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It seems like it was only just the Easter holidays and the next one is nearly upon us! School holidays can be expensive times keeping the children entertained, so I have put together my usual half term holiday blog of free local events and activities that will hopefully help you out this May. WDSME train celebration - Wimborne - 25&26th May 2025 WDSME are celebrating their 50th birthday this bank holiday weekend! The celebrations start at 11am on Sunday, with the Mayor of Wimborne opening the proceedings with our founder members and 2 original locos from back in the day. The passenger trains will be hauled by steam locomotives; the garden railways will also be operating with a great selection of steam engines. Around the site there will be selection of traction engines, miniature tanks and model railways for you to view. The exhibition tent will house some part-built models. There is also a chance to have a go at archery! Our refreshment stand will be open to offer hot and cold drinks alongside a variety of cakes. It closes at 5pm. Birthday celebrations continue into Monday where once again the club will be filled with activity. The railway will be operated using steam and diesel locomotives from 11 till 5pm. Both garden railways will be open alongside traction engines, exhibition tent, the refreshment stand will be open serving tea and coffee. Train rides are free please please donate if you can. Nature trail and quiz - Blandford 30th May 2025 Make your own trolley token - Castlepoint - 30th May 2025 I am really looking forward to this one! TURN YOUR WASTE INTO SOMETHING GREAT! Friday 30th May, 11am–1pm | Upstairs outside M&S at Castlepoint Join in for a hands-on, eco-friendly workshop with Brothers Make – the inspiring Bournemouth duo turning plastic waste into something useful! There’s two ways to get involved; 1. Make & Take Bring in 3 plastic tops (from bottles, detergent, milk, etc.), take part in a quick live recycling demo and walk away with your very own trolley token made from plastic tops. 2. Share & Swap Collect 3 plastic tops (like the above) and swap them for a branded trolley token made from plastic waste collected right here at the centre! Every top counts – let’s give plastic a second life The Parks Foundation FREE May eventsAs usual the parks foundation have their jam packed monthly schedule of events, some of which take place during half term week. There are many more I have just shared a few of the locations with you that have some half term events on. You can find out more on the parks foundation website. Park Yoga - Poole Park. Every Sunday Join in for FREE Park Yoga. Every Sunday from 5th May until 15th September. 9.30am - 10.30am. Look out for the Park Yoga flag. No need to book. Bring a mat or towel. Visit the Park Yoga Poole Facebook page for more information. Summer street entertainment - Bournemouth - various dates Beach fun day - Hamworthy - 29th May 2025 Join in for a fun, family-friendly Beach Play Session this May half term – perfect for children aged 4–11! Thursday 29 May 10:00am – 12:00pm Outside South Coast Adventures, Hamworthy Park Led by the fantastic team at Poole Forest School, with support from South Coast Adventures and our lovely FoHP volunteers, the session includes: Sand & water play Shell collecting Nature crafts Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times. This event is completely free, thanks to the generous support of Dorset Community Foundation. Book now – spaces are limited! email: [email protected] National biscuit day - Poole Library - 29th May 2025 National Biscuit Day @ Poole Library Thursday 29th May 11:30am - 12:30pm Join in to celebrate National Biscuit Day! Search the Children's Library to complete the biscuit themed treasure hunt. After, sit down and decorate a digestive biscuit to take home and enjoy. Yummy! • This event is free to attend, but booking is essential. Limited spaces are available! • To book a place for your child, please contact Poole Library directly at [email protected], or call us on 01202 127100 • All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. • Allergen information is available upon request. Please email for more information. Local attractions with FREE entryIf you are looking for somewhere to visit locally with no entrance fees, I have put together a little list for you.
If you know of any other FREE local events please do add them to the comments below so that others can see.
Have a great half term, and hopefully the nice weather will return! Please make sure you check details with event providers before travelling to events.
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 Recently we had the 9th Poole Baby Event and it was a fantastic day as usual. I wanted to share some of the highlights with you all , and let you know about the next event (which will be our 10th celebration event!) The event was once again sponsored by the fabulous Puddle Ducks Dorset. We raised £157 for Spring with the amazing tombola style raffle. Some of the lovely ladies from Spring came to run the raffle again for us and share awareness about the charity who help families who have sadly lost their baby.  We had some fabulous local businesses join the event again. And a schedule of talks, tasters and demos.   Becca from Wild ones play cafe came along and set up the most beautiful little play corner for babies. I just loved all her beautiful things, and the fact that everything matches the same style and theme was just the icing on the cake!  Maria put on a lovely baby massage taster class too.  Sarah entertained the little (and big ones!) with her free biscuit decorating and hot drinks. The breastfeeding talk from FAB was really well attended.  There was even some baby hand and feet casting taking place on the day too!  Make sure you don't miss the next event on 26th October. It will be our 10th event so celebration plans are underway! You can keep up to date with the event here: If you are a maternity or baby related business who would like attend future events please do get in touch here: Poole Baby Event     I photograph lots of "older newborns" not just brand new ones, here in the studio in Poole. Some parents want to wait a little longer so rather than having newborn photos they get photos of their baby usually awake and a little more interactive than they would be at a week or two old. Baby photography sessions are very similar to newborn photography sessions, we still use lovely outfits, wraps and props like larger baskets and boxes. Parents often decide to bring a few favourite outfits along with them to baby photography sessions too. I thought it would be nice to share a recent session with you. I have photographed this lovely family twice , both times when their boys were around 3 months old, so I have decided to share some photos from each session with you.      It is so lovely when families come back with their new additions. I love to be able to capture them grow and provide them with these lovely memories that I know will be treasured for many years to come. It was around 3 years ago that I first met this lovely family, with their first born who was also 3 months old for their photography session. Here are some of their photos from back then.     Baby photography sessions take place when baby is between 6 weeks and 5 months (pre sitting) or you can choose a sitter baby photography session when you baby is around 6-8 months (sitting but not yet crawling) Please visit the baby photography pages on my website to find out more about baby photography sessions here in my studio in Poole, Dorset.
