Category: Blog of a Portrait Photographer

Watching Families Grow

One of the most rewarding parts of being a family photographer is getting to watch families grow over the years. I first met Jess and Neil when Freddie was just a tiny newborn, and it was such a privilege to later photograph Lottie during her newborn session too. Seeing them all together again for this beautiful golden hour family photoshoot in Chipping Norton felt incredibly special.

A Sunset Session on the Common

We met on the common overlooking the mill on a warm summer evening, with the softest golden light appearing just before sunset. Outdoor family sessions at this time of day always feel a little magical — the light becomes warm and gentle, children are free to explore and play, and everything naturally feels more relaxed.

A Beautiful Evening in Chipping Norton

Freddie (4) brought so much energy and personality to the session, racing across the grass, exploring the open space and making everyone laugh along the way. Lottie (1) was full of curiosity and smiles, happiest snuggled up with Mum and Dad before confidently toddling off to investigate the world around her. These are always the moments I love most during family photography sessions — the genuine interaction, the spontaneous laughter and the little in-between moments that truly reflect this stage of family life.

Rather than stiff posing, the session focused on movement, connection and simply spending time together as a family. We paused for cuddles, games and quiet moments while the sun slowly dropped behind the Oxfordshire countryside, creating the most beautiful sunset backdrop overlooking the mill.

From Newborn Photos to Family Adventures

One of the loveliest things about photographing returning families is seeing how much changes in such a short time. From tiny newborn fingers to adventurous toddlers and confident little personalities, these sessions become such an important record of family life as the years pass by.

Golden Light & Family Connection

Golden hour sessions like this are perfect for families wanting relaxed, natural photographs filled with warmth, connection and real emotion. Chipping Norton offers some beautiful outdoor locations for family photography, and the common overlooking the mill was the perfect setting for this calm summer evening session.

Jess and Neil, thank you again for asking me to capture another chapter of your family story — it was such a joy spending the evening with you all.

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Hi! We’re Pamila & Ian and we have been photographing families in Oxfordshire for over 10 years. We have recently completed our new professional photography studio in Chipping Norton and would love to meet you there or outdoors at a beautiful location like this.

If you’re looking for relaxed outdoor family photography in Oxfordshire please get in touch. You can find more information on my Family Photography page and if you have a baby on the way please take a look at my Newborn Photography page.

If you’re expecting a baby and searching for a newborn photographer in Oxfordshire, you’re likely in the middle of preparing for one of life’s most meaningful changes.

Those early days with your newborn pass in a blur — tiny fingers, soft curls, sleepy stretches. In fact, newborns spend much of their time sleeping as they adjust to the world, as explained by the NHS — which is why this short window is so perfect for capturing those peaceful, curled-up moments.

Many parents begin preparing for life with a newborn during pregnancy, often turning to organisations like the National Childbirth Trust for guidance and reassurance during those early stages.

If you’re based in Oxfordshire and considering newborn photography, here’s everything you need to know before booking.

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When Should You Book a Newborn Photographer in Oxfordshire?

The best time to book your newborn photography session is during pregnancy, ideally between 20–32 weeks.

Newborn sessions typically take place within the first 10–14 days after birth. During this stage, babies are naturally sleepy and still curl comfortably into those timeless newborn poses.

Because this window is short, many newborn photographers in Oxfordshire limit the number of sessions they take each month to allow flexibility around due dates.

Booking early ensures your session is reserved, giving you one less thing to think about once your baby arrives.

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What Makes a Good Newborn Photographer?

Choosing the right newborn photographer in Oxfordshire is about more than just style — it’s about trust, experience, and how you feel during the session.

Experience & Safety

Your photographer should be confident and experienced in handling newborns safely. Sessions should always be baby-led, gentle, and unhurried.

A Calm, Relaxed Studio

A warm, peaceful studio environment makes all the difference. Soft lighting, comfortable temperatures, and a quiet atmosphere help keep both baby and parents relaxed.

Timeless, Natural Style

While trends come and go, soft, neutral tones and minimal styling create images that remain beautiful for years.

Many families are drawn to natural newborn photography that focuses on connection, simplicity, and emotion rather than heavy props.

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A Calm Studio Experience in Chipping Norton

My newborn studio in Chipping Norton welcomes families from across Oxfordshire, including:

• Oxford
• Banbury
• Witney
• Bicester
• Cotswold villages and surrounding areas

Families often travel for a studio experience that feels calm, welcoming, and quietly luxurious.

Sessions are never rushed. There’s always time for feeding, cuddles, and settling your baby.

Parents and siblings are warmly encouraged to be part of the session, creating relaxed, natural family portraits alongside your newborn images.

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What If My Baby Arrives Early?

This is a common concern — and something experienced newborn photographers plan for.

When you book during pregnancy, your due date is reserved rather than a fixed session date.

