos every day and putting them on display.

"I wonder who came up with that idea?"

I just had to reply to them, as to how funny it was, especially since it was neither new or innovative. As it says at the top of the page. "Been, there, seen it, done it! And had six years doing it.

Here's my reply in full-

Hi, just read a press release (PMA) regarding the Edinburgh Fringe 2007. Of an innovative exhibition at the Pleasance Theatre. Bad new's it's not innovative, been there, seen it done it! No other photographer has spent as many hours photographing the Fringe than myself and ran an exhibition developing and growing every day. Over 1000 images displayed, over 5000 images available to anyone who wanted them. And this ran for six years. Culumnating in an archive of well over the 30,000 images from the six years of the exhibition and well into the 50,000 plus mark of the years I've been photographing the Fringe. You won't find any other photographer with as much respect at the Fringe than myself, allowing me access to places and people none but the most dedicated photographers acheive. BJP described the exhibition as"one of the finest examples of street photography." And street performer & entertainer Stickman quoted to myself "that performers want to come to Edinburgh, not for the fringe, not for the Festival, but to be photographed by you" Just thought I'd keep you right.

So well done Epson, lots of research. I had a good laugh!

So this year no exhibition by me, but someone else will be out and about, I wonder if he'll be about 24/7 just like me.

Making a Point!

2007-05-22T23:37:00.000+01:00

Hi all,

It's not often that I want to make a point. This year I do. There is no Pub Venue for the exhibition. There is no exhibition,(unless I tell you otherwise). Please make a point. I would like to hurt them in their pocket. The money they earned during the Fringe was influenced by the Exhibition.

Dont vist my exhibition venues from previous years.

The destruction of my work, a crime at the hands of the area manager!

Something you may have missed

2007-05-21T20:23:00.000+01:00

A random selection of 8mm images. Taken from last years festival.

The new link reads Worms Eye view. Or in photographic terms "fish eye."

They have been there for a while, but seem to have been overlooked. So I thought it was a good idea yesterday to make them a little more visable.

Remember I risked my life for some of these photos. "Ha-ha!"

A Charity event

2007-03-12T19:07:00.000Z

Hi all,

I got an e-mail this morning and thought what better way to spread the word was add it to my blog.

Take a look and if you feel you can help out, I pass on my thanks.

The No Laughing Matter - Comedians Three Peaks Challenge

--------------------------On June 30th and July 1st a bunch of comedians from the UK circuit will be attempting to climb the three highest peaks in Britain. These three peaks are Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in the Lake District, and Mount Snowdon in Wales.

To make it more exciting and challenging they have to complete the climb of all three within 24 hours. It involves about 25 miles of walking, over 3,000 metres of ascent and about 11 hours of driving time.Why are we doing it?Well we just thought it would be a bit of a laugh of course. But the event is also being run as a fundraiser for Act4Africa. They work in Tanzania and Uganda to provide relief to AIDS victims and their orphaned children along with the equally important task of running educational programs to teach people how to avoid AIDS in the first place.Who is involved and how do we find out more?The No Laughing Matter comedians have their own website including photos and video clips of their preparations for the big weekend. You can also find links on the site to learn more about Act4Africa and hopefully support our efforts by even making a donation to sponsor us if you can. We have had a goal set for us of raising £1000 per comedian which of course if achieved will be a huge amount of support to the AIDS victims in Africa.

-------------- Find out more about The Comedians Three Peaks Challenge on our website--------------------http://www.rexboyd.co.uk/no_laughing_matter

Also, if you want to make yourself feel a lot better by giving a donation to make the world a better place, then be sure to click on the "DONATE" link which will take you to the Act4Africa site. If you are able to make a donation then please could you also send an email to Act4africa@aol.com saying how much you've given on behalf of the comedians. This will help to let the charity keep track of our goal.

Late Breaking News

2006-06-04T22:03:00.000+01:00

Important News Update ...

Do I put a price on my work. Not really. It's always what you want to give. No other photographer will do as much for anyone for what you want to give. Some photographers may "ask" for quite a lot of money and you don't get quite the "service I offer!"

In The Begining (taken from Biggest Photography Exhibition)

2006-05-14T10:50:00.000+01:00

whenI came to start the exhibition six years ago. I did so with the help of friend and fellow photographer Craig.

The exhibition was my baby. My idea. Having a second person helping would certainly take a little of the strain from the work load I had forseen on the mile during the Festival.

Year two and we became official. The pub had raised the cash to get us an entry in the Fringe guide. And as luck would have it we got reviewed. A fantastic review in the British Journal of Photography. Not bad for a couple of ameutur photographers.

I was on the High Street when I got a phone call from the pub, it was Maggie,"Hi Andrew, we've just had someone in to see the exhibition, he wants to talk to you."