 Postpartum Recovery Tips No One Talks About As a newborn and family photographer, I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible new mums during one of the most exciting, and exhausting times of their lives. The reality is that postpartum is a rollercoaster. You’re over the moon about your little one, but you’re also running on fumes and trying to figure out how to feel like yourself again. Everyone talks about the baby (and rightly so—they’re adorable!), but your recovery matters too, and there are some tips no one seems to mention. Let’s dive into the little-known hacks that can make this time a bit smoother. Stay Hydrated, Especially if You’re Breastfeeding Everyone talks about staying hydrated during pregnancy, but postpartum hydration is just as crucial! Your body is working overtime, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Keep a large water bottle with you all the time. Set Up a Postpartum Sanctuary Your recovery space matters. Create a cosy nook in your home stocked with essentials like snacks, water, a phone charger, breastfeeding supplies, and entertainment (books, magazines, a tablet, etc.). This space will become a retreat for feeding sessions and moments when you just need a break. Embrace the Postpartum Wardrobe Loose, comfortable clothing and easy-access nursing tops are life savers, but here’s a tip no one tells you: invest in larger, dark-coloured underwear. They’re not glamorous, but they’re practical and comforting during those early weeks after having your baby when you’re healing. Eat Recovery-Boosting Foods It’s super important to prioritise foods that aid in recovery. Think iron-rich meals, anti-inflammatory ingredients like turmeric, and healthy fats to support hormone balance. Bonus tip: stock your freezer with ready-made home cooked meals before your baby arrives. The Power of Pelvic Floor Therapy Many new mums think that pelvic floor therapy is only for those with severe symptoms, but this isn’t true. A few sessions can help address common issues, such as incontinence or abdominal separation. Sleep Isn’t Optional—It’s Essential Yes, “sleep when the baby sleeps” feels impossible, but do whatever you can to make rest a priority. Split shifts with your partner or support person, and consider napping when someone else cares for the baby. Sleep impacts your physical healing and mental health more than you might realise. Normalise Asking for Help Postpartum recovery is not a solo mission. Don’t hesitate to lean on friends and family. Whether it’s help with laundry, cooking, or just holding the baby while you shower, asking for help can lighten your load tremendously. Take Care of Your Mental Health Postpartum blues are common, but persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or overwhelm could signal postpartum depression or anxiety. There’s no shame in seeking help from a professional. Your mental health is just as important as your physical recovery. Invest in a Quality Breast Pump and Nipple Care If you’re breastfeeding or pumping, sore nipples and engorgement can catch you off guard. A good breast pump, soothing gel pads, and lanolin cream can make all the difference. Celebrate Small Wins Every milestone counts. Whether it’s successfully breastfeeding, walking around the block, or surviving the first solo outing with your baby, give yourself credit. Motherhood is hard, and you’re doing amazing. Postpartum recovery is as unique as each family I photograph. Remember, there’s no “perfect” way to heal or parent. Be gentle with yourself, seek support, and take it one day at a time. I hope that you find these tips useful, and if you are still looking for someone to capture those first precious memories of your little one, you can find out more about my calm, welcoming newborn photography sessions in my lovely cosy little Poole based photography studio here: Newborn photography in Dorset   Easter is almost here! I cannot believe that I am writing this blog ALREADY. Hasn't it only just been the last school holiday?! I am sure every year goes quicker. Anyway, spring is finally starting to show its face and I am looking forward to the next school break. I hope you are too. As always, I have put together a list of FREE events and activities for your family this Easter break. Please do use the comments section to add anything else that you may have seen, and please do share this with your friends. Happy Easter! FREE Easter craft event - Branksome 15th April Join in at the Branksome Centre on Recreation Road for free easter crafts for children from 230 to 4pm. FREE Easter egg hunt - 10th April - Bourne Community Hub Join in at Bourne for an Easter egg hunt with prizes! DAY: 𝗧𝗵𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝟭𝟬𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝗳 𝗔𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗹 TIME: 𝟮𝗣𝗠-𝟯:𝟯𝟬𝗣𝗠 LOCATION : 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗼𝗽𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗕𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗛𝘂𝗯, 𝗔𝗿𝗻𝗲 𝗔𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗲, 𝗕𝗛𝟭𝟮 𝟰𝗗𝗧 FREE Family fun day - 10th April - Weymouth Free Spring Family event at Tumbledown on Thursday 10th April from 10 till 1. Loads to do with Arts and Crafts, a mural to paint, tin can alley, bird box making, a bird walk with Bob, Primary Forest School session in the woods, help us to plant some pumpkin seeds, and enjoy some refreshments from our new kitchen!! Tumbledown, Radipole Lane, Southill, Weymouth. FREE Badge making - Poole Library - 9th April Badgemaking @ Poole Library Wednesday 9th April 10:00am - 11:00am Draw and colour your brilliant designs, and use the badge maker to create your badges. After you can take your badges home and show off your creations! • This event is free to attend, but booking is essential. Limited spaces are available! • To book a place for your child, please contact Poole Library directly at [email protected], or call 01202 127100 • This event is suitable for all ages, but smaller children will need assistance when using the badge maker. • All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. FREE Family Films on 10th, 16th and 20th April- Wimborne FREE Family Films showing at 1030am. Doors open at 10am. Allendale Community Centre, Wimborne FREE family films. No booking required. Please sign up to our newsletter to discover which films are showing at www.linktr.ee/allendalecentre or message us directly to ask. FREE Easter Events in Dorchester - 15th-19th April
Hop into Easter Fun at Brewery Square! Get ready for an egg-citing week of FREE family activities, such as Easter crafts, a magical bubble display, face painting and more! Who knows… you might even spot Peter Rabbit hopping around. Easter Fun in Lyme Regis - 15th - 17th April Join in for some Easter fun at The Mill! Tuesday 15th - Thursday 17th April Activities 11am - 130pm The Mill will be open daily for all to view and watch milling demonstrations along with Easter activities for children including: *Make easter bunnies and eggs with our Town Mill Play Dough *Get creative with Easter colouring in *Surprise easter egg deliveries for children throughout the day *Outdoor games in our garden (weather permitting) Free entry with donations very welcome to help support the Mill. Easter fun clay and cook day 10th April - Blandford For 8 - 12 year olds. For more details email [email protected] FREE Entry to Sandworld in Weymouth - 5th April If you dress up, you can get FREE entry to Sandworld on their opening day on 5th April!  Join in for a free family-friendly event filled with nature crafts, seed sowing, mud kitchen play, and an exciting Easter egg hunt! Pop in anytime between 10 AM – 2 PM to enjoy hands-on activities, connect with nature, and keep the kids busy this half-term. No booking required—just come along and join the fun Local attractions with FREE entryIf you are looking for somewhere to visit locally with no entrance fees, I have put together a little list for you.
If you know of any other FREE local events please do add them to the comments below so that others can see. Have a great Easter, and hopefully the nice weather will return! Please make sure you check details with event providers before travelling to events.  Outdoor family photography in DorsetSpring is finally in the air, and I am starting to think ahead to all the beautiful family memories that I will be capturing this year. What ever the age of your children, and size of your family, an outdoor photography session is the perfect way to capture beautiful moments that you will treasure for many years. I have been photographing families from all over Dorset, and far beyond (I have even had a family on holiday from Texas!) for over 12 years now, and still every year I get excited around now when the nicer weather is beginning to show its face. I love being outdoors, and your family will love it too. The children are free to run around and I love getting involved whilst capturing beautiful memories for you. Being invited along to spend time with your family is a true privilege and one I am extremely grateful for. Knowing that the memories that the photographs that I capture will bring so much joy to you and your family for many years to come is the icing on the cake for me. When did you last have a family photoshoot? Was it in a studio? Or was is outdoors? If you have had both which did you prefer? Maybe you have even had a photography session with me before and are thinking about updating your family album. I would love to show you some of my favourite locations across Dorset so that you can get started on planning your next memory making session with me. SandbanksSandbanks beach in Poole is one of the best beaches in the world. If you ever go there yourself you will see why, the beautiful golden sands and dunes of Sandbanks provide the most stunning backdrop for your next family photography session. If you choose this location, it is worth bearing in mind that it can get extremely busy during the warmer months.    Wareham ForestThis location is one of my favourites for autumn and even winter sessions. The forest is always green here, and it is lovely and open, so even when there is not a lot of sunlight we still get gorgeous photos. Likewise, during the summer months, we have the beautiful displays of heather to make use of which I absolutely love.    Hengistbury HeadHengistbury Head really does have it all. The beaches might not be quite as golden as Sandbanks, but the scenery more than makes up for it. The heathland on the cliffs makes the most beautiful background and is great for children to run around in whilst I capture those lovely little moments. It even has a boardwalk which I love. Down on the beach there are large rocks which are great to sit and climb on. On a clear day we can even get to see the head in the background too.    Other locations / seasonal optionsPerhaps you have a favourite location, a place that is special to your family. I am more than happy to meet you at the location of your choice in Dorset. Or if you would like a seasonal themed photography session there are options such as bluebells, daffodils and wildflowers, depending on the time of year that you would like to choose.    What ever location you choose for your family photoshoot, you will be sure of beautiful memories that you will want to cherish for many years to come.
