A Family Photoshoot on Clapham Common

The lovely Abha and her family braved the cold and wind to do a family photography session on Clapham Common last week. Here are some of my favourite images..

Family Photography on Clapham Common

You can see more of my family photography HERE

3 Tips for Choosing a Photographer for your Greek Christening | Christine Constantine Photography

CHOOSING A PHOTOGRAPHER FOR YOUR BABY’S CHRISTENING

In the life of a Greek Orthodox Christian, the Christening is a very important milestone. It not only brings family and friends together in celebration, but it also marks the official beginning of the child’s lifelong spiritual journey.

Obviously most people don’t remember their Christening because they were too young. Photographing the event ensures these memories can be preserved, not only for the Christened child, but for future generations to come.

As a Greek Christening Photographer in London I can share some tips that will help you find the best professionals for your baby’s Baptism and some questions that are worth asking. As a Greek Cypriot myself I have lots of experience with Greek and Greek Cypriot families and baptism traditions!

ALL IMAGES BY: CHRISTINE CONSTANTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

Greek Christening Photography

Does you Photographer have Greek Orthodox Christening Experience? 


Does your Christening photographer have experience with Greek Orthodox Christenings? The ceremony is fairly unique and it takes knowledge of all the crucial parts to understand the important moments that require a photo or a close-up. Not only that, but without prior knowledge they may get in the way of the priest during crucial moments of the Christening. They should also have respect not just for their clients but for the priest and other members of the church. They shouldn’t interfere with the service, but just quietly observe taking natural pictures along the way.

If you want a photographer who has never worked a Greek Christening before they should be briefed in detail about what is expected of them to photograph. For example, they may not realize that after the baby is submerged in the water and dressed in their Christening outfit, or when they have their hair cut that this part actually has significance and should be photographed. Make sure they know what is important well before the actual day so you don’t need to worry about them missing those moments when they happen!

Do I need a Videographer too?

Most people who hire both are very pleased because they not only have beautiful photographs to capture the moment but they also have a video to watch again and again. Having a video is especially nice because you can show it to your child as he/she gets older, although it can increase the cost substantially. Videographers also have several packages so make sure you discuss this with your chosen videographer before the event so you know exactly what to expect for your investment.

Another major decision you need to make is whether or not you would like to hire the videographer and photographer as a package deal. Some larger companies have teams that work together and this can save you some money. However, you may compromise a bit of quality if you choose this route. Some parents like to choose them individually as a way to control the quality.

Hiring both a videographer and photographer for your child’s Greek Christening offers a great way to preserve the occasion for the future. Since the child likely won’t remember the Christening, this is also a great way to share the moment with them as they get older.

Do I feel comfortable with my Christening Photographer?

Lastly, your photographer is present in a very special and intimate part of the Christening day and it is essential that you feel comfortable with having them around. Choose a photographer you feel at ease with! One you trust and can communicate well with. And also one who respects the nature of the day and its significance.

ALL IMAGES ABOVE ARE BY: CHRISTINE CONSTANTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

Jude's Christening Photography | St Barnabas with Christ's Chapel Dulwich

St Barnabas' Church, Dulwich, is in the parish church of Dulwich, and is dedicated to Barnabas, one of the disciples of Jesus. The original church was built in 1892–95, and the parish church for the new Parish of Dulwich, is now known as the Parish of St Barnabas with Christ's Chapel, Dulwich.

St Barnabas with Christ's Chapel Dulwich is a popular church for Christenings but Christening photographers take note as photography is only permitted before and after the Christening itself.

Christening Photography in St Barnabas with Christ's Chapel Dulwich

As Christening photography is only permitted before and after the Christening, I waited in the wings until the baptism was over, before taking advantage of the wonderful well-lit church for some much-loved family and godparent photographs.

Baby Elisa's Newborn Photography

JUST LOOK AT THIS TINY, PRECIOUS BABY!!!!

I just LOVE being a newborn baby photographer. I go into lovely, warm homes and get to hang out in the chilled space that has just welcomed a baby into this world. I get to shoot their tiny hands and feet and just bask in the glow of happiness from the new parents.

Being a newborn photographer requires a little patience too -as you can never be totally sure what to expect. But if you are prepared to just chill and enjoy these very special early moments with newborn and parents, you newborn photography will be beautiful images like these. Photography that will be chrished for eternity.

Newborn Photography

Hampstead Heath Family and Kids Photographer | Christine Constantine Photography

Hampstead Heath is a well known and well loved area of wild park and woodland around four miles from the centre of London. Not that you’d know it as it feels like you’re in the countryside! It sprawls over 800 acres and boasts some of the most spectacular views in the city. It inspired author C.S. Lewis to write The Chronicles of Narnia and Londoners have been coming here to escape the city for over 200 years.

Hampstead Heath is also surrounded by several wonderful local pubs and boasts popular swimming ponds for those brave enough to take a dip. Come to fly your kite on Parliament Hill, bring a picnic, and while away your afternoon. Love shooting here as the vast open spaces are perfect for kids to run around and for those mad crazy pictures!

Lifestyle photography is a type of photography that aims to capture real-life moments in a natural environment. And Hampstead Heath Family and Kids Photographer Christine Constantine Photography LOVES this type of photography! These are some of my favourite shots taken on Hampstead Heath near Kenwood House.

Running outside Kenwood House on Hampstead Heath

Autumn family photography in Hampstead Heath

Making the most of the amazing Autumn colours!!

Overlooking Hampstead Heath Pond.

And just love these natural images taken on an area near Hampstead Heath Overground Station..

To see more of my kids and family photography click here - Christine Constantine Photography

Kelly and Family Photoshoot | Tooting Common | Christine Constantine Photography

How can you beat the gift of a Family Photoshoot? Balham residents Kelly and her family invited me into their home near Tooting Common for a few family snaps of a rare whole family get-together. We started in the garden and ended up on the common for some more relaxed family photography. Here’s what we came up with and what you can expect from a photoshoot with London family and kids photographer Christine Constantine.

Balham Family Photographer