Nigel Shuttelworth, I'm in Edinburgh covering the photographic Exhibitions at the Fringe for the BJP. Your work is great, you really just shoot and use what you get, it's amazing."

"Yes there's nothing really corrected in any way I just don't have the time, and some of what you see might not be the best of our work, because we promise people photos will be on display."

"You promise people shots."

"Yes, theatre groups, street performers, they can come down and try and find themselves, so glad you like what we do."

The review was great. A tag line for any photographer. "One of the finest examples of street photography."I could have given up then.

I ended up last year working alone, probably because I'm to hard a task master. Looking for to much, when you only get photographs as your reward. But for me that has always been reward enough.

...............................

Mikhail Baryshnikov

2006-03-10T01:34:00.000Z

Mikhail Baryshnikov
Originally uploaded by smallbrown.

having not added anything fot a while I thought it time to add at least one photo and a few words.

And this is my all time favourite celebrity photo.

And to remind anyone looking for photos keep checking the Flickr badges in the side bar.

If you think my photography is rubbish

2006-02-28T22:02:00.000Z

view from a bin
Originally uploaded by smallbrown.

Greetings.
Thought I needed to do something, or at least upload something.

I am still working on lots of photos, I just keep getting caught up in other stuff.
Normal service will be resumed shortly.

Shedding a tear

2006-02-17T07:03:00.000Z

Over the last few months my blogs have grown into the creation you see before you now. So checking in to links to friends listed has been something I've not done on a regular basis.

A week ago I was checking in on my link to Theaker. "my best ever photograph."

To find that she'd written a small and very emotive piece of prose that goes along with the photo.
I was completely bowled over,almost shed a tear. If there was one thing everyone who visits my blog should read that is best testimonial any photographer could ever ask.

My passion for photography is at times my obsession.
To capture what I want.
If you've stood in front of my camera at any time, you become the most important thing in my life until I can do no more. It is a always a pity when I never have the opportunity to fulfill all our potentials.
I fall in love with images, just wanting to improve every time.
Sometimes I scare people because of how much I put into what I do.

Just a few Words, photos to follow

2005-11-30T23:51:00.000Z

To all my readers.
Sorry for the delay in updating my blog for a little while. Got caught up in so much other stuff over the last few weeks.

But it has proved useful. I've discovered how to correct "photos" en-mass. So new photos should be added here and across my blog network pretty soon.

Thanks go out to everyone who has a "link" back to me.

Promise kept. The Flickr badges have been updated. There are now over 300 photographs on the two Flickr badges. I've still space on one to update sometime in the next week or so, after that it will be next month before more images are added.

My blogs seem to have found a whole new audience too. A big "hello to all the Eddie Izzard fans out there. My thanks go out to Lyn at Cake or Death for the link.

the biggest party at the fringe

2005-11-11T23:36:00.000Z

An Exhibition of Festival Photography

2005-09-20T22:43:00.000+01:00

This will be my fifth and final year running a photography exhibition at the pub.
I have had such a buzz over the last few years, met a lot of incredible people. All of whom I have to thank in some small way. That is what this "blog" is really about.

So first of all I have really to thank Sarah from work for introducing me to this medium.

As I track down links and pages of note I'll keep adding them as a thankyou to everyone who has supported me over the years.

So if you have a chance stop by and visit the most unique and probably the biggest photography exhibition in the world.

As described by British Journal of Photography "one of the finest examples of street photography."

and in terms of popularity if Terry Pratchett is the "most stolen author in the world."
That might just make me "the most stolen photographer in the world."

(first posted in July 2005) being the nature of "the blog," the last article becomes the first and the first the last. With a little editing I hope to change the order to as written. thanks.

To Far to Go

2005-09-20T13:05:00.000+01:00

Having reached the final week in terms of images to work on and manipulate, I feel that this is the last update on Edinburgh Fringe Photographer.

Now it's time to work on Eddie Izzard Stole my Photographs and The Biggest Photography Exhibition in the World.

Images will still be added to this blog where needed. All other images will be found on Flickr and other free programs.

And then grew bigger
Thanks to everyone for their support.

Keep checking in. And follow the links.

Picks of the Fringe

2005-09-16T13:43:00.000+01:00

This year was a great year for me and the shows I managed to photograph.

The first show to get the Smallbrown treatment was Memphis Women and Fried Chicken.

A dazzling collection of songs from an extremely talented and versatile group of young women.

Embrace the Vampire I managed to get into photograph on it's last night. Another winner.

Volpone was next on my hit list. Fantastic little production.

Friends of old Frirefly Productions The G-City monologues were almost missed due to my hectic schedule, but I managed to drop everything on their last night just to keep my 100% record of their shows.