Take the next step to booking yours now by contacting me for a family photography information pack.  Birthday Celebration Ideas for Your Little Ones Your child’s birthday is a magical day to celebrate their growth, personality, and all the joy they bring into your life. From their very first candle to their adventurous toddler years, each milestone is special. As a photographer specialising in capturing these precious memories, I love seeing the unique ways parents celebrate these occasions. Need some inspiration? Here are just a few birthday celebration ideas to inspire their first or next party. Cake Smashes and Sweet Memories The first birthday is a monumental milestone—for your baby and you as parents! A cake smash photoshoot is the perfect way to celebrate and capture this one-in-a-lifetime moment. I love to capture babies’ curiosity and delight as they explore their cake (with their hands, faces, and even feet!) These sessions aren’t just pictures; they’re a fun experience that allows your little one to shine. Find out more about my eco friendly cake smash photoshoots. For the party itself, keep it simple. Think of a theme that matches your baby’s budding interests—maybe a favourite animal or colour. Add in soft, sensory toys or activities that little guests will enjoy. Toddler Adventures Toddlers are on the move, and their parties should reflect that energy! This age is perfect for creating hands-on experiences. Set up a mini “construction site” with toy diggers and sand for a construction-themed bash, or have a backyard safari with stuffed animals and explorer hats. Interactive setups are not only fun for the little ones but also create adorable photo opportunities. And don’t forget about including a dedicated photo session in your plans. Capturing candid moments of your toddler running, laughing, and playing in the great outdoors are memories that you will want to cherish and look back on as they grow. Imagination Takes Flight As your child grows, their personality blossoms—and their interests expand! By ages 4 and 5, many kids are eager to share their favourite stories and hobbies with friends. Consider hosting a party based on their favourite character, book, or activity, from pirate treasure hunts to fairy-tale tea parties. This is also a fantastic time to book a family photo session. Use the occasion to get group portraits with grandparents, siblings, and other loved ones.. These memories are treasures for years to come. Capture the Moments That Matter No matter how you choose to celebrate, remember that your child’s birthday is all about cherishing the little things—the giggles, the frosting-covered fingers, and the joy on their face as they blow out their candles. As a photographer, I’d love to help you preserve these precious moments. Cake smash not your thing? I also offer beautiful outdoor family photography sessions which are perfect to mark the special occasion. Contact me to schedule your child’s birthday photo session and make their celebration truly unforgettable.   We are finally through what seems to be the longest month of the year and now Spring is starting to emerge. The snowdrops are out (and I have even seen a few daffodils) so the signs of longer daylight hours are coming. That also means that it will be the February school holidays again soon too! This is one of the hardest and most expensive school holidays as the weather can be so unpredictable, we always end up doing lots of expensive indoor activities. I have complied a selection of FREE indoor and outdoor events and places for you to go with the kids this February half term. If you can think of anything else free that you like doing, please do add it in the comments so others can see. Enjoy! Dogs Trust at Oakdale Library 18th February Dog’s Trust Children’s event Tuesday 18th February 10.30am to 11.30am Join in for a free, fun family workshop to learn all about staying safe around dogs and keeping our four-pawed friends happy and healthy! The workshop includes dog themed activities, games and role play. Children are welcome to bring their own favourite teddy soft toy dog—please no real dogs, but we always love to see photo! Booking Required – please telephone Oakdale Library on 01202 127272 or email: [email protected] A Knights Journey Workshop - Westbourne- 20th February Westbourne Library are having the Explore Learning team delivering "A Knight's Journey" Workshop which is aims to build on and extend grammar and punctuation understanding for 7 - 9 year olds. Thursday 20th February 10.30am - 11.30am. To book a place please ring 01202 127676 or email: [email protected] Real bread week at The Town Mill, Lyme Regis 15th - 23rd February Celebrate Real Bread week at The Town Mill during February half term. Real Bread week is an annual, international celebration of additive-free bread. At Town Mill you can come and experience how we mill delicious and nutritious wholemeal flour (nothing else is added) which is then ready to be used for your bread baking. Lots will be going on during the week including: *Flour Milling demonstrations *Our huge water wheel will be turning throughout the day *Bread tastings and baking Q&A's (all bread made with our own Town Mill flour) *Turn the ancient hand querns and watch your own flour being made from grain! *Easy to bake bread recipes, lots of our milled flour and baking kits will be available in the shop to have a go at making your own homemade loaf *Additional activities for kids including 'baking themed' colouring in and have a go at creating your 'best sandwich' recipe cards! Join in all week 11-3pm daily (Sunday 11-130pm) - no booking required - FREE ENTRY with donations and flour sales in the shop always welcome to support our charity. Please note opening times are subject to change and milling demonstrations & bread tastings may not take place every day. Please double check before travelling as events are subject to change. Poole Library- Make an Elmer suncatcher Elmer Suncatchers @ Poole Library Wednesday 19th February 10:30 am - 11:30 am Tired of dull, grey skies? Brighten your day with an Elmer-inspired suncatcher to take home and display! This event is free to attend, and booking is not required. All children under 8 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The Parks Foundation - various dates and locationsThe Parks Foundation have a huge variety of FREE event on throughout February. Here is a selection. Please contact them to book and for more information     Visit a museumDid you know that many of the lovely local museums offer FREE entry! All of these museum's across Dorset are FREE!
Go snowdrop hunting Snowdrops are the first sign that Spring is on its way. Can you go out for a walk and try and spot some? Great locations locally are around Kingston Lacy, Shaftesbury, and a little further out is Damerham Church in Fordingbridge. Kingston Maurwood gardens and animal park
Did you know that it is FREE to visit Kingston Maurwood! They have a lovely indoor play area, an outdoor play area, and lots of animals to see. I hope you have a lovely half term break with the children, and if you have any other FREE ideas please do leave them in the comments below, thank you.
