http:// 2013-05-17T05:45:34Z 2013-05-17T05:45:34Z most-common-regret-of-brides-is-not-spending-enough-on-wedding-photography

Perth, WA, May 17, 2013 - Two different polls, two different years, one result: 21% of the recently-married brides who were polled regretted not spending more money on their wedding photos. The first poll was conducted by photography website Shutterfly from 10th to 13th January, 2011, and had 500 participants. The second poll was conducted by New York Magazine for their current issue, and had 100 participants. While the sample size may appear small, the convergent results cannot be attributed solely to coincidence. In the more contemporary of the two surveys, which provides more detailed data, flowers were the next item of regret at 16%, the wedding cake came in at 9%, the wedding gown came in at 9%, and everything else combined came in at 45%. A second part of the recent poll asked the bride’s what they regretted splurging on the most. Flowers were number one at 17%, while photos came in second at 12%. Hair and makeup or third at 9%, the wedding gown was fourth at 8%, and the wedding cake was fifth at 6%, leaving everything else at 48%. Peter Edwards is a wedding photographer with a wealth of experience in the Perth area, and is the owner of Peter Edwards Photography. He is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), and has also achieved a Double Master of Photography. His specialisation in wedding photography and the sheer number of weddings he has photographed make him uniquely qualified to interpret the data from the two surveys. Edwards begins by pointing out a pattern that is obvious to him: “Everything mentioned in the poll is visual, because the visual element of a wedding is extremely important to the bride. That is why it is so important to hire the best photographer for your wedding instead of price shopping. It is no accident that photos were mentioned first, and no accident that the other visual elements of the wedding were mentioned as the next three most important items.” Edwards continued: “When the wedding is being put together, it is often a reflex action to try and reduce costs. Sometimes, it is possible to find good work and an inexpensive price. Unfortunately, price shopping is usually hit and miss at best, and the bride ends up being disappointed at the quality of service she receives. Worse yet, when photography is one of the items at which the bride tries to save money, the results are almost always disappointing. This is false economy as if the purchase doesn’t meet expectations, no matter how small the amount paid there is no value. On the other hand an item purchased that is truly valued as time passes is priceless and the cost is soon forgotten and may even appear “cheap” on reflection.” Edwards added: “Ultimately, when the wedding is over, your photographs are going to provide the most enduring memory of your happiest day. If there is one thing, and one thing only, to make sure you do right, it is to hire a professional and experienced wedding photographer. Professional wedding photographers know how to use light effectively, how to use their equipment to the best advantage, how to pose people, capture that moment and put people at ease. ”Edwards commented further: “If a few of the visual elements in your wedding are a bit off, a great photographer can find a way to make them look good. However, a mediocre photographer only produces photos that look mediocre.” Edwards concluded: “Don’t trust your most cherished memories to chance: hire a professional and preserve your memories for a lifetime.” Peter Edwards Photography is a professional wedding photography firm from Perth. Not only do they specialise in weddings, weddings are all they do. For more information, or to inquire about their services, call 08 9316 2465 or visit their website: http://www.peteredwardsphoto.com.au/

2013-05-16T08:14:19Z twitter-makes-a-fantastic-duo-1

SYDNEY: 16 May 2013 – Two talented performers find each other through Twitter to come together and produce a charged and emotional experience for the audience.   Through Twitter Lara Parker-Kent and Jack Sierra were introduced by one of Jack’s 20,000 twitter fans.   Today there short but involved collaboration has produced their first single together on iTunes, the Bon Jovi song, “Livin on a Prayer”, which Ms Parker-Kent sang on the recent blind auditions for the Voice.   Ms Parker-Kent was looking for a new guitarist.  “I needed a guitarist, so I put it out there on Twitter.  @IsabellaXuereb1 suggested Jack and said I should check him out on YouTube.  So I did.  It turns out he’s great, lives locally, [he] gets my music and we work really well together.  Thanks to Isabella for connecting us,” said Ms Parker-Kent.   “I wasn’t taking it too seriously initially until I realised that this was real.  Since then we have spent two hours recording with Herm Kovac @ Ramrod Studios and our film clip was produced by Richard Bell in the most amazing studio and the results we’re extremely happy with,” said Mr Sierra.   Their music style is chilled out, relaxed, and Mr Sierra’s acoustic guitar blends a full bodied listening experience with Ms Parker-Kent’s magnificent tone.   “We wanted to create something very unlike other renditions of these special songs.  The support we are getting from friends and fans has confirmed that this style of music has a place for people”, said Ms Parker-Kent. http://www.youtube.com/larajackmusic   Ends

