For most of the last three or four New Years I’ve looked back on the previous 12 months and picked out my favourite shots that made it onto the blog.
[Reading time: 7 mins. WARNING: it’s photo-heavy…!]
This year? Of course it had to be a retrospective look back at ALL my archives, seeing as I was blogging for most of the 2010s.
All the photos I’ve featured were taken by Keith, as I only wanted to show those that were a collaborative effort between him and me (so no shots from brand campaign photo shoots). To give you some context, I’m the one with the photography degree, so although he had a good grasp of the subject (and how to use a DSLR) when we started, I taught him a few settings and tricks that helped improve his photography no end.
(Hence why there are no shots from my first year, 2011… there was definite room for improvement back then!)
It wasn’t long before he didn’t need any more help from me, and it was only a few months before we started to get some really beautiful results. It takes a while to build up an understanding and good relationship when shooting together – even if you ARE married/in a relationship.
So I have to say a HUGE thank you to Keith for being the master behind the camera, for moving me a little to the left or the right, for making sure my collar isn’t at a weird angle, and for always looking for the best light. Some photos are more about the shot itself (lighting, composition, location, etc.) and some are more about the outfit, but all are a combination of both in varying degrees.
In case you’re thinking “Nooooo Catherine, I’ll never be able to produce shots like that”, remember it’s not that difficult to get photos this beautiful: you can improve your photos when out shooting (it’s not all about the camera), and you can improve your photos when editing (which can make or break an image). Having a lot of time is a big help, and in the earlier years we had far more time to look for great locations and wait for the right light to get the perfect shot. In the past two or three years, however, we’ve always had Riley or Suki to consider and it’s not as easy to shoot with a doggo in tow, hence the fewer featured favourites from about 2018 onwards. These days we have to just ‘shoot and go’ so often…!
We HAVE been swotting up on what we can do in the future to get great shots with fewer resources (i.e. locations/backgrounds) and less time, so hopefully this year you’ll see a change as we feel the shooting has got a bit stuck in a rut lately.
Looking at the shots over the years was really interesting for me as there were so many I haven’t looked at in ages. I have many different hairstyles, hair colours, eyebrows styles, nail lengths and weight fluctuations going on. And yes, some of the outfits are a little dubious, but I just remember that I loved them at the time, and that’s what matters. Having these shots is a fascinating record of my style over the last 8½ years, and I wouldn’t change them for anything.
What’s your favourite image from my archives? Tell me in the comments – and don’t forget to link up ALL your (not just outfit) posts to the #ShareAllLinkUp below!
XOXO
P.S. To see the original posts, click on the image or the Original post >> link in the text under the image.
2012’s greatest photographic moments
May 2012: One of the first shots we were “wowed” by. Oh, that light. Original post >>
May 2012: You can’t go wrong with sunshine and an empty, white Cornish beach. Original post>>
July 2012: It was the luck in catching a hoverfly in front of my face that made this shot so special. Original post >>
June 2012: We always love a bit of backlighting, and this was one of the first times we tried it. It evokes summer so beautifully. Original post >>
December 2012: I always loved my smile and the relaxed pose here. Also, the details on the dress ♥. Original post >>
December 2012: Who doesn’t love a bit of mud and wellies…? This was so fun to shoot, and it shows on my face. Original post >>
2013’s greatest photographic moments
February 2013: One of my favourite-ever details shots. The multiple colours and textures are delicious and I love the cropping. Original post >>
March 2013: Winter whites down by the sea. It was mind-numbingly cold, but worth it for that light and the rough sea wall. Original post >>
April 2013: The shoot that produced the first official profile pic that I chose for all my platforms. All thanks to a beautifully-timed puff of wind. Original post >>
May 2013: An ode to fashion photographer Richard Avedon in front of London’s Shard. Original post >>
May 2013: Same shoot, it just took a little Photoshop wizardry to make Catherine clones. Love this so much still. Original post >>
May 2013: This may be my favourite EVER portrait of myself. In my life, ever. I absolutely adore it. Original post >>
May 2013: Same shoot, totally different vibe. A fantastically-timed jumping shot. Original post >>
May 2013: The sea and the sunshine made those colours SING. Plus, the wind was a bonus for once. Original post >>
July 2013: You can’t fail to get a good shot at a balloon festival, especially in the height of summer. Original post >>
August 2013: A beautiful portrait with stunning solar flare during the golden hour. Original post >>
