What to expect from a pregnancy photoshoot in Dorset with Karen Wiltshire Photography
What can you expect from a pregnancy photoshoot with me? Well, if you’re a mum-to-be considering a maternity session, keep reading to find out.
I'm an award-winning Dorset maternity photographer and have worked with many lovely expecting ladies over the years.
Will you choose an indoor or outdoor maternity photoshoot?
While I have a custom-designed photography studio in Poole and I love to do indoor, studio-based maternity sessions, I also adore going on location in and around Dorset with my maternity clients.
The type of pregnancy photoshoot you choose will likely be dictated by the time of year and the weather.
My outdoor maternity photoshoots are available almost all year round. It’s only in the winter that I generally don’t shoot maternity outdoors. I imagine you’d rather be in the warmth and comfort of the studio at that time of year!
Naturally, when the weather is good, my outdoor maternity sessions are very popular, and it’s clear why. Open space and a natural setting are lovely to have as a photoshoot backdrop.
Pregnancy photoshoot portraits: Examples through the seasons
To inspire you on what’s possible in the season that you’re expecting your baby, here’s an overview of what each season offers in terms of flora and fauna.
Spring pregnancy photoshoots
Everything outdoors starts to come alive from April onwards, so if you’re expecting your baby in the spring then an outdoor pregnancy photoshoot is possible among the bluebells, daffodils or delicate blossoms.
From May, colour flowers like azaleas and rhododendrons also start to bloom and the greenery fills out which looks wonderful in the photos.
Summer pregnancy photoshoots
Summer (hopefully) brings with it warmer weather and longer, lighter evenings. This is the time of year when I love to get out and about with maternity clients and their families either on the beach or in the local woodlands.
‘Golden hour’ in the early evenings is a great time for photos and, if we’re lucky, we can include the setting sun in the portraits.
Around May/June, wildflowers come into their own. I know of local poppy and rapeseed fields that we can visit. Slightly later, around June/July, we could seek out patches of long summer grasses.
Then, in August/September, sunflowers add some vibrant colour and drama to outdoor maternity portraits. Lavender is lovely in Summer too, although sadly there aren’t any lavender fields in Dorset. Since we have so much else to enjoy though, let’s not worry about that!
Related reading: How to stay cool when pregnant in the summer
Autumn pregnancy photoshoots
Autumn is a beautiful time for outdoor photos too and is probably my favourite time of year to shoot outdoors actually.
The colours are gorgeous; fiery reds, burnt oranges and bright yellows. Leaves are falling and there’s a carpet of colour on the ground. The light is also soft and warm, and the temperature is generally still pleasant so you shouldn’t feel a chill either.
I know some lovely locations in and around Poole and Bournemouth where it’s stunning in autumn time, as shown in these examples.
If you’re expecting your baby in autumn, just imagine it! This could be you!
Winter pregnancy photoshoots
Unless we’re having a particularly mild winter, or you’re feeling brave (!), during the winter all maternity sessions are done in my photography studio in Broadstone, Poole.
Indoors, I use flattering studio lights and a variety of neutral printed backdrops to create flattering maternity portraits such as those shown here.
Other things you should know about my maternity portrait sessions
So, I hope that was useful as a guide to what you can expect from a pregnancy photoshoot throughout the seasons of the year.
If you opt for an outdoor pregnancy photoshoot, we can visit a location of your choice or I can suggest somewhere, and we can achieve a good range of photographs from just one location.
Oh, and in case you’re wondering, I can advise you on what to wear – it’s all part of the service. I can also provide a selection of beautiful maternity photoshoot dresses. You’re welcome to pick whichever one takes your fancy and borrow it for the duration of the shoot. These are luxury designer maternity gowns that will make you feel amazing and that look stunning on everyone!
Ready to book your outdoor pregnancy photoshoot?
I really enjoy maternity photoshoots, and just love to help excited mums-to-be in those final weeks of their pregnancy by creating beautiful portraits for them to treasure.
If you like the bump photos you see here and are expecting in the next few months, do get in touch to enquire or make a booking so that I can create the same for you!
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!
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.
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.
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.
- For one thing, it’s always nice to get outdoors, particularly after a long cold winter.
- 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.
- 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?
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.
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.
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
Celebrate your amazing mum with a Mother’s Day portrait session
Mother’s day gift inspiration!
Mother’s Day is coming up on Sunday 27th March. Have you arranged a special Mother’s Day gift for the mums in your life yet?
If not, why not consider a Mother’s Day portrait session?
My family photo sessions are ideal for capturing a beautiful mother and daughter or mother and son portrait, or one with several generations of the family!
