Cornish Seaside Family Holiday

After more than a decade capturing love stories through weddings, UK-based photographer Victoria Phipps has found herself on a new path – one that embraces the spontaneity of childhood, the joy of family, and the timeless beauty of film photography.

Following an extended pause during her double maternity leave and the COVID years, Victoria has returned to her craft with renewed purpose and a new focus: documentary-style family sessions, shot entirely on film. While film photography remains a rarity in the UK due to its famously unpredictable weather and light, Victoria leans into the challenge, creating warm, nostalgic imagery that feels as genuine as the moments she captures.

This featured session takes place along the rugged coastline of Mawgan Porth, Cornwall, where Victoria met Lucy, Tom, and their two young children on a breezy seaside holiday. With bare feet and wide eyes, the children delighted in exploring rock pools and chasing the tide, joyfully calling to their parents to witness each new discovery.

“My aim in all family portrait sessions is to record families at play in nature. For us Brits so many of our best family memories are made at the beach, come rain or shine! This is where families play best together and capturing it all on film is a lovely experience for me and my clients get a lovely collection of photographs to remember that moment in their story.”

Her approach is refreshingly relaxed and deeply intentional. Rather than stiff poses or studio backdrops, Victoria encourages families to simply be: to run, dig, laugh, and explore. The resulting images are full of movement, connection, and joy – inviting viewers to not only see the moment, but to feel it.

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Victoria Phipps is a lifestyle and family photographer based in a tranquil village on the Cheshire-Wirral border, just 10 minutes from her childhood home. With over 15 years of professional experience, she transitioned from wedding photography to specializing in family portraits during the pandemic, embracing a more personal and meaningful approach to capturing family life.

Victoria is passionate about the art of film photography, using medium format film to create soulful, timeless images that stand out in a digital age. She believes in the power of printed photographs to become cherished heirlooms, and she works closely with clients to produce custom wall art and albums that celebrate their unique stories.

As a mother of two, Victoria understands the joys and challenges of family life, which informs her empathetic and relaxed approach to portrait sessions. She offers a personalized experience, guiding families through every step—from initial consultation to final artwork selection—to ensure that each photograph reflects their authentic connection.

Through her work, Victoria aims to help families slow down and appreciate the fleeting moments of everyday life, transforming them into lasting memories captured on film.

Curated by Belle Lumiere Editor Lisa Christoffel