Why I’m a Southampton family photographer who shoots on the Dorset coast
If you’re a client, or have been following my work for a while, you may have noticed that over the past year my photography has gradually shifted towards the beach. I’m a maternity, newborn and family photographer based in Southampton, Hampshire and for over 13 years I’ve had the absolute privilege of capturing capturing everything from growing bumps to the beautiful, ordinary moments of family life.
Over the last year, my work has gently evolved. While Southampton will always be home, I’ve found myself increasingly drawn west, to the beaches of Dorset, where my photography feels most aligned with the calm, natural and emotive style my clients come to me for.
This shift hasn’t been about leaving Southampton behind. It’s been about choosing locations that allow families to truly slow down, breathe, and just be.
The pull of the beach
The beach has always been my happy place. There’s something deeply nostalgic about it, isn’t there? That childhood excitement of running across the sand with a bucket and spade, the salty air filling your lungs, the sound of the waves grounding you in the moment.
As a photography artist, the beach is where I feel most connected to my creativity. The minimalist backdrop, the soft neutral tones, and the openness of the space allow the focus to gently fall where it belongs, on you, your connection, and this fleeting season of your life.
Why Dorset beaches work so beautifully for family photography
While there are lovely coastal spots closer to Southampton, the Dorset coastline offers something truly special for maternity, newborn and family photography.
Beaches like Sandbanks have wide expanses of soft sand, gentle dunes, and uninterrupted views of the sea. Shooting here during golden hour, the hour after sunrise or before sunset, gives us the most flattering, dreamy light. It’s calm, unhurried, and incredibly peaceful.
For family sessions especially, this environment naturally encourages everyone to relax. There’s space to move slowly, enjoy each other’s company, and really be present in the moment, without distractions.
What this means for my Southampton families
Many of my clients travel with me from Southampton and Hampshire to Dorset, and I’m always so mindful that this experience feels easy, not stressful. I guide you through everything from choosing the best beach and time of day, to what to wear for coastal sessions and how to prepare for a family, maternity or newborn shoot by the sea.
The drive becomes part of the experience, a chance to step away from the everyday and mark this chapter of your life with intention. Time and time again, families tell me how relaxed the whole session feels, how quickly they forget they’re in a public space, and how natural everything unfolds.
A Southampton maternity, newborn and family photographer, inspired by the Dorset coast
Although these days you’ll often find me photographing families along the Dorset coastline, I am still very much a Southampton based maternity, newborn and family photographer.
This work is about intention, choosing locations that reflect the calm, connection and natural beauty I want my images to hold for you.
If you’re dreaming of a maternity, newborn or family photoshoot on the beautiful Dorset coast, that feels meaningful and full of heart, I’d love to be the one to capture that for you. Get in touch today to check availability and plan a relaxed, heartfelt session by the sea.