 Top Baby Shower Themes for 2025 Congratulations on your new bump! It’s the start of a new year filled with exciting possibilities and milestones, especially for parents-to-be! As a maternity photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing the radiant glow of expectant mothers and the joy that fills their journey to parenthood. One event that brings family and friends together during this special time is the baby shower—a celebration of love and anticipation for the little one. If you’re planning a baby shower in 2025, here are some creative and heart-warming themes to inspire you. These ideas not only set the stage for a memorable event but also provide stunning photo opportunities that you’ll cherish forever. Winter Wonderland Perfect for those due in the early months of the year, a Winter Wonderland theme captures the enchantment of the season. Think shimmering whites, icy blues, and plenty of glittery décor. A backdrop of snowflakes and faux fur throws make for cosy and magical photos. Incorporate twinkling fairy lights for an extra touch of warmth. Boho Baby Bliss Boho themes are always in style, and they’re ideal for spring or summer showers. Soft neutral tones, pampas grass, and macramé accents create a relaxed, earthy vibe. Consider hosting the event outdoors or in a sunlit space with greenery to complement the boho aesthetic. Imagine capturing your joy under a canopy of wildflowers or a dreamy, lace-draped teepee! Little Starry Night For parents dreaming big for their little one, a celestial-themed shower is a perfect fit. Midnight blues, gold accents, and lots of stars set a magical tone. This theme works beautifully indoors, with string lights and glowing lanterns creating an ethereal atmosphere. “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” signs and moon-shaped balloons add whimsical details. Safari Adventure For parents-to-be with a love for wildlife and adventure, a safari-themed baby shower adds a fun and vibrant twist. From adorable animal-print decorations to greenery and jungle vibes, this theme is perfect for bold and playful personalities. Complement the decor with safari-inspired treats, like biscuits shaped like lions and giraffes. Enchanted Forest Rich jewel tones, rustic wood accents, and fairy lights create a cosy, magical setting. This theme is ideal for intimate gatherings, with plush throws and woodland-inspired decorations to keep guests feeling snug. Memories That Last Forever Now you have the ideas, pop over to google or Pinterest and type one of the themes in to show you lots more ideas. No matter the theme, baby showers are all about celebrating love and connection. As a maternity photographer, I love capturing these moments—the laughter and the glow of anticipation. If you’d like portraits that capture the beauty and excitement of your pregnancy journey, find out more about my maternity sessions here. And don't forget to check out Biscuits by Sarah B for amazing baby shower biscuits (as featured in the photo above!)   I would like to begin with thanking you for being here. I would not be where I am today without any of your support. This time last year, when I was celebrating 11 years in business I took some time to reflect on how I got into photography, and how and why I started my own business. If you are interested in that, please do check out last years blog - 11 years of Samantha Prewett Photography. There was no point in repeating that all over again. This blog is mainly a personal review and reflection of the past year for me. I wrote it mainly for myself, but please do read on if you are interested. 2024 in review2024 was a tough year for me health wise and I have had to seriously slow down my work/pace of life. Thankfully, running my own business meant that I could do exactly that (hard as it was for me to learn how to though!) I am able to set my own hours and work around whatever else is going on. I honestly do not think that I would have lasted in an employed job this past year. Last year was the first time in 12 years that I have taken set work holiday time! Everyone who is employed gets 5-6 weeks of holiday a year, so why shouldn't I? The sad difference is that I don't get paid for mine haha. It was definitely worth the break though, and this year it was needed more than ever. Going ahead I will be doing that every year now. As a family we managed 2 mini holidays last year, one to the Isle of Wight (where we have been many times but never stayed overnight) that was my first and definitely wont be my last Air b n b experience too! We also went to Cornwall where we have been going most years since our first born was just 3 months old for our honeymoon (he is 16 this year eeekk!) Overall, it has been a great year business wise (just a little slower this year) and I have enjoyed photographing so many of you and your families through newborn, baby, cake smash and outdoor family photography sessions. For the second year running I also held my Christmas mini sessions which went down a blast again. I am already beginning to think about this years! 2024 achievementsI managed to get my silver "Plastic Free" award in 2024. I got my Plastic Free status back in 2020 during the height of lockdown, by replacing 3 single items of single plastic that I use in my business. It made me take a big long look at what I was using and what I could change it for. If you are interested more in this, you might like to read the blog that I wrote back in August 2020. I hosted 2 baby events last year, in the Dolphin Centre in Poole, and they were both hugely successful. To date these events have now raised over £1000 for Spring support who are a charity based in Poole hospital who support families who have sadly lost their baby. I got a gorgeous new sign for my studio last year too. I love it so much , it is exactly what I wanted. Not only does it look great, it also stops me from walking into the glass door when it is shut (which I may have done a few times, whoops!)  2025 plansLast year was the first year ever that I didn't set any big plans for the year. This time last year I was working on slowing down. However, this year I feel motivated to pick up the pace a little again and have already made lots of personal goals/plans for the year. One of these being to photograph a birth! (if you are due and would like to help me with that, please do shout) that has been on and off my list for years! I have also planned 2 baby events again this year which are going to be amazing as always. I plan to go for my gold Plastic Free award this year too. This will involve organising a group beach clean, so please do let me know if you are interested in helping out with that. Personally, I am re igniting my love for landscape photography, I have purchased myself a new zoom lens and tripod, and I have already been to one workshop this year (photo below) with an amazing local photographer who I have adored for many years , and I have another booked for later on this month too!  12th birthday offer!As usual, I am kicking off the new year with a special offer to celebrate my business birthday. If you are interested in me capturing some beautiful family memories for you this year, now is the time to book. If you book in a newborn, baby, cake smash or family session for 2025 before the end of January you will get one of my beautiful mini accordion albums for FREE!  I hope you have enjoyed reading this, and if you are interested in helping me with any of my goals (birth photography and organising a beach clean) this year, please do comment below I would love to hear from you.
