Christening photography at St. Paul’s Church, Chiswick – Reception At The Bell & Crown

It was such a pleasure to photograph this christening at Saint Paul’s Church in Chiswick. I photographed the preparations at the family’s house beforehand. They had a beautiful antique christening gown for the baby to wear, which I photographed hanging up in their home.

I also documented more candid moments – such as the grandparents sitting outside in the garden, spending time with the baby. The luscious green pergola made a wonderful back drop for some photographs.

We then went inside so the mother and grandmother could dress the baby. She found it hilarious playing peepo with the enormous gown.

As usual, I photographed the exterior of the church and guests arriving, as well as the indoor views of the church to set the scene. Photographing the guests chatting and smiling as they waited for the service to start helps bring back lots of memories for a family.

During the service, I photographed the vicar blessing the baby, as well as more intimate moments such as the mother looking down adoringly at her baby. I always look out for emotive moments amongst family and guests as they also help tell the full story of the day.

The guests walked along the river to the Bell and Crown pub on the Chiswick Riverside. The pub was packed – it was lovely to see so many loved ones gathered to celebrate this special day.

I took some birds eye view photographs to set the scene, as well as natural photographs of the guests enjoying themselves. I photographed the food – the mini burgers were a big hit; and of course the cake (not pictured here for privacy reasons, as it had the child’s full name embroidered onto bunting).

I also spent some time outside the reception venue photographing guests enjoying the river itself – looking out of the water and cooling off with a riverside walk.

What a special day – a total honour to photograph it for this lovely family.