During the short periods of waiting, we chatted about each other’s respective trades and it became apparent they had been Jazz musicians for sometime. I’m not expert on music, but I know what I like; Honey and Sax fitted that smooth and silky easiness that I really love.

I can strongly recommend them for any wedding soundtrack, check them out on their website www.saxandhoney.com

I have known Claire Batchelor for sometime now; she is as driven and as passionate about perfecting her skills as I am in my pursuit of Photographic Nirvana. So in her own words I will let Claire describe her band:

I adore singing Jazz as it gives such a lovely atmosphere – many couples choose it for their special day because it creates a wonderfully relaxed and sophisticated mood. We’re experienced musicians, and know how important your wedding is for you, so we always make sure that everything goes smoothly from our point of view. Also, choosing a Bucks based jazz duo like us means that you save on cost and support your local suppliers. – Claire Batchelor, singer in Gin Sling Jazz Duo, Aylesbury.

So check them out. Visit their MySpace page on http://www.myspace.com/ginslingjazz

Is it better to have a DJ or a live band? That would depend on your budget but most would want a live band if money was not a defining factor.

I recommend what time of music you should have, but I can recommend a band. A few weeks ago I had the priviledge of photographing a jazz band called Jazz Juice. They are based in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire. They are made up of 5 very talented musicians each providing a very smooth and classic soundtrack to your wedding.

I cannot recommend them enough, and trust me when I say I have heard alot of Wedding Music!

You can hear a sample of their work by going to their website; just tell them I sent you…

Gary played pieces of music that he wrote or rearranged. In fact if you’re reading this on my blog right now, then you can hear his music playing in the background. My favourite is the first track entitled Indulgence.

It was a real privilege to have Gary at the reception; he played a 2 hour session flawlessly and almost every commented on how great he was.

You are probably wondering what my point is, well I don’t have one. I just wanted to celebrate my talented friends by giving them the credit that they deserve… and he also happens to look good in my photos!

Check out Gary’s website on www.garymullins.co.uk and his band Lightbox

Let me know what you think? Does the music add or detract from the blog?

The bands really worked the crowd who were up for it. It was a small venue but that made it more special. The sound, the lights and the atmosphere was all in place for a great evening. I believe the lads also felt a vibe as they really played up to the lively audience.

There were other bands there; they had a good sound but lacked the presence of Bullets or Swamis. Purely from a photographer’s perspective if the band doesn’t give me any kind of attitude or emotion, then it is hard to capture.

A great night, but I must mention one thing about the Esquire venue. Everything was great except the lights, whoever controlled the lights obviously never had a photographer give them any direction. They consistently flooded the guitarists and lead vocalist with a single wash of colour; this gives no contrast or depth to an image and make everything look monotone and uninteresting. However, it wasn’t my gig or my place; in other places I have asked the lighting controller to give me a more varied contrasting range of colours. Red from one side and blue from the other gives the classic and best canvas on the bands.