2013-05-16T07:59:45Z twitter-makes-a-fantastic-duo

SYDNEY: 16 May 2013 – Two talented performers find each other through Twitter to come together and produce a charged and emotional experience for the audience.   Through Twitter Lara Parker-Kent and Jack Sierra were introduced by one of Jack’s 20,000 twitter fans.   Today there short but involved collaboration has produced their first single together on iTunes, the Bon Jovi song, “Livin on a Prayer”, which Ms Parker-Kent sang on the recent blind auditions for the Voice.   Ms Parker-Kent was looking for a new guitarist.  “I needed a guitarist, so I put it out there on Twitter.  @IsabellaXuereb1 suggested Jack and said I should check him out on YouTube.  So I did.  It turns out he’s great, lives locally, [he] gets my music and we work really well together.  Thanks to Isabella for connecting us,” said Ms Parker-Kent.   “I wasn’t taking it too seriously initially until I realised that this was real.  Since then we have spent two hours recording with Herm Kovac @ Ramrod Studios and our film clip was produced by Richard Bell in the most amazing studio and the results we’re extremely happy with,” said Mr Sierra.   Their music style is chilled out, relaxed, and Mr Sierra’s acoustic guitar blends a full bodied listening experience with Ms Parker-Kent’s magnificent tone.   “We wanted to create something very unlike other renditions of these special songs.  The support we are getting from friends and fans has confirmed that this style of music has a place for people”, said Ms Parker-Kent.   Ends

2013-05-16T03:18:00Z amnesia-razorfish-announces-mca-partnership-and-sponsorship

Amnesia Razorfish Head of Strategy Ben Hourahine said a number of pioneering creative projects were already underway within the strategic tie-up.  “We are really excited about pushing the boundaries of creative innovation with the MCA. The partnership gives us the opportunity to really challenge the conventions around creativity, which is exciting for us and our clients,” he said.  Keir Winesmith, Digital Media Manager at the MCA, which recently welcomed its 1,000,000th visitor since reopening in March 2012, said: “The MCA is excited to partner with Amnesia Razorfish to create digital projects that help us reach outside the museum.  “The MCA is dedicated to the exhibition, collection and interpretation of the art of today, so it’s important to work with a team that shares our commitment to contemporary stories for contemporary audiences across Australia.”  Unearth the Rocks is the first official collaboration. A project developed in conjunction with Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, Unearth The Rocksbrings the rich human history and heritage of The Rocks to life via mobile devices.    The project is an important part of the MCA’s commitment to documenting and celebrating the heritage of the site it stands upon and offers amobile phone experience that brings the fascinating history of The Rocks precinct to life.   ENDS  For further information, please contact: Andrea Kerekes                                  Judy Goldman Access PR                                          Access PR 0418 427 412                                      0402 277 226 andrea@accesspr.com.au                 judy@accesspr.com.au About Amnesia RazorfishAmnesia Razorfish is Australia’s most awarded full-service digital agency. Headquartered in Sydney, Amnesia Razorfish is part of the world’s largest digital agency network, Razorfish, owned by Paris-based Publicis Group. The agency lives and breathes digital, providing strategic digital ideas, media, creative, technology, social media, analytics, innovative solutions and more. Amnesia Razorfish has demonstrated commitment to creating experiences that build business for some of the world's best-known brands including Samsung, Qantas, Suncorp, Australia Post, Aussie, BT, Intel, and Microsoft. Web Site: www.amnesia.com.au Twitter: @amnesiafish Facebook: facebook.com/amnesiarazorfish