And last show to be photographed was the Cagebirds. As with everyone above terrific show. All pick of the Fringe. Each deserving of their own Fringe accolade

Fringe of the Fringe

2005-09-14T16:38:00.000+01:00

As week two progressed I found myself standing as always on a bollard about the middle of the High Street. Scanning the street around me looking for more and more shots to take.

balloon man Mike was as ever very industrious. Some of his creations; as with every year, are amazing. Sponge Bob Square Pants, Crusty The Clown and Spider-Man, to name but a few.
His maniacal laugh at the crowd that gathers round his creative artistry in latex.

I kept scanning the crowd Article 19 were out promoting their show "Volpone."
When you have a great looking cast great costumes and make-up it's something good to photograph.

Article 19 I found out were like me, "Fringe of the Fringe." They had brought their show to Edinburgh, during the Fringe, but you wouldn't find them in the guide. So everything was about promotion. Probably part of my downfall as a "one man show"

The G-City monologues Firefly Productions

2005-09-13T23:47:00.000+01:00

Friends for longer than everyone else on the High Street. Firefly Productions I didn't have much of a chance to see this year. They're show was a little later in the evening, meaning they weren't out flyering for most of the time till after I'd left the High Street for the my evenings in the Hog's Head.

Every day I'd try to get to see their show, and someone or some cast would arrive at the exhibition. For me as my venue I felt I just had to stay.

Time was rushing by. I was getting more and more stressed out that I still hadn't made it.

Their visits to the pub this year were few and far between all down to timing of their show. And this year they were only here for two weeks.

In the end it came down to their last night. I thought no matter what I had to see and photograph their show.

My how glad I am I did. The G-City monologues, life in Gotham City for the super villains after Batman had to retire, was certainly the finest piece of work I'd seen during the Fringe: nominated for a Fringe First too.

On the Smallbrown Film rating another 5 film show.
....................................................

Good news for 2006

Firefly Productions

are back with two shows, one of which is

The G-City Monologues

Roman Eagle Lodge,

2 Johnston Terr

Aug 21-27th

at 19.05 (1hr25min)

It's a not to be missed show!

Their brand new show is

Budapest Kiseret

Roman Eagle Lodge

Aug14-21 23-28

11.35 (1hr25min)

A Map of The World of Edinburgh Fringe Photographer

2005-09-13T15:05:00.000+01:00

To help anyone who has arrived in my whole new world on the net.

The "blog" started late July with one or two small bit's of information.

Then various links for everyone to check out were added. And are still being added to.

For just photo content check the three flickr badges. Two Festival only, the other some of my portrait work.

Two more blogs were added just to keep things a little varied.

Pluck Me!

2005-09-12T13:18:00.000+01:00

Three years ago there was a new and exciting addition to the busking musicians on the High Street.
A trio, who seemed to be drawing large crowds.

Fighting for a better vantage point behind all the tall people. I commandeered a bollard from some small child and watched with fits of laughter as Jon, Adrian and Sian a.k.a Pluck went through their classical music repertoire, with all the right comedy moments.
From then on I was a converted Pluck fan. At every opportunity whether busking or performing on the stages on the High Street. I got photographs.
There was one time last year I spotted a woman walking down the High Street with a Boa Constrictor round her neck. Ran off found Adrian, convinced him of the possible photo opportunities, and we both headed off in hot pursuit. Adrian charming a snake. Great idea!

Pluck are fantastic. Adrian has called me every so often finding out how things are progressing on the Exhibition front. With ideas to help me raise money. Money what’s that. "I’ve never run this exhibition to make money, it’s always been about the fun of people enjoying my photography.

Emily the manager of the pub was let loose with one of my cameras that first year. Nearly all the photos she came back with were of Pluck. "We have to have them perform here, in the pub ." After a little convincing, a few beers anyway we had secured another pub first. Pluck performing.

Last year was one of their busiest Fringe calendars; they were performing all over the place. As well as the time they spent promoting their shows on the High Street.

This year their Fringe schedule seems a little more "relaxed."
Don’t miss them whatever you do. No one performs the "classics" like Pluck.

Pluck are back for 2006!

Pluck - The Specialists

Pleasance Courtyard

Aug 23-27

14.30 (1hr)

Big Shows big Parties

2005-09-12T10:08:00.000+01:00

After a week or more of annoying them on the High Street. I found the time one rainy afternoon to photograph Volpone.

It was another of Smallbrowns picks of the Fringe. I seem to be getting better at selecting my shows to photograph. This year not a bad show, ever.

Good promotion, good style and a cast that delivers. Yes on the High Street, and on stage Volpone, Article 19 Theatre really delivered.

