Capturing Memories with the Marriott Family: A Journey Through Time

Since 2017, I’ve had the pleasure of photographing the Marriott family, capturing the essence of their lives and their deep love for horses. Over the past seven years, we’ve seen Matilda and Toby grow up and their bond with their parents, Suzanne and Jack, strengthen. Here’s a look back at our three memorable photo shoots and just some of the beautiful moments we’ve preserved together.

The Beginning: Matilda and Dawn in 2017

In 2017, Suzanne reached out to me for the first time to photograph her daughter, Matilda, who was 11 at the time, with her pony, Dawn, at their home in Hungerford. Suzanne understood the importance of capturing these fleeting moments, knowing how quickly children grow and how ponies can move on. It was a busy time for the family, balancing work and school, but their time together was precious.

During this first shoot, Matilda’s brother Toby, a couple of years older, joined us for a quick group shot. While he wasn’t keen on being in front of the camera, I worked quickly to make him comfortable. These initial images laid the foundation for an ongoing relationship that has spanned seven years.

Growing Together: The 2019 Shoot

By 2019, the Marriott family had grown even closer. Matilda, now 13 going on 14, had a new horse, Dinky. Toby’s involvement increased significantly, especially since he could be photographed with his father’s horse, Solli, which they often shared. Suzanne joined in a few shots as well, showcasing the family’s evolving dynamic and growing confidence.

It was wonderful to see how much Matilda had grown in just two years, both in height and in her comfort in front of the camera. Toby’s newfound enthusiasm made the shoot even more special, and we captured some truly beautiful moments.

A Complete Family Portrait: The 2023 Shoot

Our latest shoot in 2023 was a milestone as we managed to get all four family members involved, along with their horses, Wally and Solli. Jack, Suzanne’s husband, was initially unsure about the experience, but he ended up having a great time. He later shared that he couldn’t wait to hang the new photos on the walls of their home, especially as he is in them this time.

Despite initial nerves, Toby and Jack enjoyed the shoot immensely. It’s incredibly important to me that my clients love the experience of being photographed. I strive to make it something they want to repeat, as often as possible. The joy of capturing these moments and seeing the pride on their faces is what drives me.

Reflecting on the Journey

Looking back at these photos, it’s astonishing to see how much Matilda and Toby have changed over the years. These images are more than just pictures; they are memories that capture the hustle and bustle of growing up in a loving, supportive family. As children start to travel and become more independent, these photos serve as daily reminders of the moments they’ve shared.

Why You Should Book a Photo Shoot

If you’ve been thinking about booking a photo shoot but don’t know where to start, I’m the photographer for you. With over 18 years of experience and a lifelong love of horses, I take care of everything for you. From outfits and styling to locations and lighting, I’ve got it all covered. All you need to do is groom your horse and yourself.

Imagine feeling your most confident, having fun with your horse, and capturing those moments to enjoy in your home every day. Even when you’re not at the stables, you can look at your horse’s cheeky face and beam from ear to ear.