Meet The Member - Karen of Karen Le Leu Photography
KAren Le Leu Photography
We caught up with our member Karen to talk all things family photography.
Hi Karen, great to have you as a member at We Are Harpenden. We love your photography – you specialise in maternity, newborn and family portraits. How did this become your area of focus?
I’ve always had a loved documenting my travels, but it wasn’t until I was in labour with my first child that I bought my first ‘proper’ camera. I was determined to capture every precious moment of her life, ensuring I wouldn't miss a thing. From then on, my love for photography only grew. I learned through practice with my own children, attended numerous courses, and am continually inspired by other photographers. What started as a personal endeavour evolved into a heartfelt desire to capture the beautiful chaos and tender moments of other families' lives, as well as that of my own.
What is it you love most about photographing families?
I cherish the unique story each family brings to a session. No two families are alike, and this diversity brings a delightful variety to my work. I feel incredibly privileged to witness and capture the special moments when a new member joins the family. It's an honour to document the love, joy, and everyday beauty that define these precious times.
What information is essential for you during the briefing stages of a project?
It's essential for me to connect with the families I photograph. Before each session, I schedule a pre-session phone call to get to know them better and discuss what is important for them to capture. Understanding their unique dynamics and what they treasure most helps me create images that are deeply meaningful and personal.
You photograph your clients within the comfort of their home. How do you think this impacts your work?
Photographing families in their own homes allows me to capture the beautiful, authentic moments of their everyday lives. It creates a relaxed environment where genuine interactions can unfold naturally. Whether it's feeding the baby, snuggling in their favourite chair, or playing a cherished game, these moments become timeless memories. This approach enables me to tell their unique and beautiful story, preserving the essence of their family life.
What are the most common questions that your clients have before a shoot?
Clients often worry about what will happen if their baby is unhappy or if older siblings won’t cooperate. There's no need to worry—sessions are designed to be flexible and stress-free. We take our time, following the baby’s lead. If the baby needs soothing or feeding, parents can take all the time they need, and these moments make for beautiful images. My background as a teacher equips me with plenty of fun tricks to engage older siblings, making the session feel more like a playful adventure than a photo shoot.
What are some regular mishaps that occur during a session?
I think ‘mishaps’ is perhaps the wrong term as it is just life with little ones but nappy changes, spit ups and snack breaks are all part of the process. But these moments add authenticity to the session and often result in some of the most endearing photographs. It's all part of capturing the real, beautiful chaos of family life.
How do you keep inspired to keep your work fresh and impactful?
I am part of a wonderful community of photographer friends, and we constantly set monthly themes and challenges to push our creativity. These exercises encourage me to try new ideas and perspectives, keeping my work dynamic and inspiring. Additionally, my clients' unique stories continuously fuel my passion and creativity.
What would people be surprised to know about the tricks of the trade?
People might be surprised to learn that some of the most serene and beautiful newborn photos often come from moments of soothing and calming. The peaceful expressions captured are often a result of a gentle touch or a comforting snuggle. Also, creating a relaxed atmosphere is key—sometimes the best photos come from moments of pure play and spontaneity.
Did having your own children affect how you approached your work?
Absolutely. My own children were the inspiration behind my photography journey. They taught me the importance of capturing every fleeting moment and the beauty in everyday chaos. They are also the reason I pursued this business, allowing me to work flexibly around their needs while doing something I love.
Where in Harpenden is your favourite spot to go in your spare time?
As a family, we love to spend time at Rothamsted Park. It's full of lovely places to explore, and the children adore the play park. It's a wonderful spot to enjoy nature, unwind, and create more cherished family memories.