This week we took 5 minutes with local award winning family photographer Andrea Whelan.
Her work is based largely in Greenwich and she is known for her contemporary, relaxed style. All the families we spoke with agreed that working with Andrea didn’t feel like working at all.
“Just very natural. She totally understands what parents want” commented one happy mum!
Maybe because she’s a parent herself or that her easy going nature just puts you at ease. Maybe even both!
Why don’t you start by telling us how you got into photography?
I was always into photography, despite not having my own camera until just before my first baby Finn was born in 2008! I adored sifting through old photos of my family when I was young, though there was never enough in my opinion! I think that’s why I choose to pick up a camera, so my boys would never feel like there wasn’t enough photos of them, us, their life and everything that makes it special right now.
For two years I was obsessed with taking photographs, my camera didn’t leave my side. My head was constantly in books and on forums teaching myself everything I could learn about photography. My second baby Noah was born in 2010 and after a fun year and a bit at home with him I went into business and haven’t looked back. It’s been the most amazing journey!
What type of photography do you shoot?
My passion is capturing people so I specialise in family portraits. I think what makes me stand out from other family photographers is my distinct relaxed style. I enjoy using the family home in my pictures. I think having familiar environments in images can make the pictures even more special. A bedroom, a piece of furniture, a clock on a wall, it’s important not to underestimate the power of memories triggered by these simple things in year to come.
I also shoot a lot on location. I’ll find out what places are special to the family and I’ll shoot there too. Wherever it is that the family are at their most relaxed, I’ll follow them. I’ve photographed in Greenwich Park, Greenwich Town Centre, Charlton Park and all over London really!
What should your customers expect during a typical photo session with you?
It’s natural to feel nervous beforehand but all of my clients usually end up telling me how much fun they’ve had and that the two hours flew by!
I always have a chat with clients over email or phone to discuss everything and I make sure I tailor the session to their needs. We usually start off in the home and then head out to one of the wonderful open spaces that Greenwich has spoilt us with.
During the session I get to know the family, they get to know me. I gauge each child and their attitude towards the situation…if they dive straight in then so do I but if they take a while to warm up then I let them have that time. One thing is usually certain, by the end they’ve made a new best friend!
Do you have any tips for taking great photos?
I think great photos are a very personal thing. Some people will want to capture emotion and little moments, they associate the photo being ‘great’ with how the it makes them feel inside. Getting down and playing with kids, allowing them to be themselves and not forcing them to sit still is so important when looking to capture joyful moments. Be a kid yourself, let go, make silly faces, blow raspberries and tell bad jokes!
Others think great photos are all to do with technical ability. When the light is perfect and you’ve nailed exposure, focus and got the background all blurry!
If you ask me, the perfect photo is a decent mixture of the two so learn to use your camera properly as you’ll have more control over the end result.
If you want to know how to really combine the two then look out for my new photography courses for parents – coming soon!
if you want to chat to Andrea and book in a session please do contact her on 07793 053318 or take a look at some of her recent sessions at www.andreawhelan.com
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