It was an absolute delight to photograph Sian & Mike's wedding yesterday (my first wedding post-lockdown!). In a post-Covid world it was a slightly different day - hand sanitiser upon entering the church and reception, only ten guests, and distancing measures in place at both venues.

However, many things were still the same and still as special - the love this lovely couple clearly have for each other, the delight of family and friends at sharing this special day (all-the-more special for being so intimate), and a wedding day full of beautiful touches, smiles and joy.

On top of the recent uncertainty around weddings, yesterday's rain was not what you'd hope for for your wedding day, but it did not dampen spirits. There were smiles all round and we managed to get some gorgeous photos outside when there was a break in the clouds, as well as exploring indoor nooks and crannies of The Compleat Angler when it looked like the rain would not ease up!

Sian & Mike - I wish you all the very best for an extremely happy future together! Thanks for asking me to capture your special day.

Reception Venue: The Compleat Angler, Marlow

Church: St Edward's, Windsor

Hair: Keeley Mason

Dress: Caroline Castigliano

Flowers: Seventh Heaven

Cake: Truly Scrumptious Cakes

With the gradual easing of government guidelines regarding social distancing, I am now able to offer studio-style newborn photoshoots again. Many of you have told me that you'd prefer to have these 'full' shoots for your new baby. However, I'm conscious that some people will prefer to remain socially distanced. As such, I'm offering both the full service as well as a socially distanced mini-shoot service. The table below will help you to decide which shoot is for you.

In line with government guidelines, I have carried out a risk assessment for all areas of my work, including newborn photoshoots. For the outdoor mini-shoots the main risk mitigation is that they take place outside and I remain at 2m distance (full risk assessment details can be found by following the 'more info' link above).

With a studio-style newborn photoshoot, I am coming into your home, bringing equipment and having contact with your baby, and as such, there is a level of risk. I have taken the following precautions to ensure the risk is minimised, however, you should make your own risk assessment as to whether to proceed with this kind of shoot based on the information below and an understanding of the risks involved.

The following summarises the actions I take during a studio-style shoot to minimise risk to all involved. A full copy of the Risk Assessment is available on request and will be supplied upon booking.

• I will never attend a photoshoot if I (or anyone in my household) have Covid19 symptoms, nor if I have been instructed to self-isolate. Likewise, you should postpone your photoshoot if you (or anyone in your household) have symptoms or have been instructed to self-isolate.
• I sanitise all equipment with disinfectant wipes before bringing it into your home. All backdrops and wraps are freshly washed before bringing them to your shoot.
• I limit the number of non-washable props used. Where these are used, they are quarantined for at least 72 hours between sessions.
• I will wash my hands upon arrival at your home (I bring a freshly washed hand towel for my own use). I wash my hands again before having contact with your baby.
• I wear a filtered mask throughout the session, and will wear a visor whilst I have hands-on contact with your baby.
• Whilst I am setting up, everyone in your household should maintain at least 2m distance.
• The room we are using should be well ventilated with windows open wherever possible.
• I aim to maintain 2m distance wherever possible except when hands-on contact with baby is required.
• I limit the amount of times I need to touch your baby: I will wrap them at the beginning of the session and avoid further wrap changes. I avoid posing baby on their front (some simple poses may be possible with the assistance of a parent).

This blog was originally written in June, when I was unable to be 'hands-on' for newborn photo sessions. From mid-July I am offering more of a full newborn service - find out how the two different kinds of shoots compare here. If you'd like to know more about my outdoor newborn mini-shoots, please read on...

Where will the photoshoot take place?

These outdoor shoots take place in your garden or another outdoor location. Most new parents prefer to stay near home in case baby needs a feed or change, but if you prefer, I can recommend outdoor locations around Windsor, Slough & Maidenhead.

When should the photoshoot take place and when should I book?

It's best for the shoot to take place in baby's first few weeks to capture their newness. However, I recognise many people have missed out on newborn photos due to lockdown, so these shoots can be booked for babies of any age.

Although you can book your shoot at any time, these shoots are proving very popular and I'm already taking bookings for the coming months. To ensure you don't miss out, I recommend booking your shoot before baby arrives. We'll pencil in a date a couple of weeks after your due date to allow for any late arrivals.