2013-05-15T06:05:41Z record-crowds-expected-at-hampton

As the days count down to this weekend’s event, organisers of the Hampton Food & Arts Festival are expecting record numbers to attend. Enquiries relating to this Sunday’s Festival, which features a strong entertainment program including appearances by Poh Ling Yeow of Masterchef fame, have been strong with Saturday’s Farm Trail and Long Lunch already sold out.Festival organiser, Kerri Seccombe, advised she is eagerly keeping an eye on the weather forecast. She said,  “This year’s event is definitely shaping up to be our biggest with an increased venue size and a really impressive program of events - let’s hope that Mother Nature is kind to us over the weekend!” “We know Poh’s appearances at 10am, 12pm and 2pm will be popular but we are also expecting a great response to our Artists In Residence Program and live entertainment acts.” Kerri also advised that patrons wouldn’t be disappointed with the quality and range of food and produce on offer at this Sunday’s event. “The Festival has a great atmosphere and really aims to showcase the high quality produce that’s on offer around Hampton. The scent of fresh dishes being cooked and the sweet smell of regional fruits and produce has definitely become synonymous with our event.  “From cupcakes and preserves to pastas, cheeses, wines and oils – this year’s menu is truly mouth watering,” she added. The Hampton Food & Arts Festival commences at 9.30am and will continue until 4.00pm on Sunday 19 May at Chapman Park, Hampton.  Tickets available at the gate. Patrons are encouraged to take advantage of the Festival’s free bus service, which will operate from Toowoomba, Highfields and Crows Nest. Download the Festival’s full event program and find out further information regarding the free bus service by visiting www.hamptonfestival.com

2013-05-15T01:56:34Z nsswe-gig-update-nsswe-community-concerts-at-forest-high-school-next-week

Sydney, 15 May 2013 - The Northern Sydney Symphonic Wind Ensemble (NSSWE) is staging a week of Community Concerts starting Monday 20 May, at the Forest High School Assembly Hall in Frenchs Forest.The concerts are open to the general public, run from Monday 20 to Thursday 23 May, and start at 7pm. Admission is by donation at the door.These concerts replace those publicised earlier this year. Monday 20 sees NSSWE’s Junior Wind Ensemble and Stage Band performing, with the Primary Wind Ensemble and Stage Band performing on the Tuesday, the Intermediate Wind Ensemble and Stage Band on the Wednesday, and the Senior Wind Ensemble and Stage Band on the Thursday.NSSWE will be joined by guest bands from the following schools from across the Northern Beaches: Allambie Heights Public School (Monday 20 and Tuesday 21), Forestville Public School (Monday 20), Mimosa Public School (Monday 20 and Wednesday 22), Seaforth Public School (Monday 20 and Thursday 23), Beauty Point Public School (Tuesday 21), The Forest High School (Tuesday 21 and Thursday 23), Killarney Heights Public School (Wednesday 22 and Thursday 23), and Oxford Falls Grammar School (Thursday 23).NSSWE and its guests will be playing music as varied as Sesame Street, Otis Redding’s Respect and Bernstein’s Candide Overture, from the Phantom of the Opera and Les Misérables, and classics by Duke Ellington and Rodgers & Hart, and from the world of pop.NSSWE is also performing at Lizotte’s Dee Why, for one night only, on Friday 7 June. All five NSSWE stage bands will be performing.  Tickets are available from Lizotte’s box office.Check the NSSWE web site for details and late changes.ENDSAbout NSSWEThe Northern Sydney Symphonic Wind Ensemble (NSSWE) is a not-for-profit organisation established in early 2010 by Artistic Director Patrick Brennan. NSSWE is an extension program for student musicians who play woodwind, brass or percussion in their school band programs across the northern Sydney region. NSSWE provides students with opportunities to extend their musical ability by performing a musical repertoire of a very high standard, to develop their musical skills and talent under the direction of highly qualified directors and conductors, and to share their love of music with the broader community. Find out more about NSSWE at www.nsswe.org.au.For more information, contact:Alan SmithPhone: 0404 432 700Email: marketing@nsswe.org.auMandy ArnoldPhone: 0481 303 803Email: manager@nsswe.org.auNote to editors: photos available on request.

2013-05-15T00:26:00Z sydney-escorts-company-set-to-go-australia-wide

One of the leading Sydney Escorts websites Mona Lisa is set to expand it's services to become one of the leading nation wide companies.The management are set to make rapid expansion movements into areas like Brisbane, Gold Coast and Adelaide.The goal of the team is to offer and source the best courtesans from around the world to apply their services in Australia.With an extensive network of escorts Mona Lisa Sydney Escorts offer what is set to be the best range for any budget and any personality.The companions that the team have in stock is going to include some very famous names who have been applying the trade as part time work for many years.The website is planned to update it's range and it is planned to be in high demand for high class escorts.

