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Celebrating my First year in business: building community and capturing moments



As I look back on my first year in business as a family and newborn photographer, I feel an immense sense of pride and gratitude for all the moments I’ve captured and the connections I’ve made. Launching this business was a dream come true, and it’s been a year filled with growth, joy, and community spirit, particularly through my work with The Schools of Woolton Hill in Hampshire.
Connecting with the Schools of Woolton Hill: A Special Milestone
One of the highlights of this year was the opportunity to work with The Schools of Woolton Hill in Hampshire just outside Newbury. Being able to photograph their school for their new website was such a special experience. This collaboration allowed me to not only showcase the school’s vibrant atmosphere but also to capture the energy and enthusiasm of the wonderful students and staff.
This connection was particularly special to me because of my background as a qualified primary school teacher and where my passion for Teaching began when I worked there as a Teaching Assistant many years ago.. Working with schools and children feels like coming home. There’s something wonderful about combining my love for teaching and photography to create images that reflect the heart of a school community.
Capturing the Autumn Scarecrow Event and Community Spirit
Another unforgettable experience was photographing The Schools of Woolton Hill’s Autumn Scarecrow event. This event brought families, teachers, and students together to celebrate creativity and seasonal traditions, and it was such a joy to document it. Seeing my work featured in the Newbury Weekly News was a proud moment, not just for the recognition but because it showcased the vibrant spirit of our local community. and the special family centred spirit of the school. See the full article at https://www.newburytoday.co.uk/news/amp/pictures-village-gets-into-the-halloween-spirit-with-stell-9389387/
Why Community Connections Matter
Building these links with local schools and families has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey as a photographer. My commitment to capturing authentic, meaningful moments extends beyond my sessions in family photography and newborn photography. I believe that strong community connections are essential. They allow me to contribute to something greater, capturing memories that resonate with people’s everyday lives.
Being part of this community and working closely with families, schools, and children is more than just a business for me—it’s a way to make a difference and offer a bit of myself to those around me. I’m deeply grateful for the trust that the local community has placed in me.
Looking Forward to Another Year of Connection and Creativity
As I look ahead, I’m excited to continue building these relationships and creating beautiful, lasting images for families, schools, and the community. I want to thank everyone who has been part of this first year, from The Schools of Woolton Hill to each family who’s invited me to capture their special moments. Here’s to many more years of connection, creativity, and community!
If you have a child starting school next September, the Schools of Woolton Hill’s open days can be found here https://www.schoolsofwooltonhill.com/
I would love to continue making relationships and making links within the community and other local schools. If you know a school whose website needs some updating with authentic images that capture the essence of the environment contact me at gemma@gemmaduffphotography.co.uk
Connecting with the Schools of Woolton Hill: A Special Milestone
One of the highlights of this year was the opportunity to work with The Schools of Woolton Hill in Hampshire just outside Newbury. Being able to photograph their school for their new website was such a special experience. This collaboration allowed me to not only showcase the school’s vibrant atmosphere but also to capture the energy and enthusiasm of the wonderful students and staff.
This connection was particularly special to me because of my background as a qualified primary school teacher and where my passion for Teaching began when I worked there as a Teaching Assistant many years ago.. Working with schools and children feels like coming home. There’s something wonderful about combining my love for teaching and photography to create images that reflect the heart of a school community.
Capturing the Autumn Scarecrow Event and Community Spirit
Another unforgettable experience was photographing The Schools of Woolton Hill’s Autumn Scarecrow event. This event brought families, teachers, and students together to celebrate creativity and seasonal traditions, and it was such a joy to document it. Seeing my work featured in the Newbury Weekly News was a proud moment, not just for the recognition but because it showcased the vibrant spirit of our local community. and the special family centred spirit of the school. See the full article at https://www.newburytoday.co.uk/news/amp/pictures-village-gets-into-the-halloween-spirit-with-stell-9389387/
Why Community Connections Matter
Building these links with local schools and families has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey as a photographer. My commitment to capturing authentic, meaningful moments extends beyond my sessions in family photography and newborn photography. I believe that strong community connections are essential. They allow me to contribute to something greater, capturing memories that resonate with people’s everyday lives.
Being part of this community and working closely with families, schools, and children is more than just a business for me—it’s a way to make a difference and offer a bit of myself to those around me. I’m deeply grateful for the trust that the local community has placed in me.
Looking Forward to Another Year of Connection and Creativity
As I look ahead, I’m excited to continue building these relationships and creating beautiful, lasting images for families, schools, and the community. I want to thank everyone who has been part of this first year, from The Schools of Woolton Hill to each family who’s invited me to capture their special moments. Here’s to many more years of connection, creativity, and community!
If you have a child starting school next September, the Schools of Woolton Hill’s open days can be found here https://www.schoolsofwooltonhill.com/
I would love to continue making relationships and making links within the community and other local schools. If you know a school whose website needs some updating with authentic images that capture the essence of the environment contact me at gemma@gemmaduffphotography.co.uk