Don’t forget to treat mum this Mother’s Day!
By the way, fellas, if you’ve become a daddy in the past year, and this will be your partner’s first-ever Mother’s Day, don’t forget to treat her with this fantastic Mother’s day gift!
She’ll love a portrait session with you and your baby – it will be a great memento of your growing family.
Timeless, natural portraits
My photoshoots are informal and relaxed, and the pictures are natural – as I know you like them.
I have an expert eye for capturing the special moments you share on the day, and I’ve several tricks up my sleeve for making children of any age feel comfortable in front of my camera.
Family portrait sessions at KW Photography
I offer portraits at my photography studio in Poole. Or, if you’d prefer an outdoor location, I’m more than happy to meet you at your favourite park or picnic spot across Dorset for some al fresco portraits in the spring sunshine (fingers crossed about the last bit!).
Capturing special memories: The perfect Mother’s Day gift!
As a working mum, I certainly don’t know where the weeks go! I rarely get round to having photos taken where I am in front of the camera, with my kids.
My daughter Lizzie is a great model, and I’ve hundreds of pictures of her, but very few of me together with my children or with my mum.
Perhaps you are the same?
If so, a Mother’s Day portrait session at KW Photography would be a lovely way to celebrate your beautiful brood and get the family photos you want, once and for all.
What’s included in a Mother’s Day portrait session?
Group family sessions start from just £299 for a one-hour photoshoot, and up to five people can come along. This includes 5 photos via a download link.
If you’ve got a larger family than that, no problem! Larger groups can be catered for as well if you arrange it with me first.
Mother’s Day photos
I’ll professionally edit around 20-30 final images from your Mother’s Day portrait session and you can view these within a private viewing before choosing which ones to purchase.
After the shoot, you will have the opportunity to buy from a range of high-quality photo products priced from just £150.
Or you can opt to receive the images on a KW Photography keepsake USB.
How to book your Mothers Day portrait session
Booking is simple and there are two options available.
- Either book a family portrait session be held within the next week or so and then present the images as a gift on Mother’s Day.
- Or buy a KW Photography voucher to present on Mother’s Day and book your family session at a mutually convenient time later in the month or year.
Treat your mum to a Mother’s Day portrait session
I’ve already got lots of bookings for Mother’s Day weekend although I do still have a limited number of slots available.
So if you’d like to treat your mum or partner to a professional photoshoot for Mother’s Day. Then contact me to book today on 07749 270431 or via karen@me.com or via the contact form on my website.
Let’s celebrate mum with timeless photography. After all, she’s worth it!
Karen x
Bluebell woods portraits: It’s finally time!
Bluebell Photoshoot
Yay! So it’s nearly BLUEBELL photoshoot time!
I had an absolute blast last spring photographing so many gorgeous families among the beautiful bluebell woods. And with bluebell season fast approaching, I’m getting SO excited.
I literally CAN NOT WAIT to get started on this year’s bluebell photoshoots!
Bluebell woods portraits in Dorset
I’m planning to be doing my outdoor lifestyle photoshoots in the local bluebell woods from mid-April onwards when the flowers look their best and are at their most vibrant.
I’ll be visiting my favourite bluebell photoshoot locations but I’ve been busy scouting out new ones in these past weeks too.
Related reading: Interested in a spring photoshoot?
Natural portraits among the bluebell woods
Over the past few years of taking bluebell woods portraits, I have perfected my technique of capturing stunning family photos, like these, among the carpet of delicate blue flowers.
And I’ve mastered it, not only in the day but at dawn and dusk as well, as these pictures show!
Related reading: Bluebell portrait sessions in Dorset and Hampshire
Anyone who has tried to take a snapshot among the bluebell woods will know that it isn’t easy to achieve photos like these, which is why it’s worth hiring a professional.
Working with the natural and low-light conditions of the woods is a skill I have mastered over the years. And, in keeping with my photography style, I can engage with children of all ages and keep them relaxed and comfortable throughout the shoot, so that the bluebell woods portraits I take are natural and, most importantly, as you like them.
Book your bluebell woods photoshoot today
The bluebell season lasts just six weeks and, based on the popularity of these sessions last year, I know that it won’t be long before I’m completely booked up. So, contact me as soon as possible to book in for your bluebell woods session.
Bookings have been coming in earlier each year. I took my first bluebell woods portrait booking in January and have had a flurry of enquiries in the last couple of weeks. So, don’t miss out! If you would like bluebell woods portraits of your family this spring, contact me today!
To book your session contact me on 07749 270431, email me at karenwiltshire@me.com or the contact form on my website.
