GGS News & Blog

"Another award? ...Ohhh... go on then! ;-)"

2012-01-26T18:14:00.000Z

Our crack exhibition department here at GGS have designed and built another Award Winning stand.

This time for bf1 systems, a market leading provider of electrical, electronic and composite solutions to the motorsport, automotive and aerospace industries, who won the 'Best Stand in Show' award at the Autosport Engineering International 2012 show held at the NEC.

Having already sampled, and been delighted with (*smug grin*), the quality of our professional photography, the Diss based company, whose clients include F1, MotoGP, Nascar, Rolls Royce and Airbus, approached GGS to ensure that their presence at the show would be striking and effective and would allow them to showcase their latest developments; which we did! Very effectively, it would seem.

John Bailey, bf1's MD said, "We want to recognise our R&D team in Diss and especially want to thank GGS in Norwich who designed the cutting edge stand which showcased our technology".


Duncan Smith with bf1's award

It only happens one day a year

2012-01-18T12:43:00.000Z

What does?

Your BIRTHDAY of course!

So it's a teeny bit special, isn't it?

That's why, from the beginning of this year, the Directors at GGS have decided to reward all the Staff for their hard work, skill, professionalism, concientiousness and enthusiasm by giving them an extra days' holiday each year on their birthday! WHOOPEE!!

It has been suggested that perhaps it might be better to let them have the day AFTER their birthday off instead...

... but we don't want to be responsible for encouraging over-indulgence, do we ;-)

A Brief History of Simon Perkin

2012-01-15T16:05:00.000Z

During the GGS Christmas bash at The Library (the restaurant near the Guildhall, not the big room full of books. That would be silly...) a - not so Secret - Santa presented me with this very impressive contraption which caused great interest; not just on our table but on surrounding ones as well. In reference to my continued frustration with our abysmal Broadband connection, Simon, who joined GGS last year in the Sales Department, hand built this device for me. This man clearly has hidden talents!

I asked Simon what he had been doing in his previous life. Here's what he had to say...

1982: Tore tickets at cinema while at school and doodled pictures of ET over English “O” Level papers.

1983: Became Projectionist at cinema in Camden Town which doubled as Spiritualist venue for all the top Mediums in the eighties – anyone remember Doris Stokes?

1985: Worked doing BT customer satisfaction (bit oxymoronic - Ed.) surveys – an up hill struggle!

1987: Became Assistant Manager / Manager for what was then Cannon Cinemas, worked at a variety of venues in London and Essex – the best of which was Basildon – which speaks for itself.

1989: Travelled Europe for a year

On return did a course in Film and TV make-up
1991-1994: Freelance Make–up and SPFX artist / Art Director / Model maker for low budget films and pop videos.

(Now we're really intrigued - what low budget films?! Which pop videos?!! - Ed.)

Then decided better get Ejermacated.

(What's happened to the dates? - Ed.)

Did part of BA Philosophy and Psychology degree in Liverpool till the course collapsed.

Then after getting married went back to big school in Norwich and got a First class degree in English and Cultural Studies (part time) – who’d have thought?

Currently into Assemblage sculpture (because it’s cheap to do) and make the odd Automata from old wooden off-cuts and toothpicks (because it’s cheap to do and keeps me off the streets), which I exhibit at a local gallery.

Somewhere in the above, have also written 2 short children’s books and several treatments / scripts for films that, despite my best intentions, have all steadfastly remained unpublished and unproduced.

But I’m still smiling!

Pretty impressive. I think there should be regular updates on the 'assemblage sculpture' from now on.

Watch this space. Admit it - you want to know more...

Comm-Tech

2012-01-12T12:16:00.000Z

We had a unique test of our exhibition design skills when local telecommunications company Comm-Tech asked us to design a set of linked exhibition stands that built up to a complete customer experience centre.

Each section showcases a different aspect of their business – from Blackberry to recycled phones – and needed to have an ultra smart, tech-y, WOW! factor. Additionally, as experts in lighting, GGS was asked to design the lighting and supply a total LED solution.

There were considerable challenges due to the odd shaped space and time frame but our installation team completed in good time for the recent official opening, when the new showroom received many glowing comments.

Comm-Tech supply business mobile phones, fixed line phone systems & vehicle tracking systems and have just opened their new offices and showroom in King Street, Norwich.

We're listening...

2011-11-18T15:12:00.001Z

Tuesday morning saw GGS HQ filled with the delicious aroma of bacon sizzling (a real vegetarian turner, if ever there was one) as the team came in early for a GGS breakfast which also included muffins, croissants, tea (obviously), coffee (obviously) and orange juice.

Why?

To provide a forum for everyone to discuss our plans for the Company; where we are going and how we are going to get there, where we've been and was it a good place? And to talk about what everyone likes (or dislikes) about the work, the environment and the systems we use to ensure that all our clients remain the happiest little bunnies on the planet.

An hour later, apart from being fully bacon'd up, we had covered a multitude of topics which included improvements to the website, working for charities and having specific Charities Discount Policy, improvements to the building and planning when the next meeting would be... (after work followed by a slap up meal at Mrs. Miggins' Pie Shop).

We like to have a happy team, and as we all know - It's all about teamwork!

Sustainable homes

2011-11-17T12:24:00.001Z

Had a really interesting shoot in Snettisham near King's Lynn yesterday for RidgemountPR in London. Their client, BASF, has a product called Walltite which was used by Gregg Etches of Finer Living to construct an Eco-Friendly, sustainable home using renewable technologies. The project incorporated Photovoltaic Cells on the roof , a thermal heat pump thingy (OK, so I'm not very technical) for hot water and highly insulated prefabricated walls which not only insulate really well but also create excellent air sealing.

Gregg is clearly very passionate about what he does - building 'complete housing systems' which provide more sustainable homes which are complemented by renewable energies - at an affordable price. This particular property had a 'Grand Designs' feel about it to me and Gregg was clearly very proud of it. It looked fabulous.

Have look at Gregg's web site; I'm sure it will explain things better than I can!

Why isn't there a picture? I hear you say. Just waiting for permission from the client. Better that RidgemountPR get to use them before GGS does! :-)

Improved sales

2011-11-15T13:07:00.001Z

It's been a good year so far with sales well up on last year (not 'well up' as in 'well good' etc!) but we're always looking to improve; so thanks go to Chris Sanger from ra! coaching who gave us a couple of hours of training yesterday. Some excellent tips and insights as well as some ideas on how to modify our sales process to improve even more. Great for GGS and great for our clients.

Listawood go large

2011-10-25T09:59:00.000+01:00

Listawood - Europe's largest mouse mat and promotional products manufacturer have commissioned GGS to design and build a new 64 square metre exhibition stand. The new exhibition stand's high profile will reinforce the Company's number one position within Europe.

Designed to be reconfigurable, the stand will be used at a series of exhibitions in Germany, France and the U.K. with stand space ranging from 64 square metres down to 18 square metres

Snapped up!

2011-10-21T16:06:00.000+01:00

Our Business Portrait offer was a big hit at the Chamber of Commerce Business to Business exhibition at Carrow Road yesterday with nearly 50 people taking advantage of the opportunity to have a top quality portrait taken by one of Norfolk's best photographers (Peter Griffin); and all for FREE! Poor Pete barely had time to nibble a sandwich or have a slurp of tea, we were so busy! A virtually non-stop flow of visitors meant he was behind either the camera or the Mac for the entire six hours that the halls were open and he had no chance to wander round and see how many chocolates he could snaffle from the other stands like he normally does (mind you, probably not a bad thing...)

Peter Griffin, Emily Fisher and Chris Ball - Picture courtesy of Norwich Chamber

After all that hard work it was fantastic to learn that GGS had won 'Best Stand', the trophy for which Pete is holding in the above pic. Bit hard to see as it's made of glass, mind you.

Thanks to everyone that dropped by and we shall be emailing all the pics early next week.

Free Business Portraits

2011-10-18T13:01:00.000+01:00

I bet you need a good pic of yourself, or a member of your staff, to use in press releases, adverts, brochures or advertising material; don't you?
Of course you do.
I bet you are using ones taken on your mobile or your Sony Compact at the moment; aren't you?
Do they look like the picture on the left?

Would it be better to have one like the one on the right?
Of course it would.

Good; now we've got that sorted, get your diary out and schedule a visit to the Chamber of Commerce B2B Exhibition at NCFC Carrow Road on Thursday 20th October as we are doing FREE BUSINESS PORTRAITS between 11.00am and 5.00pm (as well as talking about everything else we do - exhibitions, design, web sites, large format digital printing etc. etc...)

See you there!

Addictive behaviour...

2011-10-10T15:51:00.023+01:00

Honestly! Its always the same... you find something you REALLY LIKE - and then you're told too much of it is REALLY BAD for you:

> Tobacco
> Alcohol
> Curly Wurlies
> Asbestos
> Crimplene
etc. etc.

Well, with your health and well-being ALWAYS AT the forefront of our minds, we feel we now have to advise you of another emerging concern...

> Social networking

It seems people are getting SERIOUSLY HOOKED on interacting with each other via the internet - and too much of it is again REALLY BAD for you (apparently). So a fledgling support structure is growing fast to provide counselling to would-be addicts (example here). Well at least help is at hand now... phew!

But hey come on now, can some of us REALLY BE addicted to this relatively new phenomenon? Well, according to a growing number of seemingly well-researched articles and postings, this does indeed seem to be the case. Take this one for example, written and published over a year ago, but even then able to warn of the consequences of fidgeting with your smart phone when you should be out there doing something more character-building*. And this one, all very well, but come on now... do we need a REAL LIFE now we have Twitter?

*Suggestions on a postcard please.

New website for NR Asphalt...

2011-09-09T10:48:00.003+01:00

From small beginnings NR Asphalt has grown to become one of the major road surfacing sub contractors in East Anglia, with an unrivalled reputation for service and reliability. These qualities have served them well over the years - enabling them to work with county councils and major contractors, but they also provide quality services to their domestic clients.

The new website we've designed and built for them reflects their success and showcases the multiplicity of services they now provide to both commercial and domestic clients. You can take a look at it here.

