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Sophie Boutar – East Sheen Village
Bumps, babies & burgeoning families… just some of the specialities of local photographer Sophie Boutar
When we think of ‘family photography’ we tend to think of babies, children and parents in various permutations. However, East Sheen resident Sophie Boutar has built up a business that starts a little sooner – with stunning images of women taken during maternity.
“Few people seem to have images of themselves during this amazing part of the parenting journey, a truly special time when women look incredibly radiant. Whilst pregnancy may seem to last forever at the time it’s soon over and forgotten, so I felt that capturing the memory of your baby growing inside you would be lovely and a little different.”
Sophie, who was born and brought up in Sweden, previously worked in financial services but has been a keen artist and photographer for almost as long as she can remember. Her father even trusted her with his precious camera from a young age – and she was hooked.
“The turning point came when I won a photography competition,” says Sophie. “It gave me a boost and made me begin to think about photography as a profession rather than a hobby; so I took the plunge to set up my own business. It is wonderful to have a career that I am so passionate about and that works well with family life.”
A mother of two energetic young children, Sophie is well placed to understand the ins and outs of working with little ones and has learnt some great tricks along the way to keep things calm but fun. Being creative, flexible and patient comes as second nature to her.
Sophie’s relaxed, friendly, natural style is reflected in her photography, all of which is on location, whether at a client’s home or outdoors. She primarily photographs expectant parents, children and family groups, although she has trained to photograph pets, too, so has been known to work with dogs, cats and even horses.
“Location is really a question of what suits you and where you feel most comfortable,” adds Sophie. “For new mothers and their babies that usually means their home. For other shoots a natural backdrop can work particularly well and we’re so lucky to have a choice of great places in this area.”
Whatever the subject, Sophie’s aim is to capture beautiful, timeless memories that you’ll treasure and enjoy forever, either in colour or black and white.
In general, sessions go ahead even if it rains. Umbrellas make great photo props and most young (and old) children love jumping in puddles! If it is pouring however, or you had your mind specifically set on a sunny afternoon with backlit images, Sophie will simply postpone or shoot indoors if you wish.
Planning and preparation are an important part of the success of any shoot, so Sophie will discuss your ideas and requirements with you before you book so that she understands what you would like and – importantly – you can decide whether you feel the chemistry is right.
In the spirit of planning, Sophie has also prepared some valuable tips on how to make sure that your baby is at its most smiley and relaxed and what types and colours of clothes work best so that you get the best out of your session. She is also rigorous about making sure that you get your images on time.
Session prices start from £90.00 and individual prints from just £12 each. Full details of all packages offered, her stunning portfolio and some useful FAQs can be found on Sophie’s website.
Scroll down this page to see more of Sophie’s lovely images!
“Sophie has taken photos of our family on two occasions and has done a great job in capturing our four children and their personalities. The sessions were fun and relaxed and we are very pleased with the pictures!”
Carolina & Joe, Barnes
“We really love the photos – such a precious momento of this unique time, and we can’t wait to share them with our family and friends, and our daughter herself when she is old enough to appreciate that she was a model in her mummy’s tummy and during her first few days in the world!”
Julia, Richmond
“Sophie is able to capture those special moments helping you create memories for life. When taking our maternity pictures, she made us feel very at ease, which resulted in great, relaxed and natural looking photos. I would recommend her to anyone and am planning to use her again when my baby is born for those special first baby pictures.”
In general, sessions go ahead even if it rains. Umbrellas make great photo props and most young (and old) children love jumping in puddles! If it is pouring however, or you had your mind specifically set on a sunny afternoon with backlit images, Sophie will simply postpone or shoot indoors if you wish.
