London Family Photographer | Baptism in St James Church in Twickenham
One of the things I really love about my job is the constant variety of jobs I get exposed to. Whether it is a wedding, a newborn baby photoshoot, a family photo session or a pet photography session - they each represent a set of different challenges which I enjoy tackling and learning from.
Baptism and Christening Photographer
I really enjoy photographing baptism or christening services. As a christening photographer, I draw from my experience photographing weddings, and families. Similarly to a wedding ceremony, a baptism service has its own pace, and a set of rituals, all of which happens quickly and without repeat. So there are no second chances! I therefore have to work quickly, moving around to find the best angle and making sure those special, fleeting moments are captured. I draw from my family photography experience to capture those little smiles, glances, and connections between family members. This experience also comes in handy when I have to direct larger groups for those very important group shots at the end of the ceremony!
London Christening Photographer
I was recently commissioned to photograph a Baptism in St James Church in Twickenham. This is a beautiful Roman Church, set in a quiet residential area. The baptism ceremony was a part of the Sunday mass, and so the main challenge was to photograph descretly and only the family of my client, which involved identifying the area of movement which gave enough coverage but was not obtrusive to others.
The church was beautiful inside, with exposed wooden beams, and stained windows letting in lots of light through.
My clients whom I photographed at St James Church in Twickenham asked me not to post their photos on my website and social media, to respect their privacy. So, I apologise for not being able to share those particular photos. However… You can see below a selection of photos from a different christening service, to give you a flavour of the types of moments captured during a ceremony.
If you would like to see more photos, please visit my recent blog posts here and here.
Fees
My fees for baptism or christening photography services are £195 per hour with 2h minimum booking. The fee includes:
A pre-consultation. I am happy to give you a call or arrange FaceTime to meet and discuss your requirements
My time on the day
A selection of 100+ professionally-edited photos on a beautifully presented memory drive
My travel costs. I work across London, Surrey and the South East. I travel free of charge 30 miles from where I live, and I am happy to go further afield for an additional travel fee
I also provide album-design services which are charged at an additional cost.
Booking
Booking for a christening or baptism service is easy! Contact me by email at info@minamilanovic-photography.com, call on 07793 677 867 or use the contact form on my website, and tell me a little bit about yourself and when you would like the photoshoot to take place.
Surrey Newborn Photographer / Newborn Photoshoot in Epsom
I have had a really nice variety of work this summer. Family photography sessions, pet photography, christnening photography and quite a few newborn sessions in London and Surrey.
Natural Newborn Photography
My approach when photographing newborn babies is to allow plenty of time for photography and to keep things as relaxed as possible for both the parents and the baby. I give gentle direction when it comes to posing, mainly to position clients where the good light is, where to stand, look or hold their hands. Over the years, I found that this level of direction-giving produces more natural and candid looking photographs. I am able to capture a special look, a little touch, a private moment whilst maintaining natural looking body language which fits the mood of the photograph.
Surrey Newborn Photoshoot
Photos below are from a recent newborn photoshoot in Epsom, Surrey. This was one of my favourite recent newborn photoshoots, as the baby was awake and alert for most of the time, it was engaged and it made the cutest little sounds when swaddled! I also enjoyed experimenting with family poses a bit more which produced some lovely shots of the new family. Finally, this photo session was for return clients of mine - I did a couples photo session, and a post wedding photo session for Paulina and Chris before, so it was great to catch up and see their family grow.
Surrey and London Newborn Photographer
As a newborn photographer, I work across Surrey and London photographing babies and their families. Often this is to mark the arrival of the first or the second baby into the family, but occasionally my clients want me to photograph the extended family meeting the new arrival. If you or your partner are expecting a baby, and are thinking of documenting this special time in your life with a set of beautiful, fine art newborn photographs, please contact me to discuss your ideas. I would be dlighted to capture this special time for you!