Without a doubt, the most rewarding part of my job is watching the tiny babies that I photograph grow up and turn into their own little characters. Whilst my main focus on newborn photography , I absolutely love photographing families too. I often see babies come back for their first birthday, and some families continue their journey with me long that, so to the families that have chosen me to capture their story time and time again I am forever grateful, this is my ultimate reward. One particular little client has recently been to me for his 15th photography session, and he is only 7 years old! I wanted to share some of his beautiful memories with you all from his photography sessions over the past 7 years. He has had every sort of session that I offer from newborn to family to all the special ones in-between; daffodils, bluebells and even his watermelon smash for his 1st birthday. I first met him back in 2017 for his new born photography session after meeting his parents at a baby event that I attended in Upton just beforehand when they were expecting him. Later on that year he was my first ever outdoor Christmas baby!  In 2018 he came came for a bluebell photography session. Bluebell photo sessions in Dorset are my most popular outdoor sessions. I do mini sessions in evenings in April/May. Shortly after the bluebells was his first birthday session. I was so excited that his Mum chose my signature watermelon smash session to celebrate. I was lucky enough to see him again for a third time in 2018 for his Christmas photography session. Our next session was in Spring 2019 , when I started offering Daffodil photography sessions.  Shortly after that we met again at the Bluebells. In the summer of 2019 he turned 2 and we celebrated with a family photography session at Sandbanks beach, my favourite outdoor location in Dorset. We met for a 4th time in 2019 for his third Christmas photography session. in 2020 Covid got in our way of so many things and we almost missed out entirely this year! But we just managed to get a mini session in just before Christmas, yay!  In 2021 we managed to get a bluebell session in and then again a Christmas one. I can't believe he is now at school!     In 2022 we met at the daffodils again. We enjoyed playing in the flowers and getting some more up to date precious memories.   In December 2022 we met at Wareham forest again for our annual Christmas photography session. I can't believe how much he has grown since we last met in the Spring!    In October 2023 he came to my studio for the first time for his annual Christmas photography session. We had lots of fun!     In December 2024 I got to see him again in the studio for his Christmas session. We had so much fun, and he told me all about how he was looking forward to it and that he loves our photoshoots together!  Here is to capturing many more adventures as you grow! I can't wait for our next session together whenever that may be.     Christmas is an expensive time. Whether you are looking to save some money or fill in those days in-between expensive days out, I have put together this list of FREE events and activities that you can do with the Children in December to help everyone out a bit. Wareham Father Christmas Parade - 8th December 3:15pm Colins Nest Poole - Christmas Grotto - 18th December 2pm-8pm Where to see Santa and his Christmas Grotto FOR FREE! Colin's Nest Cafe 25 Birdshill Road Poole. Come see Santa, Giggles, Dizzy and Rascal the Elves. December 18th. 2pm - 8pm Come Follow The Star live nativity - Boscombe - 7th December at 3pm Come Follow The Star Live Nativity Journey. Meet at the Royal Arcade and follow the nativity story. Free gift for every child. Family Fun Day - 7th December 10am-2pm- Southbourne Join in for a magical day filled with: Festive treats Crafts & face painting Games Interactive nativity …and so much more! When? Saturday, 7th December 2024 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Where? Citygate Southbourne, Admiralty Road, BH6 4BJ It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with family and friends—and the best part? It’s all FREE! Reserve your spot now: citygate.church/fun-day Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland 15th November-31st December Free Christmas lights trail all through Bournemouth Gardens. Not to be missed. Local Christmas Lights One of our favourite things to do is to drive around and see all the houses decorated for Christmas. Some of the best local displays are at Runton Road in Parkstone Byron Road in New Milton Corfe Castle When you visit please park nearby not the street if you can and enjoy them by foot. Poole Maritime Lights FestivalThe Poole Maritime Lights Trail is back again this year. The beautiful light displays run all along the Quay and up the high street. Countdown to Christmas - Poole Dolphin Centre - various dates from 30th November to 30th December Santa is bringing his Bavarian cuckoo clock to The Dolphin, so everyone in Poole can keep their eye on the time as Christmas day approaches. Children, and their adults, are invited to join the Cuckoo Clock Elves for games, fun, and some Christmas crafting. Santa will share a moment with each family and pose for the perfect family photo. There’s no charge for entry, so no need to buy a ticket! Sessions will be filled on a first-come first-served basis.
If your child prefers a calmer environment, join us for SEND sessions from 11am to 11.45am. Festive Streets - Bournemouth - Thursdays 4-7pm Join in on Thursday evenings from 4pm til 7pm on the run-up to Christmas for choirs, brass bands, walkabout acts and festive activities. FREE family fun for everyone. · Thu 21 Nov at Horseshoe Common · Thu 28 Nov in Beale Place · Thu 5 Dec at the Bournemouth Arcade · Thu 12 Dec on Commercial Road · Thu 19 Dec in The Triangle. Big Elf Hunt - Christchurch - 23rd November t0 20th December Calling all young adventurers and magical explorers! Your help is needed to uncover the secret hideouts of these naughty little elves! If you happen to spot one of them in a Christchurch business, proudly waving a golden Christchurch BID flag, don't be shy – approach them! Ask for a golden ticket, fill in your details, and drop it in Santa's postbox at the Regent Centre! By joining in on the hunt, you have the chance to 𝙒𝙄𝙉 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 £100 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙝 𝙤𝙛 𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙯𝙚𝙨, just in time for Christmas! With several mischievous elves hidden around businesses in Christchurch, you can have multiple entries and increase your chances of winning! Taking place 23rd November to the 20th December If you know of any other FREE local events please do leave a comment so that others can find out about them too.
All information is correct at time of publishing, please check with event providers before travelling to events. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas making memories with your little ones.  Christmas is coming faster than I can imagine this year so I wanted to share my range of gift ideas with you. Whether you have had a session with me and are looking for the perfect gifts using your beautiful photographs for family members, or if you are thinking about buying a loved one a photography session for next year, I have you covered. Photo books
My beautiful range of photo books start from just £45! Choose from three sizes of mini accordion albums with personalised covers in a selection of colours, or a stunning linen covered book in size 8x6 or larger. You can find a price list and more details here: Photo gifts Photo Wall ArtChoose from my signature bamboo photo blocks, or fine art board mounted prints for the perfect way to gift your favourite photographs to your family this year. They will love to have beautiful family photographs displayed on their walls at home.  Bamboo wall art starts from £95 Fine art board mounted prints start from just £25 You can find a price list here: Photo products Christmas Tree DecorationsI have beautiful wooden hand made Christmas tree decorations available for you to purchase with your favourite photo on for just £10! I also have double sided keyrings available to purchase for the same price.
Gift vouchers I sell a lot of gift voucher at this time of the year. What better gift to give than a family photography session where the memories will be treasured for many years to come. Vouchers are posted to you so that you have something to give to your loved ones. Gift vouchers are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase, and although my sessions go up in price a little every January, any extra will not need to be paid! I can do gift vouchers for any amount, you can find out the prices of my photography sessions here: Family photography prices Baby photography prices Newborn photography prices Cake smash photography prices Last order datesPhoto gifts must be ordered and paid for by 9th December, to be delivered in time for Christmas. Gift vouchers can be ordered right up until 19th December, to be delivered in time for Christmas. How to orderTo purchase a gift voucher, or photo gift, please contact me via my website form. What ever you choose , you can be sure that you will choosing a gift that will be very well received.
Please do get in touch if you need any help deciding what to buy, I will be more than happy to advise.  In November 2024 I hosted the 8th Poole Baby Event in The Dolphin Centre. It was an absolutely fantastic day, the morning was so busy, the most successful event to date ,they get better every time! Puddle Ducks Dorset kindly sponsored the event.    A number of other amazing local businesses attended and we all enjoyed meeting lots of expectant and new families. Some of which have been along to past events with their bumps and came back this time with their new little ones! Some of the highlights from the day included: * A great breastfeeding talk from FAB Families and Babies Dorset * A stay and play corner for little ones provided by Pop Up Play Village Bournemouth & Poole * Amazing goody bags with products from Water wipes, Biscuits by Sarah B, Pregnacare, Hot Tea Mamma, and Organix * Biscuit decorating and hot drinks with Biscuits by Sarah B All these were FREE!    We also hosted our usual tombola style raffle for Spring who support babies who have lost their baby and raised over £150. We have some prizes left to giveaway so please read on if you would like to be in with a chance to win something.    Win the remaining raffle prizes!  We have some great prizes left to win still!