September 2013: I love this because it just looks so cool. A classic trench and not-so-classic jewellery with splashes of orangey-red. Original post >>
2014’s greatest photographic moments
January 2014: A great example of why I think my strong profile works with these sorts of close-ups. The contrast of the bright orange with the blue is spot-on. Original post >>
February 2014: The incredible vintage tapestry coat I wore to LFW deserved this super close-up shot. Original post >>
April 2014: Blossoms and daffodils always look lovely, and London’s Hampton Court Palace gardens provided an abundance of them. Original post >>
July 2014: Possibly our best shot ever, ever, EVER. The backlighting on the sheer, layered fabric, the rose motif and the necklace, the bokeh… this shot takes my breath away. 100/10. Original post >>
Pin for later if you don’t have time to read all of it now! Keep going, lots more shots below…
July 2014: A beautifully composed shot. The pose showing off the back detail of the dress was perfection. Original post >>
July 2014: Same shoot – different spot – at the Temple of Apollo at Stourhead Gardens in Wiltshire. I’m sitting yards away from where Matthew MacFadyen’s Mr Darcy (unsuccessfully) proposed to Keira Knightley’s Elizabeth Bennet. Original post >>
2015’s greatest photographic moments
February 2015: More seascape photos, a nautical theme, more beautiful light you can’t go wrong with. Original post >>
March 2015: I’m really just showing off a spectacular manicure here. Original post >>
April 2015: My first UK Blog Awards outfit – a 1970s vintage beauty. Shot right by London’s Marble Arch. Original post >>
September 2015: I love this for the warm evening light, the unusual composition and the pattern mixing. A really bold, graphic image. Original post >>
September 2015: So many details worth showing off (this is one of my favourite vintage dresses), and the streak of sun was pure luck. Original post >>
October 2015: And so begin the Santorini photos. Hard to choose just a few, this one always stuck in my mind as a favourite. Original post >>
October 2015: Watching the sun set over the sea in Santorini. The light can’t be beaten. Original post >>
October 2015: I’m not one for bikini shots normally, but when in Rome (Santorini)… Again, it’s all down to that beautiful Greek light, an empty pool and the perfect composition. Original post >>
October 2015: A perfectly captured ’emerging from the pool’ shot. That shallow depth of field, the sky, the water droplets. Love it all. Original post >>
October 2015: Proof that it’s impossible to take a bad photo in Santorini. So dreamy and gorgeous. Original post >>
2016’s greatest photographic moments
February 2016: From Greek summer sun to British winter sun – the light isn’t any less stunning, however. A great example of how deep, rich colours actually benefit from low, direct sun. Original post >>
April 2016: Dorset’s Jurassic Coast makes for a beautiful stone beach backdrop. Original post >>
May 2016: Another UK Blog Awards outfit, and the most fairy princess-like. All that tulle and all those sparkles are heavenly. Original post >>
June 2016: Sometimes the background needs to be plain and let the outfit do the talking. I love the cold light, the bold shape and the strength of the black (yes, really!) here. Original post >>
June 2016: My Grace Kelly moment in a wedding guest outfit. We lucked out with the deep, dark green and black background as a contrast for my white and watermelon red florals. Original post >>
July 2016: Yes, we’re obsessed with solar flare and backlighting, but this amazing shot proves why. Original post >>
July 2016: Another shot which became my profile picture for a couple of years. I love the ruffles and 50s-style florals against the grandeur of the Georgian houses. Original post >>
August 2016: I think this is my only sitting-under-a-tree shot, yet the pink against the green makes it a favourite image. Original post >>
August 2016: A spectacular shot in front of Broadway Tower in the Cotswolds. Original post >>
September 2016: Perfect timing and beautiful late summer sun. Original post >>
September 2016: We sadly don’t have access to the warehouse area where we shot this (and the image below) any more – a shame as it had the best lighting with its white floors and partly covered area. So good for accessories close ups like this one. Original post >>
October 2016: I love the shape my cape makes here. A simple shot, beautifully composed. Original post >>
2017’s greatest photographic moments
January 2017: An example of how backlighting can produce the most flattering light for your face. The hat makes a great “frame” to the top half of the image. Original post >>
March 2017: Focussing perfection. Not easy when shooting this close with such a small depth of field. The metal brooch contrasted with the texture of my sweater is stunning. Original post >>
April 2017: I actually love how white the light made my skin look here. I think it added to the ‘springtime freshness of the shot’. Original post >>
April 2017: Keith and I only did two photo shoots together, and they were both in the same month. Done on a self-timer, I’m amazed how well they came out. Original post >>