Then to top it all off they had of course visited the pub and my exhibition a couple of times. But ended their run with the free buffet and an area reserved just for them to kick back in.

The next cast to take up the free buffet offer in the pub was Z Theatre Co. This was a party, a big party. They had finished their run and it was presentation night and a chance to let your hair down and put on your glad rags.

That night a few of the High Street Fringe staff had arrived and I managed to secret them in a corner.

At the end of their own speeches and presentations I managed to say a little something in thanks for letting me annoy them on the High Street with my camera, then quickly organised another Z Party group shot.

An end to a great night for me and I hope for all the cast and crew of Z Company.

The Martians are coming!

2005-09-11T15:33:00.000+01:00

Busking on the High street can be a very daunting experience for anyone new to Edinburgh and the Fringe.

There are only so many places and you might be up against a Russian Brass Band or maybe even a bagpiper.

So being armed only with guitars and of course a secret weapon The Martians have cornered the market in delivering crowd drawing street performances.

So how do you hold a crowd on the High Street. You arm yourself with Gerry.

The Martians I've seen and photographed on the High Street now for about 3 years, most of the time it's not been the Martians themselves I've photographed, but the reaction from the crowd, and I do mean crowd that stares in disbelief. Put the Martians in Murrayfield and I'm sure they'd fill it!

There are things to remember when watching, do pay attention, don't answer your mobile. And if Gerry is armed with his sword. Don't walk through the back.

Yes, Yes, Yes!

2005-09-09T12:54:00.000+01:00

Every year I spend out on the High Street during the Fringe. The same thing happens to me.

Photos I take are always for myself. Photography for me has been about images I like.

From the first shot I fire till the last shot of the Fringe. They are my chosen pictures.

I see them printed and you think "Ok, could have done better."

Then on one day it happens. Everything falls into place. Everything I see, everything I photograph is exactly what I want.

"A Servant and Two Masters," were standing on one of the stages, making a tableau of people.
I moved in close started looking at the shapes and colours their costumes and make-up made. I had not been feeling too well so I didn't have all my kit out with me. I just started taking photos, the hairs on the back of my neck stood up. My pulse started racing. Yes, yes,yes.

I stormed off punching the air and chanting "yes, yes, yes!"

From that moment on everything had changed. I'd found my "eye."

About fifteen, twenty minutes later I arrived back at the "A Servant and Two Masters group,"

I ran up and thanked them. They probably thought I was mad. They are probably right.

The next morning still not feeling 100% I set out again lightly armed. Having got to know as many people over the first week and a bit I could "annoy" them a little more. So all I had was my portrait lens. Wandering around to the street performers portacabin where they keep their stuff I found John sitting relaxing in the sun. Said "Morning, hows it going."
"OK, been a bit quiet."
Then I picked up my camera and asked if he'd mind me getting a quick shot.
He had been holding a pack of cards, he fanned them quickly.
I took my shot. Headed off to grab a coffee.

Ogie, Ogie, Ogie.......

2005-09-09T12:20:00.000+01:00

When it comes to large theatre companies that take over their space on the High Street there is one that every year seems to get larger and larger.

A mass of blue sweatshirts that wander down the High Street, with the war cry that only Z theatre company can produce.

If every University Theatre group sent as many people as Z. The Fringe Festival would be ten fold busier. Then it would take hours to fight your way through flyerers down the High Street.

With their multiple productions they break off into their own little groups, until a call goes up once again.
"Ogie, Ogie, Ogie...Z, Z, Z!"

I can just imagine all these Z people reading this and responding at the same time. Z Theatre company will one day take over the World.

For 2006 Z are back...
the shows are all on at venue 45, Jefferey Street and they are...
2pm- Break the Paper Chain People
3pm- Traecle
4pm- Karp F'Tonk
5pm- JFK The Musical
6pm- Tales From the Lost Strangers Society
7pm- Killers Unleashed: Arisel Piarst

The Hard work Continues

2005-09-09T04:51:00.000+01:00

For anyone visiting my little blog. The state of play at the moment is that I've just about finished scanning week two of my Fringe photos. ( I'm somewhere round Wednessday)

Yesterday I went all hi-tec and got broadband, hopefully this will make my life easier and a lot quicker when i need to upload stuff.

All I have to do is sort images, re-size and get articles ready for posting.

This will be my first Fringe where work has not stopped at the end of the Fringe.

So keep checking in I should be up to date within the next couple of weeks.

To Riotous Applause

2005-09-06T23:48:00.000+01:00

Saturday morning, the 6th of August. I arrived on the Mile early. I headed directly to the street performer's draw. A chance to meet up with friends old and new, and of course get the "Smallbrown" exclusive street performer group shot.