New menu = easy life!

2011-09-09T10:09:00.003+01:00

We've given our website a makeover - to make life a little easier for you. You will now see a brand new menu that drops down and floats over the page, allowing you to find what you're looking for in just one click. Check it out here... hope you like it.

My time with GGS

2011-07-08T12:46:00.004+01:00

Hi. My name is Daniel Pates, and for the past week I've been doing work experience here at GGS. When I arrived on my first day I was extremely nervous but the team here were really kind to me and put up with having to explain what they were doing even though this slowed them down with their work. I have really enjoyed my time here and have new ideas about what I'm going to do after school for further education and a then a career, I've also found out more about what running a business is about and that it is more than meets the eye so all together a pretty successful week of work experience.

Thanks to everyone at GGS; it's been a great week for me.

Work Experience.

2011-06-28T11:32:00.016+01:00

Hello, my name is Bonnie-Rae Wilson, and I am currently on my work experience week, here at GGS.
I am a Year10 student at Sprowston High School and I am a GCSE Student studying Photography. I am in the midst of doing plenty of coursework, and exams for other subjects. So school life is pretty hectic at the minute. But I guess work experience is also a break from exams, as well as a taster into what 'work life' is all about.

I've always known about GGS as my Nannie and Grandad are friends with Peter Griffin, so when I picked my options for GCSE and picked photography, I instantly knew that I wanted to do my year 10 work experience here.

Its only Wednesday, and I am already having so much fun! I didn't think that in 3 days, you could possibly fit so much work into the amount of hours you do. I have achieved and learnt so much this week already. I have been doing numerous jobs, such as;

Working offsite, at the Norfolk Showground constructing an exhibition stand for 'Team Lotus'.
Helping around the office with various members of staff.
Went to a presentation at HSBC Bank.

And they have been so fantastic! I am really lucky to have been able to have this opportunity to work here with such down to earth, welcoming people!
-If I had the chance, I would stay here instead of going back to school!

Top Testimonial

2011-05-09T16:16:00.004+01:00

This just in from Louise Collins at Booja Booja; producers of fantastic chocolate and ice-cream.

'We’re delighted with the beautiful website designed and built for us by GGS. It’s been great to work with a local company who took the time and trouble to get to know us and our brand and worked closely with us to bring our ideas to life. It was also a real bonus that they were able to do all the photography for the site too, providing us with beautiful, stylish photographs that were incorporated perfectly into our site design. The GGS team are friendly, helpful and professional and we have no hesitation recommending them and their photographic and web design services.'

It was great working with the Booja Booja team too. If only all of our clients were so nice!

Thanks Louise!

Road to Recovery

2011-05-05T15:45:00.003+01:00

So... The Sunday Times (clever old thing) sees the Creative Industries as an 'Engine of Growth'. Quite right. And as leaders in supplying creative visual media services we are ideally placed to help your business on the Road to Recovery.

Along with enjoying other recent feel-good events such as The Royal Wedding and Norwich going up to the Premiership we have also experienced a surge in activity this year.

Remember, 'Nothing succeeds like - no... not a budgie - SUCCESS'; so why not jump on our Success Bandwagon and call us now for a quick chat about how we can help you.

01603 622500
enquire@ggs.co.uk

Now that's a lot of Patisserie!

2011-04-05T17:35:00.001+01:00

I'm sure it's nothing to do with GGS's top quality service, photography, packaging design, exhibition stand design and building prowess, and really all to do with the product (ahem!); but as a result of Indulgence Patisserie - one of our major and most esteemed clients - exhibiting at the International Food Exhibition last month at ExCeL they are currently preparing for a presentation to Tesco, Waitrose are stocking their excellent Rocky Road Pie and they have taken an order for 48 pallettes of product.

Someone, somewhere has definitely got taste!

A recipe for Fabulous Food Photography

2011-02-23T11:12:00.007Z

We thought a few more people ought to know about our skills and facilities when it comes to food photography; so Peter and Michelle have produced a handy little booklet which you might like to have a look at.

It shows what beautiful lighting, careful preparation and exquisite finishing can do to enhance your product and make it stand out from the competition.

Never forget; the first bite is with the eye. So if you are producing fabulous food which you want people to know about, then let them see it - with a fabulous photo.

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My Final Day At GGS

2011-02-18T16:46:00.007Z

Today was quite a sad day for me at GGS having to say goodbye to people who have made me feel so welcome in the time I have spent bugging them. Today began with continuing with research I had started yesterday for Emily which took up the majority of the day. I then spent some time with Keith, where we discussed various website projects he has going on, (Booja Booja , Greenland Houchen & Pomeroy and City of Norwich School).

We also received a great response from David Brodie (resource manager at CNS) about the website he got to view yesterday alongside the rest of the designated authoring team. He loved what he saw and emailed his thoughts -
" ...there was quite a buzz from the group (who had not already seen the site). I personally couldn’t believe how easy the CMS is to use and I had a play with the (governors) pages last night – no problem! ... "

So a great response to a great week. Thank you GGS for letting me spend a week with you all and putting up with me. Its been such a valuable experience . Many thanks to you all.

Robyn`s Daily Update - Nearing the end

2011-02-17T17:05:00.006Z

This morning I met Rob, who does GGS's Website coding, for the first time as we left for our nine o`clock meeting with CNS. The meeting involved us handing over the website to the designated authoring team so they could replace the dummy content as well as showing many members of the team the site for the first time. After discussing the new and improved site facilities we went on to discuss the site's administration via a Content Management System which was simple and easy to use and which they were delighted with. The meeting went well and was a pleasure to observe.

The rest of the day was made up of spending some time with Peter and Andrew observing how you quote for a job, I also got to have a sneak preview of a mock up of 'Peter Griffin's Cook Book'. Then after a quick break and some general office duties I began doing some research for Emily.

Robyn`s Daily Update - Day 3

2011-02-17T12:21:00.002Z

Today looked promising with the knowledge that today's weather was going to be one of the better days this week, i.e. there would be no rain, so we had hoped to go on location with Peter. Unfortunately due to heavy cloud and a dull day we could not so instead I spent the majority of the day observing. I spent sometime with Keith learning about two websites he`s in the process of finishing and will shortly be going live which is all rather exciting. Then I spent the day bugging Paul, where I learnt about various current projects he has going on and teaching me about the software he uses for developing his exhibition stand designs. I continued to crowd Michelle whilst she worked on 'Peter Griffin's Cook Book' (more on this later - Ed.) which will be out soon and will be be used to promote the company's photography service (there is more to photography than click a button you know?). Today I also got to observe work Michelle had showed me the previous day be sent to print which was very exciting seeing it all come together. Yet again another great day at GGS!

Robyn's Daily Update - 2

2011-02-15T16:02:00.010Z

Today is my second day of work experience at GGS and apart from the maze of locked and unlocked doors I`m feeling rather confident.

This morning I mostly hassled Michelle. She told me about previous work she had done for CNS and showed me the initial ideas for the school prospectuses plus the finished products, all of which were done in-house: photography, print management and artwork. She also showed me some work she had done for Booja Booja Chocolates which I found very interesting as I have recently done a project where I created my own site. I even got to have a little taste (which I can only describe as a mini chocolate dessert which melts in your mouth). I`ve also been observing Keith as he redevelops and redesigns top solicitors, Greenland Houchen Pomeroy's website

and I have to say it`s looking good!

After a short break I`m back to work and writing this...

Work Experience

2011-02-15T15:12:00.007Z

Hello, my name is Robyn Sheedy and I`m currently on work experience here at GGS. I`m a student at City College Norwich studying a media production diploma which I`m nearing the end of within a couple of months . Which is a scary thought that I'm a few months away from being let loose in the big wide world. After finishing my diploma I hope to gain work in the industry, and therefore hoped for a small taster in my work experience.

I found GGS by going past the building one day and then decided to find out more and discovered they covered a range of creative products and services,
which I thought would be great (still not proven wrong) especially since I had no hands-on experience and wanted as much knowledge of different areas as possible.

My first day began on Monday 14th of February which as you may know (unless you are Chris) is Valentine`s Day. So putting cards and gifts on hold at home I made my way in. Feeling nervous but mostly excited to finally get my teeth into some experience in the industry which I have longed to be in. I was introduced to the team at a regular Monday morning meeting which was followed by a tour of the building and list of health and safety checks. My first impression was that everyone seemed very friendly and welcoming. Remembering every ones names, however, would be a challenge. My first day was mostly spent on location with Chris taking photographs of a house which when finished the final images would be featured on an estate agent`s brochure/website. With the weather not looking so promising and with the sun popping out we decided to grab our chance at photographing the outside before photographing the interior. Here I learnt about the nature of a small photo shoot and what precautions to take and what to avoid. This was an interesting insight into on-location photography as we did not take the usual lighting equipment and used what was available to us by reflecting light. Later on I observed Chris as he adjusted the images to get the best final product and how working from RAW files is sometimes much more beneficial. On Monday I also spent some time with Paul and Keith learning about an Exhibition stand and rebranding project as well as learning about the different benefits of types of printing and colour variations between the overwhelming sized
printers and inks. I also spent a short time with Michelle catching her when she had a moment to herself taking a break from all her hard work.
She gave me an insight into relationships with clients and how much time goes into calls, emails, brainstorming and initial ideas.

Now the hard bit`s over I`m looking forward to the rest of the week.

Indulgence overload

2011-02-10T11:56:00.005Z

Just relieved the freezer of one of Indulgence's Chocolate and Praline Tortes for a hastily snatched morning break. Scrummy!

The two day shoot is over and there are one or two items languishing in the GGSHQ food studio - I say one or two; thirty two to be precise! Not sure how long it is going to take for us to finish them off. Let's see... One per person per day... That's about 3 days I reckon.

Happy days!

Overindulgence

2011-02-09T14:56:00.002Z

Mr and Mrs Creosote and the Creosote kids will shortly be in residence if we don't do something soon to stop ourselves eating all the fantastic and dangerously irresistible patisserie which we are photographing for Essex's finest producers of such things, Indulgence Patisserie Ltd

Their range includes cheesecakes, gateaux and err... bavarois... I might have to just look that one up... but whatever you call them, they are DELICIOUS and very more-ish. Just have a look at some beautiful pics from the last shoot we did which are towards the end of the food photography section of our website.

