springtime photoshoot

Interested in a Spring photoshoot in Dorset?

The changing seasons mean that now’s a great time to book a spring photoshoot in Dorset with me.

Spring is my favourite time of year because the beautiful flowers that emerge are always an absolute delight.

Daffodils, tulips, bluebells, snowdrops, and blossoms all create a stunning backdrop for outdoor portraits, and they look amazing whether photographed in the morning or at dusk. A photographer’s dream!

spring photoshoot in Dorset

Timeless outdoor portraits among the spring flowers

Around about now, in early spring, vibrant yellow daffodils and delicate white snowdrops come into bloom. Blossoms are also starting to appear. These pretty pastel flowers are lovely to feature in your family portraits.

Bluebell sessions

Later in the Spring, usually around April/early May, colourful tulips and beautiful bluebells then begin to emerge.

Sadly, many of my favourite spots for bluebells here in Dorset closed last year and won’t be reopening this spring. The crop was so damaged by people who didn’t stick to the pathways. It’s such a shame! Hopefully though, in time, the crop will regrow to its former glory.

There are still some lovely patches of bluebells around though, so I do still hope to be able to offer bluebell woods sessions this spring.

If you’re particularly interested in a bluebell shoot, get in touch. I’ll add you to my waitlist and I’ll keep you posted when I know where the best places are this year.

Bluebell photoshoot Dorset

Spring family photoshoot locations in Dorset

Every year, I scout out new locations to take my clients for outdoor portraits among the spring flowers, and this year will be no different. I always manage to discover some wonderful new places, literally bursting with colour!

An example from a few years ago would be this field of vibrant yellow rapeseed that my friend Jackie and I came across one evening. Here’s my daughter Lizzie (looking a lot younger than she is now) among them in the gorgeous golden light, just before sunset.

It was a beautiful location for my spring family photoshoots that year, and I returned with clients often.

spring photoshoot in Dorset

Why book a spring photoshoot?

There are so many reasons to book a spring family photoshoot with me this year – whether you choose a spring family photoshoot or an outdoor maternity photoshoot.

  1. For one thing, it’s always nice to get outdoors, particularly after a long cold winter.
  2. Another reason is that you can enjoy the beauty of the emerging spring flowers while also having some fun as a family. If it’s a maternity photoshoot that you’re interested in, you can enjoy some peace and tranquillity in beautiful surroundings before your baby arrives.
  3. Plus, you’ll be able to update your photo albums with your new springtime portraits or get some beautiful new artwork onto your walls at home.

Since time passes quickly and children grow and change so fast, even if you had a family shoot a few years ago, wouldn’t be nice to get some updated portraits now the kids have grown?

Dorset childrens photographer

What happens during a spring family photoshoot?

All my spring outdoor photoshoots are held at locations within Dorset. I’ll make a recommendation nearer the time based on the flowers that I know are in bloom there.

It’s suitable for up to 5 people and lasts around 1-2 hours.

I’ll take care of everything. As well as sourcing the location, I’ll guide you on how to interact and pose for the camera on the day.

I’ll encourage you to relax and simply enjoy the time together and, while you do, I’ll capture a variety of individual and group photos.

springtime photoshoot

Spring photoshoot outfit ideas

I will help by giving you ideas and recommendations on what to wear to your spring photoshoot.

Mummies and daughters are also welcome to use any of my princess-style dresses. I have them in many gorgeous pastel shades that complement the stunning colours of the blossom and bluebells, making them ideal for outdoor portraits among the spring flowers.

Aren’t they fabulous?!

I also have some cute outfits for little boys and accessories that I can bring along too.

dorset photography

Book your Spring photoshoot in Dorset today

Both outdoor family portrait sessions and outdoor pregnancy sessions are available this spring, but slots are limited.

The flowers don’t stay at their best for long, so if you’d like a spring family photoshoot or an outdoor maternity session, please don’t delay in booking!

Take a look around the website for details of my prices and packages, then contact me to book.

I’d love to capture portraits of you and your family this year. I guarantee you won’t regret taking some time to be photographed together among the spring flowers – they really are beautiful!

Karen x


What to wear to your outdoor family photoshoot

Are you considering an outdoor family photoshoot but don’t have a clue what you should wear?

If so, don’t panic!  This is of the most common questions that I get asked when my clients book one of my lifestyle photoshoots.