2013-05-15T00:13:16Z male-stripper-website-in-melbourne-gets-a-makeover

For ladies planning their next big night out or wanting to spice up a party in Melbourne now they can visit the leading male stripper website in Melbourne and find some guys who will certainly leave them feeling a little bit flushed. Male Strippers in Melbourne have just enjoyed a brand new makeover to their leading website. The new website is not only eye catching and evocative but lets customers find out exactly what they need to know before opting to hire a male stripper. Male Strippers in Melbourne have built up an astounding reputation of offering the hunkiest guys at the most competitive prices. Not only can wild and wicked ladies choose from a delightful range of male strippers but they can also opt for hunky waiter service to savvy up their next big bash or simply find out about the hot to trot ladies only nights happening in Melbourne. With a number of all-inclusive packages offered on their brand new look website, Male Strippers in Melbourne seem to offer la crème de la crème when it comes to men. Clients can choose between a fun strip tease or a more hands on full Monty service from the gorgeous guys on the books at Male Strippers in Melbourne. With a perfect party service, this seems to be a sure fire way to put a saucy spin on a hen night, a birthday bash or a great night out. The new look website makes it easy to enquire further about the new flashy services offered by Male Strippers in Melbourne and also offers a full break down of costs, shows and extra little services to make that special night, one to remember for many years to come.  Take a sneak peek today at what Male Strippers in Melbourne can do. 

2013-05-14T01:13:56Z albie-merani-book-one-project-on-boostednz-is-now-live

Albie Merani Book One project on BoostedNZ is now live. If you're into science-fiction, crime and thriller novels – you're going to love Albie Merani and The Deathly Tempest! But before it can be published, Geri (Rw Rivers) needs to raise funds for the manuscript to be assessed by a Development Editor. So please get involved!Have to say traditional publishers are a bunch of idiots, since they fired their development editors they have lost market share. If I ever raise funds to get my book edited by a local development editor a developmental editor has recently edited the prologue in Albie Merani and The Deathly Tempest! Please feel free to read it on Wattpad.Anyway after my book has been fully edited, I reckon it could end up becoming an international bestseller. You See!What’s the story about?The planet Zaron, if we are to accept the expansive legends of the region as true, that have existed for centuries. A mystery has risen over the past few hundred years of where the people who spoke English had come from -whom mysteriously arrived in a mysterious region between Pikes Head -due south of Parvis Beach, Garion Point -the southernmost point of Isle of Berge and the continent of Marrion a region much the same as Antarctica on Earth.Since then English has spread as wildfire around Zaron to become it’s dominate language spoken by every man, woman and child.Like on Earth, Zaron is an unstable world, where continents continually drift moving across the face of sea and land, forever to rove around the planet, in search of new places in which to reside. But Zaron, a united planet, where people are all encouraged to live their dreams, even Zaron couldn’t listen to radio transmissions from Earth yet, so the distance between the two worlds must be over one hundred light years.If the legends we are told Zaron remains anchored to its current orbit, some thought it was the work of ancient gods, and since the task was so enormous, they considered it was the work of gods, eternal and unstoppable although speculation now points to ancient aliens; even though no one perceived their presence again.Albie Merani a scientist and captain of the Hamarchi Phoenix, who lives in Hamarchi, Zaron’s largest city, but not its capital a planet much the same as Earth. Find things turn for the worse, losing his girlfriend, two teammates and a deadly device while a malevolent storm hovers over the horizon.Time is running out for Albie and his friends. In the search of a deadly device capable of wiping out life, as we know it, Albie struggles to manage his Mag-Ve team a handball game on steroids all the while tailed by two eerie and mysterious men. Things take a turn for the worse when he returns from an unexpected trip and as a malevolent storm hovers over the horizon, he battles his newfound challenges and soon finds his girlfriend missing, jeopardizing the safety and security of those he loves.