As the bells from St. Giles sounded the stroke of 10, a couple of performers arrived.
cursing the coffee shop assistant who'd nearly missed them their chance to perform that day.
"She stood and looked at the coffee machine, ten minutes for two coffees."

Draw over and a rushed group shot hurridly put together. Then it was off to get a coffee myself. "Should have asked, what shop to avoid."

11am arrived. All the barriers and staff were on the street. Officially everything had started.

Hunter Square, High Street and Parliment Square would now ring out with the sound of whip cracks, chain-saws and whistles for the next three weeks. As well as the sound of laughter and riotous applause.

Edinburgh in August only the most cynical person could not appreciate the Festival and all it brings to the city. How anyone who runs a business on the High Street can not like the Fringe is beyond me. And I know one. How stupid must she be!

Too Many Spaces to Fill!

2005-09-06T21:03:00.000+01:00

On the last Wednesday of the Festival the scene was set in the pub, for what has become the biggest party night of the Fringe.

With as many street performers, celebrities and Fringe staff as I can muster.

The Exhibition about to come to a close, it's time for a party.

Over the course of the Festival every day in the pub people come in and wander round, looking at the photos. Performers looking for somewhere away from the hustle and bustle of the High street come down, share a beer or two in the evenings. Show casts join our quiz nights.

But party night is my night to say thanks to everyone. As I said on the night "It's my one show of the Fringe."

This year was one of my biggest turnouts. Not only did we take over the raised area in the pub, but expanded into the rest of the pub too.
If I lost one bud, I lost lots. For me it's all about "PR"

And for performers it's about networking.
"There are three reasons I come to Edinburgh now for the Fringe, to perform, to get great photos, and one of the best parties during any Festival." I was told by J-P.
"You bring more people together under one roof at anyone time than anyone else. I find out what's happening where and all the rest."

So who was there, well everyone almost. Faces I was supprised to see were Vince and Sophie, with a young family they don't normally make it down, but this year they'd left "Herbie Treehead" babysitting.

With all the boards on display, somewhere around the thousand photograph mark. Gaps started appearing early on. For everyone that turns up it's a chance to find photos of themselves, or grab photos of friends.

I had spent a little time over the last week sorting photos out for everyone. The four thousand photos not on display were sorted and put out on a table, as everyone arrived they got their pack of photos. This year I've almost nothing to take home. "Fantastic!"

The night moved on, drink food and all that any party needed.

Then it was time to try my hand after one or two beers at the now famous big group shot.
I'd been taking photos all night, it is the only exhibition that becomes part of the exhibition!

Then horror of horrors it was decided that I do a bottling speech. "It's what performers do to get people to put money in their hat."

I stood on the table, surrounded by friends new and old. In total fear. They'd all had years of experience in doing this. This was my first.

TMG

2005-09-06T13:10:00.000+01:00

When it comes to showmanship on the High Street. There is none more visually unique than TMG.

Big hair, in style anyway. Big look, and big chain-saw. This year sadly for me I didn't have the opportunity to shoot TMG doing his show. But you could always tell when he was about to perform.

The roar of the chain-saw and the cry " I'm about to do a show over there, juggling this!"

It is hard to see and photograph everyone on the High Street. Especially when you are as short as me. Fighting your way to the front of some audiences can be a little daunting.

Still Gareth (TMG) always allows such memorable photo opportunities. In the photo above Gareth juggling with someone as equally dangerous as his chain-saw.

Maybe they should have got together for a show!

Or of course he could have joined the cast of Livewire. That would have been a show and a half.
"The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe... With the Strange Man and the Chain-Saw."

Would you like a flyer!

2005-09-06T02:58:00.000+01:00

Funny how things change for everyone involved with the Fringe.

Many years ago I met a great young lady and her family on the High Street.

They were always around street performers or involved in what was happening on the High Street.

One year our little lady turned up as a "Jack-in-the box" another as "Charlie Chaplin."
Once you've the street in your blood your hooked.

Street performers and flyering people don't really mix. Everyone has their job to do.
And if your from Edinburgh flyerers are those annoying people who stop you getting from A to B in a hurry.

So what could be more appropriate than a photo of Nikki, friend of all the best of the street performers. Doing what she has to do to help promote her show.

"she'll kill me for this I know it."

So this might just be my "last Post."

Stickman

2005-09-06T01:29:00.000+01:00

In all the years I've been running an exhibition one of my biggest supporters has been Stickman, Tim.

He'd come down to the Exhibition with everyone and there were never any photos of him or his street show.

Three years it took me to get photographs of him and his show. It was and is defiantly a street show to see.