My favourite bluebell woods portraits
And, prepare for a Facebook timeline full of images from this year’s bluebell sessions! I’ll be sharing some of my favourite bluebell woods portraits with you on the KW Photography Facebook page over the next few weeks!
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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
Beach Days - Sandy toes and Salty kisses
Dorset Beach Photographer
I’m lucky enough to live and work as a family photographer on the sunny south coast in Dorset. Dorset is well known as a top UK holiday destination and has so many gorgeous places to visit. I feel spoilt for choice for photography locations in the local area. From the beautiful rolling countryside with spectacular views, to the award-winning beaches at Bournemouth and Poole. Not forgetting the dramatic Jurassic Coast, there’s something for everyone. I feel so lucky to be able to be a Dorset beach photographer.
Visitors flock to our beaches from far and wide because they are so unspoilt. Miles of golden sandy beaches, white cliffs and pristine coves to explore with the family. If you love relaxing by laying on the beach sunbathing then visit the 7 miles of sand at Bournemouth and Poole. Or if you fancy a bit more adventure, the Jurassic coast offers fabulous fossil hunting and rock pooling. My kids loved searching the rock pools for all sorts of creatures.
My home town of Poole has the most stunning harbour which is Europes largest natural harbour, this is a mecca for water-sports enthusiasts. Even at high tide, the Harbour side of the Sandbanks peninsular is very shallow. Making the harbour perfect for learning to windsurf and paddleboard. If you fall off you can just stand up in the water and hop back on!
Summertime is the perfect time to visit and enjoy the sun, sea, and sand at Dorset’s gorgeous beaches. Kids love playing in the warm coastal waters and spending the day building sandcastles. Beach days are just so much fun for all the family.
What could be better than splashing in the waves or trying your best to build the biggest sandcastle possible with a tiny bucket and spade? Spending time searching for fossils with my two kids at Lyme Regis is a memory I will always cherish. Cracking open a stone and finding a fossil is just so much fun, and not just for the kids ;).Kids just love spending time at the beach. It’s such a perfect family day out.
The Global pandemic has challenged us all to rethink our priorities and take stock of what’s important in our lives. I think we are all enjoying and appreciating the simple pleasures in life much more. Even if my Banana bread was never quite instagramable 🙂
“Stayvacations” are all the rage and quite honestly Dorset is a fabulous county to do just that. If you are fortunate to live here already then its wonderful just to get out and explore where we live more. I’ve found so many great hidden gems locally (oh maybe that’s another blog).If you are visiting or hoping to soon, then I bet the beach is high up on the list for reasons you fell in love Dorset.
This year more than ever, I’m getting asked to meet families at the beach for a fun relaxed photoshoots. Whether you are staying on holiday, day-tripping, or live locally the beach is a great location for photos.
My favourite beaches for photo sessions are Hengistbury head with the amazing sunset and great beach huts. I also love my local beach, Sandbanks especially nearer the ferry with the sand dunes ( kids love playing in the dunes) and Studland for the quieter more rugged landscape.
Location photo shoots are some of my favourite sessions for families, especially with the long summer evenings. Why not make your stay even more memorable by booking a beach photoshoot. Those memories really will last a lifetime.
Remember, love the sand between your toes (and in your sandwiches), embrace the sand in the car for the next month. Most of all enjoy!
If you fancy a stroll along the beach whilst getting some amazing photos to cherish, you can get in touch with me here.
Bye for now
Karen x
Beach Maternity Photoshoot
Beach Maternity Photoshoot
Are you looking to capture your beautiful bump with a beach maternity photoshoot and create some beautiful photos?
Well, whether you are pregnant now and ready for a photoshoot or just planning ahead ( love organised people ) you’ve certainly come to the right place. It’s no secret maternity photos are one of my favourite sessions, especially if we can combine the photoshoot with a magnificent Sunset! Where better than a beach maternity photoshoot to get fantastic sunset photos.
I love all the wonderful locations we have here in Dorset, but the beach maternity photoshoots, especially in the summer are amazing. Sandy toes in the water, beautiful dress, suntanned bump what could be better?
Here are some hints and tips to help your beach maternity session go to plan.
What to wear
When you book a maternity session with me, we can discuss the kind of photos you are hoping for. I have a great selection of designer maternity dresses available for you to use and most are suited to the Beach. If you prefer to wear your own dresses then Asos is a great site for beach type maternity dresses for that relaxed floaty Boho look. Pale, pastel colours look great on the beach and white can look fab against the sand and waves. The beach in the summer can be busy so if you want to change then be aware you may have to shimmy inside a blanket to change on the beach, especially out of hours when the toilets facilities will be closed.