And quite rightly so. The clothes you wear on the day of your family photoshoot should be a big consideration since they dramatically impact on the overall look and feel of the photos.

Things to consider when planning what to wear to your outdoor family photoshoot

  1. How and where are you planning to use the photos?

This is often something that can be forgotten, but it’s actually really important to think about how and where you will display the photos in your home.

If you are having a family photoshoot with the intention of hanging the mounted or framed photos in your living room, then think about the colour scheme in the room. What colours would work well with your décor?

Similarly, if you are having an outdoor family session so that you can get some fun photos of the children and plan to hang the pictures in their bedroom, again, what colours would work well with the room’s colours scheme?

Complementary colours will ensure that the pictures fit perfectly in the room and will enhance the colour scheme that you already have.

  1. Seasonality

The time of year that you are having the photoshoot is a really important consideration. Certain colours and types of clothing work best in particular seasons.

  • In the spring, pastels and light fresh blues, greens and yellows are a great option.
  • In summer, warm pinks, yellows look beautiful, as do cool sky blues, mints and aqua. For something glitzier, you’ve got the choice of champagne, rose gold and ivory shades.
  • Browns, rusty oranges, golds and creams work really well in the Autumn.
  • Warm reds and jewel colours such as emerald greens, teal and mulberry are perfect in the Winter.

My top tip would be to pick a base colour and consider the season when choosing this. Then, introduce contrast by wearing denim or either warm or cool neutrals.

For some great examples and for more inspiration on what to wear to your photoshoot, take a look at my Pinterest board where you’ll find colour combinations and suggestions for suitable clothing.

  1. A cohesive colour scheme for the whole family

Another really important consideration is how the family will look pictured together. What you are aiming for ideally is a cohesive, consistent colour scheme without looking too ‘matchy’.

The natural, outdoor photos that I will take of you and your family will look so much better if you have thought through in advance how you will incorporate your chosen colours into everyone’s clothing, but in a subtle way.

You don’t want to look like you tried too hard!

  • If dad is wearing a casual white shirt with blue trousers and tan canvas shoes, perhaps mum could wear a white coloured dress and blue pumps
  • The boys in the family could then wear either a casual blue shirt or plain white T-shirt with smart denim jeans and blue trainers
  • Or, for a girl, a blue and white checked with a white cardigan and sandals or shoes.

  1. Wear clothes that are smart but comfortable

A final, but really important point!

During your outdoor family photoshoot, I’ll be aiming to capture natural photos. Which means that I want them to reflect who you really are.

While that doesn’t mean that you need to ‘dress up’ for the occasion, anything too far the other way means that you potentially won’t look your best on camera.

My top tip here would be to keep the overall look smart-casual.

  • Anything too formal will look unnatural and will be uncomfortable for you and the kids. So please don’t force your children into shirts buttoned up to the collar if they aren’t used to wearing them or shoes that rub their feet. It’ll just mean that they’ll be fidgeting during the session which may make it a more stressful experience for you.
  • And don’t wear anything that’s either too tight-fitting or too baggy. You want your clothes to be flattering, and make you look your best possible self.

You’ll be looking at the pictures for years to come so choose your clothes wisely so that you won’t regret your decision later.

  • Do choose classic cut denim jeans, dresses, plain white T-shirts (no logos), unbranded trainers, plain coloured wellies (in Autumn). Basically, simple, classic clothes work best, and this is true whether you’re having your family portrait session outdoors or in the photography studio.
  • Anything too bright, fussy or overly-detailed will put the focus on the clothes rather on you, which is the exact opposite of what we’re hoping to achieve.

Again, there are some great examples of the styles of clothes that work well on my Pinterest board. Take a look there for inspiration on what to wear for your family photoshoot.

What will you wear to your outdoor family photoshoot?

So, I hope that these tips I have shared about what to wear to your outdoor family photoshoot have been useful?

Feel free to let me know which colour combinations from my Pinterest board that you love in the comments below, and feel free to ask any questions about what to wear, too.

As you’ll probably already know, I love photographing families outside all year round.

In the spring and summer, we’re spoilt with beautiful flowers, lush greenery, beautiful sunsets and those amazingly long, balmy evenings. And in the autumn and winter, the days aren’t as long but we still get beautiful light and there are still lots of opportunities to get some gorgeous pictures outdoors (just wrap up warm!).

