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

Holy Cross and St Michael's Greek Church Christening Photography

The Holy Cross and St Michael’s Greek Church or The Greek Orthodox Church of The Holy Cross & Archangel Michael to give it its full name, is situated on the Golders Green Green road in North London. Popular with the Greek community of North London it holds many Orthodox religious services such as weddings, Christenings and funerals. As a Greek Christening Photographer it is always a joy to shoot here.

Christening Photography at The Holy Cross and St Michael’s Greek Church

More Christening Photography..

SEE MORE CHRISTENINGS HERE

Baby Rafe's Christening Photography | Chelsea Old Church | Chelsea

History of Chelsea Old Church

Chelsea Old Church is a parish in the Diocese of London which is part of the Church of England. It is located on the corner of Old Church Street (SW3 5DQ) and the Embankment, and has stood there for over 700 years.

It is believed there has been a Church on this site ever since Christianity arrived in England. It used to be called the Parish Church of the Village of Chelsea before this village became part of London.

The Church has been restored on its old foundations and looks very much like it did before, with its square Nave built in the classical style from which the medieval Chancel and Chapels can be seen through the three arches. The King Post at the West end of the More Chapel, which had been plastered over, was revealed by the blast and has been left uncovered as an example of pre-Tudor building.

Some say Chelsea Old Church has the finest collection of church monuments outside Westminster Abbey and they are especially valued because of the painstaking reconstruction of the church after its destruction in the Second World War.

The Church is used not only for Christenings and Weddings, but also for concerts and other similar public events. The Parish Office is located at 64 Cheyne Walk, SW3 5LT (entrance at the back of the Church). Open from 9.30am.-2.00pm. Tuesday to Friday, 0207 7951019 or office@chelseaoldchurch.org.uk.

Christening Photography inside Chelsea Old Church

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

Jude's Christening Photography | St Barnabas with Christ's Chapel Dulwich

St Barnabas' Church, Dulwich, is in the parish church of Dulwich, and is dedicated to Barnabas, one of the disciples of Jesus. The original church was built in 1892–95, and the parish church for the new Parish of Dulwich, is now known as the Parish of St Barnabas with Christ's Chapel, Dulwich.

St Barnabas with Christ's Chapel Dulwich is a popular church for Christenings but Christening photographers take note as photography is only permitted before and after the Christening itself.

Christening Photography in St Barnabas with Christ's Chapel Dulwich

As Christening photography is only permitted before and after the Christening, I waited in the wings until the baptism was over, before taking advantage of the wonderful well-lit church for some much-loved family and godparent photographs.

Leopold's Christening Photography | Deutsche Evangelische Christuskirche | Knightsbridge | London

The German Protestant church Deutsche Evangelische Christuskirche is located on Montepelier Place in the heart of Knightsbridge and has been described as the most significant German Church in London. (In 1946 its congregation were largely German refugees fleeing the Nazi occupation).

Leopold’s Christening ceremony included readings from each of the Godparents, and traditional German hymns sung by the choir. So as a Christening photographer I had some beautiful moments to capture!

German Protestant Christening Photography

Christening gown inside the Deutsche Evangelische Christuskirche in Knightsbridge.

Christening candle inside the Deutsche Evangelische Christuskirche in Knightsbridge.

Mother, Father and Christened baby inside the Deutsche Evangelische Christuskirche in Knightsbridge.

Choir singing inside the Deutsche Evangelische Christuskirche in Knightsbridge.

Congegation singing inside the Deutsche Evangelische Christuskirche in Knightsbridge.

Mother, Father and Christened baby inside the Deutsche Evangelische Christuskirche in Knightsbridge.

Mother, Father and Christened baby inside the Deutsche Evangelische Christuskirche in Knightsbridge.

Outside the Deutsche Evangelische Christuskirche