Photography duo, Volkers & Stroud, launch new partnership and observe trend in unplugged events among UHNWI
This spring, highly accomplished award-winning photographers Philip Volkers and Venetia Stroud (nee Dearden) launch a new collaborative venture, Volkers & Stroud, dedicated to capturing intimate moments and fast-paced action at all types of international events. With over 45 years’ combined experience capturing iconic moments across the worlds of fashion, beauty, music, celebrity, and entertainment; for personal and commercial clients; in editorial, fine art and reportage styles; Volkers & Stroud deliver outstanding results for high-profile clientele with ultimate discretion.
Social alchemists, Volkers & Stroud, are proponents of enabling their high-net-worth and ultra-high net worth clients to truly live in the moment at events where mobile ‘phones and social media are left at the door; freeing guests to savour the essence of family, being together, celebrating life, love, and human connection. The duo share the inimitable quality of making people feel at ease, confident, and able to be themselves; intuitively balancing personal interaction with the art of being invisible, to capture unique portraits and priceless moments. Guests can access a bespoke bound or digital book after each event as a treasured memento.
Philip and Venetia blend seamlessly into their environments, mastering the art of being invisible but ever-present, and without digital distraction, they can capture response and reactions that are full of intent, their subjects living in the moment with raw human emotion expressed, fleeting expressions that cannot be repeated or set up, that encapsulate the spirit of the event.
Venetia Stroud, co-founder of Volkers & Stroud, said: “From a Balearic beach to a chic London location, our A-list clients trust us to intuitively know when to step up and vibe with them, and when to step back without missing a beat. Special moments, like someone breaking into laughter, don't happen twice, so being fully present and connected with the environment is essential. Philip and I have relentless stamina, we’ll cover parties and events over several days and are always the last ones standing. My photojournalist background means my style is often more reportage playing with natural light, alongside Phil who excels at direct-to-camera shots with structured lighting.”
Philip Volkers, Volkers & Stroud photographer, said: “The word photography means "writing with light" and this is how we approach conveying each of our clients’ narratives. Venetia and I bring a yin and yang, masculine and feminine energy to our collaboration, meaning we fit any event seamlessly. When it comes to our approach of encouraging smartphones to be put away, many of our clients are icons who are active on social media, and this is a very new experience for them. In truth, doing this gifts guests the full experience of each event.`
The benefits of being unplugged according to neurologist, Dr Rachel Taylor: “Memories are all about connections and the best connections are without the medium of smartphones or gadgets. To make the best memories then the brain wires an experience into the neurons and synapses; emotions are the super glue that makes memories hardwired into the brain. Using cameras from smartphones reduces empathy, social attachments, and emotional intelligence. Being present in the moment as opposed to being an observer has a huge impact on oxytocin production, the bonding hormone; dopamine for the feel-good factor; endorphins which create an emotional high; and impacts stress reduction through being a valued part of the group.”
For more information and to contact Volkers & Stroud visit volkersandstroud.com
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