How NetGalley has changed the way I read

If like me you love reading, I want to share a little tip that might be about to make your reading experience a whole lot better.

Two years ago I discovered the website NetGalley which has changed the way I read books and made me read so much more.

I am close to reaching the milestone of reading 100 books (for free) through the website which has been set up for publishers and readers to connect and spread the word about brand new books. To put simply, you request to read a new book that’s soon to be published (an ARC or advanced reader copy) in exchange for an honest review on the NetGalley website and Goodreads. You can also extend your review to share on websites such as Amazon and Waterstones. 

There’s no physical books involved. ARCs can be either read through the NetGalley app on your phone or iPad or in most cases you can request the book to be sent to your Kindle (my personal favourite way of reading NetGalley books).

It’s fair to say NetGalley has switched me from being a keen reader to an avid reading enthusiast. More importantly it’s made me hone in on the genre of books I really like and be more selective in my tastes.

For years I have felt like I ought to be reading certain books if they were bestsellers. To be totally honest, I find it harder to get into fiction unless I am on holiday - non fiction and biographies are much more my thing.  This would be my biggest piece of advice if you sign up as a NetGalley reviewer - choose your favourite few genres and just request those type of books.

In the past two years I have discovered some incredible books that may have passed me by if it weren’t for NetGalley. I have been able to share the names of books I have loved reading and buy and gift those books to friends. I have also recommended books to my local book club.

In amongst those almost 100 books are also some children’s picture books which I have read together with my two daughters who are sure to give an upfront and honest review of what they think!

Above and below are just a small selection of some of my favourite books that I have read and reviewed. I have got so much out of signing up to become a reviewer and nothing beats settling down to read a brand new book on your Kindle before it’s even hit the shelves!

Becoming a member is free and you can find out more here - https://www.netgalley.co.uk or https://www.netgalley.com

Little Lockdown Lifts

When each day can currently feel a little like groundhog, the little treats or ‘lockdown lifts’ make all the difference. A little gift or thoughtful card can really brighten a bitterly cold grey day.

I opened the door early and bleary-eyed a few weeks ago to be greeted with a delivery of the most incredible looking and tasting fresh doughnuts from Crosstown. A kind friend wanted to help us celebrate my youngest daughter’s birthday and organised this generous surprise.

In our house we have also been working our way through the various choices of letterbox brownies. When we settled on our favourites (Gower Cottage Brownies) we have passed on the love by sending them to others for Christmas, birthdays or just to cheer up those at home.

It feels like the strangest thing not to be able to just pop into a shop and buy a little treat right now. On the other hand, maybe a little more thought has gone into where I shop. Less of the mass market/superstores and a definite focus on smaller and often British brands.

So with birthdays coming up and Mother’s Day on the horizon, here are a few of my favourites which make great gifts for either yourself or someone else. 2020 and the start of 2021 has been tough; we all deserve a little treat!

The Completist - Stationery

From their Peckham studio, The Completist has your stationery needs covered from daily planners, to journals, gift wrap and bold, bright, colourful cards. As an obsessive list-maker (hello fellow Virgos) I wouldn’t be without my daily planner as I use it write down everything from school admin to medication reminders and food lists.

NEOM Organics - Wellbeing gifts

I distinctly remember unwrapping my first gift from NEOM 10 years ago. It was a perfect little set of bath oils, beautifully presented in a white gift box and it felt like such a wonderful treat. Since then NEOM has become a go-to brand for treats and gifts. The brand’s signature perfume with Grapefruit, Lemon & Rosemary is so fresh and instantly uplifting - I wear it everyday. There’s now the perfect handbag or pocket sized hand sanitiser spray and calming hand balm - much needed after washing my hands what feels 100+ times a day. A British brand with 100% natural fragrances, no harsh chemicals and no artificial colours. Available from NEOM.

Jellycat Amuseables - soft toys

Jellycat has been designing quirky soft toys in London since 1999. The humourous Amuseables range includes everything from a three scoop ice-cream, croissant, cup of coffee, watermelon and lots more. We treated our girls to a Jellycat each for Christmas and they quickly became their toys of choice at bedtime and to provide a bit of fun and comfort during these strange times.

Azuni - jewellery

Taking inspiration from his global travels, Ashley Marshall founded Azuni London in 1995. I bought my first pair of gold hoop Azuni earrings from Lark London, a gift shop close to my house. The earrings make lovely gifts and can jazz up any outfit. I now have three pairs. Available from Azuni London and Lark London.

Candy Kittens - sweet treats

Developed in London, these gelatine-free, vegan sweets are pretty moreish. As a Type 1 diabetic, I head to my pot of Candy Kittens when my blood sugar is low. For Valentine’s day my husband treated me to a personalised Candy Kittens pot (my ‘hypo’ pot - see above). They do also come in smaller bags, in a range of fun flavours and you can pop them in your basket in many supermarkets or online at Candy Kittens direct.