April 2017: I just loved everything about this whole shoot (yet another UK Blog Awards). Also done with a self-timer and tripod – and in the middle of Chelsea. Original post >>
June 2017: My favourite shoot with Riley. No makeup, messy hair, no special outfit – just a happy girl and her happy, gorgeous doggo. Original post >>
July 2017: The beauty of Cornwall’s coastline thrown into one image. Original post >>
September 2017: Yet more gorgeous solar flare creating the most flattering light. I love the colours, the gentle breeze in my hair and the plain grey background. Original post >>
September 2017: More of stunning Cornwall, notably Poldark country (this exact view even appeared in the final series). Original post >>
December 2017: Possibly my greatest “twirling” photo. All that red is so fabulous. Original post >>
2018’s greatest photographic moments
April 2018: My final UK Blog Awards dress, another 70s vintage beauty. I’ll never forget the beautiful blossom and the intense heat of that April evening. Do I need to mention the light…?! Original post >>
July 2018: My favourite ring/manicure shot. The sparkles and the blue on blue contrasted with wicker and greige nails look so pretty. Original post >>
November 2018: More gifts in the form of perfect light through a hotel room window early one morning. The floor-to-ceiling windows were begging me to throw some shapes in front of them. Original post >>
November 2018: Another Riley favourite. Our beautiful boy was so good at posing and looking serene. Original post >>
2019’s greatest photographic moments
April 2019: A floral jumpsuit framed by gorgeous blossoms. Keith took an age to compose this and get me in the right position. Original post >>
July 2019: And finally – beautiful embroidery detail, sharp focussing and delicious bokeh. The reds and oranges look so bold against the white and green – it looks like a painting. Original post >>
Bravo Catherine!
It is definitely hard to choose one single favorite. There is one photo that sticks out for me though: you in your bikini coming out of the water. First, it’s very brave to post oneself in their swimsuit! Second, it is such a Linda Carter Maybelline moment. My sister and I used to play Linda Carter in the swimming pool trying to capture moments just like the one you have here! This picture is perfectly classy and sexy all at the same time. And did I say brave? Oh yes I did. Confidence, self-confidence, is the best outfit!! (Another favorite wink wink;)
Now, is it copyright infringement if I still the idea of this post. It’s such a great idea. I recently conducted my very first reader survey (have you taken it?), and this might be the perfect way for me to announce the results.
I love visiting your blog Catherine.
With love,
Annie
Author
WOW Linda Carter – now that’s a compliment Annie, especially when I was a MASSIVE Wonder Woman fan when I was a kid (I had the original Kenner WW doll, still have the red boots and navy uniform)!! Thank you hon, I’d forgotten just how good the pool shots were… and yes of course, be my guest to do the same kind of post. It wasn’t a wholly original idea anyway, I’m sure I started my “best photos of the year” posts after seeing someone else do it! xoxo
Very beautiful photos. Thanks for sharing them.
Author
That’s so kind, thank you Patrick! x
So many awesome photos / outfits! Many kudos to Keith!
Michelle
Author
I’ll let him know, Michelle – and thank you! x
So many beautiful pictures, I really cannot pick a favourite ! I love the ones taken in the summer a tiny bit more though….thats most likely something to do with the fact we are in the depths of winter lol !!!
Author
Karen I always love the summer ones too – probably why there are so many of them!! 😉 Thank you hon x
All these photos truly are stunning.
Author
thank you Amy x
OMG how stunning are these. The first time I found your blog, you had just put up the Santorini post with the pic of you sitting on the edge of the swimming pool. Beautiful..
Author
Oh wow what a first post to have seen, Hilda!! The Greek sunlight and a hotel pool really are all you need for a dream shoot…! Thank you xx
So many amazing photos! Yikes–how to choose. l love ALL the Santorini shots, and the September one with the oranges and browns. And your best photo ever, and the one of you and your doggie… The list goes on! Your husband has really grown into his role as photographer! Mine is working on it! Regardless of how famous I become as a result of my blog (Haha! JK!!!), we have both learned a lot from this journey. And I’ve been introduced to some amazing people–like you!
Author
Aww Darlene thank you – so glad you loved so many of them! Keith has definitely played a major part in the blog… I couldn’t do it without him xo
Absolutely stunning photos Catherine, I loved them all!! Xx
Author
Thanks Kareema so much xx
I have read this post 4 times now. 3 on my phone and 1 on my laptop. I say “read” but I mean “ooooooed” “ahhhhhhhed” and marvelled at the amazing photographic duo that is Keefrine. These photos. The light. The colours. Your amazing hair. The sheer beauty. My favourite one is the one of you and Riley in Cornwall. And that portrait of you in the purple top is just mind blowing. Thank you for sharing these, you really inspire with every click of the camera.
