First birthday photoshoot with Joshua

I’ve known Laura and James for over ten years now, having worked with Laura back when I had a ‘proper job’ in marketing in Essex.

Although I’ve since moved away, I’ve had the singular pleasure of watching their beautiful family grow as they continue to travel over for photoshoots with me.

First there was Joseph’s newborn photoshoot three years ago (see the images here).

Then Joseph’s first birthday photoshoot a year later (see the images here).

Joshua was born a year ago, so they popped back in for his newborn photoshoot (see the images here).

And then James started his own business, so came back in for some professional headshots (see the images here).

All of a sudden, baby Joshua is walking, running and – most of all – grinning from ear to ear, so the family booked in with me to celebrate his recent first birthday.

Of course, while I remember Joshua from his newborn shoot, he doesn’t remember me.

So it was a magical moment when he came running straight over to me for a cuddle, with a big grin and both arms outstretched.

His parents tell me he’s incredibly happy and sociable, but what he loves most of all is watching and following his big brother, Joseph.

Joshua absolutely adores Joseph, and (most of the time!) the feeling is mutual, with Joseph enjoying how attentive and interactive Joshua is becoming.

With James’ new business gaining momentum (check it out here), evening gigs as a drummer all around England and lots of friends and family to catch up with from nursery and the church, there’s never a dull moment for this lovely family!

However, they’ve made sure to book in some time to recharge and relax, and really enjoyed a family holiday to Butlins in Bognor Regis earlier this year.

They told me that the £40m revamped swimming pool was the highlight of the trip, as it had so much for each of the different ages to see and do, from shallow splash pools to multiple flumes and wave pools.

The family went for a swim every day of their holiday, and loved it so much that they’ve already booked another stay in spring.

In the meantime, there’s plenty to look forward to, from family time at home to Christmas around the corner.

And I very much hope to see them again next year: whether that’s to update James’ professional photos for his business, a new set of family images together, or even – who knows? – a new arrival… 🙂

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If you’re interested in a first birthday photography session in Bicester, Oxfordshire, please get in contact.

Sarah Plater AMPA is an award-winning qualified, certified professional newborn and family portrait photographer based in Bicester, Oxfordshire.

She is the Master Photographers Association Young Families Portrait Photographer of the Year 2022 and Newborn Photographer of the Year 2019 for the Central Region (covering Oxfordshire, Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire).