Christening Ceremonies at Maria Assumpta Chapel, Kensington Square
Tucked away in one of London’s oldest garden squares, Maria Assumpta Chapel in Kensington Square is a true hidden gem. Known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual heritage, the chapel offers a peaceful and heartfelt setting for your baby's Christening. Whether you're a local family or travelling in from across the city, this centrally located chapel blends historical elegance with a warm, welcoming atmosphere - making it a wonderful choice for such a special family occasion.
Maria Assumpta Chapel
One of the most beautiful things I discovered about Maria Assumpta Chapel is its role as a spiritual home to multiple Christian denominations. From the Roman Catholic community to the Eastern Orthodox Church and others, the chapel embraces a diverse and active worshipping community. This shared use makes it particularly special for Christening ceremonies, especially for families with mixed Christian backgrounds or those looking for a more open and inclusive space. It’s a place where tradition meets togetherness - where the focus is on faith, love, and the joyful welcome of a new life into the wider Christian family. Whether you regularly attend church or are returning for this milestone occasion, the chapel offers a warm and reverent setting that honours the deeper meaning of baptism.
The images below are from an Orthodox Christening so it began with ‘The Exorcisms’ (see my page Nine Steps to a Greek Orthodox Christening for a more detailed account of its significance.
Once inside the chapel, the remaining parts of the Christening were conducted, including the actual baptism itself..
Maria Assumpta Chapel is more than just a beautiful space — it's a place where faith, tradition, and community come together. If you’re looking for a Central London Christening Venue that’s rich in history, full of charm, and spiritually significant, this lovely Kensington chapel might be the perfect fit.
As a London Christening Photographer, I’ve captured various types of Christenings all over the city, so if you're planning your baby’s baptism and would like some relaxed, documentary-style photography to remember the day, feel free to reach out. I’d love to hear from you.
Iconic London Photoshoot Locations for American Couples Visiting the UK 🇬🇧📸
Planning a trip across the pond and want to capture your love in one of the most romantic cities in the world? Whether you're newly engaged, honeymooning, eloping, or simply celebrating your relationship, London is bursting with photogenic spots that feel straight out of a movie. As a London-based Wedding Photographer I’ve shot in many cool locations and venues across the city.
Here are my top locations for an unforgettable couples or engagement shoot in London — perfect for American visitors who want to go beyond selfies and get real, professional memories from their trip.
1. Big Ben & Westminster Bridge – The Classic Shot 🕰️
You can't come to London without a photo near Big Ben. The iconic clocktower and Houses of Parliament make a jaw-dropping backdrop - especially from Westminster Bridge, where you also get the Thames in the frame. Sunrise sessions are ideal here: the golden light is dreamy, and you’ll beat the tourist crowds.
2. Tower Bridge and Tower of London– That Epic London Look 🌉
Tower Bridge is instantly recognisable and makes for show-stopping engagement photos. The intricate blue steel, the historic towers, the river views — it's all very “London calling”. For quieter moments, we can sneak around to the quieter Shad Thames area just behind the bridge for cobbled streets and riverside romance.
3. St. Paul’s Cathedral – Grand, Regal & Iconic ⛪
Want a dramatic, editorial feel to your shoot? St. Paul’s Cathedral gives serious wow-factor with its imposing dome and historic steps. There’s also the nearby Millennium Bridge, which gives cool, modern contrast (and a great view of the skyline). Ideal if you’re eloping and want timeless portraits.
4. Hyde Park or Regent’s Park – Nature Meets Romance 🌿
If you want a touch of nature in your shoot, London's royal parks are a dream. Hyde Park offers wide open spaces and lakeside serenity, while Regent’s Park is full of floral gardens and tree-lined paths. These locations feel a little less “touristy” and allow for calmer, more intimate moments.