Specialist in outdoor family photography

Remember, I specialise in outdoor portraits of not just families, but also newborn babies, children of all ages, and pregnant ladies too. So, if you’d like to secure a slot for your own outdoor portrait session here in Dorset, please complete this contact form.

I also have my own outdoor garden studio so you could book a studio session and also get some outdoor shots taken without us all needing to travel to a different location. Handy, right?

Karen x


Kids outdoors photographer

Outdoor family portrait sessions in Dorset’s finest wildflower meadows

The summer is my favourite time of the year and I’m so excited to now be offering outdoor family portrait sessions among some of Dorset’s finest wildflower meadows.

This year, I’ve collaborated with the lovely people at Holme for Gardens in Wareham, and have permission to use their field for outdoor lifestyle portraits.

So, naturally, I’ve been making the most of this opportunity and taking my clients there in the past week or so. It’s worked out brilliantly and all the children involved have loved having their photograph taken among the beautiful wildflowers.

Kids outdoors photographer

Outdoor wildflower portrait sessions in Dorset

Here are just some of the portraits I’ve created. Would like something similar of your family?

There is still time left in the season before the flowers lose their vibrant colours, and these outdoor portrait sessions are suitable whether you are after maternity/pregnancy photography, or child and family portraits. Contact me today to book yours.

Family photographer Poole

Natural family portraits

What I love about these sessions is that the children and families who take part are so clearly enjoying the flowers and the freedom to be able to walk among them (while being careful not to damage them, of course).

You’ll see that there are no forced smiles or static poses. The family photographs I create natural, outdoor pictures that bring the best of the outdoors into your home, and everyone has a great time in the process.

I achieve this by keeping everyone involved active and entertained throughout. The little ones, I keep occupied by encouraging them to count the wildflowers while I take their portrait. As every parent knows, distraction is the key with younger children!

As both a mum myself and an experienced child photographer, I’ve got lots of tricks like this up my sleeve to secure the perfect outdoor portrait.

family photographer near me

Dorset wildflowers are bloomin’ lovely!

Seeing the wildflowers popping up in fields, gardens and grass verges in the summer makes me really happy. And quite rightly! Who can fail to enjoy the wonderful colours and smells that these flowers create? They are simply fabulous, aren’t they?!

Every year I aim to make the most of the wildflower season. In a previous blog, I have written about how I can achieve perfect portraits in unlikely locations – take a look! It’s a behind-the-scenes insight into how I can create a stunning portrait in small spaces. A creative eye and even just a small patch of wildflowers is all I need!

Young girl smelling wildflowers in Dorset meadow

Book your wildflower portrait session today!

There are plenty of stunning flowers on display this year and they are currently in full bloom. So, don’t miss your chance to get some updated family photos taken outdoors among the beautiful wildflowers while they last!

If you’d like to book one of my outdoor family portrait sessions, get in touch as soon as possible to secure one of the last few slots I have available this summer.

And, if you haven’t already, do pay the Holme garden centre a visit! It’s a family-run business and has beautiful surroundings, a relaxing ambience, gorgeous plants to take home with you and unrivalled gardens to enjoy. I think you’ll love it!

Karen x


parent and baby photography

National Surrogacy Week - What is Surrogacy?

Surrogacy, what’s it all about?

My job as a newborn and family photographer means I meet hundreds of new parents every year in my Poole studio. During the past 10 years, I’ve met parents from all walks of life. No matter what their nationality, beliefs, or sexuality is they love their babies unconditionally. As every parent across the globe does. It’s National Surrogacy week and I knew the perfect couple to chat about their experience.

I’ve been lucky enough to share the joy of well over a thousand couples in being new parents. I’ve heard countless birth stories and their journeys to becoming parents. My own pregnancies were “easy”. I have two amazing kids that are growing into lovely young adults. I couldn’t imagine not being able to share my life with my offspring.

As it’s National Surrogacy week I thought it would be amazing to share one couple’s very personal and emotional account. I learned of their Surrogacy story whilst photographing their newborn baby girl.

Family photos near me

Lisa and Sunny’s Surrogacy story

“The statistics show that 1:4 women experience a miscarriage at some point in their life and 1:100 will experience recurrent miscarriages. It says women but I think it’s important to highlight that men are also impacted by this. For every woman suffering, in many cases, there will be a man struggling as well. So it impacts everyone, your friends, family and colleagues. Whether we realise it or not someone in your world will have dealt with the devastating impact of losing a baby through miscarriage.