If you would like to enter , please leave a comment below with which prize(s) you would like to win. You can enter for more than one prize, but you must leave a separate comment for each one. We would love to raise some more money for Spring so please consider making a donation online here. SPRING Support Service Project - UHD Charity Please put "Poole Baby Event" under reason for donation. Prizes available: * Weaning bundle (no food) * Organix bundle (more than one available) * Baby toiletries bundle * Bath gift set * Kinder by Nature baby wipes bundle * Pizza express cookbook * Handmade jewellery and hair gift set * Child entry to Jungle City Soft Play * Child entry ,a hot drink and a muffin from Lollipops Cafe * Pop up Play Village family ticket * One month gold membership at The Junction Broadstone * £25 gift voucher from Kirsty Dee events and mentorship for women * 60% off a one-to-one hypnobirthing preparation course with Blossom Birth Empowerment * Sing and Sign 10 week course for just £15 voucher * Ergo baby doll carrier * FAB breastfeeding booby tote bag with notebook Competition T&Cs Competition closes on 15th November. Winners will be chosen at random from all comments received by midnight on 15th November 2024. Winners must be able to collect their prizes from Samantha Prewett Photography in Poole before the end of November. Winners will be announced on Facebook shortly after the competition closes.  I have been doing outdoor Christmas photography sessions for quite a few years now. The children always love it as we get to have a walk around the forest finding nice places to stop for photos. So I wanted to take this opportunity to share some of the lovely photos with you and hopefully get you into the Christmas spirit (if you are not already)  Christmas sessions are taking place at Wareham Forest this year in October and early November whilst the forest colours are gorgeous and hopefully before it gets too cold! Although sometimes the cold weather works out for the best and as long as it is dry, the frosty weather means that we can get some stunning photos!  Another bonus of being outdoors is that the space is endless meaning there is no limit on the amount of people who can be involved. If you would have a larger family and or would like some photos with parents too then an outdoor session is the perfect alternative to one of my Christmas studio session which are limited to 2 children and 1 baby due to space.   Christmas mini sessions are just £95 for a 20 minute session and you get all of the digital images included. You wont have to choose your favourites as they are all sent to you via email.   I have already done some Christmas photography sessions this year, and have planned to do some more throughout November so there are a very limited amount of spaces left. Please get in touch to book yours today before it is too late.
You won't regret capturing these special memories that you will cherish for years to come, and I guarantee that the kids will love it too!  I don't know about you but Halloween is one of my favourite times of the year. We decorate the house at start of October and look forward to doing lots of autumnal things and of course trick or treating! I have put together a list of all FREE events and activities going on across Dorset this October half term. I am super excited that Halloween is during the school holiday this year! Enjoy! FREE Halloween crafts - 29th October - Branksome 𝗙𝗥𝗘𝗘 𝗛𝗔𝗟𝗟𝗢𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗡 𝗖𝗥𝗔𝗙𝗧 Drop In Date: 𝗧𝗨𝗘𝗦 𝟮𝟵𝗧𝗛 𝗢𝗖𝗧 Time: 𝟭𝟬𝗔𝗠 - 𝟭𝟭:𝟯𝟬𝗔𝗠 Location: 𝗕𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗸𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗲, 𝗕𝗛𝟭𝟮 𝟮𝗘𝗔 For more information contact Katie - Senior Young Peoples Worker 𝟬𝟳𝟳𝟱𝟮 𝟳𝟱𝟴 𝟲𝟳𝟴 FREE Maths Wizard Workshop - 31st October - Westbourne Would your 7 or 8 years old and like to become a maths wizard? Book your place to come along to Westbourne Library on Thursday 31st October for an hour of magic ! Phone : 01202 127676 email: [email protected] Halloween crafts - 28th and 31st October - Dorchester Spooky Halloween Crafts – FREE Autumn Half Term Fun! Create ghastly ghosts and spooky accessories to haunt your home. There's something for every young monster... Fancy dress is HIGHLY encouraged, so grab your broomsticks and come craft up a storm. 28th & 31st October, 9am – 5pm in Brewery Square Halloween Disco - 31st October - Weymouth Come join in for a spooktacular night at Dorset Abilities Group Thursday 31st October 6:30 - 9:30pm FREE ENTRY Snacks and refreshments available from Tuck by Truck Prizes for the best fancy dress FREE circus skills workshop - 30th October - Dorchester Step Right Up for a Spook-tacular Halloween Special! 30th October, 1:30pm - 3:30pm Learn to juggle, spin plates, master the diablos and tackle loads of exciting circus equipment. Join Ana to understand the technique or pick up some equipment and give it a go yourself. Fancy dress is encouraged, so come in your spookiest costumes! Sweets for the best-dressed! FREE Dogs Trust Family Workshop - 1st November - Oakdale Join in for a free, fun family workshop with The Dogs Trust to learn all about staying safe around dogs and keeping our four-pawed friends happy and healthy! on Friday 1st November, 11:00am - 12:00noon at Oakdale Library, Wimborne Road, Poole BH15 3EF The workshop includes dog themed activities, games and role play. Children are welcome to bring their own favourite teddy soft toy dog—please no real dogs, but we always love to see photos! BOOKING IS REQUIRED FOR THIS EVENT: See Library staff or Telephone 01202 127272 Email: [email protected] FREE Halloween crafts - 30th October - Oakdale COME AND JOIN IN TO MAKE POM POM SPIDERS & PUMPKIN CRAFTS Oakdale Library Wednesday 30th October 2.30pm to 4pm Tea, coffee, squash and biscuits available! Booking required See library staff or Tel: 01202 127272 Email: [email protected] I hope you all have a great school break and Halloween (if you celebrate it)
If you have seen any other free events please do share them in a comment below to let others know.  A cake smash photography session is the perfect way to celebrate your baby turning one. They are so much fun to watch , and you will get beautiful memories to cherish for many years to come. But have you ever thought about the potential waste? What about the cake? All the single use decorations? Well, I can put your mind at rest, as there is minimal waste with my cake smash photography sessions here in my baby photography studio in Dorset.  Plastic free business championAs a plastic free business champion (who has recently received my silver award!) I take waste very seriously. This is why it is so important to me to reduce waste (not just plastic, food too!) in what ever way I possibly can.  Re usable hand made decorationsAll of the decorations that I use in my cake smash photography sessions are re usable. Some of them are even hand made by me, from upcycled materials. I do not ever use balloons, or any other single use decorations.  The cakeAlthough there is clearly no plastic in the cake , it was a big issue for me when I started doing cake smashes that there could be a lot of waste. What actually happens at my cake smash sessions, is that I wrap up what ever is left of the cake and you get to take it home to eat it later! I can assure you the cakes are very yummy. After putting the cake together, I always enjoy the off cuts with a cup of tea just before you arrive for your session! Please note that for food hygiene reasons, I do not bake the cakes, I buy them. I do put them together though. I have food hygiene level 2.  CleaningI wash and or clean all of my props after each session. A lot of cleaning is done after each session, so I stopped using disposable cleaning wipes recently and I now use refillable cleaning sprays with cloths. I also clean the floor immediately before each session, as your baby will be sat there eating cake! For this reason I also ask you to take off your shoes before you enter the studio to keep it nice and clean. I do not offer baby wipes to clean your baby, I have cloths and water available to use should you be booking the simply smash package with no bath tub after.  Find out more about my cake smash photography sessions here. Read more about my Plastic Free Business Champion award here.   