I'll discuss the time of your shoot with you when you book. Ideally, it's best if the location we are using is in shade, so timing may depend on when that is during the day. It will also depend on whether you have older children and when they are at their best (i.e. avoiding toddler nap times).

How long does the photoshoot take?

It should take approximately 45 minutes. I suggest you allow an hour - I'm happy to wait a few minutes if baby needs a quick feed or change.

Is this photoshoot Covid Safe?

I have carried out a risk assessment in line with government guidelines and will be taking the following actions to ensure your shoot remains safe for all involved:

• These mini-shoots will only take place outside.
• I will keep at a minimum of 2m distance at all times.
• I would never attend a shoot if I (or anyone in my household) were displaying Covid19 symptoms or needed to self-isolate.
• Any props (e.g. blanket for wrapping baby or pillows to lay them on) will come from your own home.
• I will only ask you to hold your baby in natural poses.
• I use sanitising hand gel before and after the shoot (although do not need to have contact with you at any time).
• I don’t wear a face mask as it is generally better that you can hear me clearly and that any older children can see me smiling, etc. Government advice is to wear a face covering in an indoor setting. I do, however, have a filtered mask and if you'd like me to wear it, please let me know.

What if one of our household is displaying Covid19 symptoms?

If you or anyone in your home has symptoms of Covid19 then the shoot should not take place. You'll be able to reschedule free of charge to a time when your isolation ends.

What if government advice changes?

If government advice changes and increased lockdown/distancing measures mean the shoot cannot take place, we will postpone or refund.

As restrictions are being eased, I am returning to a more 'normal' service - you can find out more here. However, I am conscious that some people are preferring to maintain distancing, so will continue to offer these outdoor mini-shoots in the short term.

What should you wear?

I recommend keeping clothing plain and simple for all family members and to dress baby in a plain white vest. I will provide you with info for preparing when you book your shoot which contains more details.

What should you prepare?

I recommend you have a pillow handy to lay baby on, a blanket to wrap them in, and something to sit on so you can be seated for some of the photos.

Should my baby be awake or asleep for the photoshoot?

Generally it's better that your baby is asleep for the photos as they will be more contented and less fidgety. However, I know that babies are unpredictable and due to the natural nature of the shoot, it's fine if they are awake - you may get some lovely photos of them looking at the camera!

Can my baby be posed or wrapped for the shoot?

I introduced these shoots during a time when contact was not permitted. I am continuing to offer them for those who prefer me not to have hands-on contact with their baby. If you'd like your baby to be posed and/or wrapped for your shoot, then a full studio-style shoot will be better for you. Find out more here.

What if it rains?

As the shoot takes place outside, if rain is forecast I will be in touch to arrange a rescheduled time or day.

Can siblings be in the photos?

Yes, the emphasis in these shoots is on family - siblings are more than welcome to be in the photos. I am used to working with children of all ages and have lots of tricks up my sleeve to get a good photo!

What if I don't want to be in the photos?

The emphasis of the shoot is family, however, if you really don't want to be photographed, I can photograph baby on their own (you may be holding them for some of the photos, but won't appear in the final image). It will mean you have a smaller number of proof images to choose from.

I know most new parents are tired and not feeling at their most glamorous - I use lighting, clothing advice and posing techniques to ensure you look your best. If there is anything in particular you are concerned about, please let me know as I'm sure we can find a solution.

How much does it cost?

It is £175 for your 45-minute shoot and includes six digital images. This price is valid for mid-week shoots only.

How many photos will we get?

I expect to get 10-25 images for you to choose from. Six downloadable images are included. If you wish to buy more than six, it is £25 per digital image.

Can the photos be printed?

Your final images come with a print licence for you to print unlimited copies for personal use, including sharing with family members.

How to book?

Please contact me to schedule a date for your shoot.

If you have any questions that this hasn't answered, please feel free to get in contact or add them in the comments below and I'll add them to the above.

As of today, the government has updated social distancing guidelines, and is now permitting more social activity outside and gathering of groups of up to six. I am so happy that this means outdoor photoshoots can now take place. Please read on to find out more. At the bottom you'll find guidance on what will happen if you need to postpone or cancel (in short, you don't need to worry!).

