Portraiture – Elaine Boles Photography

One woman and her Portuguese Water Dog!

Elaine — Thu, 01 Aug 2019 21:39:53 +0000

I was asked to take some photographs of a beautiful black Portuguese Water Dog called Beau. I’ve taken some photographs of dogs before, and black is a challenging colour at the best of times, but when we are in dark woods with the light fading rapidly, then I knew we were up against it! However, Beau and her owner Teresa were a pleasure to photograph. You could see how much love and affection there was between them and it shows in the end result!

Musical family shoot

Elaine — Fri, 26 Apr 2019 13:11:05 +0000

I was lucky enough to photograph a very talented, artistic and musical family. We had discussed the type of family shots required in advance, but realised when I turned up how much music and drama played such an important part of their family life. I then thought it would be lovely to have some shots that showed this – and here are the results! Despite only having a small amount of wall after moving the sofa (with plug sockets and wires which I removed afterwards), the photographs look amazing! Who needs a studio?!!

Family photo shoot on Downside Common

Elaine — Fri, 09 Mar 2018 22:08:46 +0000

It was a freezing February day but these cousins were great fun during our photo shoot on Downside Common. My client wanted some photos of her son with his older cousins as a surprise birthday present for her Dad and they didn’t fail to deliver some precious moments together. A few runs in the woods got everyone warmed up before heading off for hot chocolate in Cobham.

Bluebell Woods – July 2017

Elaine — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 21:21:39 +0000

I was fortunate to shoot this couple on their wedding day 5 years ago and was delighted when they asked me back to photograph their young family. Shooting on location we searched for bluebells despite it being late in the season and we were delighted to find such beautiful colours in the woods. By reducing some of the colours back, I was able to create such magical scenes in the woods that I hope they treasure for years to come. It reminded me of the fairy woods at the Beaumont Estate where they were married! We just needed some giant toadstools to complete the look!

Into The Woods

Elaine — Sun, 31 May 2015 22:08:38 +0000

Last autumn I had a family photo shoot in the woods. Even though it was a bit cold outside, the pictures turned out beautifully. They reflect the family dynamics and the personalities of all four family members. It was a relaxed shoot and the location made it interesting with varied backgrounds and rich colours. We spent two hours and I didn’t want it to end, as we were having such fun! The kids (and the adults!) were running and jumping around. I even asked them to throw leaves at me; my hair was a mess afterwards but it was all worth it in the end!

If you’re thinking of having a portrait shoot to capture your family, there are more location options than just a white background in a studio. I’ve previously done shoots in gardens, bluebell fields, London and in people’s homes. Using an outside location often makes for more natural pictures, as children play and can be themselves. Plus, you can incorporate the family pet!

Some backgrounds are not always obvious, such as old fences or ruins. Texture is important for black and white pictures so I usually look out for wood, stone or old buildings.

In the end the location and background need to reflect your personality. That’s why graffiti art work can look good as a background for teenagers and spring flowers can look lovely when used as a background for younger children.

Spring is here!

Elaine — Thu, 23 Apr 2015 10:47:16 +0000

The weather is turning warmer and the sun is shining. We’ve had daffodils popping their head out of the soil and now it’s the bluebells’ turn!

Recently I took some pictures amongst the bluebell fields and am very pleased with the results. It’s a great way to capture the flowers and your loved ones.

To celebrate spring, I’ve got a promotion of an hour’s photo shoot for £75 to include one digital image and one mounted quality print (7″ x 5″).

Additional images and files can be purchased afterwards on my online gallery. This offer is valid until Sunday the 31st of May. Please contact me to arrange an appointment.

Family photos

Elaine — Fri, 30 Jan 2015 18:52:45 +0000

People often think of professional photographers only taking pictures at weddings, but some of my favourite shoots are with families in the comfort of their own homes. We often forget to capture everyday moments but it’s well worth having a photo shoot with extended family, including all generations.

These relaxed pictures of the Cunningham family (plus dog and guinea pigs!) were taken in their own home instead of a studio or on location. It was like a family gathering where a photographer is invited.

I like the shoots to be fun and informal, even though at times it can be quite crazy! I photographed three generations of this family in various combinations and am very happy with the results. It’s lovely to get a reaction of “Wow, they’re amazing!”