Pet Photographer Surrey / Leith Hill Dog Photography
Surrey Dog Photographer
It was a gorgeos day which I spent in the company of this fun, energetic black labrador called Pippa and her lovely owners. Her owners received a wedding gift voucher for a pet photoshot, and decided to go for a walk and some photos around Leith Hill. Energetic dogs mean lots of action shots and Pippa was well up for ball chasing and going for a long hike! As Surrey dog photographer I try to capture a dog’s personality but also the bond between dog owners and their pets. There was no doubt that Pippa and her owners were totally in love with each other, and I thoroughlly enjoyed whitnessing and capturing that bond.
Location Pet Photography
My pet photo sessions take place on location - either your home or your favourite walk! I also offer pet photography gift vouchers for anyone who would like to gift a beautiful set of photographs to their family or friends. If you would like to purchase a gift voucher, please visit my store or drop me an email. If you would like to discuss an idea or photographic commission - please contact me, I would love to hear from you!
Surrey Family Photographer / Family Photo Session in Coulsdon
I remember really enjoying taking photos when I was a kid, using my dad’s SLR camera to take photos (mainly) of my dogs. Much has changed since then, most significantly the transition from film to digital, and easy access to high quality photographic equipment, and information on how to use it.
I got my first DSLR camera as a birthday present from my parents, I would say roughly 12, or 13 years ago. It was a Canon 400D with a 24-85 mm f3.5-4.5 USM lens. It was a great little camera to learn on, as it wasn’t overly complicated for the beginner but had enough features to keep me occupied for a while. Several courses, a couple of cameras and many blurry photos later, I was ready for an upgrade. My dear friend Michael and I spent many hours talking about cameras and lenses when both him and I were deciding on buying a new camera. I went for a Canon 5D mk III, a camera which I love and still use today. I chose this particular camera because at the time I was toying with the idea of furthering photography and exploring the possibility of working as a photographer. A few months later, the same friend Michael and his then fiance Susan, asked me to photograph their wedding. If not the beggining of my photography career, this was definitely a defining moment. Soon after that I left the world of science and embarked on a journey to becomming a professional photographer, specialising in family portraiture, children, newborn and pet photography.
Family Photoshoot in Surrey
Six years, and two children later, we arranged a family photoshoot in Coulsdon, Surrey. We went on an adventure walk around Farthing Downs, exploring spring blossoms, secret paths and looking for ladybirds. It was a joyous afternoon spent with friends who have supported me from the very start. And for that I am forever greatful. Here are a few photos I took, some of them my new favourites!
Family Photo Sessions in Surrey and London
I love exploring the countryside and visiting London parks with clients, but I also work in the comfort of my clients homes. My family photo sessions are playful, relaxed and centred around kids and what they like to do. If you would like to discuss a family photo session, or to make a booking, please get in touch using the contact page on my website.
Surrey Family Photographer / Family Photo Session in Sutton
Surrey Family Photo Session
It gives me great joy doing photoshoots for return clients. Not only do I get to meet up and catch up with people who continue to support me, but I also get to see their families grow. A couple of months ago I did a family portrait session in Sutton, for a lovely family who has grown from four to five (including the family dog!).
Surrey Children Photographer
I have spent a part of the morning getting reacquainted with the older sibling who I photographed a few years ago (there was a lot of Lego talk when I first arrived), and getting to know the one year old who was on the move and ready for action! Working as Surrey children photographer, I enjoy getting to know the children who I will be photographing, finding out what their interests are and being let into their world, at least for a couple of hours.
Family Location Photography
Once the introductions were over, it was time to take some photos. We stayed around the family home and garden as the weather was unpredictable on the day. This was a great opportunity for me as a photographer, to challenge myself and find interesting backdrops and angles indoors. There were lovely splashes of colour and personal touches throughout the house and garden which I wanted to capture for the family. And the photoshoot wouldn’t have been complete without some action on the trampoline, and a few family portraits.
