Beautiful portraits are achieved by creating a relaxed space to capture you and your loved ones just as you are: beautiful & authentic; in relationship with one another; real not posed; with natural expressions & no forced smiles. I am happy to shoot outside or inside, in any environment familiar and meaningful to you. We can discuss a favourite location in which you’ll feel at ease. I have a small studio area if you prefer. Above all, I want to you to feel totally comfortable so that fun and spontaneous photos unfold.

Together, we tailor the session to your personal needs. I can assist in choosing a location, planning your outfit, customizing your ordering sessions, and designing your image displays. Your portrait session provides you with 40-50 beautiful photographs to cherish. You can select from a number of products which I tailor make to suit your requirements, whether that’s prints to frame, digital images or ready-to-hang larger format images.

Let’s create some pictures to tell the story of who you are and the people and things you love. Life is a journey, which rushes by at speed, with many stage to record along the way. Photographs capture moments in time to create precious memories. Please do get in touch with me on 07789 621046 or at info@helenbookerphotography.com.

How long does the photo session last?
Typically round about 1 hour. Sometimes it will finish sooner; often it may take a little longer. I will always aim to get the best photographs possible while keeping things enjoyable and fun!

Where do you take the photographs?
We can discuss this to make sure we get the right location. I try to shoot outside as much as possible to make the most of natural light. Often your garden or local park, where you feel most comfortable, is the best place, but indoor shoots are also possible.

What should we wear for the photo session?
Something simple and comfortable in which you feel great!  Think about what you want to achieve.  If you want something eye-catching and dramatic, bright colours can work well.  If you want a dreamy look, choose pastel colours, off-whites and soft prints.  For black and white photos, it is good to have some contrast, mixing something white or pale with a stronger, darker colour.  For children, above all choose something which is familiar and a favourite for them and for you.  If you are planning a group photograph, aim to co-ordinate outfits and colours if at all possible.  Try to avoid clothing with brands or logos which will date and small, fussy patterns or stripes can be distracting.  Don’t forget to consider accessories; generally less is more.

Is there anything else we should bring with us?
If you have a favourite item or accessory that would bring a personal touch to your photographs, then consider bringing it along. Often hats, scarves or sunglasses can add character to your photograph. For children, in particular, it can be great for them to have a toy, to help make them feel comfortable (but grown ups can bring things too!)

What happens if I need to cancel or postpone the photo session?
A postponement must be agreed at least 24 hours prior to the shoot. Failure to do so will result in the loss of the sitting fee. Cancellations also result in the loss of the sitting fee already paid. Sorry.

What happens if it’s raining on the day of my photo session?
If the weather is really too bad to stage the session, then we can reschedule the date or try an indoor location.

What happens after the photo session?
1-2 weeks after your session, I will invite you to come to view your photos.  I love to show them to you and help you decide exactly what you want and how you would like to present your chosen images.  I can advise on formats and sizes, colour and black & white, products and finishes and often this is best done over a cup of coffee together.  However, if it’s easier, you can choose to view your photographs online.

How many options are there for presentation of the photos?
Lots! You can choose to have prints produced in matt or gloss, printed on high quality digital photographic paper. These come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. We can also discuss other options such as photographs on canvas, MDF board or in photo books/albums and framing.

What about payment?
You pay the session fee at the time of booking. Once you have selected the photographs that you want, I will include an invoice when I deliver your order.  Payment of this invoice is by bank transfer, cash or cheque.