I'm not sure if Monday's health check would have been quite so positive if it were to be tomorrow instead!

A severe case of overIndulgence if you ask me.

GGS in Hospital

2011-02-09T10:44:00.008Z

Spotted this in last Friday's EDP.
A report on the redevelopment of the Cromer Hospital carried a photo of the final touches being applied which included the fitting of 61 graphic ceiling tiles running through the centre of the kidney dialysis ward. The tiles, which were produced using laminated self-adhesive vinyl, were commissioned by Emma Jarvis of the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital's 'Hospital Arts' project which secures funding for art in various forms all over the hospital to brighten up the wards and consulting rooms.
It has been proven that being in a pleasant and bright environment speeds up recovery and promotes feeling of comfort and wellbeing; and Emma's sterling efforts have brightened up large areas of the hospital - with the help of expert advice and service from GGS of course! ;-)
Keep up the good work Emma!

Cough please...

2011-02-07T17:56:00.002Z

All staff over 40 had a free Cardiovascular Health check today (we had to pay for the youngsters), courtesy of Timber Hill Health Centre and organised by the Chamber of Commerce as part of their Healthy Workplace initiative. http://www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/Pages/cvd-checks.aspx

Looks like we are a fairly fit bunch overall with no-one having a BMI that took them into the 'lardy', sorry...'overweight' category. Well; not that they were admitting, anyway. We all had a lower than average chance of Cardio Vascular Disease and on the whole cholesterol levels were pretty well low to average, so there's a good chance that if you ring to speak to one of us we'll still be here. For a while, at least.

Anyhoo, I'm just going to finish these Danish Pastries then it's off to the gym!!

Ranking up

2011-01-28T16:12:00.005Z

After last year's debacle at the Annual Chamber of Commerce Bowling Competition (see last year's blog http://ggsnewsblog.blogspot.com/2010/01/oh-ignominy.html) Team GGS were determined to improve their ranking. Not difficult, you would imagine, if you knew that we came 20th out of 20 (not sure of the exact numbers, but it was something like that). We had a great time though, did a bit of socializing, eating and drinking and a lot of saying things like, "it's not the winning that's important: it's the taking part", etc.

So, this year, after doing lots of training during the last 12 months, we were confident that we could improve our position (I may have lied a bit about the training) and hold our heads high, safe in the knowledge that some other unfortunates would be receiving the 'Losers' certificates.

Anyway, after a shaky start the Strikes and Spares started to rack up and at the end of the evening when the placings were announced we were no longer 20th... weren't even even down in the high teens. In fact we had moved out of the double figures and into the singles...we were 7th! Yes... 7th! Hoorah!! Quite a step up I'm sure you would agree.

Unfortunately the event wasn't quite as well attended as it was last year; but if anyone tries to tell you there were only 7 teams participating THEY WERE LYING... OK!!!

It's Official - We're No.1!

2011-01-14T12:39:00.006Z

Heard some drilling and banging going on at the front of the building the other day. 'What could that be?', I thought. Curiosity got the better of me and further investigation revealed that what I have always known to be a fact - that GGS are NUMBER ONE - has been confirmed, verified and broadcast to the world at large by a man who was attaching a big blue sign, with a solitary number 1 in the middle of it, to the front of our building.
By some remarkable coincidence it turns out that 'One' is also the number of our premises within the Business Park. Spooky!!

Chocs Away!

2010-12-24T09:58:00.004Z

(Thanks for the line Michelle).

"They go like hot cakes!" is a well-used phrase to describe popular things (especially popular edible things). But judging by what's been happening here over the last couple of months - I think that phrase should be changed to "They go like Booja Booja chocolates!" You've got to be very quick off the mark to catch one of those babies around here!

With a winning combination of hand-made dairy-free chocolates and 'ice-cream' it's no wonder that Booja Booja has gone from strength to strength over the last couple of years. And what better way to celebrate their success than with a brand new internet presence by GGS.

The design was inspired by Booja's unique packaging style and successfully evokes all things hand-made and delightful.

Right... I'm off on the hunt again (I think I remember seeing one lurking in the bottom of the fridge... there's lush!

New website for UK Investigation & Security Services

2010-12-24T09:46:00.006Z

One of the first websites we built was for Bastille Security Services - and its sister company Broadland Investigations.

My how things have changed over the last few years! These familiar names in the security industry have now been brought together under a smart new group identity by GGS - and have expanded into services and provisions that address today's demands.

The new identity is now reflected in our successful re-launch of their websites at: www.ukiss.uk.com.

A strong design theme was used to provide all-important credibility and reassurance to site visitors - in what is after all a difficult and at times very challenging industry.

Honour and Offer

2010-12-14T15:45:00.001Z

Over the last couple of years several people have won vouchers for a free Canvas Wrap from Pictures2Go ( an online division of GGS ) at assorted functions and events. Most have claimed their freebies but one or two haven't; possibly because their vouchers have expired. If you are one of those people then I am happy to let you know that we would be delighted to honour the voucher irrespective of the use by date. Pick up your free one and maybe order another as well!

If you haven't won a voucher don't feel left out, though. I have great news... you are allowed to visit the site too! If you are stuck for ideas for a Christmas present (or three) how about a nice piece of wall art from your own photos? We have a 3 for 2 Special Offer on at the moment so check out the site and make an order. And remember; the great thing about canvases is that you don't have the additional cost of framing, which saves time as well as money. Perfect. Why didn't you think of it before?!

Images can be uploaded on line and prints delivered. Sure beats queueing up in an overcrowded and noisy shopping mall!

GGS namecheck in the EDP

2010-12-07T17:14:00.009Z

We were pleased to see this piece in today's EDP which credited GGS for our input into the project.

The original treasured triptych was brought in to the studio to enable us to make a high resolution digital copy. An accurate, same size, replica was required that needed to be as faithful to the original as possible. So with the original to match to we produced a Giclee print using long life, fade resistant pigmented inks which was bonded onto three separate sheets of MDF. The Fairhurst Gallery in Bedford Street, Norwich then made the frame.

The replica will be on display at Norwich Cathedral until December 29. It moves to its new home at All Saints’ Church, Ashwellthorpe, early next year.

The Seven Sorrows of the Virgin Mary

Things are getting pretty hairy at GGS

2010-12-07T14:10:00.000Z

When Emily, the Studio Manager here at GGS, asked if I was going to be growing a moustache for Movember (sic) I, understandably I think, asked what (on Earth) she was talking about. Turns out that in 2003 a couple of chaps sitting about in Melbourne, Australia came up with a plan to bring the moustache back as a bit of a joke and to do something for men’s health. Ultimately this became a worldwide venture to raise money for The Prostate Cancer Charity which involved large numbers of people growing a moustache (or Mo') during the month of November.

I was inspired. No stranger to a bit of the old 'face furniture' over the years I felt this was a no brainer; especially as it didn't involve walking up Snowdon backwards with a jelly balanced on my head or eating my own weight in toenails or similar. Consequently, I simply avoided the upper lip and associated areas, when shaving, as of November the first. Paul, our Print Manager was persuaded to participate as well and between us we managed to raise over £520.00.

Almost 450,000 participants, globally, with over 111,000 being in the UK, have, at the point of writing, raised a staggering £39,498,381!

Well done Mo' Bro's (and Sistas)!

Chris

ps It's coming off at the weekend, if not sooner. I've decided the 70's throwback look is not for me.

New website for Simon's Landscaping...

2010-12-03T16:34:00.004Z

Even one of the best known local companies needs to look to its web presence from time to time and ask whether it conveys the correct impression. This need prompted Simon's Landscaping to give us a call for help.

No problem... we were on the case straight away and happy to work with Simon, Sharon and Paul to develop a fresh new look. But it wasn't just about that, it was also about providing a better vehicle to present their comprehensive services to customers old and new.

This new website is now live for all to see at www.simonslandscaping.co.uk.

Intuitive navigation, clear structure and rich content... the key essentials to a good website. As with all our solutions we see this new website for Simon's Landscaping standing the test of time - and acting as an online ambassador to what is after all a strong and well respected local company.

No doubt the team over at Simon's Landscaping are gearing up for an even better 2011 season as I write this!

35 years and one month

2010-11-22T17:03:00.007Z

Yes, I'm still banging on about GGS having been in business for 35 years. I know it was a while ago but I've just received these shots taken at the Chamber of Commerce Business to Business exhibition just over a month ago at the Norwich City football ground. Thought I would give them a blogging.

The first shot is of Directors Chris Ball and Peter Griffin with Caroline Williams, Chief Executive of the Chamber cutting the birthday cake. Very kind of Caroline to don a GGS themed balloon hat for the shot..

.

The Directors receive their award for Best Stand from Caroline Williams and Jonathan Wills, news presenter on ITV Anglia. No offence Jonathan, but can we have Becky Jago next time?

Sailing, climbing, walking, paragliding, power boating, ... oh... and Stand building

2010-11-17T17:08:00.005Z

Same person, same shirt, different town.

Having had a week back in the office after Cairo, it was time for Duncan to depart for Cape Town for some sailing, climbing, walking, paragliding, power-boating etc... err... I mean stand building for the Africa Com exhibition held at the Convention Centre. This event was much larger than North Africa Com (the Cairo show previously documented) and with show space at a premium it was really important to cover all key requirements within a modest 6 x 3 metre space. So a working demonstration area, reception counter, store room, client seating and product display area were all incorporated into the design - not forgetting high level branding visible from all areas. The stand build went according to plan and Cambridge Broadband Networks had another successful show.

Hoorah for GGS!

Holidays for Duncan

2010-11-05T17:28:00.005Z

Ancient artefact and a pyramid

Having been commissioned to design and build an exhibition stand for Cambridge based Cambridge Broadband Networks at North Africa Com in Cairo, it would have been foolish not to have also done a whistle stop tour of Cairo's main attractions - Pyramids, Egyptian Museum etc.