In sitting talking to Tim when he's taken the time to come to the exhibition. He's always been one of my most loyal "fans." He'll freely admit to not being the most truly photogenic.
"No, I think that place is truly reserved for me, why do you think I hide behind the camera, and don't perform."

For him, and so many other street performers what I do is unique. So many people take photographs of performers shows, but most of those they never see, or if they do there's a price attached.

My photography has a price of course, but it's the same price that each performer tells you at the end of their show.
"only what you think the show is worth."

Some people look and leave, some "steal" and leave. But most respond by saying thanks or leaving donations in my "hat."

This year when Tim and a few new faces came down to the pub for a drink. We were sitting chatting. He told me about the images he had on display at home from previous years, and how when friends, fellow street performers from Canada and beyond had stayed with him they had asked about the photos and who had taken them. He'd told them about me and the Exhibition in Edinburgh.
His next line almost blew me away.
"There are performers who want to come to Edinburgh, just to be photographed by you, and not because it's Edinburgh and the Festival, and you can quote me on that!"

I really need to buy this man more beer the next time he's over.

.......................

Livewire Theatre Company.

2005-09-05T10:55:00.000+01:00

The first week had it's highlights. One of which on the mile was the Livewire Theatre group.
They were running two productions back to back. "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe." and "Embrace the Vampire."

Last year Livewire had staged a production of "King Arthur." performed live on Arthur seat.
which from their promotional material had rave reviews and some great audiences.

With their boundless energy and great swashbuckling skills they were a force to be reckoned with any time they took to one of the promotional stages on the High street.

On their last night I had the opportunity to get in to shoot "Embrace the Vampire." On the Smallbrown show rating, another five film show!

If they're back next year I'll look forward to the pleasure of shooting them on the Mile or at their show.

Festival Fringe Update

2005-09-05T09:46:00.000+01:00

For anyone wondering how I'm fairing after the Festival. I've just finished scanning the first weeks films. There will be photos posted with articles in the next few days.

Sometime this week I'll start scanning week 2 films.

And for anyone interested in facts and figures. This Festival I shot 136 rolls of film, which if I used every frame works out at 4896 images.

On display in the exhibition around 40 images per board. And it's one board per day during the Festival. Which works out at 840 images.
And around 100/150 enlargments. Which in total means I have on display just short of 1000 images.

Saying thanks to my Sponsors

2005-08-29T10:59:00.000+01:00

Putting on an Exhibition takes time and effort. But Most of all it costs.

Over the last few years I've managed to get help from 1 Stop Photo, who have been my biggest supporter.

The pub who have helped with food, drink and the sundries I've needed throughout the Festival.

Also Fuji film have donated around a quarter of my film needs.

But that has still meant that I've had a reasonable expenditure, which on occasion has left it's financial mark.

This year The pub came to my aid and raised a massive £1000. Which went towards my processing bill of around twice that, and will continue until I've completed all the work I need to do regarding this web site.

1Stop Photo helped so much this year by allowing me the run of their lab for 1 hour a day. Time enough to get my work processed, printed and enlarged, where required. It meant I wasn't taken away from the venue in the evenings. Which was a great advantage this year.

Fuji Film have over the last few years been able to donate some film to my cause, and supply me with brollies which always come in handy in August in Edinburgh.

Calumet Photographic Supplied me with some film free of charge and also managed to get me a great price on around sixty rolls of Fuji superia.

Next year who knows.

Dead Man Walking

2005-08-18T10:02:00.000+01:00

As anyone involved in the Festival will tell you, it's a hard time. Promoting shows. Organizing events.

My average day at the moment is running at about 16 hours.

When your Fringe of the Fringe it's hard work. Your not in the guide. So flyering is the only way to get people through your door.

Last night was a party night for another "fringe of the fringe group at the pub. They had taken the chance to come down and sample the Free buffet.

You'll see them to every day Flyering and promoting their show on the Mile. They are the Stunningly beautiful cast in painted faces, Leather and Fishnets performing Volpone.

Last night I had the chance to photograph them out of make up. And if you think they look good on the Mile, they look even better in real life. As I have told everyone, my exhibition space is the only exhibition venue where the venue becomes part of the exhibition. Fantastic really. And everyone gets photos of their party.

Take the chance hit the High Street grab a flyer for Volpone, it's not in the Fringe guide.

And look out for me The short photographer that almost everybody on the High street knows and get one of my flyers. Or just head to the pub and I'll meet everyone for a drink eventually.

As for me I'll be back on the street in around an hour and a half or so. The time of this post will be about right, (not all the times are right for some reason).

And if anyone is wondering, why no photos with this piece. I've not started scanning any yet, give me a couple of months to recover.