5. Chelsea – Chic, Upscale & Effortlessly Romantic 🌸
Chelsea is one of London’s most elegant neighbourhoods — and a total gem for couples photos. Picture white stucco townhouses, leafy residential streets, and boutique-lined avenues. It’s quieter than the tourist hotspots, giving us space to shoot in peace. You’ll find beautiful corners near The Kings Road, charming mews lanes tucked away behind main streets, and seasonal florals that pop up outside the shops and cafes (especially in spring and during Chelsea in Bloom!). If you’re after photos that feel classy, intimate and super stylish - this is the spot. (And the stunning Albert Bridge is just a short walk away!)
6. Mayfair Vibes – Luxury, Style & Quiet Streets 🥂
If you're after elegant London sophistication, Mayfair is the place. Think grand townhouses, five-star hotels, and beautifully kept streets that feel like something out of a high-end fashion shoot. It’s surprisingly calm for central London, and perfect for refined, romantic portraits — especially near spots like Mount Street, Grosvenor Square, or the grand facades around Berkeley Square. It’s ideal for couples who want a polished, luxe look to their engagement photos with all the charm of classic London architecture.
Top Tips for a Stress-Free London Photoshoot 📍✨
🗓️ Avoid UK school holidays if possible – Crowds tend to spike during late July and throughout August and it’s also worth avoiding Easter and Christmas. If you can plan your trip in May–June or September, you’ll enjoy a much more relaxed shoot.
⏰ Go early or go late – The best light is at golden hour (just after sunrise or before sunset) and you’ll dodge the daytime tourist rush. Big Ben and Tower Bridge are especially busy midday. And in terms of light midday should be avoided. Also, be prepared to work around others or have to wait for the top spots.
🚇 Stay central – London is a big city! If you’re staying in places like South Bank, Covent Garden, or Notting Hill, you’ll be well positioned for most shoot locations.
👗 Dress for the vibe – A flowing dress or tailored coat looks amazing against London’s historic backdrops. I’m happy to advise on outfit choices that’ll really pop on camera.
💡 Be realistic with your wishlist – London has so many iconic spots, but it’s best to prioritise a few key locations for your session. You can’t do them all in one go — so think about what means the most to you, or chat with me about working out a realistic route. I’m happy to help you plan it all out! Some locations are right next to each other. Others involve us jumping in a black cab. But I guess that’s part of the experience!
Either way, let’s jump on a call an we can have a chat and work it all out. Whether you’re staying for a week or just a weekend, you can absolutely fit a relaxed and beautiful photoshoot into your London itinerary. I’ll help you plan the best route, avoid the crowds, and find the right mix of iconic and hidden spots.
What do you Charge?
A London Photoshoot is priced at £495 and you’ll receive a good 200+ high-resolution, edited digital images sent to you via WeTransfer approx several days later. :-)
📸 If you're ready to turn your London visit into a gorgeous love story on camera — get in touch!
🌿 Woodberry Wetlands Wedding – A Hidden Gem for Nature-Loving Couples
Looking for a London wedding venue that feels like a secret garden escape? Tucked away in Woodberry Down Park, Stoke Newington, Woodberry Wetlands offers a truly unique setting for couples who dream of saying “I do” surrounded by nature. With wildflower meadows, tranquil waters, and a charming waterside venue, it’s hard to believe this peaceful oasis exists just a stone’s throw from the city buzz.
🦢 A Wedding in the Wild (Right in London!)
Woodberry Wetlands is perfect for couples wanting a relaxed, outdoorsy wedding with a real sense of calm. Set within a regenerated nature reserve managed by the London Wildlife Trust, it’s home to beautiful birds, reeds, and wildflowers – ideal for a ceremony that’s as serene as it is scenic.
Whether you're planning a laid-back daytime celebration or a sunset reception, the venue’s natural light and rustic charm make it a dream for wedding photography too (ok I’m biased, but just wait till you see the golden hour glow across the reservoir!).
🏡 The Coal House – Your Dream Venue Space
At the heart of Woodberry Wetlands is The Coal House, a Grade II-listed building with big windows overlooking the water. It’s licensed for weddings and civil ceremonies and has space for dining, dancing, and everything in between. Think reclaimed wood, soft fairy lights, and views of swans gliding by as you toast your new life together.