50 things that lifted my spirits in 2020

Well, what a year that was. Who could have predicted what 2020 was to have in store for us. It’s been tough and unsettling but thankfully there have been things to help get us though, to help switch our minds off and bring smiles to our faces.

The art galleries and cinemas may have been closed and holidays cancelled but I have seen some of the best TV shows and read some wonderful books this year. Here are 50 things that helped get me though 2020:

TV

1. Race Across the World - Series 2 - What a show and a nail-biting final episode

2. The Great British Bake Off - Just what was needed in 2020

3. Love Life - Anna Kendrick stars in this fun comedy/drama

4. I May Destroy You - Named best TV show for 2020 by The Guardian - utterly gripping

5. Normal People - Immediately watched it twice and then read the book

6. I'm a Celebrity…Get me Out of Here! - Jordan North, what a ray of sunshine

7. Mrs Fletcher - Actress Kathryn Hahn at her best

8. The Morning Show - Excellent Apple+ original series

9. The Undoing - Edge of your seat stuff

10. I Hate Suzie - Billie Piper is exceptional in this comedy/drama

11. Tiger King - Gripping, binge-worthy series

12. This Country - Sad to say farewell to this show which I loved from the start

Films

13. Leftover Women - Fascinating documentary about women looking for marriage in China

14. Portrait of a Lady on Fire - Beautiful love story

15. Audrey - The private life and career of Audrey Hepburn

16. Natalie Wood: What Remains Behind - Personal portrait of the West Side Story star made by her daughter

For Kids

17. Make and Wonder - Art subscription box focusing on a different artist each month

18. Osmo - Interactive learning game that keeps our 4-year-old amused for hours

19. Snoopy - Apple TV+ - Who can’t resist Snoopy and Charlie Brown?

20. USB disco light - Tiny, pocket-money-priced USB disco light by Tinc

21. Telltails - clip on animal tails - the gift that keeps giving and is a dressing-up box essential

22. Draw with Rob and Let’s Draw Together with Wendy Mac - Not sure where we would be without Rob and Wendy’s incredible tutorials, a highlight of 2020 and the first lockdown

Getting creative

23. Vision Board Reimagined by Bold Tuesday - Such a clever idea and a must for 2021 (see picture above)

24. Austin Kleon's weekly email - I always look forward to the suggestions in Austin’s weekly email

25. Kuretake pens - THE pens to use for drawing

26. Collage - I started 18 months ago and haven’t looked back. Collage keeps me sane and brings me joy - simple as that

27. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert - A must-read book on creativity

Books

28. Queenie by Candice Party-Williams - One of my favourites of 2020

29. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens - Yes, it is as good as they say

30. Lady in Waiting by Anne Glenconner - Fascinating insight into an extraordinary life

31. Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid - Whizzed through this long listed Booker novel

32. Feel better in 5 by Rangan Chatterjee - An essential manual for life. Dr Chatterjee is full of wisdom and great advice

33. Demi Moore - Inside Out - Thoroughly enjoyed going behind the scenes and hearing more about Moore’s life. A great autobiography

34. Quite - Claudia Winkleman - Opens with a glorious chapter in favour of daytime naps; I’m in

35. Untamed - Glennon Doyle - A highly rated book and deserves all the praise

Audiobooks

36. My Wild and Sleepless Nights by Clover Stroud - Great motherhood memoir read by the author

37. Gotta Get Theroux This by Louis Theroux - This book and Louis’ hilarious impressions got me through the first lockdown and kept me sane!

38. Clothes… and other things that matter by Alexandra Shulman - Musings on life and clothes by the former UK Vogue editor

39. The Chiffon Trenches by Andre Leon Talley - Behind the scenes of the fashion industry by this front row expert

40. Life in pieces by Dawn O’Porter - Life during lockdown interspersed with memories growing up in Guernsey. Brilliant

Podcasts

41. Feel better, live more by Rangan Chatterjee - In-depth interviews with experts in the field of health and wellbeing. I loved hearing more from Dr Pippa Grange on tackling fear and Dr Tara Swart

42. Table Manners by Jessie Ware and mum Lennie - Relaxed, cheerful dinnertime chats, my favourites this year have been with Emily Maitlis and Cat Deeley

43. How to Fail by Elizabeth Day - My top episode for 2020 was with Daisy Edgar Jones

44. Fearne Cotton - Happy Place - Kelly Jones from the Stereophonics and Daisy May Cooper’s episodes top my list

45. Walking the dog - Journalist Emily Dean interviews celebrities as they walk their dogs, uplifting.

Miscellaneous

46. Oil diffuser with Aesop oil - A bedroom staple, walking in and smelling each evening is instantly relaxing

47. Yellow Bobbin Bicycle - Bought during lockdown, first time on a bicycle for 25 years! Bonus is the kid’s size fits a petite adult (me)

48. Headspace, Calm and Moshi apps - I am still learning the fine art of meditation. These are helping enormously

49. Furry Birkenstock slippers - The only footwear I wear these days!

50. Zoom/Facetime/Google Duo - For keeping connected to family, for pirate-themed birthday parties, live pilates classes, even a collage party live from New York. Until we hug our loved ones, this will be the next best thing.

