Results from the Cambridge University Botanic Garden commission, to photograph children enjoying the Botanic Gardens surroundings and activities. Before undertaking this project I spent some time scouting locations with the marketing manager to find suitable places for children to enjoy and interact with the garden. There were so many beautiful and interesting options I new it would probably be best to stick to just a few places rather than tackling a long list of locations. Otherwise tiring the children and loosing their attention span.
There were in total about 12 children on the day, all were very enthusiastic and full of energy. My approach was to allow the children freedom to interact and enjoy themselves but to also set up and pose situations where the children might interact or find fun. Such as looking into fish ponds, hiding under tree branches or creeping through bamboo. Always keeping a mindful eye on the unexpected. I beleive the results are very natural and capture the fun atmosphere of the mornings shoot.
All images were shot available light with some fill from reflectors. The gardens are very interesting and diverse, with some wonderful views and trails throughout. More than enough for any photographer to get their teeth into, if you enjoy photographing nature and landscapes.
