The blog of photographer Kim Ayres

Irish Singer Songwriters

You go for ages without photographing any, then 3 come along at the same time…

At the Mill Session last Saturday we had Irish singer songwriter, Eleanor McEvoy, performing a much smaller gig than she’s used to, although I think she enjoyed the intimacy the venue gives. With a high ceiling, the acoustics are rather lovely, while the fact you cannot seat more than about 45 people in the space means it has the feel of being only one step up from your living room.

I met up with her in the afternoon before the gig to take a photo for the Mill Session Hall of Fame. Despite being the most well known performer we’ve had there, there was nothing of the diva about her. Friendly and down to earth, she was interesting to chat to and photograph.

Looking through the photos afterwards I decided to go against my usual black and white style when I realised this photo looked so much better in colour.


Eleanor McEvoy

Then on Monday, out of the blue I got a phone call from Irish singer songwriter, Ben Sands. Although I’ve still yet to see him play live, I first met him about 6 years ago at a small, one-off mandolin-playing workshop he ran in a nearby village as a favour to a friend.

We kept in touch and when I started my photography business I told him to call in and get his photo taken if he was in the area. It took a few more years, but sure enough he took me up on my offer, popping round in the afternoon. Most of the photos he has of himself are friendly, smiling and holding his guitar, and we did one of those, but I also wanted to do a slightly more darker, moodier photo of him, which he was up for. Below is the result.


Ben Sands

Finally, this Friday evening (21st Sept) is another Irish singer songwriter playing at the Mill Sessions who goes by the name ODi. I’m going to miss her performance and the chance to take her photo as Maggie and I are off to the Northumberland coast for a weekend away in celebration of our 17th wedding anniversary, but I’ve no doubt those attending the gig will be in for a treat.

4 comments

Eryl said...

This is water off a duck's back to you now (excuse the cliche, it's late), isn't it? Great shots, as usual, and I like the colour one. Mr Sands still looks quite cheery to me, there's a twinkle in his eye that precludes darkness.

Happy anniversary, and have a lovely break.

Kim Ayres said...

Eryl - I think Ben always has a twinkle in his eye, which is a bit difficult to disguise :)

I'm always pleased when the photos work out - I still don't take it for granted...

Anonymous said...

Cool photographs. Eleanor's photograph has a kind cinematic feel to me that I like.

Kim Ayres said...

Allen - thanks :)

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