Bluebell photo shoot, Hertfordshire

Photographing in the bluebells, Hertfordshire

The last few weeks have been really busy as the bluebells have come out just in time for the Easter school holidays.  The bluebells don’t normally arrive until the end of May, but because of the unusual weather we have been having, they arrived 4 weeks early.

A lot of parents and photographers ask me for tips on taking photos in the bluebells and it is actually quite tricky as they tend to only grow under large trees and in areas of dappled light. Therefore, time of day the photos are taken is really important. As I photograph so much outdoors, I work with my clients to ensure we have the best light, and often ask to photograph either early in the morning or late afternoon/early evening.

As you can see from the images above clothing choice is also really important when having photos taken in the bluebells. Before the sessions I share my pintrest boards with my clients so they have an idea of what works well and what doesn’t. This is all offered as part of my photography session, and often clients will take photos of their outfit choices and text it to me to discuss. All of this ensures that you get photos which can stay on your walls forever.

The photo of Sophia was taken very early in the morning when the sun was very bright. This type of light makes for beautiful back lit images and she was an absolute natural in front of the camera.

The second session was with Isabelle, her husband, mum and dad, and their 4 children. Isabelle is actually a photographer herself so I took it as a huge compliment that she asked me to photograph her family. A couple of images from this session I loved so much I have entered them for competition with the Guild of Professional Photographers and I will let you know how they do next month.

Next was a family I know really well, as they have become great friends in recent years. I photographed Clare’s family in the bluebells last year and she wanted another set to sit alongside the ones she already had.

Bluebell hunting for yourself 

I often get asked where the best bluebells can be found close to Hemel Hempstead and St Albans and the great news is there are lots of choices. One of the best and well know is Ashridge http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ashridge-estate/ Ashridge Estate is close to Berkhamsted  and owned by the National Trust. The best way to explore the Ashridge Estate is on foot or by bike. Miles of footpaths and bridleways give you plenty of space to explore, and if you drop into the visitor centre they will be happy to share our favourite routes with you.

My second favourite is Heartwood Forest which is just outside of St Albans. http://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods/wood/5622/heartwood-forest/  You can like their Facebook page here so you can keep up to date with the activities they run. They are currently running a pop up photography show in the forest so its a great time to visit.

I hope you enjoy the photos 🙂 Nina

Nina Mace is a modern, outdoor, Hertfordshire photographer who specialises in children and families. Sessions include baby and children photo sessions in High Wycombe.  To be kept up to date with sessions just visit here www.facebook.com/ninamacephotography. bluebell photo