It's intimate, eco-conscious, and completely customisable – ideal for couples who want something meaningful, beautiful, and totally their own. The team at Woodberry Wetlands ensure that your vibe totally reflects the surroundings..
AND what could possible be more magical than exchanging vows under a large tree? Rustling leaves, nearby birdsong, and warm dappled sunlight filtering through the branches create an atmosphere that feels calm and sacred. It’s a setting that needs no decoration - just the beauty of nature and the love.
📷 Why I Love Photographing Weddings Here
As a documentary-style wedding photographer AND nature-lover, I absolutely adore venues like this. There’s something awesome about capturing couples amid wildflowers, under vast open skies, or naturally chilling along the water’s edge. Woodberry Wetlands offers endless candid photo opportunities and you don’t need to stray too far from your guests.
💚 Eco-Friendly and Full of Heart
One of the best things about choosing Woodberry Wetlands? Your wedding supports urban conservation. Profits go straight back into protecting wildlife and maintaining green spaces in London. So your big day doesn’t just look good – it does good too.
Ready to Tie the Knot Among the Wildflowers?
If you're dreaming of a nature-filled wedding day that still keeps you close to home, Woodberry Wetlands might just be your perfect match. It’s relaxed, romantic, and wonderfully off the beaten track – and I’d love to be there to document it all for you.
Kara & Lee’s Micro-Wedding: A Family-Only Celebration in Chelsea
Kara and Lee’s wedding wasn’t about the big details—it was about the meaningful ones. With just a small group of immediate family, they said “I do” in a relaxed, heartwarming ceremony at the eternally charming Chelsea Old Town Hall.
The weather was perfect, Kara was glowing in her understated gown, and Lee could not stop smiling! From the first moments in the waiting room, it was clear: this wasn’t just a wedding—it was a deeply personal celebration of their journey together.
A Ceremony Focused on Connection
Inside the intimate ceremony room, the atmosphere was full of feeling. No distractions, no long guest lists—just the people who meant the most to them. I saw joyful tears, warm laughter, and a sense of calm that made the whole experience feel especially intimate.
It’s these smaller weddings I adore photographing. Everyone is present, relaxed, and you can really feel the emotion unfold naturally in front of the lens.
Relaxed Portraits and a Stroll Through Chelsea
After the ceremony, we lingered for a few family portraits on the grand steps of the Old Town Hall; and from there, we wandered across the King’s Road and tucked into a few quiet side streets for couple portraits. Kara and Lee walked hand-in-hand, taking it all in. No pressure, just time to be together, soak in the moment, and enjoy their first stroll as newlyweds. The nearby park was also pretty quiet so we stopped in there too for some nature-inspired shots.
Why Small Can Be So Powerful
This wedding reminded me how powerful small weddings can be. There’s a certain ease that comes when the pressure is off. It’s about love, not logistics. Kara and Lee’s day felt joyful, authentic, and beautifully theirs from start to finish.
👉 Want to know more about getting married at this lovely venue? Here's my full Chelsea Old Town Hall wedding guide HERE
💛 Planning Something Similar?
Whether you're planning a big celebration or something just as meaningful on a smaller scale, I’d love to help capture your story. My approach is relaxed, candid and real—just like Kara and Lee’s beautiful day.
Let’s chat about your plans!
🐊 The Alligator Bar at Louie London – A Chic Spot for Your 30th Birthday Celebration
Turning 30 is a milestone worth celebrating in style—and if you're looking for a unique, fun, and slightly glamorous venue in central London, The Alligator Bar at Louie London ticks all the boxes. Whether you're planning a cocktail-fuelled soirée or an intimate night with friends, this hidden gem near Covent Garden and Soho offers serious wow factor.
🎷 A Sophisticated Speakeasy Vibe
Tucked above the Louie London restaurant, The Alligator Bar oozes speakeasy charm. With its New Orleans-inspired decor, low lighting, and live jazz performances, it creates an atmosphere that feels effortlessly cool. The deep leather booths, polished wood bar, and vintage details make it a dream setting for a stylish birthday celebration. It has a lush outdoor area with a retractable roof and a designated smoking area.