But this was work, and not a holiday (!), and needless to say the stand installation and breakdown went without a hitch. The client was absolutely delighted with the stand and the show was a resounding success.

Designed and built using existing GGS Octanorm modular hire stock, the stand was sent to the venue by air freight. Thankfully all of the kit cases were waiting on the stand space when Duncan arrived (phew); ready to build and install all the client's product /equipment.

Tomorrow duncan heads off to Cape Town to perform a similar exercise at Africa Com. This will also be built using Octanorm hire stock, but on this occasion due to higher air freght costs (bigger stand, further to go) we have partnered with a Cape Town based company who use exactly the same world leading Octanorm modular hire equipment as us. GGS will build the stand on site, install all the clients demonstration equipment, and be available for support for the duration of the exhibition.

And, no doubt, there will be some more sightseeing...

GGS in Africa

2010-10-26T15:53:00.004+01:00

The exhibition stands we work on aren't just for events in the UK. A large number of them are in Europe; and Duncan Smith, Director in charge of the Exhibitions side of the business is currently overseeing the setting up of an exhibition stand we've been working on for a Cambridge based client at the North Africa Com telecomms exhibition in Cairo. http://nafrica.comworldseries.com/exhibition

Next month he's off to Cape Town for Africa Com, the leading pan-African communications event. http://africa.comworldseries.com/exhibition where he will be doing the same.

He'd better bring us back a nice present. I brought him back a crab when I did a photographic job in Cromer...

Quality pics of a quality product

2010-10-22T21:45:00.004+01:00

Never being ones to turn down the opportunity to try a little tipple, we were pleased to receive a call from Mellasat Wines in Ashwellthorpe, Norfolk to undertake their photography. They specialise in wines from South Africa and we turned out some vintage quality (groan! - Ed.) pictures to match their superb wines – (they haven't asked for the bottles back yet. Probably just as well, hic!...)

Giving Inspiration to Students

2010-10-22T21:20:00.006+01:00

Once again, Peter Griffin ABIPP, one of the GGS directors was invited to speak at the Creative Industries Student Convention about careers in photography.

Along with other speakers from across the spectrum of creative industries, including journalism, PR, music, radio and TV, Peter gave High School and College students from across the County an insight to the world of commercial photography. Emphasising the importance of top quality images in helping to drive British businesses forward and become more successful, Peter also showed examples of the difference good lighting makes to increasing the desirability of products.

The event was held at ‘Open’ and organised by ‘Shaping Norfolk’s Future’

Flipping book!

2010-10-22T20:01:00.003+01:00

The CNS Main School and Sixth Form prospectuses are now on-line at the school's web site. http://www.cns-school.org/prospectus

Concept, design, artwork, photography and print management all done in-house; and printed beautifully by Breckland Print in Attleborough. Easy for the school and simpler for us. You can't beat a one-stop-shop.

I love the way these 'flipping book' things work, too...

50pc increase in photography

2010-10-22T19:37:00.003+01:00

Here's a cutting from Thurday's EDP. Nuff said...

Born out of passion, thriving on creativity (and cake!)

2010-10-14T17:14:00.011+01:00

In 1975 GGS Photography was formed, operating from small premises in Pottergate, Norwich. Today we celebrate 35 years in business! The name has shrunk a bit - now simply GGS - but the company has grown. Larger premises, more staff and a larger range of services. As well as Commercial Photography we provide Exhibition and Display solutions from banner stands and pop-ups to full set builds in the UK and abroad, large format digital printing, graphic design and web design.
Today we celebrated with champagne and, of course, a cake!
With candles!
Founding partner Alan Griffee and his wife, Beulah, joined the merry throng for a toast at GGS HQ on Hall Road.

(In case you are wondering; GGS came from the initials of the surnames of the Partners - Peter Griffin, Alan Griffee and Bill Skipper. There's only a Griffin left now,but there is a Ball and a Smith instead. GBS? Didn't seem much point. If it ain't broke etc...

New website for Panel Graphic...

2010-10-07T11:07:00.021+01:00

A good few years ago we designed and developed a website for Panel Graphic that remained live for longer than anyone expected it would. The client was very much aware that change needed to happen, but their growing business activity prevented any possibility of setting aside some 'focus time'.

Eventually however an opportunity arose for us all to get together and formulate a fresh new website solution to reflect Panel Graphic's latest generation of products and services - and their forward-thinking approach to their craft.

This new website is now live for all to see at www.panelgraphic.co.uk.

The client knows that we are just a phone call away - for on-going support whenever its needed. And it was this reassurance, together with our approach to billing clarity, that was the key factor in their decision to remain with us now - and into the future.

Adrenaline rush

2010-09-27T12:41:00.000+01:00

The perfect antidote to a week at work - the Giant 3G Swing at Extreeme Adventure High Ropes Course at Weasenham (http://www.extreemeadventure.co.uk) WOW! - I need say no more...

Ice cream made from nuts...? Surely not.

2010-09-21T12:56:00.001+01:00

Just tried Booja Booja Hunky Punky Chocolate 'Ice Cream'(we are doing a load of product photography) and it is DELICIOUS! Easily as good as any of the top brands; if not better. Why the inverted commas round 'Ice Cream'? This stuff is made out of organically grown Cashew Nuts, Agave, Cacao Powder and Water; nothing else! It is Dairy, Cholesterol, Soya and Gluten free with no added sugar - too good to be true! Four more flavours to try before the day is out - can't wait. YOU GOTTA GET SOME.

A bit of trumpet blowing...

2010-07-28T17:30:00.008+01:00

It's great to have satisfied clients, and thankfully, we have a lot. But I think we should make more of a song and dance about it - so here is a quote from a recently received email relating to a large photography and design project. All the photographs were taken in our studio and the design, proofreading and brochure production was done in house. 'One stop shop' triumphs again!

Peter, Michelle and Chris

I would like to thank your combined skills in turning a vague concept into a top quality reality. Having just received our 3 different brochures in time for an important sales meeting I am delighted with the end result; it is everything I could have hoped for. From photography through design to the final printed article it has been a pleasure to work with such a dedicated group of professionals.

Once again many thanks!!

Tony Millar Millar West office interiors

Just a suggestion...

2010-05-07T18:36:00.003+01:00

May we suggest you look at some lovely pictures and food ideas at the Tesco website. We think the photographs are lovely because, of course, we took them! It was an exciting project for our client Turton Middleton, who act for Tulip International, who in turn are suppliers of a huge range of ham and meat products to Tesco. Over 50 different products needed a photograph to show a new range of recipe suggestions for tasty meals and snacks.
The whole job had to be completed quickly, to meet a launch deadline, so we worked long days with our food stylist to achieve top results in time.
Why not try a few out to see how tasty the suggestions are- as seen in our pictures. Enjoy.

Posh Watch

2010-04-14T15:39:00.007+01:00

If like me you like a nice watch on the end of your arm, I currently wear a Tag I bought with some money I made on a boat sale a couple of years back, then take a look at our client Since 1853 Ltd's website. Not only can you view the distinquished Swiss range of Revue Thommen, but brothers Peter and John Carmichael are now also the UK distributor of the Alessandro Baldieri Collection which Chris has recently photographed for them. They have several Norwich distributors including Dogfish, S Michlmayr & Co Ltd and the Leadenhall Suit Company.

Thunder Toffee Vodka - Sharing my Experience

2010-04-14T15:04:00.006+01:00

Whilst on a recent visit to the Food & Drink Expo at the NEC, I was offered a sample of ice cold Thunder Toffee Vodka and all I can say is Wow! I am not normally a vodka guy but this was fantastic and I will definitely be ordering a bottle or two! For further information go to www.thundervodka.com

GGS on Google Earth

2010-04-09T11:46:00.004+01:00

Want to see what the GGS building looks like? Well we are currently one of the few locations in Norwich that has a 3D model on Google Earth. How did it get there? Simple - we made it ourselves.

Just type NR4 6DG under the 'fly to' tab in the search section and zoom in.

Once I've worked out how to add a direct link here I'll do it.

GGS on Masterchef

2010-04-09T09:49:00.000+01:00

Walked into the living room last night where the Good Lady Wife was watching the Masterchef final, and what's the first thing I see? The Jenny Lind Children's Department sign that GGS printed for the Hospital Arts project at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital as part of their commission for a large amount of wall and ceiling art. 'Look!', I shouted. 'GGS printing on the telly! We did that!'. Too late, the images were fleeting. 'Did what?' came the reply. To be honest I think she was more interested in the cooking for some reason. I carried on watching and several other pieces were also seen in the background as finalist Tim Kinnaird was filmed at work. But I don't think she was as excited about it as I was. Strange.
Thinking about it, I guess the title of this blog is a tad misleading; but hey...

Who is this Nigel Williamson anyway?

2010-02-05T10:02:00.000Z

Remembering the birth of
UK punk...
(on the anniversary of the death of Sid Vicious from a heroin overdose).

OK... let's look the facts, it was a long time ago, so forgive me if I struggle with clarity and detail on this one.

Think hard! Ok, it must have been during my first year at Ravensbourne College (www.rave.ac.uk) when I witnessed the event - and I must have been around 18/19 at the time. When I think back from where I am now (working at GGS as a website designer/developer/administrator), to those heady days as an art college student in London, seeing the birth of a new revolution in music genres. Wow... that was a lifetime ago!

Our union team consisted of a pro-active bunch who were always on the look out for new ways to entertain the the student masses (us). But as luck would have it - this time they didn't have try too hard, for the band came to them, kind of cap in hand I seem to remember. A call was taken in the union office from the band's representative (I'm thinking this could well have been Malcolm McLaren) asking if it would be possible to play a gig at the college. He mentioned being friends with 'Skidmarks' who were our resident band at the time, so I guess the consensus was that he was kosher.

I was studying Graphic Communications and remember seeing a fellow course student struggling with a new brief. He was racking his brains, trying to come up with poster/flyer ideas for for a forthcoming gig at the college featuring this new band called "The Sex Pistols". He opted for a literal solution I seem to remember. Talk about spelling it out... how did we get that one passed the powers that be?!