Here are some photos from this session - I hope you enjoy viewing them.
Family Portraits in Surrey, London and the South East
If you would like to discuss having family portraits done, in a relaxed setting, at home or outdoors, please get in touch to discuss your requirements. I offer location sessions for newborn, children, family and pet photography, and I am happy to travel around Surrey, London and South East. Photoshoots which are further afield are charged a travel cost. I hope to hear from you!
Richmond Family Photographer / Kew Family and Newborn Photoshoot
Newborn Photoshoot in RIchmond-upon-Thames
This newborn photoshoot was organised to mark the arrival of the second baby into this lovely family. I really enjoyed getting to know, and to photograph this family. The location for the photoshoot was the family home in Kew, London. We discussed splitting the photo session and doing a part of it indoors, and (weather permitting) doing the second half in the garden. Luckly, the weather gods were with us on the day, so we were spoilt for choice.
Natural Newborn Photography
At the beginning of my photography career, I tried a few different setups when photographing newborns. I found these to be quite awkward and un-natural, and I think I have finally set on photographing newborns in quite a natural way; being adored by their parents, having a curious look during their awake time, sleeping in their cot, interacting with their older sibling(s). This little baby boy was only 5-6 weeks old during this newborn photo session but very much awake and alert nearly the whole time I was there (he eventually dozed off just before I left). I was therefore able to capture a few sweet looks, and tender moments with his parents. We spent some time in the sunshine taking family photos, where I was able to not only photograph the newborn but also the older sibling, and to take a few family photos. After all those family portraits, and outdoor time, it was time for the baby to sleep and what better way to go to sleep than with a gentle kiss from your big brother. The photo, at the very end of the slide show, melts my heart!
Surrey and London Newborn Photographer
If you are interested in having some baby or family photos taken, please contact me to discuss your ideas and requirements. I work across London, Surrey and the South East photographing newborns, babies, children, families and pets!
London Family Photographer / Peckahm Rye Park Family Photoshoot
London Family Photography
I have probably said this before, but I’ll say it again - I love photographing families year after year! I first photographed this family when their eldest daughter was only a few months old. This was four and a half years ago! It is lovely to see the family grow, and the girls change with each passing year, and with each family photoshoot. We have in the past taken photos at home, in a local park, and in Ruskin park. We arranged to do this outdoor family photoshoot at Peckham Rye Park, a place I visited and photographed in on several occasions.
Location Family Photography
It was a lovely sunny day back in April, perfect for spring family portraits! I wanted to portray a sense of place and season in the photographs. Therefore, when we arrived in the park, I quickly scouted a few potential sites for photos - the formal Sexby Gardens with beautiful spring blooms, a steam with a picturesque bridge going over it, cherry blossoms, colourful shrubs, even a playground. I was really spoilt for choice. With all this on offer, I tried to use leading lines, symmetries, reflections and colours and incorporate some of these elements in my family and children portraits. Here is a selection of a few of my favourites!
Children’s photography that portrays childhood
I was also interested in capturing the girls in action, as they were so full of energy! For this, I used slow shutter speed (once again!) to capture them running, on the swings and roundabouts in the playground. This is something I recently tried while photographing my daughter on a swing, and I really liked the look of. Some of my new favourite photos are from this photo session, using this technique - I nearly got sick from spending what felt like an eternity on a roundabout, but the resulting images are worth every spin! To me, they portray a sense of movement, fun, excitement and happiness - a childhood captured in a photo!
London Family Photo Sessions
My family photography sessions are relaxed and fun. I work hard to produce a set of photographs you and your family will cherish in years to come. If you are thinking of booking a family photoshoot, or would like to discuss an idea, please get in touch - I would love to hear from you! I work all over London, but also Surrey and the South East.