2013-05-13T02:33:05Z new-teen-sci-fi-ebook-series-plays-out-on-and-off-page

Getting the attention of young people in an increasingly loud world isn’t easy. To cut through the noise, author Peter Worthington and Read Along Publishing have developed a creative formula for launching their newest ebook series, Martian Wars.The formula is simple: A YouTube web series of 10 videos that acts as an extended introduction to the story will be launched first followed by 15 short ebook episodes. The YouTube web series introduces the audience to Con, a twenty something computer hacker who experiences an alien spaceship crash landing and is on a mission to expose the truth of what he saw, while the authorities try to silence him. The ebook episodes will then continue the story, several years into the future as Aliens prepare to invade Earth.The Martian Wars YouTube web series plays out in real time, supported by a Facebook Page, Twitter account and a Tumblr blog where main character Con releases all the information he gathers to his followers. Viewers will be able to interact with Con through social media and help to drive the story forward. Once the YouTube web series is complete, the first Martian Wars eBook episode will be released for free. A new episode, costing $0.99 each will be released weekly thereafter.The decision to turn the ebook into short, serialised episodes rather than a single book was made because it provides the community of readers an opportunity to drive the story and influence the outcome of later episodes.The Martian Wars series will be available through the Apple iBookstore, Amazon’s Kindle Store, Google Play Store and Kobo. The web series will play out on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and Tumblr. You can keep up to date with the series at www.martianwars.net Advance media copies of the Martian Wars ebook episodes are available on request. To request a copy please email media@readalongpublishing.com.A key driver for the way Read Along Publishing works is a desire to continuously innovate and improve the way that people connect with all forms of literature. This idea goes well beyond the mere substitution of traditional print media for digital media. Read Along Publishing uses emerging technology, along with other forms of digital media to engage with audiences from the moment they turn the first page.# # #If you'd like more information about this topic, or to schedule an interview with Peter Worthington, please e-mail media@readalongpublishing.com

2013-05-12T23:36:00Z get-hypnotized-hustle-amp-flow-honours-the-king-of-new-york

Media ReleaseMedia Release Get hypnotized: Hustle & Flow honours the King of New YorkHustle and Flow’s B.I.G. Saturday: 25 May 2013Monday, 13 May 2013 – Sydney small bar Hustle & Flow will be celebrating the birthday of one of rap music’s greatest artists The Notorious B.I.G. on Tuesday 21 May and throughout the week, culminating in a B.I.G. Saturday night on 25 May. “Born on 21 May 1972 and regarded as the ‘King of New York’, The Notorious B.I.G. was one of the most influential rappers from 1994 up until his murder in 1997,” said Hustle and Flow’s Owner Tim Duhigg. “Despite a career cut short, Biggie is regarded as one of the greatest emcees of all time. We’ve honoured him with a piece on our Eastern wall and intend on having two great nights on Tuesday and Saturday,” said Tim. Providing the perfect soundtrack, Biggie’s songs including classics such as ‘Hypnotize’, ‘Juicy’ and ‘Mo Money Mo Problems’ will be on heavy rotation each night. Specials on Brooklyn Brewery’s Lager and East India Pale Ale, recognising the New York borough Biggie hailed from, will run all week from Tuesday 21 May to Saturday 25 May. Birthdays was the worst days - Now we sip champagne when we thirst-ay -The Notorious B.I.G. ‘Juicy’ (1994) -Ends- Images attached: Hi-res images available on request.H&F Biggie1aH&F Biggie 2a Photo/Interview Opportunity: Tim Duhigg is available for interview and photo opportunities by appointment. Hustle & Flow Bar3/105 Regent Street, Redfernhttp://www.hustleflowbar.com/ Tuesday to Friday 5pm – 12pm, Saturday 2pm – 12pm. Twitter/Instagram: @HustleFlowBar #HustleFlowBar About Hustle & Flow:Sydney small bar Hustle & Flow opened in April 2013 and creatively infuses hip-hop culture into every part of its Regent Street, Redfern operation. Hip Hop and RnB music oozes out of the sound system and some of Sydney’s most highly regarded graffiti artists have painted the venue’s walls. Hustle & Flow offers a range of Australian and New Zealand wines and Australian, American and Filipino beers, but it is the venue’s hip-hop inspired spirit and cocktail list that will entice fans of rap and RnB. Media enquiries: Samuel Spurr, ph. 0438 501 005, sam@inlumino.com.au

2013-05-10T04:10:40Z unleash-the-power-of-inspiration-with-the-new-inspire-me-quotes-app-available-now-on-the-apple-app-store

