PREPARING FOR YOUR ORCHARD MINI PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION
To help you get the most from your Orchard mini session, here’s some information, links and preparation tips which I hope you’ll find useful. Scroll down to download your free guide with 5 tips to make the most of your mini photography session. So, grab a coffee and have a browse and if there’s anything else you want to ask, feel free to get in touch.
IMPORTANT THINGS TO CONSIDER
Babies – due to the nature of of the environment and time restrictions the orchard mini sessions are not suitable for children under 1 year of age.
Big Families – it really isn’t possible to photograph larger families in the time available, which is why these sessions are limited to 3 siblings. If you do want one family shot during the session this can be accommodated just let me know in advance as it will impact the number of images you’ll receive as part of this package. If you like the idea of a variety of individual, sibling and family shots one of my full sessions would be ideal for you.
Location Access – The orchard is located just a short walk along a flat path directly from the car park. However, the ground can be uneven and possibly muddy at times so if mobility is a concern the orchard can still be used as a beautiful backdrop, although a full session may be more suitable to allow extra time to access the orchard..
Time and Temperament – Mini sessions can be ideal for children who have shorter attention spans than us adults. Most children are eager to get started and I do my best to make them feel comfortable and to ensure we have a fun time. However, if you feel your child takes a little longer to warm up and,as we are limited to 30 minutes, you might want to consider a full session.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where is the orchard?
Blackmoor Estate
Blackmoor | Liss
Hampshire | GU33 6BS
Directions
From Portsmouth follow A3(M) and A3. After Petersfield take first exit at roundabout signposted Selbourne (B3006) on the Farnham road.
0.04 miles later turn left onto Selbourne Road, after another 2.3 miles turn right onto Sotherington Lane (ignoring any earlier signs to Blackmoor).
The road is windy and narrow (typical country lane). Quite a way down you’ll pass a house on the left, keep going and soon after you’ll see gates each side of the road, opposite each other. Turn right to park.
The photography sessions will be taking place across the road through the gates opposite.
Once you arrive, call me on 07974 177445 and I’ll direct you to where we will be shooting.
How can I make a full day of our trip?
If you’re looking for refreshment either before or after your session I can recommend the Selbourne Arms, just 7 minutes drive from the Orchard. Good food, cider and a small play area for the children. Park in the carpark at the rear of the pub.
For details visit their website
Feeling active? Nothing better than an Autumn walk and there’s a lovely 3.5m circular walk around Selbourne with some stunning views – maybe walk off that pub lunch or work up an appetite for that apple crumble at teatime.
Details can be found here
Each year the Blackmoor Estate opens it’s orchard for a family picking day. A fun activity with the opportunity to choose from a selection of eating, cooking apples and pears. From Cox’s Orange Pippin and Norfolk Royal Russet to exciting new varieties like Opal and Rubens. Why not pick some to take home with you and spend the rest of the day making apple crumble for tea! It could become an annual family tradition. Find more details here.
When should we arrive?
Please aim to arrive 10-15 mins in advance of your session as unlike my full sessions, these will run back to back throughout the day and any missed sessions cannot be refunded.
What is the cancellation policy?
- Please note that sessions cancelled less than 72 hours in advance are non-refundable as it is unlikely your slot will be filled at short notice.
- In the event of bad weather an alternative session will be offered, if you are unable to attend a full refund will be provided.
- In the event of the photographer having to cancel an alternative session will be offered, if possible in the orchard or another Autumn location. A full refund will be offered if this is not suitable for you.
What should we wear?
If you’re a pinterest user you may like to check out my Autumn pinterest board for more ideas. Generally I recommend co-ordinated but not matchy-matchy clothing. To add variety to your images, layers and accessories work really well too.
For girls: If you like tutu’s I can obtain these, just let know sizing and I’ll bring them along. These look great teamed with wellies or cowboy boots and denim jackets. Dresses and layers work beautifully too, as do dungarees and jeans.
For Boys: Denim, a simple shirt with the addition of braces and a cool trilby or cap is a classic and timeless look, or if you’re opting for something more hip I recommend checking out the latest Zara and Boden catalogues.
My favourites: Boden | Zara | Wild and Gorgeous | Next | Mothercare Little Bird
What happens in the event of bad weather?
Living in the UK this is a reasonable concern! However, it’s not essential to have bright sunlight – in fact, cloudy conditions provide a far more flattering light and enable a lot more flexibility during the session in terms of where the pictures are taken. I will monitor the weather as the date approaches and will be in touch to confirm the sessions, or in the event of rain to advise of reschedule to Sunday 29th September or the following weekend. For this reason it’s best to have some flexibility around the session date so that you can still enjoy an orchard session.
Can we order additional prints and products?
Yes of course! AND you’ll receive 10% discount against these when you order within 2 weeks of receiving your images. With Christmas approaching there are plenty of options to create the perfect gifts. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to ask.
To help you get the most from your mini session I’ve put together a PDF with 5 ways to ensure you have a fun and enjoyable time. A handy free guide with style tips, inspiration and ideas as to how to prepare and what to consider before and during your shoot. I hope you find it useful!
