Portraits in the Garden
Bespoke Photo Sessions
A portrait is an exploration of who you are as an individual. It documents a precious moment and comments on what this moment meant to you at the time.
There is nothing formal, artificial or awkward about being portrayed by an artist. My portrait sittings are a natural, unhurried and relaxed experience. You require no modelling skills. All I ask is that you be yourself.
I have always thought of portrait sittings as quiet conversations between a photographer and their sitter - two strangers getting to know each other. I do not aim to create a stylised version of you that bears no resemblance to reality. Rather, I want to portray the real, authentic you. No choreographed poses, no glaring studio lights, no digital distractions. Just you.
We take all the time we need. You will soon forget the presence of the lens. Everyone is unique - looks and age are of no importance.
The number of portrait photography commissions that I agree to undertake each season is strictly limited, conducted exclusively within my own, beautifully secluded garden - my nature studio.
Read the private testimonials to discover the experience of working with me and view the curated portrait photography portfolio.
The Bespoke Protocol
No two sittings are the same because no two individuals are identical. I prepare for every photo session individually to create an entirely unique, bespoke experience. When you request a sitting, it is because you wish to be portrayed within the distinctive artistic parameters of my style.
To assist my preparation, it is valuable to understand a little about you. Prior to your sitting, we will discuss any ideas you may have and any specific requirements. We will also consider wardrobe and anything else you wish to bring. I will ask you to share a recent, unposed snapshot of yourself beforehand; this serves as an essential reference as I begin to visualise the composition.
From the information you share with me we will together create a series of photographs that portray your essence as an individual, expressed through my photographic style.
If you want to bring a pet member of the family, they are welcome in my garden, too.
To ensure your absolute comfort, if this is a sitting for one, you may wish to bring a friend or partner as a chaperone. Whilst not mandatory, I encourage you to do so.
A photo session for a mother and her daughter in my garden on a late October day. The rain created the beautifully atmospheric, cinematic setting for this portrait.
The Location
The garden is in the Wiltshire countryside in England. Beautifully secluded and entirely private, it is ideally suited to my work.
Availability
The number of commissions that I accept each season is strictly limited.
Every season has its own character and appeal. From late spring to autumn the garden is lush, becoming overflowing in summer. Texture and structures are features as the warm autumn light fades and crisp winter mornings greet us.
The garden is usually ready to invite us onto its stage from late May to early June until January. Specific dates are guided entirely by the condition of the garden. When a commission is accepted, we must maintain a degree of flexibility a few days either side of the agreed date to account for the moods of the weather.
Travel
For arrival by car, there is ample off-street parking at my property. If you are travelling by train, the nearest station is a short taxi journey away.
For patrons coming from further afield or internationally, who are considering an overnight stay, there are hotels and B&Bs in and around the nearby market town.
A photo session for a couple in my garden.
After the Sitting
Attention to detail takes time. I dedicate several days following your sitting to meticulous post-production work.
The conceived photographs are the foundation for interpretation, never alteration. The results are authentic photographs free from digital manipulation. The only adjustments I make post exposure are ones that would also occur in a traditional darkroom.
Your portraits will then be uploaded to a secure, private, password-protected page on my website for your exclusive viewing. Alternatively, I can arrange a personal viewing session. If you prefer your imagery to remain entirely offline, I can deliver your proofs on a memory drive.
Without a doubt, the most beautiful way of displaying photographs is as physical prints on a wall. Your prints are crafted individually in-house by myself to exhibition standard, using the finest archival quality photographic materials. Prints are signed by hand. Each print is an original.
An additional option, which I highly recommend, is a bespoke bound coffee table photobook of the very highest quality.
For screen viewing I can produce a tailored set of optimised digital files (strictly formatted for display, not suitable for printing).
Request a Private Portrait Commission
I maintain the highest standards of creative excellence, meticulous dedication to your custom and guarantee utmost discretion at all times. The number of commissions accepted is strictly capped to protect my core artistic practice. I do not offer automated online bookings or immediate availability.
To discuss a prospective sitting, enquire about availability and request pricing details, please complete the fields below. I personally review every enquiry to ensure alignment with my artistic practice and the seasonal availability of the garden.