Once your baby arrives, we simply confirm your session within the first couple of weeks.

This flexible approach keeps everything feeling easy and stress-free.

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Booking Your Newborn Photography Session in Oxfordshire

If you’re expecting and based in Oxfordshire, it’s never too early to check availability.

Newborn sessions are best booked during pregnancy, especially for spring and autumn due dates, which tend to fill quickly.

If you’re looking for a newborn photographer in Oxfordshire and want a calm, natural, and beautifully simple studio experience, I’d love to hear from you.

Professional Headshots in Chipping Norton – Modern, Confident & Authentic

Your headshot is often the first impression you make.

Whether it’s on your website, LinkedIn profile, social media, or marketing materials, your image speaks before you do. As a professional headshot photographer in Chipping Norton, I create natural, polished portraits that help you look confident, approachable, and completely yourself.

And the best part? You don’t have to feel “photogenic” to look incredible.

Why Professional Headshots Matter

In today’s digital world, people buy from people. Before someone books your service or contacts your business, they look you up.

A professional headshot instantly communicates:
• Credibility
• Confidence
• Approachability
• Professionalism

A cropped holiday photo or outdated image can unintentionally send the wrong message. A professional studio headshot ensures your personal brand feels consistent, modern and trustworthy.

Studio Headshot Photography in Chipping Norton

My Chipping Norton studio offers a calm, relaxed environment designed to put you at ease — even if you normally hate having your photo taken.

Using soft, flattering lighting and simple backdrops, we create clean, timeless portraits that work across:
• LinkedIn
• Company websites
• Personal brands
• Social media profiles
• Marketing materials

Whether you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, creative, corporate professional or building your personal brand in Oxfordshire or the Cotswolds, your headshot should reflect who you are and where your business is going.

“I’m Not Photogenic…”

This is the number one thing I hear before a session.

The truth? Being photogenic isn’t about your face — it’s about lighting, angles and guidance.

During your professional headshot session, I’ll guide you through:
• Natural posing
• Relaxed expressions
• Subtle adjustments that make a big difference
• Positioning that flatters you

Most clients leave saying, “That was much easier than I expected.”

And when they see their images? Confidence instantly lifts.

Who Are Professional Headshots For?

Professional headshots are ideal for:
• Small business owners in Chipping Norton
• Entrepreneurs across Oxfordshire
• Creatives and freelancers
• Corporate professionals updating LinkedIn
• Coaches, consultants and service providers
• Anyone building a personal brand

If your online image doesn’t reflect who you are today, it’s time for an update.

Invest in Your Personal Brand

Your business evolves. You grow. Your experience expands.

Your headshot should grow with you.

A modern, professional headshot is not just a photo — it’s an investment in your visibility, credibility and confidence.

If you’re looking for professional headshots in Chipping Norton or the surrounding Cotswolds, I’d love to help you create images you’re proud to share.

Book Your Professional Headshot Session in Chipping Norton

Ready to refresh your image?

Get in touch to book your professional studio headshot session and let’s create something confident, authentic and completely you. We have three different packages or contact us for a bespoke option.

Pregnancy is one of the most powerful and life-changing seasons of your life. As a maternity photographer in Chipping Norton, I have the privilege of capturing this incredible chapter for mums across Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds.

Why Maternity Photography Is So Special?

Your body is doing something extraordinary. You are growing a tiny human — and that strength, softness and love shows in ways you may not even realise.

In my Chipping Norton studio, I use soft, flattering lighting to gently highlight:
• The beautiful curve of your bump
• The natural glow of pregnancy
• The quiet connection between you and your baby

Many women tell me they don’t feel their most confident during pregnancy. But maternity photography isn’t about changing how you look — it’s about showing you just how radiant you already are.

A Luxury Studio Maternity Session in Chipping Norton

When you book your maternity photoshoot in Chipping Norton, everything is designed to help you feel relaxed and confident.

With our elegant styling, we create timeless images that focus on you and your growing bump. My studio environment is calm, welcoming, and perfect for capturing natural, emotive portraits.

Whether you’re based in:
• Chipping Norton
• Stow-on-the-Wold
• Moreton-in-Marsh
• Burford
• Or anywhere in the Cotswolds

You’re just a short drive away from preserving this special time forever.

You Are More Beautiful Than You Think

One of the most common things I hear after a maternity session is:

“I can’t believe that’s me.”

Pregnancy changes your body — but those changes tell a story of strength, love and anticipation. The way you gently hold your bump. The softness in your expression. The excitement of knowing your baby will soon be in your arms.

This chapter is fleeting.

Your maternity photographs allow you to look back and remember not just how you looked, but how it felt to carry your baby.

And one day, your child will see just how incredible you were while carrying them.

When Is the Best Time to Book Your Maternity Photoshoot?

