When the renowned Tante Marie Culinary Academy made the decision to move into central Woking, it coincided with their 60th anniversary and this of course called for a double celebration.  The Academy invited distinguished guests that included Deputy Mayor and Mayoress Derek and Rosemary McCrum, Woking MP Jonathan Lord and Chief Executive of Woking Borough Council, Ray Morgan to afternoon tea.

Now, when something like that comes along, you only have one chance to get great photographs – and photographs have to be just right. Not only do they provide an immediate pictorial record of the occasion but they are required for the media, for guests and for historical records.

This means they have to be very good, in fact they have to be brilliant, and nothing less than an experienced professional photographer will do. Knowing how to handle VIPs and guests, getting the right groups together in the most appropriate setting, capturing the ambience and atmosphere of the event in the best possible lighting, being aware of branding that needs to be included whilst at the same time, being quick, efficient and discreet are essential if you are to get the photographs your client will be proud of. Then, just for good measure, the editing, processing and uploading all has to be done quickly and efficiently. The press in particular aren’t interested in old stories.

So, I was delighted that Tante Marie invited me to be their official photographer for this very important event. Tante Marie is one of the best culinary academies in the world and when you are recognised as one of the best, you know that they expect the best from their suppliers.

 If you are contemplating any major event, private or corporate, that needs photographing, I would love to hear from you, but regardless of that, I would urge you not to make the mistake of trying to do it yourself or asking a 'willing friend'.  I have indicated just how much there is to be aware of and how much is at stake. You need to enjoy the occasion, secure in the knowledge that your photographs will be perfect  - and show you and your organisation off to their very best effect.