The morning of the event saw us building the stage in the main hall. I remember a flurry of activity around us as we worked - culminating in the arrival of the band. Outside the relatively small (but fast growing) London punk scene - these guys were unknown at the time, so no one payed much attention to them. And don't forget - we're talking about an art college here, so dressing 'individually' was the rule, not the exception.

I seem to remember we ended up building the stage together... chatting and helping each other. All hands on deck as it were. The staging system was modular and went together quite easily. Consequently we were pretty much done by lunchtime. Time has taken its toll and memories blur, but I have this abiding memory of ending up in the local pub that lunchtime... us and the band. I can't remember what we were talking about exactly, probably the gig, the punk scene and college life. This must have looked pretty weird to the locals, for the college sits firmly in the 'stock broker belt' of south east London. But I hear that's all about to change with a sparkling new campus being built on the Greenwich Peninsula.

The night of the gig came and went and the place was packed. But was it memorable? Well it was for me because I was there getting involved for most of the day. Although has to be said that I don't remember much about the gig itself, other than the spitting and the obscenities. Whether it was a memorable gig depends upon the individual spectator I guess. Punk was this scary new thing with a pulse that demanded to be noticed. In time bands like The Clash would emerge with pure raw talent. Whether the slightly more 'manufactured' Sex Pistols package could ever be compared favourably is a question that has been asked many times over the years.

And so to the question asked at the beginning of this blog...
Who is this Nigel Williamson anyway?

Well, he's a well-respected article writer for The Guardian - and turns out he was there that very night. and with more clarity than I could ever muster he's recalled the event for us all to enjoy here.

OK, so he's trashed it, suggesting punk was a pile of Sh*t, but then... wasn't that the whole point?

If you're interested, I've found another link to the event - on 'The News Shopper' website here. This was (and quite possibly still is) a free-sheet newspaper for south-east London. It is at this point that I feel a confession needs to be made public here - after all these years of secrecy. For a very short while I was one of many 'paper-boys', delivering this free-sheet to the good people of Bromley to earn some beer money. It was impossible! No way could I deliver that many copies in time... before the next one came out. I was overwhelmed and my landlady (quite rightly) was taking issue with bales of 'The News Shopper' piling up on the stairs and landing. So what did I do? Well lets just say that a local church received more than one copy of 'The News Shopper' that week... and not through the letter box. I gave up that job soon after - and I'm heartened to see that 'The News Shopper' is still thriving, despite taking me on as a 'paper-boy'.

Keith Halliday
GGS

Oh, the ignominy!

2010-01-29T18:36:00.000Z

The GGS team didn't exactly perform well at Thursday's Chamber of Commerce Networking/Bowling event at NUMBERten BOWL in Bowthorpe. The pins at the end of Lane 19 were relatively untroubled by advancing bowling balls and on the whole managed to remain in an upright position for a large portion of the game. As a result Team GGS were placed fairly low down on the leaderboard. At the bottom in fact. Yes; we came LAST!! Clearly every one else at the event cheated by using skill, manual dexterity, hand/eye co-ordination etc. which gave them an unfair advantage. (Some even used a cunning device which barricaded the gutters!) No sour grapes there then...
Thanks go to Peter Treglown of FOUR for stepping into the bowling shoes vacated by Peter Griffin. I suspect that our overall score would have been even lower than it actually was (hard to imagine, I know) if our Peter, whose sporting prowess is measured in minus figures, had managed to make it. We apologise unreservedly for letting him down with a performance the likes of which have not been seen since... the last time we were there.
Despite all team members being presented with a 'Losers' certificate we had a great time and are determined to improve for next time... when we expect to come second from last at the very least. Clearly we had better stick to our day jobs (which we are much better at - honest).

GGS, exhibition stands & the environment

2010-01-05T20:21:00.000Z

Environmental issues and recycling are big issues in industry today and here at GGS we always aim to minimise our impact on the the environment. Every aspect of our business is conducted according to our strategy to do this and be an environmentally conscious and responsible company.

This is one reason why GGS has chosen to be a display partner with Octanorm, a world leader in the manufacture and distribution of modular aluminium systems for the exhibition and display stand industry. Using aluminium modular exhibition systems means that a large proportion of the exhibition stand can be reused, reconfigured or recycled after use.

When creating this exhibition stand (above) for WTA Books, we created it using the modular Octanorm aluminium structure so that the stand could be adjusted in size in relation to the amount of floor space available at exhibition events. Using modular exhibition stands in this way is both environmentally and financially beneficial to our clients.

Some other key areas of our environmental policy are to:

Reduce consumption of physical resources, including energy and water, by increasing awareness amongst our staff and adopting good practices.
Reduce manufacturing waste and administrative waste through consideration and good practice.
Donate surplus material off-cut to Scrapbox for re-use in playgroups.
Recycle waste materials wherever possible.
Choose energy efficient, non-polluting technology when equipment needs to be replaced.
Reduce carbon emissions and fossil fuel consumption by ordering stock in bulk to minimise long distance deliveries.
Minimise pollution from printing processes by using low-emitting inks wherever possible and disposing of all hazardous waste inks in accordance with environmental legislation.
Use only CFC free printing inks.
Aim to use paper materials produced from sustainable forest wherever possible.
Recycle electronic equipment where possible including digital ink cartridges.
Discourage unnecessary document printing by providing our customers with emailable pdfs of technical information and user instructions for display equipment.

By implementing and continuously improving upon this strategy, we aim to fulfill our commitment to protect the world in which we live and work. About GGS - We are a design led visual media company providing a wide range of creative products and services to our clients. Our services include exhibition stands; pop-ups; banner stands; large format digital printing, graphic design, commercial photography and web design & hosting. Based in Norwich, Norfolk, England, GGS has been established for over 33 years and works with companies of all sizes to improve their image.

Aquabox photography to assist fund raising

2009-12-04T17:41:00.000Z

Recently, GGS were pleased to donate photography of the ‘Aquabox’ kit for a Norwich Rotary club. Rotary has difficulty getting over the exact nature of the boxes, when raising funds for the charity, and by taking professional photographs and supplying poster prints, GGS will help Rotary to show donors what their money goes to.

The Aquabox scheme is aimed at disaster relief by giving schools, companies or any organisation, a box and a list of the items needed to fill it in readiness for a potential disaster. When the employees in the organisation have completed the list, by donating or fundraising for the items, the box is sent to a central warehouse awaiting the next call to assist those unfortunate enough to suffer a disaster, anywhere in the world. The boxes, which may contain a tent, emergency food, tools or any number of other items, plus the water purification kit, are then instantly despatched.

Work Experience

2009-10-14T15:01:00.001+01:00

My name is Jill Wright and I'm currently a student at Thorpe St Andrew High School. I'm in my final year of high school, which is a scary thought considering I'm still pretty undecided about what I actually want to do as a career within this field, (and am only now able to make an alright cup of tea according to my mum!) I took English, Maths, Double Science, P.E, Media, History, German, French, I.C.T, Statistics (an absolute waste of two hours every week, of my life..) and Ethics (another waste of many hours of life..) all at GCSE level. I definitely want to go on to Sixth Form, in order to do Photography at A-Level and hope to work in the media in some form, whether it's in magazine, television etc.

On my first day I was pretty gutted after not actually getting a lay-in, and my mum over estimating the journey from Thorpe to here by about half an hour, and therefore the nerves hadn't really set in, I was just looking forward to the week. All changed when I opened the door to find a very different reception than the one I remembered from my interview- to find I had actually opened the door to Cable and Wireless next door. Once actually inside the right building I met most of the team in their Monday morning meeting. Afterwards I shadowed Michelle for the morning whilst she left me with originals of photos she had edited in order for me to try myself, rather than the endless tea making and cleaning I'd prepared myself for! After lunch I spent the afternoon downstairs in the office copying out a list of every previous client of GGS and other tasks that needed doing in the office.

On Tuesday I continued to crowd the designers upstairs, hassling Dan for the day whilst he talked me through the process of making a flyer for GGS, in order to try and promote the business and increase sales. I then spent time downstairs in the mounting room with Andrew where I was absolutely no use to him whatsoever but continued to follow him around regardless:L After him being away on holiday I had not yet met the other director Peter, so when Chris went to pick up a sleep deprived Peter from the railway station, along with his wife, I also went, and met him for the first time. This was when he reminded me that I would be seeing him at half seven the next morning in order to go out on a shoot, bright and early!

So half seven this morning I found myself in Peter's car on the way to Watton. The shoot was at an industrial factory, where the 'largest electrical heater in the world' had been built. After several hours waiting while they moved the machine, which again I was no help with considering it was about a hundred times the size of me, we began actually shooting. It was really insightful seeing how many aspects were involved in an actual shoot, light, space, dealing with a client etc and also seeing how much work went in, in order to get a good amount of shots. FIVE hours later the job was complete! And now I'm back at GGS helping out in the office for the afternoon, making labels, sorting the post which was actually the highlight of my afternoon:L and writing this, while we listen to my ipod and discuss the new series of gossip girl..

Thursday was a day in the office, researching local competitors websites and exhibitors at upcoming exhibitions.

Thankyou to everyone here, you've all been so welcoming and really helped me in all the different areas of art and design, even if I've only taken in a fraction of everything you've taught me!

How to get the most out of your exhibition budget...

2009-09-24T15:40:00.000+01:00

Having decided to book a ‘space only’ stand at your exhibition, you will already have a higher profile than those booking shell schemes. The main advantage with ‘space only’ is that you can build to four meters high at most exhibitions.

There are many advantages to be gained by choosing a modular exhibition stand over a timber based bespoke stand, such as the ability to easily reconfigure to different sized stand spaces in the future, and minimal storage space. Not forgetting that there are tax benefits in that it is a ‘capital equipment’ purchase.

Environmentally, modular exhibition stands are by far the greener option. According to the president of ALCOA (the world’s largest producer of aluminium) 70% of all aluminium ever produced is still in use today!

Time and time again we are amazed at the ‘one off’ use of timber constructed stands being demolished and skipped at the end of an exhibition. At some stage in the future they will probably ban timber based stands altogether.