Family Photoshoots

Outdoor family photoshoots to restartOutdoor family photoshoots are now safe to restart - I keep a minimum of 2m distance away from you throughout your shoot I am now taking bookings for outdoor photoshoots for families of up to five people. For a family photoshoot, heading outdoors has always been my preference and recommendation. It feels really natural, we go for a stroll, the kids have lots of fun running, climbing and hunting for bugs and fairies, and parents relax and enjoy it too!

I have lots of outdoor locations in and around Windsor that I can recommend for photoshoots. My portfolio galleries show examples of family photos and kids photos outdoors.

The lenses I use mean I rarely need to come closer than 2-3m anyway, and, of course, I will now ensure that I maintain a minimum of 2m distance from you at all times. You'll still get the 'close-up' photos - I use zoom lenses that mean it looks close whilst I'm still a good few metres away! Outdoor photoshoots to resumeClose-up photos are still possible with long lenses - a relaxed and natural photoshoot where your kids will have lots of fun

With outdoor family photoshoots, essentially very little has changed, except I won't shake hands to say hi, and I won't hand anything to you or your children.

I also have a filter mask that I can wear on request. I won't wear this as standard as I'll get better reactions from the kids if they can see me smiling, etc, and the government recommendation to wear a face covering is in "enclosed spaces" such as "public transport or in some shops"; however, I am more than happy to wear it if you prefer.

Indoor shoots using the studio kit are still on hold - I will take another look at this when government advice is updated and the risk level changes.

A new kind of newborn baby photoshootWith coronavirus photographers are having to adapt the way they work. Hands-on newborn photoshoots will not be possible for some time, but I am developing a new service so those precious first few days are not missed. Newborn Photoshoots

My standard newborn photoshoots involve me wrapping and posing your baby. Due to this hands-on nature, it is unlikely I'll be able to resume these for some time.

However, I'm so aware that babies grow and change very quickly. The first few months fly by and are quickly forgotten. So I'm currently working on an outdoors 'distance' photoshoot service that will enable me to capture these memories of the first few weeks whilst keeping you and your baby at a safe distance. More info and examples can be found here.

Pop-up Photoshoots

The pop-up photoshoots that I hold in local café's are on hold until these venues are able to reopen. Once they are open, I will discuss with each individual venue when and how it is appropriate to restart these.

Weddings

If you've already booked with me

Wedding advice coronavirus 2020Wedding advice - what to do if you need to postpone your 2020 wedding or are planning a wedding for 2021 If you have a wedding booked with me for 2020 it's likely that we've already been in touch. My standard contract allows free postponement to a new date within six months subject to my being available on the new date - this is currently extended to 12 months.

If you're planning a wedding for the end of 2020 or 2021

I realise that there is still uncertainty when making your wedding plans for later this year and early 2021. The postponement clause mentioned above applies to all new bookings too (and will also include the extension to 12 months), so you can book with reassurance. I'm taking bookings now for later this year and for 2021/22, so please do get in contact if you're planning a wedding - I'd love to hear the plans for your day and chat about your wedding photography.

Commercial Photoshoots

Headshots & personal branding photoshootsOutdoor headshot and personal branding photoshoots are now permitted Outdoor headshot photoshoots may now restart, these are perfect if you'd like a relaxed and natural shot for your website or LinkedIn profile. Many have also booked this service when looking for a profile image for online dating sites.

If your brand suits an outdoor theme, then now could be the perfect time for a personal branding shoot which can take place in a number of outdoor locations. Of course, both headshots and branding shoots will be done at more than 2m distance.

Throughout lockdown I have offered a product photography service from my home studio and this continues.

Please contact me to arrange a free telephone consultation to discuss how professional photography can make a difference to your brand or small business.

What if we need to self isolate or postpone?

I realise the current time brings lots of uncertainty. It's important that we all follow government guidelines and isolate if we have any symptoms of Covid19. If you find yourselves in this situation, then I'll happily postpone your booking. Likewise, I would never attend a photoshoot if I, or anyone in my household, have any Covid19 symptoms.

It's going to be a while until we are back to full normality, but I'm looking forward to restarting the shoots that I can. If you have a query about anything that's not covered above, please feel free to get in contact, I'm always happy to chat. I look forward to seeing and photographing you soon!

Update: 26th March 2020

As of Monday 23rd March, all bookings up to the end of April have been postponed. I have been contacting customers individually to rearrange.