A cake smash photography session is the perfect way to celebrate your baby turning one. The sessions are so much fun for your baby, and also for you to watch, and best of all you get to keep the beautiful memories to treasure forever. My cake smash sessions are the same natural style as all of my work, but you still have a few choices, you can choose which type of cake you would like , and your favourite props and outfit. Cake smash - prop choices  I have two beautiful wash tubs to choose from if you are having a splash and smash session. As well as lots of different lovely cake stands, and other decorations.  Cake smash - cake choices   Buttercream sponge, or donuts? Cant decide - have both! They all look great with any of my set ups. I also have a selection of lovely wooden cake toppers. If your baby has an allergy, please do get in touch to discuss your options.I can provide a dairy, gluten and nut free cake for them instead.  Cake smash - outfit choicesI have a beautiful collection of outfits in the studio for you to choose from. Or you can bring your own if you prefer. Cake smash - decoration choices    I love setting up cake smash sessions with my beautiful range of eco friendly decorations. Many of these are hand made by myself from up cycled materials. I don't use balloons or other disposable decorations during my photography sessions. Please visit my cake smash photography section to find out more about these sessions including prices.   I LOVE photographing extended families. I sell lots of gift voucher that people buy for their parents for a family photography session together. What better gift to give than a beautiful day together at the beach (or elsewhere) and some timeless memories to treasure forever. I spend a lot of time each summer doing these sessions , and I wanted to share a recent one with you all.  Being outdoors is so much more fun than in the studio for family sessions. The backdrops are naturally stunning, and you don't have to sit still and pose for every photo. The children can run around and everyone gets to enjoy the fresh air. I offer family photography sessions outside between March and October, so you have the choice between a spring/summer session on the beach or elsewhere, or an autumn session in the forest.    When was the last time that you had a photograph taken with your partner? Probably a family wedding, sometime before you had children? Now you have children, everything centres around them, and even if you have had a photography session with them , most if not all of the photos taken would have included your children. I love being able to capture just the grown ups during these photography sessions too.    I love to capture natural moments during photography sessions too, it is not all about posing for the camera. Those natural moments are always that ones that will be treasured.  If you have a family celebration coming up or would simply like some gorgeous updated family photos, you can find out more about my family photography sessions and my prices here. I sell beautiful gift voucher which are the ideal gift for special birthdays and Christmas.  For many families coming to me for their newborn photography session, they are not first time parents. Siblings are always welcome during your newborn photography sessions. Depending on their age, they might be a little reluctant to lay next to their brand new baby sister or brother, if they are young themselves, they will still be getting used to them. I don't force anything during sessions. If they are not ready, we will try again later. Or we try a different set up. Whilst most older siblings are happy to come over and have a photo taken with the new addition to their family, the typical 2 year old is not. With plenty of patience and letting them go at their own pace, we get the perfect photos for you of your babies together. And some family ones of you all together too.      Things don't always go to plan. And not just for sibling sessions, for newborns on their own too , every baby and every child has their own schedule and agenda and they don't run by ours, which is why every single one of my sessions from newborn, to family and all the babies in between are completely led by you, not me. My aim is to capture your family, as they are , beautifully and naturally and to make this into beautiful memories that you will treasure forever.   If you are expecting again please take a look at my newborn photography section or drop me a message I would love to chat about your session.   My cake smash photography sessions are the perfect way to celebrate your baby turning one. They are so much fun for all involved. Read on to see some beautiful images all from one single session , so that you can see what to expect at yours! A cake smash session is all about your baby. The aim is to capture some gorgeous memories whilst celebrating their first birthday at the same time. I have a beautiful range of eco friendly props for your session, along with neutral outfits and cake, I provide everything that you will need. You will even get to take home a beautiful engraved wooden spoon and any leftover cake with you, which trust me "usually" means loads, unlike this session here where he completely trashed his cake haha!      Splash time!If you choose a smash and splash cake smash session your session will include bath tub time! This is the perfect opportunity to clean your little one up after all of their cake smashing fun whilst I capture even more gorgeous memories for you. I even have two gorgeous bath tubs for you to choose from!      This gorgeous little one enjoyed his splash time just as much as he did smashing up his cake! We got some gorgeous photos and we all had a great time watching him. If your little one is turning one soon, you can find more information on my cake smash photography sessions here.
 Welcome to my haven. My beautiful, calm space. My beautiful baby photography studio backs onto my house in Oakdale, Poole, Dorset. If you haven't already visited, I would love to show you around. Baby photography studio in Poole.I have been photographing babies for over 11 years now. I have been in my current space for 2.5 years so I thought it was time for an update! As a natural light photographer, the available light is absolutely essential when choosing a space for my newborn photography sessions. My studio is ready for all light conditions, and in the summer I add diffusers to the extra sunlight that comes in. In the colder months I have extra heaters to make it warm and cosy for happy content little bundles. Home comforts, and more.... My photography studio has a beautiful comfy sofa which doubles up as a cosy place for parents to chill out during their session (whilst I take care of their baby and create beautiful memories) and a place for the parent and baby photos. I have found myself migrating to the sofa over the past few years rather than a backdrop as parents are more comfortable and relaxed, so this helps produce beautiful natural images. It also makes the perfect setting for cosy family photos should you have any older sibling(s) that you might wish to bring to your newborn session. I have a lovely coffee machine , which uses recyclable pods (I am working on getting reusable ones) and plastic free snacks available, as well as cold drinks. I have wi-fi access for you to use, with the password on the wall. The studio is attached to the back of my house, with the kitchen right next to it should you need to warm up bottles. I am a naturally clean and tidy person so you should feel at ease if you need to use the bathroom whilst you are here. I ensure this is thoroughly cleaned. Beautiful neutral propsMy studio is kitted out with everything we will need for your baby photography session, and more! Whilst your beautiful little one will be at the centre of every single photo that I take, I do have a gorgeous collection of props, wraps and outfits to make those photos just that little bit more special. It is my job to work with your baby to create the most beautiful, natural images for you to treasure forever.   Newborn photography      I offer beautiful, natural newborn photography from my studio for babies from just 4 days old up to 6 weeks. Please visit my newborn photography pages for more information. Cake smash photographyCake smash sessions are the perfect way to celebrate your baby turning one. Please visit my cake smash photography pages for more information. View my gorgeous wall art and photography books   When you come to me for your photography session, you will see my stunning range of wall art on display, as well as some of my photo books. Should you fall in love with any of these, I have a special "on the day" price list for these products. If you are expecting or have a little one under 1 year, I would love to hear from you to see how I can help you capture this special time for you. Please do get in touch for more information.
