Family portraits for the fine art collector… My aim from each portrait commission is to create a series of defining images, which you, your children, and future generations will cherish. I consider the challenge a privilege, and have spent many years refining a vision and product worthy of proud display in your home. The process begins with a consultation, where we set expectations and lay the groundwork for creating the most beautiful family portraits imaginable. We can go through clothing suggestions, look at where you might like to have the portrait session, and discuss where you will hang the results. I will learn about the type of photographs you like most, whom you want photographed, the age of your children and anything about them you would like the portraits to show.
The photography itself happens in your home, or some other place significant to your family. I photograph in black and white, incorporating the environment into your images so they might have greater resonance in the future. The portrait session usually takes a few hours, but there is absolutely no time limit imposed. I only ever schedule one family portrait in a single day, with a maximum of two each week. This affords me the time needed to connect with your family, and create the finest photographs possible.
A week or so later, you will have the chance to select from twenty-five or so ‘proof’ images, those you would like printed and framed for display on your walls. This viewing appointment, like the consultation before, happens within your own home for convenience and takes about two hours.
From your selections I will spend several weeks painstakingly printing the results in platinum, by hand in my own darkroom. They are then framed in my own workshop, to museum standards in a choice of stunning hard woods. I stand by the quality of my work, guaranteeing both its workmanship and your lasting appreciation of the results.
Biography: Family portrait photographer Ciaran Lee, specialises in distinctive black and white portraits of children, and the creation of hand-made platinum prints. Working away from the confines of a studio environment, Ciaran uses your home, local park or place of personal significance as the backdrop for evocative and memorable portraits. With an observational approach, he combines dramatic vision with consummate printmaking and framing skills, to produce finished pieces of artwork which freeze forever the defining characteristics of your family.
Relying on just a small selection of equipment, and working with whatever the natural light and location have to offer, Ciaran thrives on the simplicities which aid the strongest possible subject/photographer connection. He has an interest in fine printmaking that is borderline obsessive, and lovingly finishes each bespoke frame by hand. Ciaran is available for child and family portrait commissions throughout London and beyond.
Please explore the website, using the contact form should you have any questions.