Bookings for May and beyond will be reviewed as and when government advice is updated. If you currently have a wedding booked later in 2020, please read the advice below (and feel free to give me a call - I'm always happy to chat and will be as flexible as I can to contribute to the big day you've always dreamed of).

If you would like to make a booking for May and beyond, please contact me. I am keeping a list and will be booking those on it, on a first come first served basis, once social distancing measures are eased.

Thanks for your support. Hoping you all stay well!

Original post: 19th March 2020

The current situation with Covid-19 (coronavirus) is an unprecedented and challenging one! I've already contacted everyone that has a booking with me in the next month, as well as all weddings booked in the next three months. I thought it may also be helpful to share information here regarding bookings in the near future.

For those whose photoshoot has already taken place, I remain open for business working from home to take orders. My print labs are all currently open for business as usual so your orders will continue to be processed and delivered to you. If this situation changes I will let you know.

For existing bookings and anyone considering booking in the next month (and possibly beyond), I am open for business as far as is practical whilst following government guidance on social distancing, as follows:

Pop-up mini-photoshoots

As of Monday 16th March, I have cancelled/postoned my pop-up photoshoots in cafes and baby & toddler groups for the next month (and will review the situation at that time). The location of these falls under the category of 'social gathering' so I felt that this was the responsible decision to take.

Newborn photoshoots

For newborn baby photoshoots, it's a difficult balance as I know your baby is only tiny for so long, and would hate to deprive anyone of those memories should you really want them. However, I do have to handle baby during the shoot, so 'distancing' is not really possible.

As such, I'm leaving it to individual families to decide whether to proceed with their shoot. Should you decide to go ahead, all fabric backdrops are washed before each shoot, and my other equipment is wiped with disinfectant. I always wash my hands before a shoot and use hand gel throughout, I will continue to do this with additional handwashing. As has always been the case, I would never attend a newborn shoot if I feel unwell.

If you decide to postpone, remember there are many key milestones during baby's first year. It's possible to achieve newborn photos up to about 5/6 weeks and sometimes even older; as baby gets bigger, these will be more natural of baby wrapped on their back with fewer posed images, but will still capture the essence of their newness. After this age, it's best to wait until about 3-4 months when baby will be smiling more and able to hold their head up a little whilst supported. Age 6-12 months is one of my favourite ages for photos - once baby is sitting and particularly before they are crawling, you'll get some gorgeous photos with personality shining through!

Outdoor family photoshoots

I'm continuing to take bookings for outdoor shoots. The lenses used during these shoots mean that I'm rarely closer than 2m to you, and in fact, there's no need for contact during these sessions (I'm sure you'll forgive me for giving you a wave hello rather than shaking hands!). As such I feel it's safe to continue with these whilst we're still permitted to circulate in the great outdoors!

Weddings

If your wedding is taking place, then I'll be there as long as I'm permitted to by government guidelines. I hope that I stay healthy enough to do so, but if I am unwell or required to isolate, then you may find it reassuring to know that I am a member of the Guild of Photographers and have a network of local photographers, so have many hundreds of photographers that I can call upon for back-up should it be needed (and would obviously discuss this with you first should it become required).

Should it become necessary to postpone your wedding, then my standard contract has always included a postponement clause that allows the contract and booking fee to be carried across to any new date (subject to me being available) within 6 months. Given the current circumstances I'm extending this to 12 months for weddings originally booked for April, May and June 2020.

As a small independent business I appreciate your support during this difficult time for all of us. If you have any questions, then please don't hesitate to get in contact.

Footnote: Isolation diaries!

We're currently in self-isolation (ending middle of next week for me - hurrah!), so I'm 'enjoying' home schooling my kids. As we're ahead of some of you with schools closing this week, I thought I'd share some tips that have made our days run more smoothly...

