A Sacred Celebration: Christenings at Hagia Sofia Cathedral

I adore shooting Christenings at Hagia Sofia Cathedral. Hagia Sofia Cathedral or Saint Sofia Greek Church as it is also referred to, is located on Moscow Road in London’s Bayswater. Hagia Sofia Cathedral is the latest building of several that have serviced the spiritual needs of London’s Greek community since the late 17th century (the original church being located on today’s Greek street in Soho). Its present site on Moscow road began work in June 1877, with the first liturgy being held two years later upon completion.

Hagia Sofia Christening Photography

A selection of photography of my last Christening at Hagia Sofia Greek Cathedral (Ayia Sofia Greek Church)..

Hagia Sofia Cathedral really has to be seen to be believed. Its iconography is encased in oak and dark green marble from the Greek island of Tinos adorns its walls. But for me the most breathtaking is the mosaic work in the dome and on the floor, in the traditional Byzantium style. Further mosaics have been commisioned over the years and in 1896 a large three-dimensional silver cross covered in ruby lamps was erected.

There are so many beautiful areas of Hagia Sofia that without doubt, add an extra layer of beauty and spiritual significance to your Baby’s Christening Day.

You can see more of my Christening Photography HERE

3 Tips for Choosing a Photographer for your Greek Christening | Christine Constantine Photography

CHOOSING A PHOTOGRAPHER FOR YOUR BABY’S CHRISTENING

In the life of a Greek Orthodox Christian, the Christening is a very important milestone. It not only brings family and friends together in celebration, but it also marks the official beginning of the child’s lifelong spiritual journey.

Obviously most people don’t remember their Christening because they were too young. Photographing the event ensures these memories can be preserved, not only for the Christened child, but for future generations to come.

As a Greek Christening Photographer in London I can share some tips that will help you find the best professionals for your baby’s Baptism and some questions that are worth asking. As a Greek Cypriot myself I have lots of experience with Greek and Greek Cypriot families and baptism traditions!

ALL IMAGES BY: CHRISTINE CONSTANTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

Greek Christening Photography

Does you Photographer have Greek Orthodox Christening Experience? 


Does your Christening photographer have experience with Greek Orthodox Christenings? The ceremony is fairly unique and it takes knowledge of all the crucial parts to understand the important moments that require a photo or a close-up. Not only that, but without prior knowledge they may get in the way of the priest during crucial moments of the Christening. They should also have respect not just for their clients but for the priest and other members of the church. They shouldn’t interfere with the service, but just quietly observe taking natural pictures along the way.

If you want a photographer who has never worked a Greek Christening before they should be briefed in detail about what is expected of them to photograph. For example, they may not realize that after the baby is submerged in the water and dressed in their Christening outfit, or when they have their hair cut that this part actually has significance and should be photographed. Make sure they know what is important well before the actual day so you don’t need to worry about them missing those moments when they happen!

Do I need a Videographer too?

Most people who hire both are very pleased because they not only have beautiful photographs to capture the moment but they also have a video to watch again and again. Having a video is especially nice because you can show it to your child as he/she gets older, although it can increase the cost substantially. Videographers also have several packages so make sure you discuss this with your chosen videographer before the event so you know exactly what to expect for your investment.

Another major decision you need to make is whether or not you would like to hire the videographer and photographer as a package deal. Some larger companies have teams that work together and this can save you some money. However, you may compromise a bit of quality if you choose this route. Some parents like to choose them individually as a way to control the quality.

Hiring both a videographer and photographer for your child’s Greek Christening offers a great way to preserve the occasion for the future. Since the child likely won’t remember the Christening, this is also a great way to share the moment with them as they get older.

Do I feel comfortable with my Christening Photographer?

Lastly, your photographer is present in a very special and intimate part of the Christening day and it is essential that you feel comfortable with having them around. Choose a photographer you feel at ease with! One you trust and can communicate well with. And also one who respects the nature of the day and its significance.

ALL IMAGES ABOVE ARE BY: CHRISTINE CONSTANTINE PHOTOGRAPHY

St Mary's Greek Orthodox Church Christening Photography | Camberwell | South London

St Mary’s Greek Orthodox Cathedral is one of the oldest Greek Orthodox Church in South London. It was originally built for the Catholic Church in 1876, and the original structure was much larger than it is today. Sadly much of it was destroyed in the Second World War. In 1963 it was taken over by the Greek Orthodox Church and as a Greek Orthodox Christening Photographer based in nearby Clapham, I was delighted to be asked to capture baby Tommy’s Christening there. Here are my favourite images from the day..

Christening Details

Christening photographers LOVE details and I’m no exception..

Greek Christening Photography in St Mary’s Greek Orthodox Church

I was also delighted to be asked to be baby number 2’s Christening Photographer too!!

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See more Greek Christening photography here..

Christine Constantine Photography

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Theo's Greek Orthodox Christening Photography | Greek Orthodox Church St Barnabas | North London

The very first Christening I shot when I was back in London was for adorable little Theo and his family. Due to Covid restrictions numbers were limited so only close family and friends were present. We initially met at the parents house for some pre-Christening family photographs. After a relaxed baptism at St Barnabas Greek Orthodox Church in Wood Green, I managed to get some nice shots afterwards outside the church and our small group made our way to Theo’s Yiayia’s house for food and an absolutely awesome Christening cake!

Check out more of my work here: www.christineconstantine.co.uk

Pre-Christening Family Photography

St Barnabas Greek Orthodox Church Christening

Saint Barnabas Greek Orthodox Church is a Greek Orthodox church in Finsbury Road, Wood Green, London.

