Zuhal&John Maternity Shoot | The Foxton Locks, Leicestershire

Photographing a wedding is one thing, but to be able to reconnect with people to further capture their love and document their story… Well, that’s a blessing. I’ve never considered myself more lucky when being contacted again by couples to once again photograph their next steps in life. And this couple, Zuhal&John, these two, well, they’ve earned themselves a special place in my heart.
Things happened pretty quickly for Zuhal&John — they got married locally, here in Market Harborough in February this year, joined by their family and friends, some of whom travelled as far as Turkey ( because Zuhal comes from there originally). Then, not that long ago, I learnt that they’re expecting their first baby and I couldn’t be happier for them - I still remember the excitement and joy of my first one bringing to my life and, as Zuhal&John and I chatted after today’s shoot, you can’t beat the feeling of re-living experiences as a young human being whilst explaining this strange little thing called life to your own child. Whoever can, they’re lucky, perhaps not even aware how much.
Today’s shoot was amazing and I hadn’t anticipated the gorgeous light we’d be enjoying! Then again, it’s true that September weather here in the UK tends to be better than in the summer, and the Foxton Locks (near Market Harborough) this morning was no different - as beautiful and calm as ever, with some of the warm autumn colours starting to pop through as the summer is now officially over. I love shooting here and often suggest this location to couples for their elopement photo shoots, pre-wedding sessions as well as outdoor and lifestyle photography - you simply can’t beat nature around here with a plethora of romantic spots and beautiful, idyllic countryside views! But then when I saw Zuhal&John again, all glowing in the glittering morning sun, beautifully prepared and wearing white clothing, I couldn’t help to internally shout ‘YES!’ to myself. And the images we produced are testament to it, I think. In fact, out of all the photo shoots organised here, a number of them from this morning are easily some of my favourite ones.
It’s never only about the photos however - they’re merely a by-product of the time we spend together — chatting, laughing, making memories… And I couldn’t be happier with it all; the ability to document people’s lives whilst connecting with them, learning about their everyday dos and then, as with any art, create photographs that reflects them.
I seriously can’t wait for Zuhal&John to look through what we captured today, and equally so I can’t wait to see them again with their newborn daughter! She already is super lucky to have them as parents!

Photo shoot location: Foxton Locks, Market Harborough area, Leicestershire.