Wishing you a very happy 2021 x

Keep calm and collage on

There’s no doubt these last few weeks have been confusing and worrying.

I veer from feeling relatively calm about Coronavirus to scrolling through too much news or social media and going into an anxious spin (usually right before bed).

It’s now more than ever that hobbies and creativity can really help calm our minds.

When I started collage it was for fun and it still very much is.

But in the past few weeks I have realised just how important it is to me and my mental health. It provides an outlet and focus away from what’s happening in the news.

For a long time I was inquisitive about collage but never quite knew how to get started. Do I use scissors or a craft knife? What’s the best glue? How do I get materials?

After sitting on the fence for a while and thinking about creating my first collage by hand, I pulled together some materials and gave it a shot.

If you are just starting out and looking to start making collages, here are a few tips:

First things first, you will need:

• old magazines or books you are happy to cut up

• Small scissors 

• Glue (Prit Stick it similar)

• Card - I use A4

1. Collect your materials - Start cutting out any images of people, objects, animals etc you find interesting or that intrigue you. Rip out pages with interesting backgrounds. 

If you don’t have magazines to hand but you do have a printer, take a look through some of these open access image libraries with images that are out of copyright - here’s a handy list -https://www.apollo-magazine.com/open-access-image-libraries-a-handy-list/

Print off any that you find interesting and add to your collection.

2 - Getting started - Lay out your backgrounds on one side and then your objects/people/animals on another. Start playing around and see what works together. You could pick a theme and challenge yourself to create a collage with that subject in mind. Start to create and place your collage on a piece of card or in a scrapbook and when happy with how it looks, glue it in place.

3. Photographing your work - if you have decided you’d like to upload your handcut collage to Instagram, getting a good photograph is key. I photograph my collages right beside the window using my phone and use a bit of white card to reflect the light. I then use the Snapseed app to crop the picture and make any small tweaks perhaps to the brightness or contrast before saving to my phone.

4 - Sharing your work - when I first started , I decided to create 12 collages before setting up my Instagram account and posting them. I discovered other handcut collage artists through hashtags and an incredible supportive positive collage community. By far the best thing I have done is to take part in weekly themed challenges - take a look at @gluetogether @pariscollagecollective and @februllage. From here you will start to see hashtags people are using and you can start to follow both your favourite accounts and hashtags.

5. Further reading - There are a few art and collage books that I have really drawn on for inspiration (below)

Collage by Danielle Krysa

The Collage Ideas Book

Collage by Women

Project Collage

Show your Work! and Keep Going! by Austin Kleon

Check out a few of my favourite Instagram collage accounts -

@joewebbart

@smallditch

@gluetogether

@chipperjay_creative

@drocks024

@pariscollagecollective

@edinburghcollagecollective

What’s great about collage is that there’s no right or wrong, you can just have fun. It takes your mind off things. It allows some escapism and we could all do with a little bit of that right now.

@Katie_collage

Street Fashion - London Fashion Week AW2020

Hands down one of the highlights of photographing London Fashion Week for me is meeting and taking pictures of those who have dressed up for the occasion.

Always happy to have their picture taken, I find it fascinating hearing more about people’s stories and what fashion means to them.

London Fashion Week always reminds me to be braver and have more fun with fashion, just like those in the images below.

All pictures ©Katie Collins/PA Images

London Fashion Week AW2020

The fashion world once again gathered in London for the twice annual fashion week, this time showcasing the Autumn/Winter 2020 collections for buyers, journalists and fashion enthusiasts.

On assignment for PA Media I covered the weekend shows which included Preen by Thornton Bregazzi and RIXO.

From backstage to runway, I always find London Fashion Week a fascinating spectacle. Here’s a few pictures from the latest event -

Eight great books and movies I watched/read in 2019

I said 2019 would be the year I started reading more and I stuck to that resolution.

Over the past 12 months I have read in the region of 35 books - lots more than in 2018. I put this down to a couple of things - getting an audible subscription so I often listen to a book during the day and read a different book at night.

I joined a book club with mums from school and this has definitely put the pressure on (in a good way) to read more and to a deadline. I also realised I prefer memoirs and biographies and so I’ve focused on reading more of what I enjoy and less fiction. I also ditch a book I’m not enjoying rather than plodding on for the sake of it.

So above are my eight favourites of 2019 (although some of the books themselves aren’t brand new). From this list Once in a House on Fire by Andrea Ashworth and Educated by Tara Westover are my top two. Both tell of growing up in difficult or unusual surroundings and triumphing over adversity.

I would also highly recommend listening to Michelle Obama’s book Becoming on audible. She reads the book herself and it makes for a powerful and immersive listen.

Every now and then a movie comes along that you can’t get out of your mind after you’ve watched it.

It doesn’t happen often but Marriage Story directed by Noah Baumbach and streaming on Netflix made in straight into my top 10 films ever.

It has such a beautiful script - moving and funny with such strong and memorable performances by Adam Driver, Scarlett Johansson & Laura Dern.

Despite the heavy subject matter of divorce, the script is also peppered with humour and a moving rendition of Adam Driver singing ‘Being Alive’ from the musical ‘Company’, late in a bar one night.

The documentary Maiden is excellent and tells of Tracy Edwards and her all-female crew taking part in the Whitbread Round the World Race in 1989. It’s real edge of your seat TV and the movie is currently on BBC iPlayer.

My third favourite is a movie from a few years back called Minding the Gap: An American Skateboarding Story. It’s a coming of age documentary about skateboarding, family and friendship. It’s one not to be missed and is currently on BBC iPlayer.

As we head into 2020 I can’t wait to read some of the exciting books on my list including The Five by Hallie Rubenhold and to watch the documentary For Sama which is next up on my watchlist and currently on Channel 4.

So those are my favourites, I’d love to hear yours. Wishing you a very Happy New Year!

Top 12 Toys for Christmas - 2019

This year’s Top 12 Toys for Christmas have just been unveiled at DreamToys 2019 in London.

The list, issued by the Toy Retailers Association predicts what’s likely to fly off the shelves this December.

A panel of retailers and industry experts (rather than the toy manufacturers and makers) have produced the shortlist where prices range from £9.99 to £99.99.

Toys inspired by movies are some of the favourites for 2019, with Frozen 2, Harry Potter and Toy Story 4 themed gifts in the top 12.

7-year-old Liana holds the Frozen 2 'Into the Unknown' Elsa Doll. ©Katie Collins/EMPICS

LEGO Harry Potter Knight Bus ©Katie Collins/EMPICS

Other toys on display at the Dreamtoys press event that caught my eye were the Scruff-a-Luvs pets. We spent last Christmas Day blow drying the wet fur of a Scruff-a-Luvs puppy and my daughter (now 5) has announced she hopes for another this year. This collection has now evolved and for 2019 an electronic version complete with heartbeat has been added to the collection.

The Scruff-a-Luvs collection ©Katie Collins/EMPICS

The Barbie Fashionistas Collection ©Katie Collins/EMPICS

The Kindi Kids dolls with big wide eyes and bobbling heads also caught my attention. They have changeable clothes and brushable hair and aim to act as a companion on your child’s journey through nursery.

Kindi Kids dolls ©Katie Collins/EMPICS

For LEGO fans there’s an incredible Deep Space Rocket and Launch Control set to keep you busy over the Christmas holidays. ‘Wraptiles’ is another fun gift to consider. It’s a creature you wear on your wrist with light up eyes, a record and playback feature. The collectable pets have over 25 interactive sounds and sensors.

So with Black Friday offers approaching and Christmas not that far away, here are the top 12 toys to look out for:

Barbie Dreamplane Playset - £79.99

Blume Dolls -£9.99

Frozen 2 ‘Into the Unknown’ Elsa Doll - £39.99

Harry Potter Knight Bus by LEGO - £34.99

L.O.L. Surprise! 2-in-1 Glamper - £99.99

Nerf Elite Fortnite SP-L - £19.99

Owleez - £49.99

PAW Patrol Mighty Pups Super PAWs Mighty Jet Command Centre. - £59.99

Peppa Pig Peppa’s Stage Playset - £39.99

Rizmo - £59.99

Ryan’s World Super Surprise Safe - £44.99

Toy Story 4 True Talkers - £17.99

All images ©Katie Collins/EMPICS Entertainment

My favourite podcasts of 2019

I’ve really grown to love podcasts over the past couple of years.

Immersing myself in stories and interviews is a great way to liven up a school run or car journey.

This year I’ve found a few new favourite podcast series where I like the tone and interview style and the guests are often interesting and inspiring.

So here I am, sharing a few of my favourite podcast episodes I have listened to during 2019. These are interviews or stories that have kept me thinking long after I’ve disconnected my headphones.

Table Manners by Jessie Ware

Musician Jessie Ware teams up with her mum to serve up a selection of open and honest interviews with guests such as Cheryl (Cole/Tweedy), Stacey Dooley & Alan Carr . My recent favourite is a funny and truthful chat over breakfast with Antoni from Queer Eye who relays anecdotes from the show, growing up and what his perfect foodie day would look like.

Feel Better, Live More by Rangan Chatterjee

I hands down love Dr Chatterjee’s books and his views on how to improve your health and well-being. His interview with Professor Matthew Walker on the importance of sleep is absolutely fascinating and I have changed the amount of caffeine in my diet after listening to this. A recent interview with Dhru Purohit gives wonderful insight into how crucial close friendships are in our lives.

How to Fail with Elizabeth Day

I loved Elizabeth’s book of the same name which came about as a result of this podcast series. My absolute favourite interviews are with her good friend Phoebe Waller Bridge. You can tell they are friends as there’s warmth and humour in their conversations together. This is a must listen if you are a fan of Fleabag and Phoebe’s excellent writing.

