About Me
Hi! I'm Katie, a Cardiff Photographer I originally studied photography in the early 1990s and, I quickly discovered that it was my work with children that was most enjoyable and successful. Following the birth of my first child in 1998, photography went on the back burner, although I did continue to photograph family events, friends children and, of course, my gorgeous baby! A few years later, after having my second baby, I decided to take the plunge and start my own business. So, on St David’s Day, 2006 I launched Katie Barrett Photography and I haven’t looked back.
Since then the business has grown and, along with children's photography, I'm pleased to be photographing weddings, nurseries, events and lots more.
I believe that the best images are achieved in a comfortable and familiar setting so, I take photos in your home or at a chosen location – somewhere where your child can truly be themselves I don’t work from a studio or bring any studio equipment with me. It’s just me and my camera. This enables me to work in a very unobtrusive manner, capturing all those moments and expressions that come between “the camera smile”.
I want my photographs to tell a story and capture a moment in time. So, my style is thoughtful and reflective. I produce images that are intimate and natural, that are full of life and yet, artistically refined. Think of them as your own reality - just a little prettier.
I love my job and I believe the right picture can make us fall in love all over again, so if you're looking for photography in Cardiff, I hope you get in touch!
about Your session
Forget about forced poses and “cheesy” smiles. Your session is meant to be a good time, to capture life's best moments - so let's make it a good time, a conversation, a moment, a memory, a blast! Throughout your session, I'll try my best to put you at ease as much as possible, that means being as close or as 'fly on the wall' as possible. When booking any shoots for children or babies play is the most important thing! I'll make sure that every photo is as natural as possible.
Location
As soon as your children are old enough to be on the move, it’s great to get them outside for fun in the fresh air. I can do your session pretty much anywhere you like, with favourite places including parks and beaches. If your baby is not moving around yet, it’s usually better to keep it simple at home (where we can use the garden if it’s a sunny day.
Sessions normally last around an hour but, allow 2 to be on the safe side. Not all children are comfortable in front of the camera straight away so, I like to get to know them a bit first.
Most little ones are looking for the next adventure after an hour but, by allowing some extra time, we can be relaxed and not worry about feeds, naps and tantrums (although these often make great shots and are all in a day’s work for a children’s photographer).
Clothing
The most important this is that you and your children are happy and comfortable. There’s no need for everybody to be in all white but try to avoid overly bright colours (think neon!). Patterns are fine and, can look great but, big logos or pictures on tops can be distracting.
Things to bring
If we are on location, feel free to bring bikes, scooters, balls or anything else your little one enjoys playing with. Photographing while they are playing is a great way of getting natural, fun images. Also, consider things like drinks or snacks. It’s really helpful for you to have your child’s favourite snack with you (but nothing too messy!).
Payment
A 50% deposit is required to secure the booking with the remainder being payable on the day via cash, PayPal or bank transfer.