Related reading: What to expect from a pregnancy photoshoot
Time of Day
My absolute favourite time of day for any location photoshoot would be the “golden hour “. At the end of the day, the light is just sublime. We could do sunrise but that would take some dedications from both of us to be at the beach for 4.30 am. 🙂 So the golden hour is probably best! That last hour or so before sunset has just the most the beautiful soft light. We all love that golden glow in photos and really is super flattering to us ladies. We can make the most of the golden light and hopefully get some great sunset photos too. I can’t stress enough how important the right light is for the photos, sunset can be late in the summer so Beach sessions tend to be between 7-9 pm to make the most of the light.
Can I bring my partner?
Absolutely! 100% yes! Dads-to-be are just as excited about the new arrival and often get a little overlooked so yes bring him along. We can include him in as many photos as you like. A simple pale coloured shirt with shorts or trousers will compliment you perfectly and look great in the photos. Dads love the special time with you and the bump, sometimes they can get a bit forgotten.
Can I bring my other children?
Oh yes, of course, you can! I just love to capture the older children at maternity sessions. They are super excited too about the arrival of their new brother or sister. If we are going for a sunset shoot then remember to get the little ones to have a nap in the afternoon so they make it into the evening.
What stage in my pregnancy is best for photos?
Oh, this really is a good question, and it really is different for everyone. I’ve had some ladies with tiny bumps at 38 weeks and others completely fed up and “popped” by 30 weeks. Generally, I recommend booking a session between 28 and 36 weeks. So before you have gotten too tired and fed up and still feel like you are “blooming”. That way you will look back on the photos in awe of your bump and still be able to make it back to the car having gotten your steps in on the beach. Walking in the sand can be fairly tiring when not pregnant, so add pregnancy into the mixed and you could be exhausted if later on in your pregnancy.
How do I book?
Well booking your beach maternity photoshoot couldn’t really be any simpler, check out my maternity booking information here
My maternity sessions are currently discounted, so grab an absolute bargain.
Just drop me a line with your due date and the type of maternity session you’d like and we can go from there. I can’t wait to hear from you and get some great bump photos for you.
Bye for now
Karen x
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.
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.
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.
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!
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
Christmas Eve Box ideas
Christmas Eve is nearly here.
Christmas Eve traditions for my family are pretty simple, carrot for Rudolf and whisky and mince pie for Santa. However there’s a new tradition landed in the UK from Germany , the Christmas Eve Box. I’ve done a little digging to find out what it’s all about and come up with a few ideas to take the stress away.
Keep reading for my tips and ideas .
What on earth is it?
So if like me you are wondering what a Christmas Eve box is all about then think of it as an early Christmas stocking. I love the idea of adding a little tradition to help get the kids though Christmas Eve , which can end not in the tv commercial happy families but in the kids having total meltdowns having to wait for the big day. The excitement can just be too much for the kids to bear.
To buy or not to buy?
So the box itself can be a simple as a wrapped box, a shoe box would work perfectly as it already has a a neat fitting lid. Why not line the box with festive paper and add a personal touch to the outside with some ribbon it’s as easy as that. Or if the diy option isn’t your thing then there are plenty of boxes available to buy, like this reusable box from John Lewis
You might want to have a personalised box , there are plenty to chose from online but I like these from Not on the high street
What do I fill it with?
The big question, what do you put in it? Well think about the pressies you stash away to stop the kids getting bored and usually buy or make anyway to make Christmas festive.
1, Festive Colouring, why not print out a few christmasy colouring pages for the kids. Check out these fun free Christmas pages
2, Xmas PJ’s , this is a must for the kids festive jammies are just so cute to wake up in on Christmas Day. Why not add them to the Christmas Eve box and make them that little bit more special . We love these from M&S
3, Gingerbread biscuits, Love baking? Why not add a festive cookie cutter to the box and make some biscuits with the kids. Or you could pop in some ready to eat gingerbread men that just need decorating to save time.
4 Hot chocolate, well you are going to need something to dip those biscuits into ! You could add a little packet of marshmallows and a bag of hot choc powder to a festive mug or buy a pre made cone for the occasion.
5, Christmas book, there’s something quite magical about reading a Christmas book on Christmas Eve with the children at bedtime. Wrap your favourite book or add a new Christmas book.
6, Reindeer food, you can make your own food as an activity with the kids or buy some pre-made to sprinkle for Rudolph and the team.
Just a few inexpensive ideas for you to try and i hope this has inspired you to start or continue a cute tradition on Christmas Eve with the children.
Bye for now
Karen x
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.
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!
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!
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
