I have received some extremely exciting news today.

I have been shortlisted for the Child Photographer of the Year award with the largest photographic society in the UK, the SWPP (the Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers)!

I’m just one of three professional photographers across the UK and Europe who are now in the running for the title of Child Photographer of the Year.

I’m actually in shock if I’m honest, but thrilled too! Oh, wouldn’t it be brilliant if I was to win?!

Gold standard portrait

This portrait was awarded a ‘Gold’ in the SWPP’s latest monthly photography competition and has played a large part in my award nomination.

I don’t actually think winning awards is the be-all and end-all. Happy clients are most important to me. Yet, it certainly feels good to have been selected!

Especially when the standard of work from the other thousands of UK and international photographers who have entered the competition is so high!

Accomplished Studio and On-Location Photographer

This nomination is particularly special to me because I have been submitting images to the SWPP this year that have been a mixture of studio photography (my first love) and outdoor, on-location photography.   

Although I began doing more outdoor photography in the summer of 2015, it is only in 2016 that I feel that I have become just as competent in on-location photography, using natural light, as I am in the studio.

Young girl in Red poppy field near WimborneGorgeous sunset in Dorset over a poppy field

Lifestyle Photography in Dorset

I’ve worked hard, invested in professional training and got out and about around Dorset at every possible opportunity, usually taking my long-suffering daughter Lizzie with me to model (as you can see from all the portraits I've included here).

I feel that I have come a long way this year and this award nomination is a real boost and acknowledgement of that.

Twirl at sunsetWhat a great shot , love girls that twirl.

Making Memories

These portraits are special in another way too; because they are all of Lizzie, my own daughter.

I often talk about the importance of capturing important family moments in photographs. 

Being a mum as well as a photographer, I'm in the lucky position of being able to take professional-standard portraits of Lizzie, and in doing so I'm making memories of my own. I love that! 

Child Photographer of the Year announced in January

So wish me luck!

The winner will be revealed next month at the SWPP’s annual awards ceremony. It would be amazing to become Child Photographer of the Year so please keep your fingers and toes crossed for me and I’ll keep you posted about the result!

Karen x