There will be no two experiences the same, everyone will deal with their journey differently. Only since my beautiful two-year-old daughter was born, do I feel comfortable to talk about my experience. In the 5 years before Lara was born we experienced multiple miscarriages, ectopic pregnancy. Had several rounds of IVF, a couple of misdiagnoses, numerous invasive tests, operations, blood tests and more needles and drugs than I care to mention. The physical, emotional, mental and financial strain of infertility is immense and has a significant impact on your life.

newborn baby and new parents

Many people would like to share their journey with others but feel unable to. The stigma that surrounds miscarriage, loss of a baby, infertility feels very real. You battle with yourself daily. It becomes all-consuming and dominates your thoughts and feelings. The emotions I have dealt with include shame, anger, embarrassment, loss, jealousy, desperation, love and hope. It is a roller-coaster of emotions, highs and lows. On more than one occasion I considered living a child-free life, I had a career I loved, a loving relationship, good friends and family but every time I considered it my heart dropped and my future looked dark.

During this time we tried everything. From holistic therapy (acupuncture, reflexology, detox retreats) to visiting top London fertility clinics. Finally, in 2015 I was diagnosed with several blood conditions that meant my body views my babies as intruders and rather than nurturing them, attacks resulting in a miscarriage. After being told numerous times by Fertility Consultants that our embryos are ‘perfect’ I was determined not to give up and after my last loss in March 2016, I decided to research Gestational Surrogacy (where a woman often called a host, carries our embryo for us). And this is where our story takes a positive turn; we met Rachel and her family in April 2016 in a Facebook Surrogacy group and have become firm friends ever since.

New baby girl newborn photographer

The next part of my story is the reason I’m able to talk about my experience now. Our beautiful baby girl was born in November 2017. The day Lara was born, so was I. It felt like a fog lifted, I had found my purpose, my missing piece, it was like that dark future disappeared and everything became clear.

Childrens photographer Dorset

Hope

Surrogacy is often a misunderstood topic. Where people think the Surrogate is a victim or being taken advantage of. Here in the UK that couldn’t be further from the truth (there are always exceptions). These women are strong, focused and determined. They have come to the surrogacy world for a variety of reasons but ultimately, they want to help someone have the family they dreamed of. In the UK it’s altruistic so only expenses connected to the pregnancy can be paid, they do not gain financially for giving this incredible gift.

Although our surrogacy journey was straightforward compared to other journeys, it was still an emotional rollercoaster. We were successful with Lara on our second IVF attempt, so we still had to deal with the heartache of a failed transfer which we found out about the day before my 38th birthday. Even with Surrogacy, there is no guarantee you’ll have a family at the end of your journey. Watching Lara now though it was worth every tear, every moment of heartbreak, every penny and I’d do it all over again to be where we are now.

Family photographer Dorset

Looking back on my journey, we’ve been taken emotionally, physically and mentally to some dark places. The surrogacy community and the Surrogates that are prepared to help people like us brought hope when we thought there was none. They don’t only change lives but help create them, helping people start and complete their families. They’re some of the strongest people I’ve ever met.  I’m blessed to have found the community and made some amazing friends, both Surrogates and other Intended Parents (IPs).

I’m always here to answer questions or offer support so please feel free to get in touch if you’re in the middle of that fog or just would like to know more. Wishing anyone who is in that dark place the strength and determination to continue their journey, whether you reach your dream through your own pregnancy, adoption or surrogacy – hold on, it’s definitely worth it!”

Lisa x

Best Family photographer

Baby sleeping on the beach

Outdoor newborn photography in Dorset

During the spring a couple of years ago, I took a newborn baby to a patch of bluebells in Dorset countryside. There, I did my first ever outdoor newborn photography photoshoot.

And, because I loved that session and the photos I created so much (and the baby’s parents did too!), every year since I’ve aimed to do more outdoor newborns.

This summer, I’ve tried a few new outdoor locations with newborn babies. I’ve been to the beach in Poole, and the forest and parks locally. Luckily for me, Dorset has plenty of beautiful locations to work from.

location photoshoot Poole Dorset
Newborn photographer Poole

On-location baby photography

Outdoor baby photo sessions are quickly becoming one of my favourite things to do, but they can be quite challenging.

They are weather dependent for one thing, which is why I can’t offer them as a paid-for service; they’re just a personal project for now that I organise when the mood takes me, and the weather is fine.

