Victoria, James and Baby Lily
Creating early memories with James, Victoria and their new-born Lily
When James and Victoria asked if I’d be available to do a shoot with their newborn, Lily, my response was “yes” before I even had time to think. We set the date, and I was keeping a close eye on the weather, hoping for that perfect, softly lit autumn day. It did not disappoint.
One of the first rules you hear as a photographer is, “don’t work with kids or animals.” And, for the most part, I’d agree. But Lily was incredibly calm and well-behaved, which I believe speaks to the peaceful environment James and Victoria have created around her. They seemed so natural and at ease in their new roles as parents, and the love and sense of calm they shared with Lily was tangible.
We moved through the park, stopping at different spots, and Lily remained serene and quiet throughout. I try to avoid overly staged shots, so I encouraged James, Victoria, and Lily to interact as they normally would (well, almost), while I moved around to capture those real, candid moments.
This session reminded me of why I love what I do. Capturing these early days outdoors in the familiar beauty of Bishop’s Park, a place close to my heart after many years in South West London, was a privilege. I’m grateful to James and Victoria for trusting me to document these first family memories with baby Lily.