Blog

Follow my photographic journey

The Big Glow, Understanding the Southern Surge of the Aurora Borealis in Guernsey
Photo, Blog elliott mariess Photo, Blog elliott mariess

The Big Glow, Understanding the Southern Surge of the Aurora Borealis in Guernsey

Last night, Guernsey’s skies lit up with a cosmic surprise—an aurora borealis display that felt more Iceland than island life! As I stood there, camera in hand, snapping away at the shimmering greens and purples, I couldn’t help but wonder... why is the northern lights’ magical glow suddenly crashing down south? From solar storms to sneaky science, here’s everything you need to know about why the aurora is making a dazzling guest appearance in Guernsey—and how you can capture the spectacle before it disappears!

Read More
Instagram vs. The Tate, Is It Art or Did Someone Drop It on the floor?
elliott mariess elliott mariess

Instagram vs. The Tate, Is It Art or Did Someone Drop It on the floor?

Ever looked at a modern art piece and wondered, “Is this art, or did someone accidentally spill paint all over the canvas?” You’re not alone! From garden gnomes to multi-million dollar urinals (yes, really), the line between fine art and decoration can get a little blurry. But fear not—this article is your guide through the maze of skill vs concept, and why some art ends up in a gallery while others get stuck on hotel walls. Prepare to rethink everything you thought you knew about art, and maybe even embrace that chaos on canvas!

Read More
Capturing the Quirks of Portland with a Zenza Bronica
Personal, Photo elliott mariess Personal, Photo elliott mariess

Capturing the Quirks of Portland with a Zenza Bronica

When my we suggested a Portland adventure, I packed two cameras: a digital for ease and my mum’s bulky, temperamental Zenza Bronica S2—a vintage beast that shoots in square black-and-white frames, each click an experiment. From Abbotsbury’s abbey ruins to Longleat’s lions, and a squirrel park where they practically mug you for peanuts, each stop came alive in totally different ways depending on which camera I used. Curious to see if you can tell the two apart? Explore Portland’s hidden quirks and layered history—one frame at a time.

Read More
Destination Wedding Checklist: Everything You Need for a Flawless Guernsey Wedding
Photoshoot Tips elliott mariess Photoshoot Tips elliott mariess

Destination Wedding Checklist: Everything You Need for a Flawless Guernsey Wedding

Planning a destination wedding in Guernsey might seem like a dream come true—clifftop views, quaint cobblestone streets, and beaches that practically glow at sunset—but it can also feel overwhelming without the right game plan. Don’t worry, I’ve pulled together the ultimate checklist to help you nail down everything from securing the perfect venue to navigating the quirks of beach weddings where the occasional dog-walker might crash your ceremony. If you want insider tips on creating a stress-free, stunning wedding day that takes full advantage of Guernsey’s magic, you can check out the full guide here!

Read More
Rain and Romance: A Cozy Anniversary Shoot at Ladies Bay
elliott mariess elliott mariess

Rain and Romance: A Cozy Anniversary Shoot at Ladies Bay

What happens when you mix a first anniversary, a quiet Guernsey beach, and a surprise downpour? You get an unforgettable photoshoot that captures the real, unscripted moments between two people. Forget golden hour—this session was all about embracing the rain, sharing inside jokes, and celebrating the little quirks that make their relationship special.

Read More
Reviving Vintage Glass
Photo, Personal elliott mariess Photo, Personal elliott mariess

Reviving Vintage Glass

I explore the process of adapting a vintage 1954 Ross Engson FullView Super lens to a modern digital camera. I discuss the historical context and unique characteristics of the camera and lens, share my shooting experience with the adapted setup, and provide insights into the resulting images. This project highlights the charm of vintage lenses and the creative possibilities they offer for modern photography.