It’s frustrating that I can’t do more though, to be honest. I’ve certainly had lots of interest from parents wanting to book me for an outdoor newborn photo session and I love doing them. But right now, they’re just something fun and challenging for me to try out with willing families.

Anyone who knows me well should know that I’m always up for a creative challenge!

Baby sleeping on the beach

The challenges of an outdoor newborn photoshoot

Another reason why photographers don’t typically offer outdoor newborn photography is that feeding the baby during the session can be tricky, and if you have a newborn you’ll know that they need feeding regularly when they are so small.

Without the comfortable seating that I have in my photography studio, and perhaps no seating at all depending on the location, an outdoor session with a newborn can be trickier for the parents.

Plus, you also have the fact that if you’re in a public location, there’s a high chance that other people will be nearby and may want to have a nosey at what we’re up to!

That said, I always choose quiet locations for my outdoor newborn photo sessions and do them when the sun is setting. This is when places like parks and beaches are usually quieter, and it’s when the light is absolutely gorgeous!

Sunset sessions are my favourite! The golden evening light is just perfect for photoshoots!

Best newborn photographer
Baby sleeping on Poole beach

Interested in an outdoor newborn photoshoot?

If you’re expecting a baby and are interested in my newborn photography service, do get in touch.

For many years now, I’ve offered both studio photography and outdoor, on-location photography and I love the variety of my work.  Take a look at my newborn gallery to see more examples of the images I’ve created for clients.

Outdoor newborn photography sessions are limited and only available at certain times of the year. But if you’re keen to know more, be sure to follow me on Facebook and Instagram, as that’ll be where I announce any model calls for future outdoor newborn photoshoots.

Karen

Baby on the beach sleeping

Studio Maternity photography photography

Five things to do before baby arrives: Tips for mums-to-be

If you’re expecting a baby, huge congratulations! Having a baby is life-changing, wonderful and a thrilling adventure! I’m really excited for you!

So now, with the news of your pregnancy having been announced to friends and family, you may be wondering…what’s next? What should you do first?

Well, here’s a list of five things to do before baby arrives.

Hands up, I didn’t do all of these when I was pregnant. But with the benefit of hindsight, I should have done! I highly suggest that you do at least some of these while you have the chance.

As a mum of two myself, I know how quickly those nine months do go.  Even if at several points in your pregnancy you’ll probably feel like you’ve been pregnant FOREVER, it really isn’t long. And you’ll have lots to organise before your baby is born.

I’d highly recommend that try to avoid getting so lost in the excitement that you forget to take some time out for yourself during your pregnancy! Decide now what would you like to do before baby arrives. And be sure to get it scheduled in your diary.

baby photo studio photographer

Things to do before having a baby

  1. Plan a Baby Moon

Without doubt your life will never be the same again once your baby has been born. Of course, I mean that in the best possible way. But it does mean that there won’t be much time for you and your partner initially.

Travelling across the country or to other corners of the world is unlikely to be at the top of your priority list with a baby in the family. So, plan a holiday or mini break.

Travel to a far-flung location or go on that city break that you’ve always wanted to. With a baby in tow, travel will be more complicated in the future. So, use the time you have now to tick off those travel destinations that have forever been on your wish list.

I recommend planning these ‘baby-moon’ trips for the first and second trimesters of your pregnancy rather than the third as you’ll probably be more comfortable and have a smaller baby bump to lug around.

You may also find that some airlines don’t let you travel close to your due date. Always check their policies before you book flights.

Smiling mother to be

2. Treat yourself to a pampering session or spa break

Of course, you should ensure to eat well, drink plenty of water and rest regularly during your pregnancy. But you also could indulge in a spot of relaxation and pampering time too! After all, you’re growing a little person in there. You need to look after yourself.

A home pampering session could involve a relaxing soak in a hot bath, listening to your favourite music. Why not invest in some soft fluffy towels and luxury toiletries to enhance the experience, hey? Or you could enjoy a regular night in alone. Watching your favourite TV show or reading your favourite book or magazine uninterrupted is pure bliss!

Or, take it up a notch and enjoy a spa day with your partner or girlfriends. Spa days are a popular way to rejuvenate as you get to spend quality time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and come out with glowing skin and feeling like a chilled-out goddess!

A pregnancy massage could also really help with aches and pains in your back, ease sore muscles and reduce tension.  Luckily, here in Dorset and neighbouring Hampshire, we have some amazing hotels with fantastic spa facilities such as Chewton Glen and Rhinefield House. Both highly recommended!