The Christening Cake

To see more Christenings click here: www.christineconstantine.co.uk/christenings

Top Ten Greek Wedding and Christening Suppliers in London

You know in this blog I wanted to give a bit of a shout out to some of the Greek wedding suppliers I’ve met and worked with along my journey as a London wedding photographer. From cake-makers to dressmakers; from florists to fireworks. These people are the creators, the orchestrators of your wedding or event. They put their individual skills together for one moment in time and create a unique experience for your special day. All details are correct as of March 2022 and I plan to keep it updated with the latest news/photos and info on more suppliers I have the pleasure of meeting along the way.

All images below are taken by: Christine Constantine Photography.

A female documentary-style photographer and popular individual in the Greek and Cypriot community of London, Christine has also shot Weddings and Christenings not only in her hometown of London but also in Cyprus. She has over ten years experience of being a Greek Christening photographer, as well as a christening photographer of other faiths. She is kind, discreet and respectful; priding herself in shooting only the most natural, unobtrusive photography of your baby’s special day.

"We were highly impressed with Christine’s work, she managed to get all the shots we wanted for our daughter’s special day! Would highly recommend Christine for any special event. Thank you for capturing some great memories for our daughters Christening !

sophia panayi

She captured the mood, energy and love pouring out to our son, beautifully. She took the lead on capturing multiple types of pictures, both candid and posed, as well as all the important documenting style Christening pictures.
She also consulted us on the day with what/who else we wanted to capture.
She was subtle, friendly and encouraging. Will definitely be booking her for future events”

photis papachristou

“We had Christine as our wedding photographer and it was the best choice for us! She delivered exactly what we wanted. More natural photos and a photographer that would follow the wedding flow and not stage it. I would recommend her without hesitation!!’

Eleni Zissimou

Jamboree Carts | @jamboreecarts

I met the lovely Despina at a baby girl’s Christening last summer. I was immediately wowed by her decorative carts - the colour palette of the balloons and flowers - the layout - just the whole incredible design! I couldn’t stop taking pictures of it! The cart served the obligatory candy table, and all the colours perfectly matched! Stunning work.

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Sophie K Cakes | @sophiekcakes

I’ve also been pretty wowed by the talented Sophie from @sophiekcakes, who really does make the most BEAUTIFUL Christening cakes with incredible detail. Check these out!

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Bambino Couture | @bambinocoutureltd

I’ve photographed a few Christenings from the well-known and well-loved Maria from Bambino Couture (@bambinocoutureltd) who has made a name for herself as one of the main go-to suppliers when it comes to Christening gowns and outfits. She also does flower girl outfits and page boy outfits for wedding. Check out some of her designs here..

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Alexandria Couture | @alexandria.couture.uk

Alexandria Couture (@alexandria.couture.uk) is another well-known Christening outfit designer and is also a one-stop shop for all things Christening - lambadas, bombonieres, Christening gifts, Stefana for weddings etc. She has it all covered!

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Sofia Couture Baby Boutique | @sofiacouturebabyboutique

Maria from @sofiacouturebabyboutique is another incredible Christening supplier with a popular following in North London and beyond. Established in 2011 she has a 15.5 thousand followers on Instagram and also provides Boys’ & Girls’ Christening Wear & Accessories and personalised gifts. A one-stop shop based in N14, North London.

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Olivias Cakes | @olivias_cakes_london

Olivias Cakes (@olivias_cakes_london) are based on Silver Road, Edmonton, North London and cater for weddings, Christenings and birthday parties. Now a popular cafe also serving coffee and Cyprus sandwiches, owner Maria and her husband Theo have a growning reputation in the local area and beyond for preparing not just stunning creations, but vegan and gluten-free options too. I caught up with her when she was preparing for Easter. Check out the bunny cake! All cakes are made to order so get your order in FAST!

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Exciting Fireworks | @excitingfireworks

If you want you wedding or event to go off with a BANG you NEED the services of Exciting Fireworks!!

Nicos and his son Leon have been selling fireworks from their shop on Stroud Green Road in North London for over twenty years now. What these guys don’t know about fireworks and parties is not worth knowing!! They also provide indoor fireworks, smoke machines and smoke grenades for weddings and can tailor-make a display depending on your budget. Pop in today for a friendly chat and learn how you can add sparkles and magic to your special day!

The 12 Apostles Church Christening Photography | Christine Constantine Photography

I love being invited up to the tranquil surroundings of Brookmans Park near Hatfield to shoot Christenings at the Greek Orthodox 12 Apostles Church. The 12 Apostles church as its name suggests is dedicated to the twelve apostles of Christ. As beautiful place of worship and popular with the young Greek community of north London. As a London christening photographer I just love the opportunity to work in these wonderfully spiritual and tranquil places. It is alway super-friendly and one church where you get a very warm welcome..

The 12 Apostles Church, Hatfield

Christening Details

I always arrive super early to be ready to start shooting a soon as the family/Godparents arrive. Before the Christening begins I’ll grab a few shots of the lambada, dress/outfit, oil and any other christening details..

Christening Photography

Sample Christening images at the 12 Apostles Church..

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How much is your Christening Photography?

Christening Photography £395

• Detail shots, pre-Christening shots, the Christening, Family Photography etc (200+ high-resolution, edited digital images).

Christening Photography £595

• Christening Photography + One hours coverage at restaurant/venue (300+ high-resolution edited, digital images).

Christening Photography £795

• Christening Photography + Full coverage of Event (500+ high-resolution edited, digital images).

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