Reply All by Gimlet Media - Episodes 102 & 103 - Long Distance

These two episodes from the Reply All podcast series stopped me in my tracks and had me gripped from the moment I pressed play. This is the story of what happens when the tables are turned on a tech support telephone scammer. I won’t give too much away but these two episodes are definitely worth your time.

Two Shot Podcast with Craig Parkinson

Craig (AKA ‘Dot’ Cottan in Line of Duty) interviews a host of actors and actresses at length in this excellent podcast series. I adored his interview with Line of Duty colleague Adrian Dunbar (Ted Hastings) which feels very much like you have joined the two for a pint and a reminisce down the pub. For This Country fans, Craig’s interview with Charlie Cooper will have you in stitches. The Jodie Comer interview is one of my recent favourites.

10,000 No’s by Matthew Del Negro

Actor Matthew, who stars in shows such as Goliath, Scandal, The West Wing and The Sopranos started this podcast in 2017. It’s jam-packed full of fascinating conversations with people from all walks of life discussing rejection or struggles they have faced and how they got to where they are today. As my work is in photography, I often enjoy listening to interviews with other photographers. Matthew’s interview with Hollywood photographer Jeff Lipsky is completely inspiring and motivating.

The Dropout by ABC News

Much like S-Town had me gripped, I binge listened to The Dropout which tells the story of the rise and fall of Elizabeth Holmes and her company Theranos. A three-year investigation by ABC News brings together exclusive interviews with former employees and investors. These, along with Elizabeth’s court tapes really brings this unbelievable story to life over the six episodes.

London Fashion Week - Spring/Summer 2020

This September must be about my 10th time covering London Fashion Week.

It’s a pretty marmite job for photographers. There’s no doubt it’s hectic with timings and jostling for prime position but it’s always been a twice yearly highlight for me.

The catwalk shows are one of the main features - the anticipation of what colours and styles will grace the runway accompanied by a booming soundtrack to match.

Ports 1961 catwalk show

Stripes and Zebra print at the Ports 1961 catwalk show

Pixie Geldof at the Ports 1961 catwalk show

Without question street fashion has become a much bigger part of fashion week. Fashion students, designers, models can be found perusing the main venue, always happy to have a chat and their photo taken. I got chatting to Christelle McCracken (below) after my last show of the day. I asked what brought her to fashion week, is she an influencer, designer, student? ‘ I’m actually a criminal barrister’ she told me.

Christelle McCracken

There’s another side of fashion week I love to capture - backstage. It’s definitely not as accessible as it used to be but I was lucky enough to watch the make up and hairstylists in action at the Preen by Thornton Bregazzi show as they prepared the models for their first looks and the catwalk show. Backstage photography is for me about capturing those small moments, expressions and watching out for pockets of interesting light.

Backstage at Preen by Thornton Bregazzi

Backstage at Preen by Thornton Bregazzi

As with the previous seasons, London Fashion Week did not disappoint. I can’t wait to be there for the next season.

Natasha Zinko X DUO catwalk show

US Vogue Editor Anna Wintour

A model on the catwalk at the Natasha Zinko X DUO catwalk show

All images shot on assignment for PA Images No reproduction or usage without prior permission

All images captured using either a Canon 5d Mark III or a Fuji X-E2 camera

Summer at SEA LIFE London

On every holiday since our young girls were born we’ve made a beeline for the local aquarium in the city or town we are visiting.

As babies they would stare mesmerised from their pushchairs at the colourful tropical fish and coral. Now aged 5 and 3 our daughters are just as captivated but also inquisitive and full of questions.

Last week I took our eldest to SEA LIFE London. For those who have never been (and this was my second ever trip) it’s literally in the heart of London - tucked next to the London Eye and across the bridge from the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.

We spent just under 2 hours following the path, exploring the different zones and getting up close to the captivating underwater life. It was fascinating to watch my daughter interacting with an inquisitive stingray who stayed watching her for some time.

In Coral Kingdom we took the opportunity to take a closer look at colourful fish, incredible coral and dainty seahorses accompanied by relaxing background music and warm, inviting lighting. It’s the kind of place you could spend hours just watching and taking in these beautiful sea creatures.

We instantly could feel the humidity as we headed into the Rainforest Adventure zone serenaded by the sound of noisy crickets. Here we were invited to bravely inspect the spiders and tropical bugs. As you reach the Polar Adventure the temperature drops down to a climate suitable for the penguins. We were there in time for feeding time so watched the penguins eagerly queuing for their fish snacks.  SEA LIFE London also houses sea turtles, stingrays, jellyfish and of course sharks with razor sharp teeth!

As I expected it was busy when we were there at 2pm but at no point were we queuing for longer than 10 minutes. The busiest section was the tunnel which you walk through surrounded by marine life. 

SEA LIFE London may not be the most spacious aquarium we have visited  but it’s well designed with lighting and details to suit the mood of the various different zones. The largest tank housing bigger fish and sharks has several viewing areas on lower and upper levels, so there’s plenty of opportunity to catch the action.

After several hours together exploring, my five year old daughter was full of stories to tell her sister and schoolfriends and of course ready to hit the gift shop at the end to check out the toys! 

If you’re visiting the capital or if you live in London, this should definitely be on your list to visit. It ticks the boxes for children of all ages and will give them a day out to remember. 

Thinking of heading to SEA LIFE London? Here are some things you may want to know:

• It’s worth looking out for 2 for 1 offers, often on the back of cereal boxes. Under 3s go free to this attraction

• There is no cafe inside but it’s possible to buy treats at Polar Point Refreshments and from vending machines

• There are lifts making it easy to accommodate buggies and wheelchairs between the floors

• There are toilets dotted around the venue and very easy to find

• We visited for just under 2 hours which gave us plenty of time to take in the attraction at the leisurely pace

• Photography without flash is allowed. Photographs are also taken at several points along the way and you’ll be given the opportunity to buy these at the end

• Westminster and Waterloo are the closest stations

• Be sure not to miss the selfie wall (below) - take a photo beside your favourite Sea Life London bestie, post to Instagram tagging @Sea_Life_London and #SeaLifeLondonBestie and you’ll be in with a chance of winning a VIP experience

We were invited to SEA LIFE London in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and views are my own personal opinion.

Shrek's Adventure - A London day trip for kids

It’s hard to believe it was 18 years ago when the original Shrek movie premiered here in the UK.

I remember the buzz around the film when it launched and how brilliantly it tapped into the cheeky sense of humour of both adults and children.

Almost two decades may have passed but fans of the green ogre himself, donkey, Princess Fiona and more can relive the magic as part of Shrek’s Adventure on London’s Southbank.

We were kindly given the opportunity to check Shrek’s Adventure out for ourselves so took our two young children (aged 3 and 5) along for the ride.

The attraction is melting pot of 3D illusion and acting role play. There’s a magical bus tour, the chance to decide the fate of Pinocchio on a spinning wheel of torture and to find your way out of a mind-bending maze of mirrors.

We were in a group of around 30 other adults and children which never made the tour seem too busy.

By far our favourite part of Shrek’s Adventure was the bus ride at the beginning. I won’t give too much away but this completely captivated our two little girls. After disembarking the bus we moved from room to room, meeting the weird and wonderful characters familiar and inspired by the Shrek films. I felt some of the jokes were a little lost on our small children but interactive tricks and games kept them intrigued.

It’s definitely worth keeping an eye out for Merlin 2-for-1 passes (on cereal boxes) as this makes it a much cheaper day out.

If you’re a big fan of Shrek and the other DreamWorks movies, you’ll have a great time meeting and having fun with some of your favourite characters.

Thinking of visiting? Here are some tips/extra info

Can I take my young child? Our youngest is 3 and she didn’t find the experience scary or overwhelming in any way.

What if I have a buggy or wheelchair with me? There is a buggy park at the entrance to the attraction. When we visited a wheelchair user was in our tour group.

What if I/my child needs the toilet during the tour? I did notice a couple of people ducking out to the toilet during the room to room tour and they were able to rejoin when they were ready.

Are photos allowed? You won’t be able to take pictures or use your camera phone during the experience but you will have photos taken as you go along and these will be available to buy at the end.

When is a good time to go? We had pre-booked tickets for 10am on a Sunday when Shrek’s Adventure opened - this worked well for us. There was very little queuing. Once your tour begins there is a maximum number of people allowed per group so it’s never super busy.

Will I meet Shrek? There’s certainly an opportunity to meet and have photos during the tour.

How long does Shrek’s Adventure last? We were there for a little over an hour, allowing time for a little browse in the gift shop at the end.

We were invited to Shrek’s Adventure in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and views are my own personal opinion.

How I started to create handmade collages

It started with small handmade birthday and Christmas cards lovingly put together by my step-grandmother Susi.  That’s how collage first came to my attention.

Susi adored collage. After my grandpa died she moved house and set up her spare room as a sort of collage workstation.

I know it occupied her time in a positive way and kept her mind sharp as she approached her mid-nineties.

My interest in collage has crept in over the past couple of years (since Susi died really).

But it’s only in recent weeks that I have actually sat down and given it a try.

I finally got started by gathering together some old magazines and annuals from the 50s and 60s, scouring charity shops and eBay for bargains.

I’ve been using some small scissors (meant for embroidery), a cheap glue stick and black card. 

These are the results so far - you will also find them on another Instagram account I have called @katie_collage

A few things I have noticed since starting - sourcing the materials is great fun and very addictive (every time I pass a charity shop or secondhand book shop i’m in there)

Collage can be anything you want it to be. I once asked Susi what one of her collages meant and she shrugged saying ‘It doesn’t have to mean anything.’ I like that!

Finally if you think you have a burning desire to start a new hobby - go for it. I’m having great fun with collage, it’s a great stress reliever after a hectic day. Each time I sit down to create something new, it’s great fun to get lost in my own little world and see what the end result is. 

TAD - Talking About Diabetes event - London

When I found out I had Type 1 diabetes four years ago I  felt isolated and confused.

I desperately wanted to meet a fellow Type 1 and pick their brains over a coffee.

Those first few months were hard as I navigated my way through appointments, multiple daily injections and counting carbs. I was googling far too much & scaring myself about what the future may bring.

Four years on and Type 1 is very much a part of my life but I know it and live with it that little bit better. I’m armed with some excellent kit - a Medtronic 640g insulin pump and a Freestyle Libre. I’ve shared my diagnosis story with NICE in the hope of improving care, I work with Diabetes UK and recently attended and photographed the TAD (Talking About Diabetes) event in London. Every day is a tricky balance with Type 1 but I’ve taken ownership of it.

It’s the first time I’ve been to TAD. I’ll sum it up as an incredibly inspirational and bonding full-day event. It made me feel special to be part of such a supportive community of Type 1s.

Amongst the speakers were the actor James Norton. Diagnosed at 22, James said he never felt Type 1 would be a stumbling block in his career. He spoke of tackling hypos on stage and how he sews an extra pocket into his costumes to hold hypo snacks.

Another speaker was Boxer Muhammad Ali who made boxing history on 9th May 2018 after becoming the UK's first Type 1 diabetic to be granted a professional licence by the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBOfC). Such a warm, funny guy, full of positivity.

Amy Stevens (pictured below) was diagnosed aged 2. She spoke about her experiences growing up with Type 1 diabetes, (recovering from) eating disorders and making peace with the condition. It was lovely to meet Amy and her mum backstage - Amy’s mum is also Type 1, diagnosed 5 years after her daughter.

Journalist Lauren Turner shared her story of being diagnosed and living with her condition. She proudly sported her Freestyle Libre with her beautiful Oscars dress on the red carpet of the ceremony.

Lauren Turner

Actress Jade Byrne presented her funny and moving play ‘Pricks’ clearing up a lot of the misunderstandings and misconceptions about Type 1. She’s just begun a UK tour of the play and you can find out more here.

Comedian/Actress Jade Byrne on stage at TAD

Cyclist Sam Brand from the Isle of Man took to the stage to talk about how he manages his Type 1 alongside his cycling career riding in the UCI Professional Continental team Team Novo Nordisk. He was diagnosed aged 10 and has not let it stop him from advancing his sporting career.

It’s no wonder TAD sold out in seconds. Events like this make such a difference to the Type 1 community. Friendships are made, reunions take place, advice is exchanged - you come away with a spring in your step knowing that so much is possible.

In a room full of hundreds of people who ‘get it’ it’s impossible to feel isolated with Type 1. As James Norton proudly told the audience of TAD, ‘we are stronger together.’ It certainly feels that way.

James Norton chatting to guests

James Norton and Dr Partha Kar

All images © Katie Collins

For more information on the annual event, head to http://talkingaboutdiabetes.co.uk

London Fashion Week - February 2019

I get pretty excited when London Fashion Week rolls around every February & September as major brands and up and coming designers show either Autumn/Winter or Spring/Summer collections.

Whether it’s shooting the catwalk shows or feeling the adrenalin backstage, the weird and wonderful world of fashion is fascinating to me. 

So this February I had the chance to shoot two days for The Press Association and it did not disappoint. I witnessed first hand the enchanting, fairytale designs of Molly Goddard perfectly presented in the courtyard of The Foreign & Commonwealth Office. I soaked up the colour and buzz of backstage at the University of Westminster show - a university I myself attended to study Photojournalism.

The world’s oldest Dutch reformed church in Liverpool Street played host to the Ryan LO show - the outfits complemented by hats by Stephen Jones Millinery. Tokyo twins Ami & Aya were one of my street fashion highlights - immaculately presented in emerald green suits with slick neon pink hair. 

Fashion Week is guaranteed to be long days going from show to show and editing in between but that’s all part and parcel of covering the event. I take my hat off to the photographers who go straight from New York to London to Milan and Paris. One front row photographer was telling me how much he missed his young daughter as we waited for a catwalk show to start. 

Straight after my few days working for PA, we were packing for a family mini-break to Bath. Just as we were heading out the door I spotted one of my pictures from the Molly Goddard show had been published in The Sunday Times. I’d also had a picture published in The Daily Telegraph on the Saturday which I found out about a few days later. 

All in all it was a brilliant few days and I can’t wait to do it all again.

All images Katie Collins/Press Association

Night Street Photography - Soho

A few weeks back I slung my camera over my shoulder and hit the streets after dark to test out a new 50mm 1.4 Canon lens. 

Just around the corner from my house I spotted a busy hair salon - unusual in that it was a hive of activity when most businesses had long since shut up shop for the evening.

On a bitterly cold night and through the steamed up windows I could make out a customer draped in a bright pink jacket with long blondish hair admiring her new style in the mirror. 

I knew I wanted to take the picture but I was anxious about being noticed. I did get a shot or two but perched behind a bus stop - getting two sheets of glass between me and my subject. It was an attempt at an interesting shot - I recognised I just needed to be braver.

This is a problem I have struggled with when it comes to street photography- staying too far in the background & not getting in close to the action. Each time I lift my camera to look through the viewfinder, I worry about being interrogated my passers-by.

To some people the idea of Street Photography can be strange or intrusive. I don’t see it this way. The street images taken by Garry Winogrand and Joel Meyerowitz fascinate me - they tell us a lot about style and the way of the world in sixties and seventies New York.

So last week and on a damp Friday evening I met a group of photographers in Soho for a night street workshop led by two experts in the field - Craig Whitehead (@sixstreetunder) and Joshua K Jackson (@joshkjack).

Over the next four hours we would zig zag through the streets of Soho keeping our eyes peeled for interesting/temporary/unusual light sources, fleeting moments, repeating colours and patterns - worrying less about our camera settings and more about what we noticed or had the vision to create. 

Josh and Craig talked a lot about body language and gave helpful tips and demonstrations to encourage us to feel less self conscious and more relaxed when taking shots.

I would hands down recommend a class like this. For months I have immersed myself in Instagram and street photography books. I even signed up and worked through the Masters of Photography online class taught by Joel Meyerowitz (which is brilliant by the way). 

Whilst that’s all well and good, I’ve realised the only way to learn and get better is to shoot the streets regularly, practice and make it a habit. This was emphasised by both Craig and Josh who are out shooting and looking for those moments all the time. The results speak for themselves on their impressive websites and Instagram accounts.

I have come away from the class excited to try their techniques and with a better understanding of how impressive street photography images can be created.

Adel Rootstein - Mannequin design

Tucked away in the heart of south west London is the mannequin design company Adel Rootstein.

I’ve always been quite captivated by mannequins and the attention to detail and craftsmanship that goes into making them fascinates me. When an email landed in my inbox in mid-January saying I was welcome to come along to the studio to photograph, I jumped at the chance.

The company was founded by South African Adel Rootstein and her husband in Soho in the sixties. They began by producing handcrafted mannequins using the latest fibreglass technology. After Rootstein died in 1992, the business was bought by a Japanese company with production continuing in the UK.

The mannequins themselves are made in Buckinghamshire. At the Fulham studio the mannequins have make-up and wigs applied according to the clients’ needs. It’s to here that they are sent for repairs which can mean anything from resprays and make-up updates to full-scale overhauls and replacing broken parts.

Rootstein’s is steeped in history and the studio is a treasure trove of wonder. This is the start of a project I am working on about UK manufacturing, showcasing some of the incredible work and talent being produced within the UK. I’m excited to take a peek and photograph behind the scenes.

All images Katie Collins Photography 

Available from EMPICS at PA Images

Yayoi Kusama Exhibition - London

The Moving Moment When I Went To The Universe was Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama’s twelfth exhibition at the Victoria Miro gallery in London.

It featured new paintings, painted bronze pumpkin and flower sculptures and a large-scale Infinity Mirrored Room (visitors to the gallery are allowed one timed minute inside this room).

It was the first time I’d seen Kusama’s bold and colourful work at an exhibition and after being completely intrigued I was keen to find out more about the 89-year-old artist.

If you have not seen it I recommend watching the documentary ‘Kusama Infinity’ which tells her story.

For further reading about the work of Yayoi Kusama, take a look at this David Zwirner page devoted to the artist.

#InstaKusama

Day of the Dead Festival - V&A Museum

Eight years ago on a Caribbean cruise, we docked in Mexico. I was puzzled by the skeleton figurines that seemed to be in every shop window. That’s when the Day of the Dead Festival was explained to me.

Dia de Muertos is a November holiday where family and friends gather to pray for and remember those who have died and help support their spiritual journey. Some people mark the day by visiting cemeteries and building private altars where favourite food and drink, photos and memorabilia are left in remembrance.

This year I joined the Day of the Dead Festival at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London.

Nearly every person I photographed had some connection to Mexico and it was clearly special and important to them to be marking the day.

Here are a selection of images from the night:

All image: ©Katie Collins for EMPICS

Mikey & Mia the macaws

On a beautiful, sunny morning in my favourite Wimbledon park a few weeks ago I met Nimal and Claire and their wonderful pet macaw Mikey.

Mikey definitely stops you in your tracks. He’s a large, tropical parrot and not what you’d expect to see in the park at 9am.

I explained to musicians Nimal and Claire that I’d love to take photos of them with Mikey at home. They very kindly invited me round for tea a few days later and let me capture their lives at home with not only Mikey but new arrival Mia the macaw too.

The following week I joined them in the park where I watched Mikey once again enjoying a gorgeous Autumn morning flying through the trees.

Mikey and Mia are blue and gold macaws and can live for over 50 years old. As well as being super bright birds they are also YouTube stars! Their bond with Nimal and Claire is beautiful to see.

All images © Katie Collins for Empics