The ideal time for maternity photography is between 28–34 weeks, when your bump is beautifully round but you’re still feeling comfortable enough to enjoy the experience.

If you’re searching for a Chipping Norton maternity photographer, it’s best to book after your 20-week scan to secure your preferred date.

Book Your Chipping Norton Maternity Photography Session

If you’re expecting and would love to celebrate your pregnancy with elegant, timeless portraits, I would be honoured to capture this moment for you.

Get in touch today to book your maternity photoshoot in Chipping Norton and let’s create something truly special.

Because you deserve to see just how wonderful you look

Why You Should Take Your Newborn’s Passport Photo at Home — Yes, Even If I’m a Photographer Telling You This

As a professional photographer who loves capturing newborns in all their tiny perfection, it might surprise you to hear this: if you’re getting ready to travel and need passport photos for a newborn baby, you’re actually better off taking it yourself at home with your iPhone.

Yes, really. And here’s why — from someone who makes a living behind the lens.

1. Your Baby Will Be Most Comfortable at Home

Newborns and strict photo guidelines don’t always mix. Getting them into the car, into a studio, and into the perfect position — all within a narrow appointment window — is a lot to do just for passport photos for a newborn baby. At home, you can take the photo when your baby is calm, alert, and in that sweet spot between feeding and napping. No rushing, no stress.

2. Passport Photos Are About Compliance, Not Creativity

Passport photos have very specific rules: plain white background, no shadows, no expressions, no fancy lighting or editing. It’s not about capturing personality — it’s about meeting strict government criteria.

Honestly? That’s not where a photographer’s creativity shines. You don’t need my camera or my studio to get this done. What you do need is a well-lit space, a plain white sheet or wall, and a phone with a decent camera (which almost all of them are now). Done.

3. You’ll Save Time and Money for What Matters Most

Let’s be real: paying for passport photos for a newborn baby can feel like overkill when it’s something you could do yourself — and probably better — at home. Instead, save your photography budget for moments you’ll actually want to frame.

Because when you’re ready for a beautiful, relaxed newborn session — with soft lighting, cozy wraps, and those dreamy little details you never want to forget — that’s where I come in.

4. Need Help? I Can Still Guide You

If the thought of taking your own baby’s passport photo still feels overwhelming, I totally get it. I’m happy to offer a free guide or a quick virtual consult to walk you through it — just send me a message. I want it to be easy and stress free for you. Besides, this passport might be valid for up to 5 years. They’re not going to look like this for 5 minutes. That’s why we recommend booking another photoshoot in 6 months time…..

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So: DIY the Passport, Then Let’s Talk About the Good Stuff

Getting your newborn’s passport photo done right is important — but it doesn’t need to be expensive, time-consuming, or stressful. Your phone is up to the task.

Save your energy (and your photography budget) for the moments that matter: the sleepy yawns, the curled-up toes, the quiet moments of new life. When you’re ready for those, I’d love to help you capture them beautifully with a newborn photoshoot.

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Is it “Colic” or not? Colic in newborn babies.

I’m sorry that it has been a long time since I have written anything here but I have been trying to run my own business and keep two children alive. Today I thought I would share with you my experiences of colic in newborn babies especially as I now have the benefit of hindsight.

Colic with Child 1

When Beatrice (child 1, the practice one) was born we were obviously pretty clueless about many baby related things despite having worked with babies for many years. A couple of hours fine, but living with one is a whole different ball game. The intention had been to breast feed because that is what the lady at the NCT course said we should do and that is what the midwife said we should do and that is what the hospital encouraged us to do. The intention was also to have a natural birth at the local birth centre in Chipping Norton because it was convenient and the antenatal classes led us to believe that it would be possible. In the end my waters broke, contractions didn’t start and I was given 24 hours before being told to check myself into the John Radcliffe to be induced….

I ended up not needing to be induced but instead everything developed rather quickly to the point that we sent for an emergency caesarean because they were worried about her heart rate. Long story short this meant that my milk didn’t come down, she was under weight at 5lb 13oz and so they wanted to put us on a feeding plan with formula so that they knew she was getting enough. And so continued 7 months of mixed feeding as I also never felt that I had enough. 

About 5 weeks in and the ‘colic’ started. The worst part of the day was the witching hours between 6pm and midnight when she was just unconsolable. We would do everything from singing and swinging and cuddling and swaddling. We bought all of the over counter options which it turns out are just placebos for the parents.

Medical intervention

Eventually we went to the GP. I think if it had been any other doctor they would have sent us away as neurotic first time parents. Luckily this lady had a sister whose child had been diagnosed with a cow’s milk protein intolerance and so she suggested that this could be the problem. As we were mixed feeding this meant me going dairy free and the doctor prescribing special formula.

We tried this for about two weeks but it didn’t seem to be doing anything so we gave up. The health visitor always put it down to baby’s digestive system not being fully developed and we just struggled through until eventually she grew out of it.