Author
Oh Lisa thank you soooooo much… isn’t the Riley one in Cornwall wonderful, it really was a special picture ♥♥♥
Plus I LOVE ‘Keefrine’!! Why haven’t we come up with that ourselves before?! lol
Looking at these photos, one after the other, I was rather affected, actually. What I was seeing was not the clothes, but rather how a man “saw” his partner. Taken through the eyes of love. Capturing the essence of you. The photos are beautiful. This is my favourite post.
I couldn’t agree more xxx
Author
♡♡♡
Author
Oh my goodness Ratnamurti what a gorgeous thing to say! I can’t thank you enough (I’ll tell Keith) xx ♥
You’ve really caught some amazing shots! It’s sooo hard to pick favorites. I’m partial to the one where you are wearing all white and, of course, those with you and Keith–so handsome!
Author
Thank you Kimberly – yes the couples ones are some of my favourite-favourite ones x
Wow what wonderful images to look back on, you really did get creative. Yes love to see more new ones like this.
Marc is my main photographer and we have learnt a lot together over the years. Patience is key!
Ash xxx
Author
Thanks lovely Ashley – yes patience is key, but we still show a severe lack of it towards each other when on shoots, hehe!! 😉
I’m speechless looking at this stunning portfolio, Catherine. The combination of your and Keith’s gifts are awesome !(and thank you SO much for using “him and me” correctly – you almost never see that anymore! Sorry, Grammar Nazi moment…) Totally inspired for 2020!
Author
Oh Mary Katherine thank you!! And yes to the “him and me”… I wrote that but had to check it because it sounded wrong. One of those annoying correct grammatical things that people usually say wrong because the wrong way sounds right!
So many beautiful photos. I’m having a job finding new places in Essex. Especially in this current weather. The sea wall has given me an idea though! xx
Author
Oooh yes a sea wall is good Laurie because of the texture – and then you get fantastic light, even in winter (like mine was here). It took us a while to find new spots when we moved, so I feel your pain! Sometimes a great place can be JUST around the corner though, and it’s been on your doorstep the whole time #facepalm
These pictures are absolutely beautiful! You look stunning in each photo!
Thanks for sharing and for hosting the linkup!
Ellibelle’s Corner
Author
Aww Ellibelle thank you so much! xo
You have such a talent Catherine. I still need to learn so much.
XOXO
Jodie
Author
That’s so kind of you Jodie, thank you xoxo
How I sighed when I looked at your wonderful photos – and then saw help was on hand with your posts on how to improve outfit photos! It’s challenging when the photographer is basically a tripod, as many of us can attest!
Author
I hope they help, Gail! Don’t give up on the self timer/remote photos thing though – there are ways to get amazing shots even if you take them yourself!!
Thank you x
Absolutely stunning, Catherine! Every single shot! It must have been difficult to pick favorites…there are so many gorgeous ones. And Keith is an amazing photographer in part because he has a beautiful subject! Great post!
Shelbee
Author
Hehe it took me a LONG time to whittle down the choices to these 60-odd photos, Shelbee… it took me so much longer than I anticipated! And thank you, you’re such a sweetheart x
O shy, and just oh shy……and the knowledge that we have got so much to learn.
Author
Not sure what “oh shy” means, Nancy (typo…?!)
WOW!!! You have just some of the most gorgeous pictures. Seriously, beautiful!!!
XOXO
Author
Aww Lisa thank you so much!! xo
No words come close to describing this post Catherine. Breathtaking doesn’t begin to cover it. I’m so inspired by each and every shot. You and Keith are incredibly talented on so many levels and to think Keith got me started using light room! Honestly you guys should be teaching this stuff.
Author
MT thank you!! What a wonderful compliment. I’m so proud of what we’ve produced over the years 😀
Wow These photos are so beautiful and nicely captured! Love the vibrant colours.
Author
That’s so nice of you to say, thanks Ting x
Oh my goodness Catherine. What an absolute feast of beautiful images. The one with the hoverfly is beautiful and I love all of the dreamy romantic portraits. The Catherine clones are so clever and such fun. I don’t think I could pick a favourite. I remember the santorini shots so well and of course, I remember all of your blog award outfits. You and Keithe make the perfect team. Thank you for sharing. They have cheered me up as I sit here with a runny nose, streaming eyes and a sore throat! Lots of love xxx
Author
Oh bless you Liz, thank you my lovely!! I surprised myself with how many I’m still wowed by…! xo