London Family Photographer / Dulwich Family Photoshoot
London Family Portrait Photographer
I am based in Surrey but the great thing about my job is that I can travel to meet clients at different locations, including London, Surrey and the South East. I always enjoy going into London for a family photoshoot as I spent ten years living in South West London. Every photoshoot relives memories, or gives me an opportunity to explore a new area, not previously visited. South East London is one area which I haven’t visited an awful lot whilst living in London, but have in the last few years been lucky enough to explore, mainly though family photoshoots.
A recent family photoshoot in South East London was close to heart as I got to photograph our friends’ newborn baby. She was adorable and surprisingly alert for such a small baby. Working indoors, and with natural light, I was able to capture lovely family moments and a few awake portraits! Some photographers specialise in using props and creating super-cute photos of tiny newborn babies (which are adorable), but I love photographing babies and capturing the new bond parents and siblings have with their new additions.
After the baby photos were done, it was time to head out for some outdoor fun! We headed over to Nunhead Cemetery, for a walk and a run around. This is another place in South London I haven’t visited before, and what a gem it was! One of the (seven) great Victorian cemeteries in London, it was quiet on a weekend, with lovely paths going around the park, a chapel to visit and an amazing view! Great for photographing children running around! During this half of the session I focused more on photographing the older sibing (and my daughter who was photo bombing!), as he had lots of fun to things to show me, like jumping in puddles and showing me how fast he can run! I played around with slow shutter speed to introduce a sense of motion - something I’ve done during my pet photoshoots and now trying out in family sessions too.
If you are considering having photos taken of your family, please visit my newborn and family photography pages for more information on my photo sessions, prices and how to book. You can contact me if you have an idea which you would like to discuss - I would love to hear from you!
London Pet Photographer / Surrey Pet Photo Session
I really enjoy the variety of jobs I get commissioned to do. One week it could be a couples photoshoot, next week a wedding, christening, family photoshoot or a newborn photoshoot. Amongst all these great jobs I get to do for a living, I also get commissioned to take photos of people’s pets!
I love speding a couple of hours in the company of our four legged friends, and meeting their lovely owners. Going into a new job, I try to get a sense of a dog’s personality and character. I aim to capture a variety of shots: portraits, action shots and the special bond people share with their dogs. My dog photography sessions are relaxed, fun and generally held outside, in a favourite park or on a favourite walk. However, this recent photoshoot, which involved an elderly greyhound Molly, was done mainly indoors, due to Molly’s old age. This meant that unlike the outdoor sessions where there is lots of walking, ball chasing and running around, this session was more quiet and the majority of it limited to the indoor space. I tend to get a bit more apperhensive about indoor sessions, worrying whether there will be enough ‘stuff’ for creative photography. This concern pushes me to work harder, and to ‘look’ for shots more.
During the photo session, I focused on finding nice natural light and beautiful shapes in Molly’s elegant form. An armchare next to the window provided a perfect perch for Molly, and a quilt thrown on at the back of the chair added a lovely background, and a personal touch. I tried to capture Molly’s expressions, they were full of charm and intelligence.
Working as a pet photographer, I photograph mainly dogs but also cats, horses and even miniature pet headgehogs! You can visit my pet photography page for some more examples of my work. I work across London, Surrey and Sussex but will travel further afield for a photoshoot, or a special event like Crufts. I will ensure you and your pet have a great time during the photoshoot, and will provide a great set of photos for you to treasure in years to come. I also provide pet photography gift vouchers which are a great present for a birthday, wedding or anniversiry, for a friend or a family memmber. If you are interested in purchasing a gift voucher, please visit my gift voucher page, or contact me to discuss your requirements. If you would like to organise a pet photoshoot for your own pet, get in touch to arrange a session!