Dorset studio photographer

3. Book a maternity photoshoot

If maternity photography was popular around the time I was pregnant with my own children, I would have loved to have had some photos taken. And this is something that I hear from a lot of mums who come into my photography studio with their babies.

The thing is, unless you have another child, you may not ever get the chance again to capture your pregnancy in photographs. What a shame to potentially miss out on this opportunity!

Both you and your child will love to look back on photographs of your beautiful body in those final stages of your pregnancy, in years to come!

Related reading: What to expect from a pregnancy photoshoot

Location maternity photography session

I recommend that if you would like me to capture your growing baby bump in photos, to book in as soon as possible after your 20-week scan when you know your expected due date. Do also book in for a newborn photoshoot at that time as well.

That way, we can confirm the slot in my diary, and you won’t run the risk of being too late to book. As your due day approaches, you’ll be glad you sorted it early as it’ll be one less thing to think about.

The beautiful maternity pictures I will create will make you look and feel fabulous. Did you know that I’m an award-winning maternity photographer?

I have a stunning collection of designer maternity gowns for you to choose from, or we can opt for simple photos – the session is completely bespoke to you.

Your maternity photoshoot can also be done in my studio here in Poole, near Bournemouth, Dorset. Or, we can venture outdoors to your favourite local location, whatever the season.

Studio Maternity photography photography

4. Host a Baby Shower

Baby showers are really popular these days as a way of celebrating your unborn baby, so I couldn’t leave this off my list of things to do before baby arrives, could I?

Friends and family of the mum-to-be get together to share gifts and well-wishes, and it’s a great excuse to have some quality time with your besties before your baby arrives.

Usually, a friend will organise a baby shower for you, sometimes as a surprise. But if you definitely would like one, be sure to let them know. A baby shower is a fun occasion which usually includes baby-themed games and party food, so will take some organising. Ideally, don’t hold it too close to your due date – babies can sometimes arrive weeks early!

Sleeping baby cuddled up with toy bunny rabbit

5. Get lots of sleep if you can

A final suggestion in my list of things to do before baby arrives is to sleep! I know it’s easier said than done as having a big baby bump towards the end of your pregnancy can make sleep more difficult. But, once you are on your maternity leave especially, try to resist the urge to keep busy or clean the house!

The urge to ‘nest’ can become overwhelming in the final stages of your pregnancy but leave the housework if you can. Rest your body and take the chance now to get as much shut-eye as possible. Sleep in the daytime if you can and get early nights.

I hate to break it to you, but you won’t be getting much sleep in the initial days and weeks after your baby is born. Believe me, a tired, burnt-out new mum will find it so much harder when the little one arrives than a mum who’s rested, relaxed and in tip-top shape on the big day.

Newborn baby photographer Poole

Which of these will you find time for?

I hope this list of things to do before baby arrives has been useful? Let me know which ones you hope to do in the comments section below.

Good luck with your pregnancy and I hope to see you in my photography studio soon! If you’re interested in booking in with me for maternity photos or newborn photos, please get in touch by completing this form.

Karen x


Perfect portraits captured in unlikely locations

Perfect portraits

Hey, everyone!

If like me, you have been enjoying the great outdoors this summer, then you can’t have failed to notice the grass getting long and that patches of wildflowers have appeared. The council has also been leaving it longer between grass cuts.

This is great for the wild bee population, and the butterflies have been in abundance this summer.

The long grass and wildflowers are not only great for the insects though – I love it too! (Except on the A31, where it’s really dangerous coming to the roundabouts!)

Through the lens: What I see

Every day I drive past a small but perfectly formed patch of wildflowers on the way to school. To me, they are just crying out to but used in a photoshoot!

I’m sure most people would think I am slightly nuts getting excited about this. After all, it’s just a small patch – a couple of meters long – at the side of the road! But what I see through the camera lens is different to what others see.

Despite what you might think, as a portrait photographer, I don’t need a sweeping meadow or an amazing vista as a backdrop. I can see the potential in even the most unlikely locations.

I know how to make a perfect portrait in the most unexpected of places and even in very small spaces.

Trying out an unlikely location

So, armed with one of my many new dresses from the studio, and a willing small person off I ventured.

Safety is really important to me – as you can see from the video below, we were at a safe distance from the road. And mum, of my model Betsy, is right there too, keeping an eye on the children while I take the portraits.