To fully maximise your investment you also need to consider fundamental issues such as:

Set specific goals for the event

Tell people why they should visit you

Make the most of pre show PR and advertising

Don’t forget sponsorship opportunities

Train your show staff

Take control & keep your website up to date

2009-07-23T12:23:00.000+01:00

Up until relatively recently clients relied on their appointed web developers to not only design and build their websites but also edit and update them.

These days many clients prefer to take control themselves and this is achievable with the use of content management systems, often referred to as CMS's.

But taking control of a website can be a little daunting, after all whatever is done will be seen by the public including, perhaps more crucially, customer bases. But with simple training clients can quickly gain the confidence and ability to keep their websites up to date - and looking good. Words can be edited, pictures can be changed and pages can even be added or deleted within the root structure.

There are a number of 'off-the-shelf' CMS solutions available, as well as public domain 'shareware' options, but the most reliable CMS solutions often prove to be the bespoke ones. Having a content management system custom-built to a client's preferences and requirements will ultimately prove less restrictive and more future-proof. The system would focus solely on that client's business, so there would be no surplus functionality that can often prove irritating. The result is a much more powerful, deliverable solution that performs exactly to requirements.

We've found here at GGS that our clients tend to prefer the bespoke CMS option and we work together from the outset to ensure that the resulting solutions deliver correctly and consistently, thus allowing our clients to take control of their websites with confidence and ability!

How to put up a Pop-up...

2009-07-17T17:10:00.000+01:00

Pop-up display systems are a really popular piece of exhibition equipment. What many people don't know is that they are so simple to assemble, and because they are expandable, they fold down into a small carry case that can fit into any small car.
You will find the pop-up frame, the graphics and magnetic bars in your kit. To assemble the pop-up simply take the pop-up frame, and with the studs at the top, fully expand the system until the locking arms are fully secure. Attach the mag bars onto the front, D-ends and, if applicable, to the rear. Once the mag bars are securely attached to the magnetic hubs, carefully unwrap the graphics. One by one attach the hanger at the top of the graphics to the studs at the top of frame. Smooth the graphics down onto the bag mars, ensuring that they are sitting flat and straight. Easy! When it's time to take the pop-up down, carefully remove the graphics one by one, lifting them up to detach them from the studs at the top. Always roll graphics with the image on the outside. After removing the mag bars, collapse the frame. All Sorted!
If you need any more info about how to assemble exhibition equipment click onto our website here.

Congratulations, Mr and Mrs Halliday!

2009-07-15T11:12:00.000+01:00

It is often said that the two most stressful things in life are getting married and moving house. That didn't stop our Web Designer, Keith, who did both in the same week! Keith and his bride, Christine, moved into their new home on Saturday 12th June, and were due to get married the following Saturday.

The civil ceremony and reception took place at the beautiful Amber Lodge near Acle, Norfolk. It was a small do, with 30 of their closest family and friends attending. Although there were some anxieties over the move (is there such a thing as a stress-free move?), the wedding went without a hitch. This is until Keith and Christine were told by the registrar that their marriage certificate, which had been painstakingly hand written, had caught fire! It had been accidentally laid on a tealight candle whilst the ceremony was being finalised.

Although the weather was somewhat disappointing, there was a break in the clouds for pictures to be taken outside. Keith, Christine, and guests thoroughly enjoyed the food Amber Lodge provided. A delicious indoor BBQ was the main culinary event, followed by canapes and a late supper.
They honeymooned in Dorset for two weeks, staying at a wonderful country cottage retreat.
The wedding was a huge success, and everyone at GGS wishes Keith and Christine much happiness for the future. (Lets hope that they don't have too many heated discussions over all that decorating!).

Children's Hopsital Ward Revamp in the EDP

2009-07-08T12:21:00.000+01:00

The Eastern Daily Press has recently published an article about the Children's ward refurbishment at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital. GGS played an important role, providing the majority of the graphics for the various rooms and waiting areas, creating a fantastic 'seaside retreat' within the hospital. The make-over at the NNUH involved transforming the walls, ceiling and windows into bright and colourful works of art. Emma Jarvis, the Hospital Arts Co-ordinator explains the impact it has had on the patients; "It's much better than it was before. Because all the kids are less stressed, the parents are less stressed." The seaside theme is great for children of all ages, turning the ward from a clinical, uninviting area to a truly welcoming place. Emma says "when the parents tell their children it's time to go, they don't want to leave."
We're delighted that the graphics have been such a hit with everyone connected with the ward, inlcuding the staff, and with some excellent quotations from some of the children visiting the ward, the article proves that the refurbishment was a major success. However, we do feel that the artists deserved a mention. A big well done to Hannah Giffard, Kate Green and Eloise O'Hare who contributed to the fantastic graphic designs.

(Pictures courtesy of Mike Robinson).

Jade Lim Work Experience

2009-07-02T11:13:00.000+01:00

Hello! I'm Jade Lim I'm 15 and go to Long Stratton high school, currently I am studying for my GCSE's, Art, Graphics, Triple science and I.C.T (a random mix I know)! I am currently on year 10 work experience, I decided I wanted to go to a graphics designers (as that is something I am interested as a career) I wound my way to GGS creative graphics http://ggs.co.uk ! I arranged my work experience for a week starting on the 29th June.

I on the Monday morning , I was quite nervous on the first day but I was mostly exited! I started the day by first getting introduced at a Monday morning meeting to the staff (they are all so nice!!) , shortly followed by a tour of the building, the building is huge and I was surprised at the size of the printers (ahaha!). I started the day by helping out in the photography studio, we where taking pictures of a stand for a client that was coming in later that day (I felt rather useless as I didn't know much about photography!) in the afternoon I had been appointed a task by Chris ball to find a place to print 45000 (or 4500 I cant remember anymore ahah!) calendars! (on a nice shiny Mac!!)

Tuesday was exciting as I spent the day with the designers! I started the day watching Michelle as she gave me the download of everything she was doing (it was a bit overwhelming aha!) after a couple of hours Michelle gave me a quick fake design brief and I spent the rest of the day designing a a5 brochure for my pop-up book I’m making at school for my graphic project! I got to grips with all the different programs etc.

Wednesday I help in the office I spent most of the time filing and doing small errands like folding letters (sorry if you get dodge folded mail ahaha!) . After that I help with photography I got to grasps how big the studio is, last time I was in there there was a huge stand! I learnt how to take picture of art work that’s to big to fit into a scanner. After lunch I continued to help out with the office staff and watched them with the overly complicated database type program!

Thursday (today)
Today I started off helping (I say helped more like watched aha!) the mounting technician he was working on the ceiling tiles for the hospitals. I just finished hovering up I hope its okay as I’m not the greatest at hovering (aha) then I wrote this!

IM really enjoying my work experience here at GGS! I hope I have been of some help around here and not just been a burden (aha??)! its been great I have experienced what’s its really like at working as a designer and all the other staff behind the scenes that makes it all possible!
I am very thankful to the GGS graphics for taking me and looking after me it has been a very valuable experience! :D

Aftercare for Graphics

2009-06-23T15:12:00.000+01:00

To get the most from your printed graphics and to ensure they fulfil their maximum life expectancy, follow these instructions. It will save you time, money and aggravation in the future as we cannot accept responsibility for damaged graphics which have been badly handled.

ALWAYS ROLL LAMINATED FLEXIBLE GRAPHICS WITH THE PRINT ON THE OUTSIDE! Why? Rolling graphics with the print on the inside can stretch the laminate away from the printed layer, causing bubbling and eventual de-lamination. It is especially important to follow this procedure for pop-up graphics and designer stand graphics which have mag-tape applied to the back, as rolling them with the mag-tape on the outside can cause the mag-tape and hangers to peel away from the graphic.
ALWAYS ROLL POP-UP GRAPHICS INDIVIDUALLY AND PLACE IN THE CASE ONE BY ONE! Why? If you try to roll them all up together, they will be (a) more difficult to place in and get out of the case, increasing the likelihood of you dropping them and (b) the inside graphics will be more curled than the outside ones so may not hang as well.
STORE FLEXIBLE GRAPHICS FLAT WHEREVER POSSIBLE TO AVOID PERMANENT CURLING! Pop-up drums are fine as they are designed to allow the graphics to sit very loosely rolled on their ends.
PROTECT EDGES AND CORNERS OF RIGID GRAPHICS! Some lightweight display boards, such as Kapa, are easily dented, so use corner protectors when in transit.
MAKE SURE YOU PURCHASE THE RIGHT GRAPHICS FOR THE ENVIRONMENT! Lamination alone does not make graphics waterproof. If you are planning to use your graphics outdoors, make sure you choose a waterproof print surface such as vinyl or self-adhesive vinyl, mounted on a non-porous materials such as foamex, or have paper prints encapsulated.
HANDLE GRAPHICS WITH CLEAN HANDS! Grubby graphics will never look the same again. In certain circumstances, lighter fluid or glass cleaner can be applied to laminated graphics to remove any greasy finger marks, but this will not be suitable for un-sealed prints. Apologies if this advice seems a little obvious, but when you’ve been in the business as long as we have you make no assumptions!

GGS Goes Wild!

2009-06-23T12:03:00.000+01:00

Okay, so we haven't become so in-tune with our inner selves that we've decided to relocate offices to a teepee off the North Norfolk coast and done away with all worldly possessions (as this could be decidedly detrimental to business)! But we have been making the most of the great outdoors with some seriously nice 'youthful' people, defying all rumours that the kids of today can only function when attached to an electrical device.

Yes both big boss Chris (no that's not him on the left!) and our charming designer Michelle have embarked on some 'non-design related' extra curricular activities; You may have already sighted Chris popping out from a bush in 'Tyrells Wood' where he's been 'leading' Scouts on team building activities. Chris greatly enjoys passing his wisdom onto the kids, lets just hope the kids feel the same! Chris is hoping to embark on many more 'fun filled' Scouting activities over this summer so keep your eyes peeled.