Surrey Wedding Photographer | Post Wedding Photo Session at Wotton H
Wotton House Wedding Venue | Surrey Wedding Photographer
Wotton House is a stunning country estate hotel nestled in the beautiful Surrey countryside. This elegant country estate combines history, beauty and a sense of quiet grandeur that makes it a joy to photograph. Surrounding the house are Grade II listed Italian gardens, so picturesque and beautiful they invite you to pause, breathe and enjoy the surroundings. Wotton House is one of the most elegant Surrey wedding venues I had the privilege to work in, capturing moments of love and connection between two people in such timeless surroundings.
Outdoor Wedding Portraits
Wotton house was the perfect setting for a recent post-wedding photoshoot, a quiet and romantic continuation of this couple’s wedding story. Just a few days before, the couple got married in an intimate, private ceremony in London, and took a short break following their wedding at this picturesque and serene spot. The couple was interested in doing a post-wedding photo session to mark this special time in their lives, and to capture memories of their stay at Wotton house.
The entire session was held outdoors as the gardens provided so many beautiful backdrops for photography. It was an overcast spring day, slightly grey and misty but the light was perfect - even and soft. We started the session in the Grade II listed italian gardens, by one of the majestic temples, incorporating beautiful stone sculptures into the photographs.
We continued our walk through the gardens, exploring little corners and spaces, taking our time and enjoying the process. As a professional wedding photographer, I often find post-wedding sessions to be especially meaningful. Free from the pace of a wedding day, there is space for deeper connection, for unhurried moments and natural emotion to shine through.
Wedding Portrait Photography
We next came to a section of the garden called the Fernery or Grotto. This site was nearly demolished in early 2000s but luckly English Heritige and Mole Valley County Council stepped in to ensure that this space would be restored. And what gorgeous addition to the garden it is, making it a perfect backdrop for our couple portraits. For these portraits, I gently posed the couple, and asked them to have a chat about something they remember from their wedding day. I love how relaxed and happy they look, remembering some of the details of their wedding day.
Walking further along the gardens, I spotted a picturesque bridge I wanted to incorporate into the portraits. The Tillingbourne river is an important part of Wotton House history, as back in the day it used to power more than 20 mills along the stretch running through the estate.
The second part of the photoshoot was spent in a quiet corner of the house, next to a pond backing to some caves, allowing me to use natural shapes to frame the photographs and saturating the frame with the most gorgeous of green shades.
A quick outfit change for a few more casual shots around the gardens.
Finally, we couldn’t finish the couple photo session without incorporating Wotton House itself into the photographs. For this last set of photos, I positioned the couple in front of the house using an old oak tree to frame the couple and took a few images there. These are some of my favourite photos from the shoot, they both look very relaxed, happy and in love! The perfect ending to a wonderful stay at this finest of wedding venues in Surrey.
Wotton House Wedding Photogaphy
Although this wasn’t a typical wedding photography coverage, it was a genuine pleasure to spend time with this couple, wandering the grounds and sharing in their quiet joy. As a Wotton House wedding photographer, I was struck again by the elegance of the venue, from the soft light falling through the garden’s archways to the peaceful atmosphere that surrounds the estate. It is truly one of the finest wedding venues I’ve had the privilege to photograph in Surrey.
Secret Surrey - Wotton House on the BBC
To hear more about the beautiful Wotton House gardens, the myth of the kangaroos and more of the house’s curious past, please listen to this short BBC Sounds programme.
Surrey Wedding Photographer
Working as Surrey wedding photographer, I photograph not only weddings but couples who wish to document their engagement, holiday, an anniversary or another important date in their relationship. If you wish to have a couples photoshoot, an engagement photoshoot or would like to discuss an upcoming wedding, please get in touch. I would love to hear from you! I work across Surrey, London and the South East and also travel further afield. I look forward to hearing from you!
Photography Gift Vouchers
Looking to get a meaningful gift to a newly wedded couple? Look no further! My photography gift vouchers make wonderful gifts for any occasion! Gift the newleyweds a gift that will be meaningful and one they will treasure in years to come! Contact me or go to my gift vouchers on line store to learn more.