Another thing to point out is that it is hugely important to me that we don’t damage the flowers at all. We don’t wade through the patch, reeking havoc! Instead, we stand on the edge and I can use clever camera angles to make it appear as though the child is actually in among the flowers in the final photo.

Betsy loved the flowers and the dresses and we had a great time getting some lovely location portraits for her mummy.

On another occasion, I took my daughter and her friend back to the same spot for a few more.

And on that day, we also found a patch of long grass which I didn’t even know was there. Although this all took place so close to home, it’s not something I had noticed before. It goes to show what beautiful things we could all be missing out on, right on our doorstep!

Perfect portraits captured in unlikely locations

So what do you think?

Would you have known that these portraits were taken next to such a small patch of flowers alongside a main road?! I suspect, not.

I love creating perfect portraits in unlikely locations like this!

Do get in touch with me if you would like something similar. Contact me on 07749 270431 or you can email me at karenwiltshire@me.com or complete this contact form

And let me know in the comments if you know of any little patches of flowers locally that might be suitable for your very own location shoot!


In the age of the iPhone, do you need a professional photographer?

Hey, everyone!

May is almost here. The sun is starting to shine a little longer each day. And the beautiful flowers are starting to bloom, enticing us all outside for some well-earned family time.

When I log into Facebook my newsfeed at the moment, it is positively bursting with my friends’ lovely snaps of their children. It’s great to see so many of you out and about among the spring flowers.

Since we all have smartphones with pretty sophisticated cameras these days, it is certainly possible to take some great shots simply with your phone.

So, this got me thinking.

In the age of the iPhone, do you need a professional photographer?

Playing devils advocate for a minute, why would you want to book a professional photographer, like me?

When you can potentially capture great outdoor portraits on your phone, is the investment into a pro photographer worth the money?

Is it really worth spending a couple of hundred pounds on professional portraits when you can take your own for free?

So, with this in mind, last week I did a bit of an experiment.

Comparing the iPhone with a professional camera

When I was out in the bluebell woods myself, photographing the beautiful Amira , I grabbed my phone (a shiny new iPhone ) and handed it to Amira’s mummy.

I asked her to get some photos of me photographing Amira, and some shots of Amira on her own.

Putting the iPhone to the test

Now my iPhone is great. Being the latest model, it has an excellent quality integrated camera. So, I was actually amazed at how badly the shots turned out.

I expected vibrant bluebells, a gorgeous warm glow and a creamy background with Amira looking amazing in the foreground.

But this is the shot from my iPhone. You can see for yourself, it isn’t very impressive!

In fact, it’s hard to see Amira at all!

The background is way too clear and messy, the colours are flat and where has that gorgeous warm glow gone?

I was pretty disappointed with the iPhone’s performance to be honest.

Why you need a professional photographer

In contrast to the poor quality iPhone picture that Amira’s mummy took, this is the portrait I captured on my professional camera.

I took this photo while I was stood next to Amira’s mummy. So I was in the same location at the same time, working with the exact same lighting conditions.

I use a professional quality Canon camera and, an essential piece of my kit for this kind of shot, a really long lens.

The advantage of a long lens over the iPhone is that it it allows me to do a tighter crop of the subject. And it does an amazing job of blurring out that messy background and bringing Amira to the forefront of the photo, since I am in control of the apeture of the lens.

The result is a carpet of gorgeous bluebells (deliberately, not all in focus), the child in sharp focus (drawing your eye immediately to her) and the gorgeous golden light falling on her skin.

Wow! Isn’t this a major improvement to the iPhone snap!

Amateur vs. pro photography

You could be forgiven for thinking that these two pictures weren’t taken on the same day, let alone the same time! There is such a huge difference between the two images!

The professional portraits I took were a hit with Amira’s mummy and I’m told that this one is going to be printed and mounted onto the walls at Amira’s home.

The iPhone snap will be deleted!

Heres a few more of the stunning Amira

Proof you need a professional photographer

So, that’s why (in my opinion anyway), in the age of the iPhone you still need a professional photographer!

Even with the very latest smartphones and iPhone cameras at our disposal, the results are so inferior to the quality that a professional photographer can produce.

Now I know this, of course, but I wonder if the thought has ever crossed your mind before? Whether you need a professional photographer? Or whether you could save yourself some money and do a D.I.Y portrait session.

