AN AWARD-WINNING photographer who has received international recognition for her work is launching a range of exciting new projects this year.
'Love Yourself', 'My Wedding Gift to You', 'Be Proud' (military portraits), 'Your Best Friend' (pet portraits), and 'What Makes Me Happy' (children's hobby-based portrait sessions) are the themes that Bampton-based Cat Stephens will be opening up to the public.
Lauded for her bold documentary style, Mrs Stephens has scooped multiple awards including 'Wedding Photographer of the Year' for South England last year and 'Best Family and Newborn Photographer' for Oxfordshire in 2018.
She has also received international recognition through the Global Wedding Awards and has won awards at international competitions.
See also: Project looking for mysterious stories in county
Mrs Stephens said: "I'm trying to find new ways of doing things so that it's not always the same and put some real meaning into the photos.
"A lot of people use digital now rather than print, which is really sad.
"There's nothing better than looking at old photos and reminiscing and seeing the history.
"I'm a military wife so it made sense for me to do the military portraits.
"I'm looking to bring an old-fashioned style to them and instil a bit of pride into them and create some atmosphere.
"I couldn't be happier with the beautiful space I work in, which is rich with possibilities for creative shoots.
"Once upon a time, hiring a photographer was a service saved for rare occasions, but more and more people are recognising the need to celebrate life’s smaller milestones and make those memories last.
"I’m always open to meeting up and having a chat, so don’t hesitate to give me a call or email me.
"We can discuss any ideas you have, and I’ll always come armed with ideas."
Read more: New improved Oxford Tube timetable is launched
The latest themes Mrs Stephens will be offering to the public add to her previous areas of expertise.
Perhaps unsurprisingly due to her awards, Mrs Stephens specialises in weddings, family portraits, and maternity and newborn shoots.
In addition to these themes, she also offers commercial services, such as headshots and boudoir sessions.
Mrs Stephens works mainly through referrals and her wedding slots can be booked up to a year in advance, with days already in the 2021 diary.
Similarly, if expecting a new arrival, ensure that Mrs Stephens is aware of the due date, as bookings can be taken any time from a 12-week scan.
Mrs Stephens originally trained as a master photographer in 2007 and built her own client base on a part time basis.
She then made the bold move to change careers in 2016 and pursue photography full-time.
She opened her studio in Rosemary Lane in June.
To contact Mrs Stephens, email her at: info@catstephensphotography.com or call 07740 088220.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here