🍸 Expert Cocktails & Party-Ready Drinks
The cocktail list is anything but basic. From a smoky Old Fashioned to sparkling seasonal spritzes, the drinks menu is crafted by expert mixologists who know how to start a party. And for larger groups, you can pre-order bottles or design a signature cocktail for the night—perfect for that personalised 30th vibe.
📸 Great for Party Photography
As a London event photographer, I absolutely love shooting at Louie. The warm lighting and stylish interiors create a glamorous backdrop for birthday portraits and candid moments. Whether it's a surprise toast or a group shot by the bar, you'll end up with images that look straight out of a magazine.
🗺️ Central London Location
Just a short walk from Covent Garden, Louie London is incredibly easy to get to—ideal for guests coming from all over the city. It’s central without feeling overly touristy, and there's no shortage of post-party spots nearby if the celebrations carry on.
📷 Let Me Capture Your 30th at Louie London
If you're planning your 30th birthday party at The Alligator Bar at Louie London, I’d love to help you capture every moment—from that first clink of glasses to the final dance. I offer natural, documentary-style party photography that keeps things fun and relaxed.
Capturing Christenings at the Greek Church of St Peter and St Paul in Bristol
There’s something deeply special about photographing a Greek Orthodox Christening — the timeless rituals, emotional moments, and joyful celebration all unfold in a setting rich with history and tradition. One of the most stunning locations for this in Bristol is the Greek Church of St Peter and St Paul.
⛪ The Church: A Stunning Backdrop
Tucked away on Lower Ashley Road, the church’s architecture is a dream for any photographer:
Warm, ambient lighting 🌞
Ornate details and religious icons 🖼️
Soft-toned walls and rich colours that create stunning contrast for white baptismal gowns
As a photographer, it's an honour to document these once-in-a-lifetime memories in such a beautiful and sacred place. 💒✨
🕊️ A Ceremony Full of Emotion and Meaning
Greek Orthodox christenings are incredibly visual events — full of symbolic rituals, expressive emotions, and candid family moments. From the anointing with holy oil to the immersion in the baptismal font, each step of the ceremony tells a powerful story through imagery. 📷
You can learn more about the service on a blog post I wrote: Nine Steps to Greek Christening
At St Peter and St Paul’s, these traditions come to life in an atmosphere of reverence, warmth, and celebration.
Every corner of this church offers an opportunity for meaningful, artistic shots — whether it’s the priest blessing the child, the quiet prayers of the Godparents, or the smiles exchanged between generations.
📷 My Approach to Christening Photography
As your photographer, I focus on:
Documentary-style storytelling — capturing the ceremony as it naturally unfolds
Candid family interactions — hugs, laughter, tears of joy
Creative portraiture — beautiful, timeless shots of your baby, Godparents, and guests
Discreet presence — respecting the sacredness of the service while getting the perfect angles
I’ll work closely with your family to understand the flow of the day, coordinate with the priest, and make sure no moment is missed.
💷 How Much Do I Charge?
My Christening Photography Package is priced at £595. This includes full coverage of the ceremony and family pictures, plus around 200 high-resolution, professionally edited digital images delivered via file transfer. 📁✨
No hidden fees — just beautiful, timeless memories captured with care. 💙
🎉 After the Ceremony
Many families choose to celebrate with a reception, either in the church hall or a nearby venue in Bristol. These relaxed gatherings are a fantastic time to capture candid group shots, detailed photos of the decor and cake, and the energy of the celebration. Whether you’d like me to pop in for just an hour, or capture the whole afternoon or evening reception - get in touch for a quote!
💌 Ready to Book Your Christening Photography?
If you’re planning a Greek Orthodox christening at St Peter and St Paul’s in Bristol, I’d love to help you preserve every special moment. Let’s create a collection of images that will last a lifetime — full of love, heritage, and joy.
📅 Now booking 2025 christenings and beyond
📍 Location: Greek Orthodox Church of St Peter & St Paul, Bristol
📞 Contact me today to check availability and pricing