Sophie's portraits were made into a book as a present. The Queensberry Press Books are beautiful, it's always a thrill for me to design and order these for clients. Sarah chose the photos she wanted in the book, 36 altogether and I created a layout for her to preview.

Sarah had plenty of choice over the colour of the book, and she chose Pacific which was perfect. We also then added a Maya case which is shown with the little clasp. It's a lovely way to keep the book safe.

Sarah was delighted with the book, as I was and let me know last week that the birthday present was a great success. Queensberry press books are a great way to keep your photos, Sarah was able to have 36 images in her book for the same price as ordering 36 separate prints at 9x6 inches, so it's actually very good value too.

I photographed Harry for the first time in April 2008. We went for a wander around my woodland.

He did what all children do, explored, played, found sticks.

Harry came back to my new studio at Derwent Reservoir this April, and he's still very keen on sticks, or rather challenging logs. How the little boy that was has transformed into the savvy 6 year old.

He came with his cousin.

We were caught in very brief but exciting hail stones.

It's ok for a savvy 6 year old to be cuddled.

Studio portraits are natural, unposed and spontaneous so that the children can relax enjoy the experience and receive some positive attention which they love.

All children have their own personality, so allowing them the space to play, allows their individuality to shine through.

Why make your children look 'corporate' for photo sessions by putting them into white shirts and denim. The patterns and colours become part of the composition. Lovely.

I have photographed this little girl three times now. In 2006, 2008 and 2009 and probably again this year. I wonder how she will have changed.

This is her before her little sister was born.

Here is her little sister.

And here is her little sister the following year as she grows up and can now play with her too.

In three years these two will have grown up a lot, its a privilege for me to be able to photograph them regularly.

These photos were taken at my studio last year. It's a nice contrast to move from outdoor shots to the studio.

When I am photographing you it's very important that you feel relaxed and comfortable so we go with the flow and see what happens.

I was lucky enough to be able to pop out of the house and catch the race passing by last summer 2011. "Northumbrian Water is once again proud to host and sponsor the 2011 Northumbrian Water Tour of the Reservoir in partnership with the Tyne Valley Cycle Club and welcomes all competitors, spectators and visitors. The 1,000 acres of the magnificent Derwent Reservoir make a spectacular backdrop for this major national cycling event"

It's always great to be able to photograph fast moving unpredictable events as it gives opportunities for the unexpected. I photograph Appleby Horse Fair regularly too which is also visually very exciting.

The final leg along to the finish line on the Dam.

The winners and the Champagne I got drenched in which makes a change from confetti.

If you would like to view the whole gallery it is on the client area site where images are available to purchase. http://shonabranigan.zenfolio.com/tyne/valley/cycle/club/tour/of/the/reservoir/2011