Colic with Child 2

Then, when I was pregnant with Violet (child 2) we made the difficult decision that I wasn’t going to breast feed. We had another caesarean planned and she would be going to nursery a lot younger than Beatrice did. Also, we thought that it could have been the mixed feeding that caused the problem the first time around. Turns out it wasn’t. Very early on it was clear that she wasn’t happy. A lot of crying and the formula would go straight through her with very watery poos. We tried changing teats, bottles but very soon decided to call the GP….

Luckily we got the same lady again. She prescribed the Aptamil Pepti and very quickly there was an improvement. (Warning! The milk doesn’t smell very nice and is even worse when it comes out the other end!) Turns out she did have a cows milk protein intolerance and that probably her sister did too! Sadly that probably means that many babies historically have and it was just put down to being ‘colic’.

Milk Ladder

Thankfully we have now completed the milk ladder and it appears that she can tolerate all types of milk. But we do hear of more severe cases where the babies have rashes and more serious problems. Thankfully there are a number of different formulas available for the GP to prescribe if the first option doesn’t work. Also these days there are so many different milks that they can have when they are older.

Apologies to child number one. We were trying our best and we love you dearly! xx

Nappy Rash

Just a quick one today but it’s about something that is a real pain in the butt (if you’ll excuse the pun!) I keep remembering this at our photoshoots in the studio and then forget to put pen to paper. It’s normally when we are doing the first birthday photoshoots as the little ones are on food by then. We’ve done the whole session, they’ve got messy smashing a cake, they’ve had a splash in our little bath tub, and then it’s time to get that nappy back on and get dressed. It’s at this point that we get on to the discussion of nappy rash and nappy creams.

No one wants to see their baby with a poorly bottom. Imagine how uncomfortable that must be to have nappy rash and sometimes, despite how gentle you are with wiping, or how quickly you change their nappy after they have done a poo, they still get a sore bottom.

The Story

This is our story: our eldest attended nursery from about 7 months of age. This changes a lot in terms of your day to day dealings with your child. Yes, you suddenly have some time to do things, but all of a sudden you don’t know every tiny detail of their day. You don’t know how much they’ve slept, how much they’ve played, what they’ve eaten.

Our daughter started to regularly have nappy rash. Nursery would liberally apply Sudocrem. We would liberally Metanium (if you’ve read my previous blogs you will know that I swear by the yellow one). Normally it would get better and generally it was manageable. But then it got really bad, so bad that it was sore and bleeding. So we began to wonder whether it was something that she was eating.

The Culprit

Now we never gave much thought to what we were going to feed our children. We just fed them what we had in the house. So they have always eaten brown bread, wholemeal pasta, lots of fruit and veg. It turns out (thanks Google) that neither us nor nursery were doing anything wrong. That punnet of blueberries that she devoured like sweets was the culprit! Apparently various fruits like blueberries and raspberries can cause really bad nappy rash. We cut out those foods and instantly her bottom was better and she no longer got nappy rash. Now that she is toilet trained she can happily eat whatever she likes. 

I had to share all this with you because it seemed so silly at the time. That something we thought was doing her good was actually causing her harm!

Secret White Noise Function for Newborn Babies

Having just become a new parent for the second time I have loads of tips to share with you. Today though is just about one in particular. It is all to do with white noise. A phrase that in recent years we have all become familiar with.

It is something that is a vital part of our newborn photoshoot routine. Heater, props, nappies, white noise! It is that constant noise that means we can go about our work, making noise and baby will sleep happily. If total silence ever occurs then more often than not a suspicious eye will open as baby wonders what is going on.

In the studio we have a dedicated device to play a shushing sound. Always charged. Always on. At home we have a sheep that makes the womb sound or the sound of rain falling on a tin roof. Our baby sleeps in a Snoo cot that makes all kinds of strange noises that sound like a toilet flushing but it seems to do the trick.

But what do you do when you’re not near one of those things? The batteries have run out. You have left it upstairs. The baby is upset. It’s too quiet. What’s the one thing that you are never without? Your iPhone! 

I only discovered this just before our second daughter was born. My iphone is probably older than her big sister! It’s been there all this time and I didn’t know about it. So I just had to share. All iPhones come with a white noise function built in to them.

How to do it

Go to:

Settings – Accessibility – Audio/Visual – Background sounds

You can choose from: Ocean, Balance Noise, Bright Noise, Dark Noise, Rain or Stream.

Click on this link if you need more detailed instruction.

On top of all of this….. if you ever think that they don’t need white noise, or you think that it doesn’t need to be very loud. Bear in mind that the sound of blood whooshing through the placenta when they were inside you is said to be louder than a vacuum cleaner!

I hope this information about white noise proves useful to some of you. Let me know if it helps xx