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – May 10, 2013 – Formally launching on Mother’s Day, Inspire Me Quotes presents iPhone iOS users with an opportunity to enjoy a selection of inspirational quotes from some of the world’s greatest minds. Each inspirational quote has been specifically designed to combine design, typography and inspirational words of wisdom to motivate, encourage and enliven users. “There are days when we all need a little inspiration,” says Brian Tanedo, Co-Founder of Happy Planet Apps and spokesperson for Inspire Me Quotes. “Whether it’s an uninspiring job, a goal gone wrong or just a plain bad day, everybody needs somewhere they can go for a quick boost of happiness and inspiration. Inspire Me Quotes was developed so that users could experience that sensation with just a flick of a quotes page.” Inspire Me Quotes offers users the chance to browse through a variety of inspirational quotes to reveal wisdom from great minds such as Albert Einstein, Martin Luther King, Mark Twain, Steve Jobs, Coco Chanel, Audrey Hepburn, Abraham Lincoln and many, many more. “Research has shown that cultivating positive thinking promotes health, happiness and wellbeing,” Tanedo continues. “Inspire Me Quotes encourages users to foster vital positive thinking habits and to feel more motivated to go out and achieve their dreams.” What’s different about this app is that users can choose from a selection of inspirational bundle packs, each containing 50 inspirational quotes. The current selection includes Life, Goals, Dreams and a New Year’s 2013 bundle. Bundles that will be released shortly include love, friendship and health. Inspire Me Quotes also provides users with a chance to favorite quotes within the app and share quotes via Facebook, text messaging and email. There is also a camera roll function that allows users to save inspirational quotes as their phone backgrounds. “The overarching goal for Inspire Me Quotes is that users enjoy the app wherever they are, whenever they need to, in order to bring some light, happiness and inspiration into their day.” Tanedo says. Inspire Me Quotes is available to download for free from the Apple App Store and for a limited time comes with 50 inspirational quote pages complimentary. Subsequent inspiration bundles are available at a price of 99c per bundle (each bundle contains 50 inspirational quotes pages). Please feel free to visit www.inspiremetheapp.com for more information. Inspire Me Quotes is also available on twitter @InspireMeQuotes and on Facebook at facebook.com/InspireMeQuotesApp   To download Inspire Me Quotes, please visit: https://itun.es/au/oOVgJ.i   About Happy Planet Apps: Inspire Me Quotes was created by Happy Planet Apps, a boutique Australian company. Founded in 2012, Happy Planet Apps develop apps to inspire, motivate and promote happiness. Inspire Me Quotes is their first release.   Media Contact: Cassandra Lane Director, Happy Planet Apps Phone: + (61) 449 908 850 Email: happyprpeople@happyplanetapps.com Website: www.inspiremetheapp.com

2013-05-07T05:40:31Z blind-tasting-the-unique-part-performance-part-wine-tasting-show-takes-to-the-sydney-stage

