Engagement photography Box Hill, Surrey
Located in the Surrey Hills, which are classified as ‘An Area of Outstanding Beauty’, Box Hill has sweeping views across the North Downs. A popular location for cyclists on account of its steep hills, winding roads and spectacular views, Box Hill is a lovely spot for an engagement shoot. I had planned to use a couple of the viewpoints to get a dramatic backdrop for some of the shots but instead of the clear day promised by weather forecasters, Melissa, Josh and I were met with thick fog creating a clean white background, void of even the slightest detail! We may as well have been in a studio. Not to be deterred, we headed into the woods instead.
We stumbled across a beautiful big tree with low branches that I thought would be fabulous to shoot through, using the low branches as a frame. I went to find a good spot to position myself and turned around to find them climbing it! Giggling and hoisting each other up, they straddled the huge branch and we got some great photos. Its always so uplifting working with couples who clearly have such fun together and are up for anything.
Thought to have originated in Austria, Melissa’s ring is a beautiful diamond set in a simple yet timeless round cast. It was actually her Grandmother’s, given to her by her husband for their 25th wedding anniversary. Josh heard that her mother was thinking of selling it and had a quiet word about it becoming Melissa’s engagement ring. He held on to it, hidden amongst old bills and receipts where Melissa wouldn’t find it, for two years (!) until the time was right to propose.
With such a story behind the ring, it was only right that it took centre stage for some photos. With the late arrival of Spring, there was still lots of mossy logs and rich browns and greens in the woods which created an unusual dark background to contrast with the brightness of the ring.
It was such a lovely, relaxed shoot - I hope that’s evident in the photos. And if you’re ever struggling for inspiration for staging, just climb the nearest tree...!
About Box Hill
Box Hill is the perfect place to discover a family walk and explore the Surrey Hills. Forming part of the North Downs, Box Hill has views across the surrounding countryside. It's home to lots of wildlife and plants too, including the Adonis blue butterfly and bee orchid. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/box-hill