• Discuss and agree a timetable  With two games-console obsessed boys and two parents that work from home, I was worried we'd end up in situation where we work all day ignoring them whilst they play online all day. We sat down and agreed a timetable - everything we need to do (schoolwork/ work), want to do (XBox for the boys, pilates for me!), and chores to keep the house in order. By agreeing it all between us it's got everyone's buy-in; it also means that we've agreed split supervision of the kids to give us both time to work. Whilst we're not planning to stick to it rigidly, it at least gives us structure, routine and a reason for turning the console off!
• Agree some isolation rules  At the same time we agreed some rules to ensure we all get along happily (for full transparency, we've already had an argument over what the kids were going to eat for dinner!). Rules include not skipping any schoolwork; and taking yourself to a different room if someone (your brother!) is annoying you, and a promise from that person that they won't follow you!
• Ensure you have food in the cupboards and freezer, and/or helpful friends and neighbours on hand  We were fortunate enough to get a supermarket delivery slot and, albeit with a few missing items, have enough food to get us through the next week. Whilst I'm in no way endorsing panic buying, do make sure you have a few essentials to cook meals if you find yourself unable to get to the supermarket (or the pizza takeaway number on hand!). We're also blessed to have had lots of friends and neighbours offer support, and whilst we've not needed to call on it yet, it's nice to know we can shout for help if we run out of milk. You also realise you've chosen friends wisely when a box of cakes is hand delivered by said wonderful friend!

And as no post from me is ever complete without a picture. Here's one of my littlest getting on with his work yesterday... Keep well everyone!

Working from home with kids in towblack and white photo of boy working with colouring in book

Windsor wedding photography & make-upfind the best wedding photographer and make-up artist in Windsor I always recommend that you hire a professional hair and make-up artist so you can relax on your wedding morning and get ready to enjoy your big day knowing you'll look your best.

1. Find an artist who shares your vision

Oakley Court wedding photographychoosing the best make-up artist and photographer for your Windsor wedding 2. Always book a trial

3. Look after your skin

Windsor weddig photographer - Oakley Courttop tips for choosing your wedding make up artist and photographer 4. Don't try anything new close to the big day

5. Be prepared and get lots of sleep

Your artist will be at hand in the run up to the wedding for any last minute questions and will provide a timetable for you and your bridal party to ensure the day runs smoothly and you have a stress-free wedding morning. Be prepared for an early start and get lots of sleep as you need to be in tip-top health to look and feel like an A-lister.

Thank you to Rosie Scott for sharing her top tips. If you'd like to find out more about Rosie please visit her website.

Spearreflexology 08Commercial photography of Windsor business Spear Reflexology After working with Michaela of Spear Reflexology to create some commercial imagery for her business last year, during which I watched her give both foot and facial reflexology treatments, I was keen to find out more.

Reflexology of the feet was something I was previously aware of, but facial reflexology was entirely new to me.

Zone Face Lift

Michaela also specialises in Zone Face Lift, a natural alternative to more invasive procedures that combines facial reflexology and advanced facial massage, to offer many therapeutic benefits including:

• helps to relax over-tight muscles
• tightens and tones the skin of the face and neck
• improves blood flow into muscle tissues keeping them functioning well, toned and maintaining their elasticity
• reduces puffiness and breaks localised fatty deposits Spearreflexology 13Spear Reflexology is a Windsor business photographed by Abi Moore
• loosens scar tissue
• helps to deeply relax you face and body
• supports lymph drainage of the face and neck
• helps to regenerate skin cells
• encourages calmness and deep relaxation which reduces stress
• helps to clear congested sinuses and may ease hayfever
• regular treatment may help to preserve youthful skin and soften wrinkles and fine lines
• brightens you face and reduces dark circles around the eyes

Spearreflexology 19Commercial photography of Windsor business Spear Reflexology Zone Face Lift draws upon both ancient and modern reflexology. Using massage and a number of crystal tools, the treatment smooths and scrapes the skin to release stagnation and toxins, improve lymph drainage and reduce muscle tension.

Spearreflexology 06Michaela Spear of Spear Reflexology - an expert in facial relexology and Zone Face Lift I was excited to give it a try!

My treatment began with Michaela asking about my general health and assessing my skin to adapt the treatment to suit my needs. The following 70 minutes involved warm towels, massage using oils (chosen to suit my skin type), reflexology and the use of crystal tools, and a gentle exfoliation.

By the end I felt well and truly relaxed - the gentle massage and use of crystals felt really lovely on my face. This alone is a big enough benefit for me, but my skin also feels clearer and some lines are noticeably less deep. One friend commented that my skin was glowing today!