The Strangest Things Happen at Festival Time

2005-08-04T22:31:00.000+01:00

Today at work I got a phone call.
“Hi Andrew, it’s Graham from 1Stop Photo.” there’s some people in asking after you, they want to know when you’ll be about.”

“ok”
“yes, you took some photos of them about six years ago, they’ve still got them on display”, they all say “hi”
“Hi, back”
“They’ve all grown up a bit since then. Girl Crazy, Theatre Whatsit. They’ve got a show on , a musical at C Central at the Carlton. Memphis Women and Fried Chicken.
“Wow”
“They’re coming to see you on Saturday.”
I’m defiantly going to see them.
Girl Crazy, was a musical, not to be missed, inspired and enthusiastic. With songs that everyone has grown up with.
If that is the bench mark then Memphis Women will be a total joy to see. I’ll be first in the queue.

"The Year I Became Famous"

2005-07-28T15:58:00.000+01:00

I’ve been photographing the Fringe on and off now since about 1979.

I remember the summer of 1988 watching a young girl trying her hand at juggling. She’s now a great street entertainer in her own right. Aileen.

Sam and Andy were performing their routine at the Mound. Always a joy to watch. With their always very impressive finale moment.

Johnny Toronto and Madame Buskerfly were also performing their unicycle and stilt routine. They had been invited over for the Glasgow Garden Festival. They had then stayed on for a few months doing their UK tour.

In the early nineties I had one or two years off from photography. But was soon hooked on the image possibilities that the Fringe Festival could offer. I was back again. Spending more and more time photographing the best of the world’s street performers here in Edinburgh.

Every August new and old faces would arrive. Some I’d only seen briefly perform but hadn’t had the chance to photograph. The Space Cowboy, was one of these cases. I remedied that the next year. He loved the photos I offered him as a gift and wanted to give me money. I’d seen his show, value enough for a few photographs.

Every act I’d seen up till then I’d always put something in their "hat" a few pounds, whatever a great show was worth. Now photographs and money were the new currency of choice.

Then came the year every thing changed. When I was walking down the High Street, Sam and Andy both came over to me to say "hi." The Space Cowboy did the same. Street performers were now acknowledging me. Even performers that I'd not taken photos of were coming over and saying "hi, we like your work." Stickman, from Canada was just one of those, and I'd never even shot his show. I have made up for that now. No more just any photographer on the street,
I was respected by the people I love to photograph the most.

I’d become famous in the Street Entertainer world.

Last year in the quest for better images I was even given the OK to step into their performing circle. "I did become the butt of some jokes." But a few laughs for a few images well worth it. And I am one of a very select few who have as many street performers in one group shot. Another image I’m very proud of.

But what I think makes me most proud is the fact that so many of them take the time to come and see my Exhibition.

For that they’ll always have my thanks. And a couple of pounds in their hat.

Wow Theaker Von Ziarno Amazing!!!

2005-07-27T20:00:00.000+01:00

Theaker Von Ziarno

Outstanding trapeze artist, silk performer and "rigger chick.

Last year there were one or two additions to the range of street entertainers that perform on the High Street.

Most notable was Theaker Von Ziarno.
Her stunning trapeze and silk routine was like nothing I’d seen on the street before.
The photographic opportunities were almost endless. Even though she seemed to be unlucky and get rained off.

In chatting to Theaker she got to know a little about my exhibition and that as a photographer I’m a little more adventurous in the style of images I produce.
Having watched her perform I came up with a novel idea for some slightly different photographs.
"I asked if I could be directly beneath her as she performed her routine suspended thirty feet above."
"Yes" was her reply, in the years she’s been performing I was the first person ever to ask for such a privileged position, and would be the only person ever to do so, because I came up with the idea. As you can see I think between us we managed to get a few unique photographs.

Theaker will be back in Edinburgh this year for only a week or so. I’ll defiantly make time to photograph her show.

The main image on my flyer for the Exhibition is Theaker performing in Parliament square in front of St. Giles Cathedral, this image is one of her press release images too. Great to know that my photograph is one she considers good enough to promote herself and her show.

As with all street performers the beauty of their shows are that you see them first, before you have to put your hand in your pocket for the price of a show. If you do stop to watch any show performed on the High street. Do put your hand in your pocket and dig deep.
"If it folds, even better."

Firefly and Little D-fects

2005-07-26T01:13:00.000+01:00

Two outstanding theatre companies.

Firefly Productions, Fringe regulars now I believe for seven years at least.
And Little D-fects have just the two years under their belt, this would have been their third, but due to ongoing projects they are not going to make the Fringe this year.

Firefly I started photographing six years ago. Every year a new and vibrant piece of theatre. Every year a visual masterpiece. That has been such a joy to photograph.
Keefe and Suzanne, along with everyone else in their company have produced theatrical master works.