Media Release  7 May 2013   ‘Blind Tasting’: the unique part performance, part wine tasting show takes to the Sydney stage   Combining the sensory pleasures of theatrical performance and wine, ‘Blind Tasting’ is a unique and quirky one-woman contemporary show, best described as ‘part performance/part wine-tasting’ – two of life’s greatest artistic indulgences entwined.   ‘Blind Tasting’ will be in town for one night only on Tuesday 25th June at The Ensemble Theatre, Kirribilli. This one-of-a-kind show is thoughtfully written and directed by Paul Gilchrist and features accomplished Australian actress Sylvia Keays who stars as ‘Sophie’. Sylvia is currently touring the ‘Blind Tasting’ show throughout various wineries, restaurants and theatres across Australia.   With already a sold-out season at the 2012 Adelaide Fringe and the 2012 Melbourne Fringe festivals, as well as performances in Los Angeles, ‘Blind Tasting’ conveys wit, whimsy and heartbreak – all centered around wine. Sylvia, in an acclaimed portrayal, introduces us to her character Sophie – who talks wine, sells wine and she has every reason to drink it. Join her hilarious razor-sharp discovery of the unexpected truth hidden in each glass.   Having been performed around Australia and internationally, ‘Blind Tasting’ has gained critical acclaim from thespians and theatre goers alike. TimeOut Melbourne raved that "Sylvia Keays slips snugly into her character. So snug that I initially thought this might have been her own story. The show has a very smooth tone, sitting happily between wistfully melancholic narrative and a stand-up routine."   Suitably accompanying this performance is the equally acclaimed wines from Shaw Vineyard Estate, available for you to try before the show, with wine tasting and nibblies commencing from 6.30pm, followed by a 7.30pm performance. Shaw Vineyard Estate is a family owned and operated wine producer who has been producing Canberra’s finest wines for over a decade. As a keen supporter of young Australian talent, Shaw saw this collaboration as a rich opportunity to showcase their performance in wine to a discerning audience.   Also supporting the ‘Blind Tasting’ show is online drinks site Sip Your Style. Katrina Holden, editor and founder of the site says audiences should prepare for moments of true humour, drama and introspection with Sylvia’s raw delivery.   “From the moment Sylvia begins the act wearing a red blindfold, the audience is captivated. There’s an honesty and purity in her portrayal of Sophie – and her tale of workplace woes, trying to find love and more importantly, trying to find herself – themes we can all relate to. Through the metaphor of wine (and better yet, the tasting of it), we’re taken on an emotional journey involving humour, wit, frailty and self-awareness. Sylvia is a poised, vibrant, approachable yet intriguing performer who connects with her audience and whom herself mirrors many of the attributes of a good wine. In Blind Tasting it’s just her, us and the wine, with no trickery – the show’s very simplicity makes for a very authentic and pleasurable experience,” said Katrina.   Book your tickets today to ensure that you don’t miss out on this unique tasting and hilarious performance. Tickets are available for purchase now, Adult ($35*) and Concession ($30*) ticket price includes tasting and the show. *Booking fee applies     Tickets sales, please contact: The Ensemble Theatre, 78 McDougall Street, Kirribilli www.ensemble.com.au  or call (02) 9929 0644   For media enquiries, please contact: Eileen Thomas, White Ink eileenthomas@whiteink.com.au  or phone (02) 9439 1633     About Sylvia Keays   Sylvia Keays is an Australian actress theatrically trained at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Hollywood. Since graduation, she has performed professionally in TV, independent film, presenting, and her main love theatre, both in the USA and Australia. She has performed in plays produced by NIDA, Steam Productions, Billie Blonde, Shakespeare by the Sea, Complex Theatre LA, AADA (Hollywood). In television, she has featured in ‘Deadly Women’ in the US; and in Stupid Stupid Man, supporting Deborah Mailman in Australia. Her body of commercial work includes productions for TAB, ANZ, New Idea and McDonald’s.   Critical Acclaim for ‘Blind Tasting’   "Part performance, part wine tasting, this witty, insightful performance was well crafted by Paul Gilchrist and delivered with confidence and a delightful balance of light and shade by Sylvia Keays. This performance was a delight; intimate, funny, sad, and thoughtful” - Stage Whispers Melbourne   This is "a classy sensory experience...a passionate and considered performance" - Adelaide Theatre Guide   The story moves with playful audience interaction, two mid show wine tastings, and "has a very smooth tone, sitting happily between wistfully melancholic narrative and a stand-up routine." - ArtsHub Melbourne   "A punchy, whimsical tale of lovelorn Sophie - executed exceptionally by actor Sylvia Keays" - Theatre Junkies Melbourne   “Sylvia Keays is a brilliant performer ….a moving, consistent and quality performance that is a joy to watch…. The script is playful, witty and poetic …..a captivating personal account of a woman’s experience of love, loss and finding pleasure in unexpected places. Keays was thoroughly entertaining” -  FringeReview UK

2013-05-02T22:05:29Z junkee-com-doubles-expected-results-in-first-month

Developed ‘mobile first’, ahead of tablet and desktop versions, Junkee is published by the country’s leading online youth publisher, Sound Alliance, with a target audience of 18-29 year-olds. "Junkee's first month has been above expectations in all ways. Editors Steph Harmon and Rob Moran and their brilliant team of intelligent, engaging writers have been able to bring to life our vision of a thought-provoking pop culture community, and it's been heartening to see that so many people have instantly identified with this direction." “Changing the traditional approach to web publishing has hit the mark,” said Sound Alliance Content Director Tim Duggan. The advertising model for Junkee.com introduced ’native advertising’ - advertising that integrates seamlessly (but with transparency) into a site’s aesthetics and editorial - to Australia. “We’re pioneering a new way of merging brands and content as one of the first publishers aiming to get native advertising right. This is where everyone wins: the consumer gets genuinely engaging content, and the advertiser gets shareable stories that people actually want to read,” said Sound Alliance CEO Neil Ackland. Junkee’s category exclusive advertisers, who signed on for the first six months, include Telstra, Deakin University and Rekorderlig Cider. Rekorderlig Cider marketing manager Nikki Langford said: "We're a creative brand and love to support new and interesting initiatives like Junkee. We've been thrilled with the traffic results the site has received in its first full month, showing that there is a healthy audience for a lively, intelligent and interesting take on pop culture. We are really looking forward to working with Sound Alliance over the next few months on creative native advertising for Rekorderlig that's just as engaging as the content we've seen on the site so far." - Ends -   About Sound Alliance Launched 10 years ago, Sydney-based Sound Alliance is Australia’s leading online youth publisher. Sound Alliance owns and runs FasterLouder, inthemix, SameSame, last.fm, mess+noise, and the just-launched Junkee.com, and represents titles Pitchfork and The Hype Machine. Together, these titles have a combined monthly UB audience of more than one million and offer advertisers a gateway to the country’s 18-29 year olds. Its in-house agency, the Sound Alliance Agency, has worked with some of the world’s biggest brands, drawing insights and research from its vast youth audience to create original, compelling communication platforms that entertain and engage. www.thesoundalliance.net   For further information please contact: Andrea Kerekes                                               Emma Davey Access Public Relations                                Access Public Relations T: 02 9292 7002                                              T: 02 9292 7012 M: 0418 427 412                                              M: 0422 164 198 E: andrea@accesspr.com.au                         E: emma@accesspr.com.au      

