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.

The exterior view of Chelsea Old Church taken from the Embankment in London.

Christening Photography inside Chelsea Old Church

Burgh House Wedding Photographer | Burgh House | Hampstead

As a wedding photographer one of my absolute FAVOURITE wedding venues in London is the stunning Burgh House in Hampstead. Located on New End Road in Hampstead, a short walk from Hampstead Tube Station, this historic house was built in 1704 during the reign of Queen Anne.

On the first floor you can find The Hampstead Museum, with permanent exhibits on local history and culture. There are also galleries for temporary exhibits of art, local history and culture. At the basement, there is a cafe and there is outside seating in the gardens.

Burgh House currently hosts exhibitions and concerts, and is hired for weddings, receptions and other private events. Due to its impressive stature and stunning interiors Burgh House is a great choice for your wedding photography.

Outside Burgh House

The historic exterior also lends itself to some stunning wedding photography. These images were taken during a winter wedding hence the cool tones!

Images of the exterior of Burgh House in Hampstead.

Inside Burgh House

If you book Burgh House for your wedding photography, the cost of the first hour includes all of the set-up and planning, plus the use of our lovely Blüthner baby grand piano! Check out photography of the wonderful wedding area. There is also some gorgeous warm lighting so a wedding photographers dream..

A selection of photography of the interior downstairs room at Burgh House where weddings take place.

The beautiful front room has a warm welcome and is a wonderful spot for your wedding photography.

Burgh House capacity is up to 70 guests for wedding ceremonies, 62 for a sit-down dinner and for standing receptions they can accomodate up to 100 guests.

Burgh House Wedding Photography

Some sample images of wedding photography at Burgh House..

Orla and Parid's Wedding Photography | The Prince Albert | Camden

The Prince Albert is one of my favourite pub wedding venues in London, (I’ve even referenced it in my blog post My 5 Favourite Wedding Pubs in London ) - so I was SUPER excited to hear that’s where the lovely Orla and her husband-to-be Parid were going to tie the knot!

Just check out the awesome-ness here..

The Prince Albert Wedding Photography

A Prince Albert Wedding Party!

Eleni and Josh's London Wedding Photography | Chelsea Old Town Hall | The Phene Chelsea

Loved these two from the first moment we made contact. Eleni knew she wanted her wedding photography to be more documentary and natural in style so I guess hiring me was a no-brainer!

After a quick visit to The Exhibitionist Hotel to shoot some groom prep shots, I hot-footed it over to The Chelsea Cloister Hotel to meet the bridal party.

The Exhibitionist is a unique art boutique hotel in South Kensington, and has the most amazing backdrops for your wedding photography. Check out this corridor shot..

Chelsea Old Town Hall

It was then off to Chelsea and the fabulous Chelsea Old Town Hall register office to officially tie the knot!

The Phene, Chelsea

The Phene is an iconic Chelsea pub in SW3 and perfect for your wedding breakfast or wedding party. It’s just a short walk away from the King’s Road and its beautiful decor and interesting lighting make it a cool place for your wedding photography.

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.

Christening details such as the dress, lambada etc photographed in an artistic, detail-enhancing 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

Katerina and Alec's London Wedding Photography | Marylebone Old Town Hall | Prince Albert Camden

HUGE love at this one. Lots of happy faces from California and Scotland making this special day a truly memorable affair. The couple were very specific about their wedding photographer. They approached me as they were confident I could deliver wedding photography that was natural and fun. Wedding photography that captured the true ESSENCE of their day without being obtrusive or affecting the natural flow of the day..

Marylebone Old Town Hall Wedding Photography

After saying “I Do” the couple took to the stairs to be greeted by friends and family and a whole HEAP of confetti!!

Prince Albert, Camden

After a cocktail reception in the downstairs bar of the Prince Albert, guests were ushered upstairs for dinner and speeches!

Following dinner the band started up and the party was well and truly underway..

Selection of wedding party images from Katerina and Alec's wedding at The Prince Albert in Camden.