Well, if you’re after the kind of portraits that I can produce, I hope that this may have helped you to answer that question!

If you’re now convinced and would like to book a spring flowers outdoor photoshootplease contact me as soon as possible to book your slot.  I’m on 07749 270431 or email me at karenwiltshire@me.com or complete the contact form on my website

The bluebells are only around for a few more weeks and I only have limited bluebell sessions left.

Karen x


child photographer of the year

Shortlisted for ‘Child Photographer of the Year’ Award

I have received some extremely exciting news today. I have been shortlisted for the Child Photographer of the Year award with the largest photographic society in the UK, the SWPP (the Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers)!

I’m just one of three professional photographers across the UK and Europe who are now in the running for the title of Child Photographer of the Year.

I’m actually in shock if I’m honest, but thrilled too! Oh, wouldn’t it be brilliant if I was to win?!

Gold standard portrait

This portrait was awarded a ‘Gold’ in the SWPP’s latest monthly photography competition and has played a large part in my award nomination.

Long haired girl in field of seed heads

I don’t actually think winning awards is the be-all and end-all. Happy clients are most important to me. Yet, it certainly feels good to have been selected!

Especially when the standard of work from the other thousands of UK and international photographers who have entered the competition is so high!

Accomplished Studio and On-Location Photographer

This nomination is particularly special to me because I have been submitting images to the SWPP this year that have been a mixture of studio photography (my first love) and outdoor, on-location photography.

Although I began doing more outdoor photography in the summer of 2015, it is only in 2016 that I feel that I have become just as competent in on-location photography, using natural light, as I am in the studio.

child photographer of the year

Lifestyle Photography in Dorset

I’ve worked hard, invested in professional training and got out and about around Dorset at every possible opportunity, usually taking my long-suffering daughter Lizzie with me to model (as you can see from all the portraits I’ve included here).

I feel that I have come a long way this year and this award nomination is a real boost and acknowledgement of that.

Making Memories

These portraits are special in another way too; because they are all of Lizzie, my own daughter.

I often talk about the importance of capturing important family moments in photographs.

Being a mum as well as a photographer, I’m in the lucky position of being able to take professional-standard portraits of Lizzie, and in doing so I’m making memories of my own. I love that!

Child Photographer of the Year announced in January

So wish me luck!

The winner will be revealed next month at the SWPP’s annual awards ceremony. It would be amazing to become Child Photographer of the Year so please keep your fingers and toes crossed for me and I’ll keep you posted about the result!

Karen x


dorset children's photographer

A day in the life of a children's photographer - Pumpkin patch

A day in the life of a Dorset children’s photographer.

So, the sun is shining but there’s a little chill in the air. This can only mean one thing. That summer has passed and autumn is in full swing.

I love those late summer evenings with the golden glow of sunset, but I have to confess I really love autumn too. The colours and bright crisp days are great for a little location photography. Just wrap the kids up warm, hats, scarves and gloves, chunky jumpers, and wellies. It’s a kid’s dream! They love running in the leaves and splashing in puddles (I mean, who doesn’t? If only us grown-ups could get away with it) and generally being kids!

Today I headed off in search of a slightly different type of location. After a quick search on the internet, I found a great “Pick your own” pumpkin farm on the edge of the New Forest in Sopley.

What a great backdrop for a photoshoot and with half term and Halloween just around the corner, it seemed like a great opportunity to get some fun seasonal photos. We followed the pumpkin signs and found it fairly easily, pulled into the carpark, and Wow! Row upon row of pumpkins. It was a photographer’s dream. A photo opportunity around every pumpkin.

The boys had an absolute blast choosing the biggest and best pumpkin. The farm even supply little sledges for you fill with your finds.

Not content with just pumpkin picking, the boys decided to test out their wellies. This meant things were going to get very messy! Well, boys will be boys and I loved the fact that they had so much fun out in the fresh air on their photoshoot. We had plenty of lovely clean shots before the splashing started so mum was pretty relaxed about the mess.

Things quickly got even messier with all three boys enjoying the splashing fun.

We finished off the trip a lovely photo on the farm tractor. The boys had a fantastic photoshoot doing exactly what boys love doing, getting messy!

dorset children's photographer

If you’d like a lovely Autumnal location photoshoot then please get in touch (I promise puddle jumping doesn’t have to be included). What a great way to spend the day making memories with Dorset children’s photographer!

Bye for now

Karen x