2013-04-30T06:36:57Z professional-perth-photographer-warns-don-t-trust-your-cherished-memories-to-an-amateur

Perth, WA, April 30, 2013 - In a recent blog post on his website, Perth photographer Geoff Fisher gave a long, detailed answer to a frequently asked question: “Why should I hire a professional photographer?” Fisher, who has been the owner of Fisher Photography for the past 35 years, holds “Master Photographer” status, awarded by the Australian Institute of Professional Photography (AIPP). In addition, he has won a Gold Award, and many Silver Awards, and has been named AIPP Western Australian Portrait Photographer of the Year. In the post, Fisher explained some of the pitfalls of hiring an amateur photographer, and described some of the factors that differentiate professional photographers from amateurs. Since the advent of digital cameras, amateur photographers have had access to much better equipment than they used to. Unfortunately, this has inspired many amateur photographers to buy the most expensive camera at their local department store, take a few pictures, and offer their services to friends and acquaintances as photographers. While some of the more expensive digital cameras on the market do, indeed, take great pictures, they are still, by nature, point and click devices. The amateur photographer simply points the camera, waits for it to focus, and snaps a picture. While this can produce the occasional good picture, professionals view the default settings on any camera to be a starting point: not a finishing point. Professional photographers use equipment that is far more expensive and elaborate than the cameras at the local department store. Professional photographers use their own lighting. Their studios are designed to allow for perfect lighting, and their cameras allow for more adjustments. Professionals pay close attention to variables such as angles, exposure time, distance, and different lenses. Professionals undergo extensive training, and then add experience to that training. Fisher, for example, has personally trained everyone in his studio, regardless of their past experience. Professional photographers leave nothing to chance. Their protocols ensure that there’ll be no surprises, such as cameras without batteries, or lights that don’t work. Amateur photographers, even those who mean well, are simply lacking in the equipment and experience to provide a product on the level of a professional photographer. Fisher believes that the risks are too high and the rewards are too low for anyone who needs professional photos to trust them to anyone but a professional photographer. According to Fisher, “Your photographs are extremely important. While amateurs are certainly capable of taking decent photos, they cannot come close to producing the kind of quality your professional photographer can. Professional photographers have years of training and experience, and they have access to equipment that outclasses anything an amateur can buy.” Fisher continued, “We have been taking professional photographs for over 35 years. We have seen every situation, and have taken photographs for all kinds of people. All of this experience has taught us how to consistently uncover the best of anyone’s inner qualities, and allow them to come to the surface to be photographed. When those photographs are taken under controlled conditions with professional equipment, they always turn out perfect.” Fisher concluded, “Professionals have the best training, the best equipment, and the most experience. If you want professional results, hire a professional photographer.”Fisher receives a lot of testimonials; a recent one comes from CJ Halvorson, who is Vice President of Strategic Accounts in Asia, Pacific, and Japan for a major IT Company: “Hi, Geoff: Love the photo and getting great reviews already.” Fisher Photography provides professional photography in Perth and the surrounding area. They offer many services, including portrait photography, family photography, and corporate photography to their Perth area clients. For more information, call (08) 9381 2233 or visit their website: http://fisherphotography.com.au/