Spearreflexology 17Facial reflexology treatment photographed by Abi Moore, Windsor commercial photographer Michaela is highly qualified and clearly very capable; during the treatment she explained the different areas of her training that she was drawing upon for each element, so I felt reassured that I was in a very safe pair of hands with plenty of experience.

Whilst you can book a single treatment, for the best results, it is recommended that Zone Face Lift is booked as a course of three to twelve treatments.

It would be the perfect pre-wedding treat to ensure your skin is looking its best on your wedding day (gift vouchers are available if you want to drop hints to anyone!).

Contact Michaela at Spear Reflexology to find out more - I would highly recommend her based on this wonderful experience!

babysitter blog 1Windsor's family photographer shares tips on finding a babysitter for your children Happy new year! 2020 is set to be the year of experiences, as we become more aware about the impact on the planet of acquiring 'stuff', and wellbeing experts advise that it's 'doing' not 'having' that will make us happy.

It's the time of year that we're planning experiences for the family, including places to visit and holidays to take. You may also be thinking about spending time without the kids in tow, for which you may need a babysitter.

Babysits is an online community putting families in touch with babysitters. They've shared with me their top tips for finding the perfect babysitter for you and your children...

1. WHAT ARE THE ESSENTIALS?

Ok, first of all, you need to ask yourself what exactly you are looking for in terms of a babysitter. What hours do you need them to work? Is it a full or part-time position? How many children need to be cared for? What is your budget? And most importantly what level of experience do you require from your babysitter to ensure peace of mind. Knowing exactly what you need can help save a lot of time when choosing the perfect babysitter for you and your children.

babysitter blog 2family experiences with Windsor's child photographer Abi Moore 2. FIND YOUR PERFECT MATCH

It is very common for parents who are seeking childcare to ask their family and friends for help. However, not all parents have this luxury and can require some extra support when taking care of their children. Due to modern technology and the growth in the number of babysitting platforms online parents do not need to feel alone. Platforms such as Babysits makes finding a babysitter easier than ever.

These websites are amazing at connecting parents and babysitters and are generally more affordable than going through an agency. It is important when choosing a babysitter to take your time and read through each profile carefully. A good guideline to follow when choosing a babysitter is to pay attention to profiles that are detailed, well written and include pictures. Feedback from other parents is also available on profiles that have had previous babysitting jobs. To ensure you find the perfect fit it is advised to contact multiple babysitters as this will give you an idea of which babysitter will fit with your family

3. MEET AND GREET THE BABYSITTER

An important step when hiring a babysitter for the first time is to meet them before the first event. If this is not possible due to a busy schedule you can alternatively arrange a video call with your babysitter. A meeting with your babysitter can help ease any worries you may have, it is also a good opportunity to get to know each other. This is your opportunity to ask more in-depth questions and decide if the babysitter is the right fit for you and your family. For example, you can ask, specific requirements, fees, hours, etc. Be clear by outlining the rules and responsibilities from the get-go.

4. QUESTIONS FOR THE BABYSITTER

babysitter blog 3fun family experience with Windsor's best photographer, Abi Moore It is important to be prepared, just like an interview for a job, have a list of questions you want to be answered. By doing this you get to know your babysitter better and it ensures you don’t forget any important details. Good questions to ask would be about the babysitter’s experience, and how they cope with emergencies. It is also a good idea to ask some light-hearted questions, this helps you to get to know their personality and vice versa.

5. DO YOUR RESEARCH

When choosing a babysitter, references are an extremely helpful and reliable way to learn if your babysitter is a suitable candidate. You may also wish to run an informal background check. This usually consists of checking the candidate’s social media platforms whilst a formal background check usually involves utilising Government sources. Services like Babysits provide feedback and reviews from other parents on babysitters profiles and can act as a very dependable form of reassurance.

6. TRUST YOUR GUT INSTINCT!

If you are still feeling nervous after following these tips, trust your gut instinct! If you do not feel 100% about your babysitter then trust that instinct. Only hire a sitter that doesn’t raise any concerns or set off any alarms. There are many babysitters to choose from; don't decide in haste. Trusting someone with your children can be a difficult task but we hope with these tips you will find the perfect babysitter for your family.

Thanks to Babysits for sharing their top tips with me! If you need a babysitter, check out their website which offers a community of over 1,500,000 members in over 35 countries!