Read More
Brenna & Millie’s Engagement Shoot in Guernsey: A Pre-Pride Love Story
Photo elliott mariess Photo elliott mariess

Brenna & Millie’s Engagement Shoot in Guernsey: A Pre-Pride Love Story

Brenna’s surprise proposal to Millie, set against the stunning backdrop of Guernsey’s bathing pools, was pure magic. From the emotional moment Millie said ‘yes’ to the breathtaking post-proposal portraits with Castle Cornet in the distance, this engagement shoot captured every detail. Join me as I share the behind-the-scenes story of their unforgettable day, just before Pride celebrations filled the island with even more love!

Read More
A Seaside Portrait Session with Alex Dorey in Guernsey
Fashion, Photo, Model, Family elliott mariess Fashion, Photo, Model, Family elliott mariess

A Seaside Portrait Session with Alex Dorey in Guernsey

What do you get when you mix a carefree attitude, a stunning prom dress, and Guernsey’s iconic Grand Rock? A portrait session full of spontaneous fun and unforgettable moments. Alex Dorey wanted something artsy and playful before heading off to university—and yes, her prom dress ended up soaked in the sea. Curious to see how this beachy, creative shoot turned out?

Read More
The Lazy Landscape Photographer's Guide to Guernsey
Photo, Personal elliott mariess Photo, Personal elliott mariess

The Lazy Landscape Photographer's Guide to Guernsey

If you’ve ever snapped a photo of a stunning view and thought, “This place practically photographs itself,” then you know what it’s like to shoot landscapes in Guernsey. With its rugged cliffs and picture-perfect beaches, it’s hard not to come away with something beautiful. But I’ll admit—while I enjoy capturing these scenes, I’ve never been the type to take landscape photography too seriously. Curious why? Let’s talk about how Guernsey’s natural beauty makes even the most casual photographer feel like a pro.

Read More
Guernsey’s Model Yacht Pond
Personal, Photo elliott mariess Personal, Photo elliott mariess

Guernsey’s Model Yacht Pond

A short stroll from St. Peter Port's busy harbor reveals the tranquil Model Yacht Pond, a hidden gem since 1887. Locals sail handcrafted model boats, from fishing vessels to steam-powered craft, showcasing Guernsey's seafaring tradition. Discover this charming slice of island life, where hobby meets history on serene waters.

Read More
Fast Mowers and slow Shutters: The West Show and the Art of Capturing Speed in Monochrome
Personal, Photo elliott mariess Personal, Photo elliott mariess

Fast Mowers and slow Shutters: The West Show and the Art of Capturing Speed in Monochrome

Ever wondered what happens when you combine garden tools, a century-old fair, and a camera with a slow shutter speed? Hasn't everyone? Welcome to Guernsey’s West Show, where lawnmowers aren’t just for mowing, they’re for racing—and where photographers find gold in the blur of speeding grass cutters. Dive into the quirky world of lawnmower racing, the history that powers it, and the timeless art of capturing speed in black and white.

Read More
Capturing Kirstin and Liam’s Guenrsey Wedding
Wedding, Photo elliott mariess Wedding, Photo elliott mariess

Capturing Kirstin and Liam’s Guenrsey Wedding

Kirstin and Liam’s wedding in a private garden in Vale was filled with thoughtful details and meaningful moments, all framed by the beautiful Guernsey light. From their intimate ceremony to the golden hour photos at the beach, I focused on capturing the authentic connections and atmosphere that made their day special.

Take a closer look at how these moments were captured, and see what made this wedding unique.

Read More
Photographing My Bandmate and Co-worker’s Guernsey Wedding
Wedding, Photo elliott mariess Wedding, Photo elliott mariess

Photographing My Bandmate and Co-worker’s Guernsey Wedding

There’s a particular magic in photographing a friend’s wedding—a blend of joy, responsibility, and delightful chaos. When my bandmate Greg and Specsavers colleague Mimi asked me to capture their special day, I knew it would be an unforgettable adventure. From heartfelt vows to an electrifying evening filled with music, their wedding was a celebration of love and creativity. Dive into the story of a day filled with laughter, soulful tunes, and the sweetest jam-themed cake you’ve ever seen.

Read More