June is here and we've had some absolutely scorching weather! This family portrait session was scheduled right in the middle of our recent heatwave, but we braved the hot sun to capture these timeless family photos around Westminster and on the Southbank of the Thames with the Houses of Parliament in the background.

Family photos - Westminster and Big Ben

I seem to be on a roll with lots of family sessions with American clients leaving London to return home after a few years living in the city. These clients often seek a more urban style of portraits, one that captures a little of London itself, rather than a generic park. I am really getting into the swing of these sort of family photoshoots; I would however recommend a really early start because of the number of tourists around key sightseeing spots! It's best to beat the crowds if possible so we don't end up with photo bombers - and it also means we have less harsh light to deal with (especially on Westminster Bridge which faces east). As you will see from this collection and previous posts, my style is still very natural and only includes the urban backdrop in a minimal fashion, rather than anything too touristy and 'obvious'!

Summer portraits

Jana and her family were dressed perfectly for their summer session. Pretty cotton dresses photograph so well - and don't detract from the surroundings or the emotional connection of the subjects. Whilst we had to cope with the heat, the bright sun (when used carefully) created gorgeous sparkling catchlights in baby Evelyn's bright blue eyes and led some some beautifully contrasty black and white portraits which are just so elegant and timeless. These monochrome images have to be my favourites of the lot.