“I know when something’s good, I use a lot of film getting the best from the show. And in terms of a star rating or should we say a film rating, Firefly have always produced at least 5 film shows. Check them out.” This year they are performing at Southside, "The G-City Monologues"

Little D-fects are a slightly smaller and “younger company” with only the two years under their Fringe belt.
But in that time they’ve made an impact. Especially with myself. In the last six years I’ve photographed a reasonable number of Fringe shows. From the excellent to the “I wish I hadn’t volunteered to photograph this dross.”

Little D-fects come in the excellent category. Their style and inspired energy shine through. A sheer joy to watch all they do unfold in front of you. They to are "five film" shows. And as a testament to how good I believe they are "God willing" when they are back next year at the Fringe I will make a point of seeing them and photographing their show.

So if somewhere out there you come across Little D-fects performing before next years Fringe. Take the chance, don’t miss it. See them.

Best Photo lab in Edinburgh

2005-07-20T20:44:00.000+01:00

As I sit here and write all this stuff up and add photos to this "blog". I have to say that without one small shop in Edinburgh, none of this would be possible. 1 Stop Photo, on the High Street and now at West Port too.

For the last seven years 1 Stop Photo have processed my films, commented, both good and bad on what they've seen. Inspired me to always try to attain images that will impress.

Graham always seems to enjoy seeing what new images I collect from my wandering around Edinburgh.

Graham is a great photographer, but he'll never admit to it. "He says he's skilled in technique and setting things up, but it's me that has that eye for the moment and how to capture it."

All I ever really do is play around, I don't take photographs for anyone else but me. But if other people like what they see it's a bonus and if not, "well it was only taken because I liked the image anyway.

This year is my last ever Festival Fringe Exhibition. 1 Stop Photo have made this all possible.

So if you're looking for a great lab in Edinburgh remember 1 Stop Photo.

Lowepro Life savers!

2005-07-20T11:39:00.000+01:00

For the last six years I’ve been a user of Lowepro camera bags.

I started with the Reporter 400. Which was perfect just to throw over your shoulder. Giving instant access to all my camera equipment.

Then about a year or so on I added a Lowepro Photo Trekker AW to my bag range. I was about to get a Nature Trekker, but another customer who was buying a Lowepro bag at the time told me, buy bigger than you need. He was so right. All my kit can fit in a Lowepro Nature Trekker. But with the Photo Trekker, I’ve space to expand into.

That year I also started running my photography exhibition. Two weeks wandering the High Street, I needed instant access and portability. The Lowepro Street and Field Range was the perfect solution.

Belts bags and pouches. Always buy bigger again than you need. Always buy one more pouch than you need. The extra pouch, becomes my table, somewhere to put a lens or Flashgun when a change of item is required.

The Lowepro Photo Trekker has been on my back 365 days a year since I bought it. I’ve never come across a better or more comfortable bag. The whole concept and ethos of the Lowepro range is just perfect.

In Edinburgh at Festival time we have the Tattoo. The chief photographer for the army, is a Lowepro Street and Field user: on my recommendation. You will see him on dress rehearsal night in full Street and field kit wandering round the castle esplanade getting photographs.
When he’s out on manoeuvres getting photographs anywhere in the world the soldiers talk about the Street and Field system as "Gucci" battle dress.

Yesterday with the count down to my exhibition only days away I needed help from Lowepro.

Nicky, managed to track down exactly what I needed. Fantastic. A definite lifesaver.
If you need a good bag there is nothing I can recommend other than Lowepro.

Having a Haiku moment

2005-07-20T07:34:00.000+01:00

Does the Bee,
See the flower ,
As beautiful.

More photos to follow. Just have to do a little editing. For anyone who knows my work over the last five or more years will know that I have quite a few festival photos (20,000 plus)

Might see about a film scanner sometime soon. that will at least mean I don't have to get films scanned only at weekends, I will be able to work on it all the time.

Hiding Behind the Camera

2005-07-20T00:36:00.000+01:00

Me photographed by Mariella
Mariella photographed by me.
I hate having my photograph taken, there are always better looking people than me to photograph. But on the rare occasion it happens.

The Exhibition can only happen with the support from the four key supporters.
1 Stop Photo, the pub, Fuji Professional film and Calumet Photographic.

And one person I have not yet mentioned is of course my boss Peter Jones, who of course coined the name "Smallbrown."
So now that you've arrived here try this link to Eddie Izzard Stole my Photos.

All photographs © Andrew Brown. Like what you see and want to use them, well feel free, just credit me, my blogs and link back. People who do find great rewards sometime! Ask at Cake or Death! Many thanks.
Smallbrown.