Photography Training That Builds Confidence
Practical photography training designed to help you understand your camera, improve your technique and develop greater confidence in creating better photographs.
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Thoughts · Stories · Inspiration
The Journal
Basingstoke | Hampshire
Portrait Photography Journal
Photography Insights, Stories and Inspiration
Welcome to the Peter Farrar Portraits journal, a space for photography inspiration, behind-the-scenes stories, session guides and honest thoughts on what it takes to make great portraits. Based in Basingstoke and working across Hampshire, I write about the craft, the people, and the process behind every session.
Portrait photography is about far more than technical settings. It is about creating the conditions for a genuine moment, the right light, a relaxed subject, and the patience to wait for something real. This journal explores all of that, from the practical to the personal.
Whether you are considering booking a portrait session in Basingstoke, curious about what happens behind the camera, or simply interested in photography as a craft, there is something here for you. New articles are published regularly, covering everything from lighting and location scouting to what to wear for your session and how to feel comfortable in front of the camera.
Latest Articles
Scotland Through a Photographer’s Eyes
A photographer’s holiday around Broughty Ferry and Dundee, capturing coastal views, reflections, boats, changing light and the everyday scenes that make Scotland so enjoyable to photograph.
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Backstage with En Vogue
A backstage pass in Charlotte, North Carolina around 2012 put me face to face with Cindy Herron of En Vogue. This is the story behind the image and why live music photography was the foundation of everything I do in portraiture today.
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The Power of Professional Makeup
Professional makeup is not about changing who you are. It is about enhancing your natural features, so you look confident, polished, and at your very best in front of the camera.
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Building Confidence
Discover how a relaxed portrait session transformed one young woman's confidence. From feeling self conscious about braces to loving over 40 beautiful portraits, see how preparation and trust create natural, authentic photography.
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Basingstoke Portrait Photographer
I am a portrait photographer based in Basingstoke, creating natural, expressive and honest portraits for individuals, families, performers and professionals across Hampshire.
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Portrait of a Fighter
A gritty, authentic portrait of a real boxer fresh from sparring, captured with dramatic split lighting and raw intensity.
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A Busy Few Weeks Behind the Scenes
Learn how automation is helping free up time for photography, plus details on free portrait shoots for aspiring male models.
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Every article is written by Peter Farrar, a portrait photographer based in Basingstoke with decades of experience photographing people across the UK and USA. The journal covers the full range of portrait photography, from studio lighting techniques to candid location sessions in the Hampshire countryside.
Session stories give you a real sense of what a portrait shoot looks like from start to finish. Photography tips cover practical guidance you can apply whether you are a subject wanting to prepare for your session, or a fellow photographer looking for insight into the craft.
Studio news keeps you updated on what is happening at Peter Farrar Portraits, new availability, upcoming shoots, behind-the-scenes projects and occasional offers for portrait sessions in Basingstoke and across Hampshire.
Topics Covered
The journal covers a wide range of subjects related to portrait photography in Basingstoke and Hampshire:
- Studio and location portrait photography techniques
- How to prepare for your portrait session
- Lighting approaches for natural and dramatic portraits
- Behind the scenes at Peter Farrar Portraits
- Professional headshots and personal branding photography
- Family portrait sessions across Hampshire
- Black and white portrait photography
- Choosing between studio and outdoor portrait sessions
New articles are added regularly. Get in touch if you would like to book a portrait session or discuss your ideas.