Moving to a slightly higher level of expertise (sorry Chris!) Michelle has been helping out Dereham Sixth Form student's on their Duke of Edinburgh expedition training on the North Norfolk coast. Any excuse for her to dive under some canvas and she's off, so spending the weekend under the stars was really her idea of heaven! The sixth form pupils she assisted we're practising for their Silver Award which involves planning, training for and doing a 3 day (2 night) expedition laden down with full kit! All in all it was a fantastic week-end and thankfully everyone made it back to base in one piece, all be it a little sore!

So back to normality now for the GGS team until the call of nature beckons them once more...

Sending artwork to GGS

2009-06-22T16:58:00.000+01:00

Artwork files can often be very large and sometimes awkward to send to our large format printing service, so we have put together a quick guide to sending your artwork over to us.

Artwork can also be supplied via CD, DVD and Flash/Pen Drive. You can also send artwork via free online upload sites such as mailbigfile.com and yousendit.com.

Uploading artwork to mailbigfile or yousendit:-
If uploading more than one file (several JPGs or a collected InDesign job for example) place everything together in one folder and either:-

PC Users: Create a zip file of it (right click on your folder and choose “send to” then “compressed (zipped) folder) and then upload your zipped folder which should have appeared next to your original folder (the folder icon for that new file will have a little zip on it)

MAC Users: Compress your artwork folder (right click on your folder and choose “compress ‘your folder name’”) and then upload your zipped folder which should have appeared next to your original folder and has a .zip extension (the folder icon for that new file will have a little zip on it)

Then simply follow the onscreen instructions on the relevant website. Hope this helps!

Supported Design Packages (when sending artwork)

2009-06-22T16:53:00.000+01:00

When sending artwork over for our large format printing service, we recommend using one of the following design software packages.

InDesign CS3 (and below) -
Job should be packaged (use “package” under the “file” menu) to include all fonts, images (saved as CMYK and 100dpi at size of output or 200 dpi at half size, 400 dpi at quarter size etc) and with bleed (see relevant online artwork spec for your chosen product)

Quark 7 (and below) -
Job should be collected for output (use “collect for output” under the “file” menu) to include all fonts, images (saved as CMYK and 100dpi at size of output or 200 dpi at half size, 400 dpi at quarter size etc) and with bleed (see relevant online artwork spec for your chosen product)

Adobe Photoshop CS3 (and below) -
Saved as JPG or TIFF and in CMYK colour mode. Files to be 100dpi at size of output (200 dpi at half size, 400 dpi at quarter size etc) Bleed should be added (see relevant online artwork spec for your chosen product) If you are saving your work as a JPG (which is a compressed file format) higher compression = lower quality files and vice versa. Use High Quality or Maximum Quality to avoid JPG ‘artefacts’ in your artwork. If you are including text in your PhotoShop document the dpi needs to be slightly higher at 130dpi at size of output.

We also support:-

Adobe Illustrator CS3 (and below) -
Saved as an EPS file and supplied with all linked images (saved as CMYK). Fonts/type should be converted to outlines, if you are not supplying them, and with bleed (see relevant online artwork spec for your chosen purchase - poster/banner stand etc)

PDF -
Original artwork prior to PDF being created to have any imported/embedded bitmaps in CMYK colour mode. If supplying artwork in PDF format ALWAYS ensure that the “embed fonts” option is selected and that a “High Quality” option is chosen (not “PDF for email” for example)

To supply artwork in a package that isn’t listed here see if your design package will let you export your work as a hi-res PDF or hi-res JPEG

The GGS Jargon Dictionary

2009-06-22T15:46:00.000+01:00

Here at GGS we like to make things as easy as possible for our clients to understand. However sometimes there are terms that may need explaining so we thought it might be useful to define some of the slightly more technical terms that pop-up within our exhibition, graphic design, web design and photography projects.

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Artwork – We use this term to describe the files we receive from you to print from. See our artwork software requirements article for more information.

Banner Stand - Tall thin portable banner system which has a graphic that is unrolled and held taught by a pole(s) at the back of the unit. See our full range of banner stands here. Also known as ‘pull-up banners’ or ‘roll-up banners’. Commonly also called ‘pop ups’ which is incorrect (see pop ups below).

Bitmap – An image file format that refers to the rows and columns (map) of dots or pixels that form as image.

Bitmap Images - Computerized image made up of a collection of dots or pixels; these images appear blocky when you zoom in; also known as raster images.

Bleed - Printing that goes beyond the edge of the visible graphic area.

Border - Margin or line between the image area and the edge of the paper.

Brightness - The brilliance or reflective quality of paper affecting contrast in printing.

Bulk - The thickness of paper relative to it’s weight.

CMYK - Cyan, magenta, yellow & black – the four basic colour inks which are used in the four colour process to produce a range of colours and create a colour image.

Colour Balance - Refers to the proper ratio of cyan, magenta and yellow ink during printing to keep colour consistency and produce the desired colour of an image.

Colour Correction - Methods of adjusting and improving colour qualities such as colour balance, contrast etc.

Colour Matching - Adjusting supplied digital file to match hard copy supplied by client.

Contrast - The range of difference between the darkest and lightest areas in an image.

Copy - Any material (text or artwork) to be used in printing a piece.

Crop - To cut off sides or portions of an image

Crop Marks - Lines at the edges of a sheet that show where the page will be trimmed.

Cyan - Shade of blue; one of 4 basic ink colours used in a 4 colour printing process.

Density - The degree of darkness of an image.

Dot - The individual element of a halftones; also referred to as a pixel.

DPI - Dots Per Inch: a measurement of resolution of a screen image or printed image defined by the number of dots that fit horizontally and vertically into one inch; the higher the DPI, the sharper the image.

Encapsulation - The process of sealing a printed graphic, front and back, with thin, clear vinyl or polyester. Often confused with lamination.

EPS - Encapsulated Postscript File: An Adobe graphic file format for high resolution images; it translates graphic and text into code that tells a printer to print in the highest resolution possible and also has low resolution view files for quick screen viewing.

Footprint - Area of floor or ground that is taken up by a display system (ie. width x depth).

Four colour process - The process of printing using the combination of four basic colour inks (cyan, magenta, yellow & black) to produce a range of colours and create a colour image. This is also known as a full colour process.

Full colour process - See four colour process.

GIF - Graphics Interchange Format: An 8-bit-per-pixel bitmap image format used widely on the web due to it’s portability. The format uses a palette of up to 256 distinct colours from the 24-bit RGB colour space. The colour limitation makes the GIF format unsuitable for reproducing colour photographs and other images with continuous colour, but it is well-suited for more simple images such as graphics or logos with solid areas of colour.

Gloss - Shiny coating on paper or highly reflective laminated finish.

Grain - The direction in which the fibres of a paper lie.

Graphic - At GGS we refer to any printed poster, banner, flag or wrap etc as a graphic, whether it is used with or without a display system.

Graphic Design - The use of visual elements to express a message.

Graphic Wrap - A printed polyester or vinyl graphic that wraps around a carry-drum, plinth, counter or table and fastens together with velcro at the back.

Grayscale - An image made up of a range of shades of black and white.

GSM - Grammes per Square Metre: Unit traditionally used to describe paper weight.

Halftone - Pattern of dots within a fixed grid to reproduce a continuous-tone image.
Hard Copy - A document or data printed on paper.

Hardware - Hardware at GGS refers to all non-printed elements of a display system (eg. Pop-up frame, carry bags, fixtures & fittings)

High Res - High Resolution: See Resolution

Image Area - Portion of a page or paper that is printed.

Inkjet - A high quality printed graphic produced by an ink-jet printer which squirts very fine jets of rapid-drying ink onto paper and other substrates. See our Large Format Print section for more information on our printing services.

JPEG - A commonly used method of compression for photographic images. The file format is known as JIF (JPEG Interchange Format) but most image editing software programs that write to a ‘JPEG file’ are actually creating a file in the simpler ‘JFIF’ (JPEG File Interchange Format). The name JPEG stands for Joint Photographic Experts Group, the name of the committee that created the standard.

Keyline - An outline drawing to show the exact size and position of artwork.

Lamination - Applying a thin clear waterproof veneer to one side of a printed graphic. Many people use the term lamination incorrectly to mean sealing a graphic completely, front and back, when they actually mean encapsulation.

Lines per Inch (LPI) - The number of lines of dots per inch in a halftone screen; the higher the LPI, the sharper the image.

Magenta - Also known as process red; one of the 4 basic ink colours in process colour printing; M in abbreviation CMYK.

Matte - Dull, non-glossy finish.

Mb (or MB) - Unit of megabytes or megabits. When referring to the size or data transfer rate of a storage device which is accessed in multiples of eight bits (e.g. RAM, hard disk) this almost certainly means megabytes, but when referring to the data transfer rate of a communications system it probably means megabits. Some years ago, it is claimed, “MB” always meant megabytes and “Mb” meant megabits but recently this useful distinction has been lost.

Micron - Unit of length (symbol µ) defined as one millionth of a metre, a length more properly known as the micrometre. The term micron was officially sanctioned as part of the metric system from 1879 to 1967 but is still commonly used to describe the thickness of papers, laminates and fabrics.

Modular - A self-contained exhibition stand that can be combined or interchanged with others like it to create different shapes or designs. Composed of standardized units or sections for easy construction or flexible arrangement.

Moiré - An undesirable screen pattern caused by incorrect screen angles.

Off - In printing, quantity is traditionally described as ‘1 off’ or ‘2 off’ etc. This is an historic abbreviation of ‘1 off a negative’ or ‘2 off a negative’ and now relates to how many copies of one design are printed from one digital file.

Opacity - The property of paper that maximizes the show-through on a printed sheet.

Pantone Reference - Pantone colors are described by their allocated number (ie. ‘PMS 130’). PMS references are almost always used in branding in order to maintain colour consistency.

PDF - Portable Document Format: The file format created by Adobe Systems, in 1993, for document exchange. PDF is used for representing two-dimensional documents in a device-independent and display resolution-independent fixed-layout document format. Each PDF file encapsulates a complete description of a 2-D document (and, with Acrobat 3-D, embedded 3-D documents) that includes the text, fonts, images, and 2-D vector graphics that compose the document.

Pixel - From picture element, the smallest resolved unit of a video or computer-generated image which has specific luminance and colour; also an individual light-sensitive unit in an array forming a solid-state sensor in a camera. Pixel dimensions may be fixed during manufacture or determined in a raster display by the number of scanning lines and the resolution along each line. Also known as dots.

PMS - Pantone Matching System: The standard colour-matching system used by printers and graphic designers.

Pop up Stand - A pop-up stand is a portable display stand that is simple to construct and portable. They are great for small to medium size exhibitions, events and presentation backdrops. Pop ups feature an internal frame that 'pops up'. Magnetic bars are then attached to the frame and the graphic panel 'drops' are magnetically attached. Pop-ups come in various widths and can vary in width and can also be joined together to create larger exhibition displays. Also known as Pop-up displays.

PostScript - A page description language developed by Adobe Systems that tells a printer how an image is to be printed.

PPI - Pixels per Inch: See DPI

Process Colours - The four basic colours used in printing to simulate full spectrum colour – Cyan (blue), magenta (red), yellow and black.

Quad - Referring to pop-up stands, a quad is a complete section of the lattice that makes up a pop-up frame. A 3x3 pop-up is 3 quads high by 3 quads wide.

RAL - A colour space system used mainly to describe paint colours for powder coating developed in 1927 by Reichsausschuß für Lieferbedingungen (und Gütesicherung).

Raster - To render an image, pixel by pixel, vertically and horizontally.

Raster Image - See bitmap image.

Resolution - Refers to the number of pixels in an image, expressed in pixels per inch (PPI) or dots per inch (DPI). The higher the number, the sharper the image.

RGB - Red, Green & Blue – The additive primary colours used for colour video displays as on a computer screen.

Rich Black - A darker and deeper black colour created by combining other ink colours with black ink. The values to create Rich Black is usually 40% Cyan, 30% Magenta, 30% Yellow, 100% Black.

RIP - Raster Image Processor – A device that translates data into dots or pixels.

Shadow - The darkest areas of a photograph or image.

Stoplight - A quality of the polyester that banner stand and pop-up graphics are printed on at GGS that prevents any silhouette of the hardware behind the graphic being visible when light is shone on the display.

Substrate - Any surface or material on which printing is done.

Tambour Wrap - Structural wrap (made from flexible mdf) used in 'Physique' portable counters to hold the base to the counter top. Can be fabric covered, covered with beech effect laminate or aluminium plated.

TIFF - Tagged Image File Format: A standard graphic image file format often used for storing high resolution images that can easily handle up to 24 bits of photographic image colour.

Tint - A mixture of a hue with white.

Total Printed Area - The full area of a printed graphic material, including bleed (edges to be hemmed, edges to be hidden by frame edges or roller banner base units etc)

Tree-Free - Refers to pulp or paper made without cutting down trees; paper made from cotton, or hemp or other resources.

Trim Marks - Marks on a printed sheet that show where to cut or trim the page.

Trim Size - The final size of a printed image after trimming.

Typesetting - To arrange or layout artwork and text for printing.

Vector Image - Images made up of solids, lines and curves that can be scaled or edited without affecting image resolution.

Visible Graphic Area - The area of a printed graphic visible once fitted in a display system or frame that may be covering the graphic’s edges.

Screw surviving...

2009-06-22T11:57:00.000+01:00

Attended a truly inspiring seminar at the Holiday Inn North, Norwich, last Thursday. Presented by Nigel Botterill, CEO of N5, founder of 'thebestof' franchise and a top entrepreneur, it was called 'Screw Surviving...' and was billed as an event to 'ensure your business expands and grows during the recession and make 2009 & 2010 super prosperous years for you'

What a great way to spend a day. Full on right from the start, Nigel is highly motivational and packed his presentation with hints and tips on how to grow a business - and plenty of examples of how not to! It was thought provoking, inspiring, energising, revealing, enlightening, funny, and worth more than I paid! His dynamism is infectious and this was definitely the best of any such event I have ever attended. It is easy to see why he is in the top 50 entrepreneurs in the country.

Right; time to get on and put some of his ideas into practice...

Work Experience

2009-06-11T14:41:00.000+01:00

I'm Paul Watson a mature student studying a B.A. Hons. Degree in Photography and Digital Media with UCS Suffolk, currently in the final stages of the third year (all course work completed and awaiting my final results.) I initially contacted GGS requesting a quote for printing and mounting my final exhibition piece which was done extremely efficiently, an A1 print mounted on MDF for what I though was a very good price. It was whilst arranging and discussing this job that I enquired about the possibility of spending some time with them on a work experience basis. It was arranged that I would spend the week beginning the 8th of June at GGS.

Having previously worked at a Print Finisher and studied Graphic Design at HND level I was keen to gain experience with a company that specialised in the different aspects of the design process. I was also interested in discovering more about web design, as I have recently been spending a lot of time expanding and developing my own website.

On the Monday morning that I arrived at GGS I was introduced to the staff at the regular Monday morning meeting and I was given a tour of the building, I was rather overwhelmed by the size of the company and the abundance of technical equipment. I spent the first morning in the large studio helping to construct a large exhibition stand that a client would be viewing in the afternoon. This was am interesting insight into the process of design and construction as all the elements of this job had been designed by GGS. Once the stand was viewed it was then dismantled and shipped off to the customer. The afternoon was spent in the Graphic Design department. Here I spent some valuable time looking at a number of live jobs and got busy familiarising myself with software such as In Design and Freehand on an Apple Mac.

On the Tuesday I assisted photo shoot that had been booked by a client who specialised in the design and manufacture of industrial safety helmets, this was an interesting experience as we were working with a model, taking portrait shots in which the main point of focus was the safety helmet. It was interesting to observe the various lighting techniques that were used to highlight the contours of each helmet. I feel that this was also a valuable insight into working with client and a model.

Wednesday was spent on location in an industrial unit photographing industrial equipment; these final images would be used in brochures and sales literature. Once again this was a valuable insight into the nature of a photo shoot of this kind. Becoming familiar with the type of kit that a professional photographer uses on location, and ways in which lighting is used in order to define the shape and form of the object. This was an extremely valuable and educational experience and I learnt a great deal; not only about photography but also about the nature of working as a professional in industry.

Thursday and I spent the first part of the morning observing the process of image conversion on the work from the previous day. Here we were concentrating on adjusting the contrast and brightness of each image slightly to reduce highlights, looking at histograms and the nature of RAW files.
I then spent much of the day in the Website Design department. Looking at various live jobs and learning about Dreamweaver and Flash software. Here we also spent time updating the GGS website and adjusting images to create an interactive Flash movie.

So far this has been an extremely valuable experience for me as a Photography Student wanting to work in the industry and I would like to offer my thanks to all the members of staff at GGS who have been so helpful and welcoming to me this week.

Friday
Today we started working on a photographic project for a company that manufactures curtains, we had to build a set in the studio that would display the curtains as they would appear hung in someone’s front room. After helping to construct the set in the morning I spent the rest of the day adding coats of white paint and making the set appear as clean as possible. I fitted the pole from which the curtains would hang and then we spent a great deal of time pressing the curtains so that they would look there best in the final photograph. As you can see, there is a lot more to photography than just taking photographs.

Monday
This morning we continued to work on the curtain photo shoot adding final touches to the set and hanging the curtains, we concentrated on the lighting setup using a spotlight, two flash lamps, and a large diffuser to create a bright daylight effect that appeared to come from the window. We then redressed the set in the afternoon and pressed and hung another pair of curtains using a different lighting setup, with only the one flash lamp and less overall brightness to create softer tones in the final image.

New Graphics for the Children's Hopsital Ward...

2009-06-04T14:51:00.000+01:00

GGS have just come to the end of a major project producing ceiling tiles and wall and window graphics for the Children's Department in the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.

The work was commissioned by Emma Jarvis of the NNUH Hopsital Arts Project who managed the complete refurbishment of the department. Local artists including BAFTA award winning Hannah Giffard, community artist and furniture designer Eloise O'Hare, illustrator Kate Green, and community artist Lisa Little all produced the magnificent illustrations and paintings which have transformed the interior of the unit, filling it with bright colours and captivating images to keep the attention of young eyes and minds.
Over 250 square metres of enchanting illustrations have been created to enhance the look and feel of the whole children's unit, and the end result is stunning. The images are fun, colourful and really brighten the whole area dramatically.

GGS worked on a similar project last year, sponsoring the redecoration of the children's A&E unit by providing over £2000 worth of wall and window graphics which also feature the beautiful work of Hannah Giffard. We were delighted to be able to support such a worthwhile project.

Another satisfied customer!

2009-05-19T17:06:00.000+01:00

GGS has recently been working along side Teknomek to update their existing website, which was beginning to feel its age. GGS was commissioned to redevelop the site and work closely with the client to ensure the brief was fully addressed. The main aim of the new website was to not only modernise their website, but give them total flexibility in terms of presenting their products online

The backbone structure of the new website allows for designated administrators to add, delete and edit their products in a much more intuitive way; we have enabled them to be in total control of their website.

Teknomek are now taking advantage of their future-proof structural format, but GGS and Teknomek will continue to work together in the future to ensure the website stays ahead of the field with new functionality being developed as and when required.

Visit Teknomek's brand new website here.

Duncan Runs London Marathon for RNLI

2009-05-05T12:24:00.000+01:00

CONGRATULATIONS to our Exhibitions Director Duncan Smith who successfully completed the London Marathon on Sunday 26th April. All of the hard work and training paid off giving him a very respectable finishing time of 3 hours 54 minutes. Running as part of the RNLI team Duncan raised a grand total of £2600.00 in sponsorship. We would like to say a huge thank you to all of our clients and suppliers who have offered their encouragement and support over the past year's training and for all of the sponsorship given. Here's to next year!

Read the EDP news article here

GGS News & Blog Launched

2009-05-05T10:59:00.000+01:00

This is the first post for the new GGS blog. Where we will post interesting information, news, articles and more!

Check back soon for updates, or visit GGS here