 The summer holidays are fast approaching, we will have 6 weeks to entertain and make memories with the children. Whilst you might be going away, or have some other big days out planned, you will more than certainly be looking for other FREE events and activities to fill in the days. I have put together a list of FREE events and activities across Dorset so that you can get ahead with your planning. Summer stay and play sessions - Hamworthy - various dates Free Summer Stay-and-Play Sessions! Join in for fun, free stay-and-play sessions in Hamworthy for 5-11-year-olds! Held at Bluebell Community Woodland and Hamworthy Park and run by Poole Forest Schoo Beach School: August 1 & 8 at Hamworthy Park (in front of Harbour Reach footbridge) Forest School: August 15, 22 & 29 at Bluebell Woods (behind St Michaels Church) Crafts drop in - Poole Library - all summer To celebrate the summer holidays, Poole Library will be hosting a drop-in craft session every Monday (22nd - 19th August) between 10:00 am and 1:00 pm Monday 22nd July - Elmer Suncatchers Monday 29th July - Animal Masks Monday 5th August - Caterpillar Headband Monday 12th August - Frog Doorhanger Monday 19th August - Ladybird Clock Summer holiday events - Bournemouth Square - various dates There is lots on in July in Bournemouth for children and adults alike, with plenty of live entertainment. Taster craft sessions at Hobbycraft Poole Check out Hobbycraft in Poole for free taster workshops all week long! No need to book but please check in store for more information and times. Craft sessions for all the family in Hamworthy Continuing through the Summer Holidays, children, young people and adults of any age and ability welcome. All children under 14 need to be supervised. Tuesdays 10.30-12.30. Refreshments by donation. Children's crafts at The Bourne Community Hub - 6th August Poole Communities Trust are hosting a FREE CRAFT DROP IN FOR CHILDREN at Bourne Community Hub, Northmere Road, BH12 4DY Pop by between 2:30pm and 4:30pm to make paper plate crafts! Children must be supervised at all times. Poole Quay/town centre free summer events There is lots going on in Poole this summer, from the usual fireworks nights, to Quay for my car and even more. Check out www.doscoverpoole.com for more information. Entertainment with Jamie Jigsaw - Blandford- 2nd August The morning will start with a circus workshop hosted by Jamie who will be teaching the kids how to plate spin, use the diabolo and more. After the circus workshop Jamie will be performing his magic and juggling show and finishing with balloon modelling for all of the children. Family film club - Wimborne - various dates A different film every Thursday throughout the school holidays. Film club events offer a completely free activity for families with young children. There are no entrance fees and no need to book a ticket. Nature inspired art- Bournemouth- 26th July & 2nd August 10-12pm Drop in art session run in partnership with an AUB graduate, the Alton Rd sessions are ‘drop and go’ & St Saviours (Scott Rd) ‘stay & play’. Please email for more information. Summer Reading Challenge - all summer long The summer reading challenge is hosted by local libraries and encourages children to read books across the school holidays. When they sign up they get given a folder and they can set a goal of how many books they would like to read over the summer. Along the way they can collect rewards and depending on location they may receive a medal for completing the challenge. You can read more or sign up online here: Summer Reading Challenge Arts & Crafts workshops with Skills and Learning - multiple dates These are creative art workshops based around recycling, sustainability and having fun together. Choose from two exciting workshops: Family Learning: Arts & Crafts - Create beautiful artwork while exploring recycling and sustainability. Family Learning: Summer Junk to Funk - Transform everyday objects into funky masterpieces! Workshops in Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch, Blandford and Dorchester. Check out more information on the free family learning workshops and book your space here: Courses - Skills & Learning Adult Community Education (skillsandlearningace.com) Summer events in Brewery Square, Dorchester - multiple dates  Join in at Brewery Square this summer for FREE events perfect for all ages! They also have splash fountains for the children to play in. Bring the whole family and splash into the fun! For more information visit - https://brewerysquare.com/ Tesco Summer food roadshow - multiple dates Free outdoor summer food roadshow coming to a Tesco. Be inspired by a delicious range of food and drink to try and discover fun ways to celebrate fun & flavour this summer. Discover affordable, delicious food and savvy ways to enjoy an outdoor get together with family and friends come rain or shine. In the past there have been free samples to try. Find your local outdoor summer food roadshow at https://www.tescosummer.com/ Tesco Tower Park 22nd July Tesco Extra, Bournemouth 23rd July 12-630pm Tesco, Kinson 8th August Tesco, Branksome 10th August Tesco, Fleets Corner 11th August Tesco Blandford 12th August Tesco Dorchester 13th August Bournemouth firework displays - multiple dates Dates have been confirmed for the FREE fireworks displays this summer on Bournemouth beach near the pier. The display starts at 10pm on the following dates: 26th July 2nd August 9th August 16th August 23rd August Netwalking with Joanne Dewberry - 14th August 10am If like me you run your own business and would love to meet up with other lovely likeminded people, AND bring your children along, then Netwalking is the perfect summer activity for you. We meet at 10am at Potterne Park and walk together through the forest to Moors Valley. During the summer we bring our children along with us too. You can read more about Joanne's netwalking event here Bournemouth Air Festival - 29th- 31st August The Bournemouth Air Festival is back this summer. The perfect end to your summer holidays. For more information visit their website: The UK's largest air festival - in the air, on the ground & at night! - Bournemouth Air Festival Local attractions with FREE entry If you are looking for somewhere to visit locally with no entrance fees, I have put together a little list for you.
Other ideas for FREE activitiesOther ideas for free activities in the school holidays. You don't need a set day to have fun. How about getting the kids to choose something from this list or perhaps they have their own ideas of something that you can do for free in the holidays.
* Crabbing at Poole Quay, Lake Pier or Mudeford Quay. Check out this great article on top tip for crabbing in Dorset. * Visit the beach * Try geocaching * Go to the park * Fossil hunting * Watch the sunset/ sunrise * Picnics * Prize bingo night * Movie nights * Games nights * Do some baking * Splash park I hope you all enjoy the summer as much as we always do and I hope that you get some inspiration from reading this. If you know of anything else please do share in the comments section. Please make sure you check venues for more up to date information before travelling, some events require pre booking.  Recently, I photographed my largest family to date. I do lots of these sessions every Spring/Summer but this was the most people for one session that I have had before. A lovely couple, with their 6 children and their families. I absolutely love these larger family sessions, I know how much the photos will be treasured, even more as the years pass by.  Unfortunately it turned out to be a very grey rainy morning! Usually, I would try to re arrange a session when the forecast is bad, but this is not always possible, especially when everyone was already together and probably would not be again for a while. Everyone was amazing during the session, they embraced the weather and we got some lovely photos.    I always like to take the opportunity at family photography sessions to get some photos of just the grown ups too. When was the last time you had a photograph taken with your partner?    These are just a few of the photos from the session.
To find out more you can visit my family photography area of my website. I am really excited to announce the launch of my latest wall art products. These beautiful fine art board mounted prints are the perfect affordable way to display your beautiful photographs on your walls at home. They come in a variety of sizes from 7 x 5 up to 16 x 12 inches. They are a stunning and unique way to display your favourite photos from your photography sessions.  They fit perfectly onto a picture shelf (as pictured above) or they can simply be attached to the wall using adhesive mounting strips which you can buy on the high street. The picture shelves that I have displayed in my studio are from Ikea and you can buy them in white or wood effect to match your home decor. The print that I am holding in the photo above is the largest size at 16 x 12 inches. I am super happy with the quality and the price of these products and I think they are the perfect solution as you will never need to change photo frames when you change your home décor. I have been there myself and I have recently changed from all wooden to all white frames! These beautiful products make the perfect alternative to a photo canvas, they are printed onto fine art matt paper so they do not reflect light and because they are not stretched around a frame you wont loose any of your photo. These stunning prints start at just £25! You can view the prices of these beautiful art prints on my product price page. Orders of sets of 5 prints come in a stunning linen folio box as pictured.  |
