GWS Photography

GWS Photography: family, baby and pet portraits near Edinburgh

GWS Photography is a professional photography studio based in Longniddry, in East Lothian, a short drive from Edinburgh. It presents itself as a family team made up of Ali, Leanne and Grahame, who work together on every session. The studio describes itself as a peaceful rural space, and part of its work also takes place in a nearby woodland setting for families and dogs.

The company was founded in 2010 by Grahame, a photographer who began in the eighties photographing bands and weddings. According to its website, the team has won more than twenty national awards for photography and client care, and Grahame holds Fellowship level, the highest professional qualification in portraiture. Leanne is a qualified professional and Allison brings warmth and fun to the sessions.

Specialties and types of session

The session catalogue includes baby, family, family with dog, pet, woodland and boudoir photography. The approach is focused on capturing real moments and creating finished pieces for the home, not just digital images for the phone.

• Babies: sessions for the early years, without working to a timer or forcing poses, creating an atmosphere of calm and time.
• Families: gently guided sessions, without chasing perfect smiles, to reflect how the family feels together.
• Families with dog: an option that combines family portrait and pet.
• Pets: studio or woodland sessions for dogs and cats, with attention to each animal's character.
• Woodland: an outdoor location near the studio for a more relaxed and natural approach.
• Boudoir: intimate portrait session.

Session experience and final product

The company describes its sessions as an unhurried experience, with no time limit and no pressure on participants. The stated aim is for families to enjoy the process and come away with portraits that represent them. The finished pieces are presented as lasting items for the home, such as wall frames, a story set in their Treasure Box or membership of the Quantum Club, an ongoing follow-up programme. The website states that they do not offer quick photo packs or throwaway digital images.

Background and awards

The team lists a series of awards won between 2016 and 2023, including several from the Scottish Master Photographers, such as Reportage Wedding Photographer of the Year (2016), Open Photographer of the Year (2016 and 2017), Children's Portrait Photographer of the Year (2018 and 2019), General Photographer of the Year (2019), Baby Portrait of the Year (2020), Classical Wedding Portrait of the Year (2020), Portrait Photographer of the Year (2021), Best Customer Communications Award UK (2022), Scottish Pet Photographer of the Year (2022) and Most Promising Photographer of the Year (2023). Grahame has judged national competitions and mentored photographers across the UK. Leanne achieved Licentiateship with The Master Photographers in 2022.

Booking and planning

The website recommends getting in touch in advance, ideally two to four weeks ahead, especially if you are looking for a specific date or time of year. Family and pet sessions tend to fill up fastest from Thursday to Saturday, while newborn and boudoir sessions are concentrated from Tuesday to Thursday. Most experiences take place in the studio, and for families and dogs you can opt for the nearby woodland location. The process includes a discovery call to arrange the session.

Location and contact

The studio is at Wheatrig Business Hub, Wheatrig, Longniddry EH32 0PL. The company serves clients from Edinburgh and East Lothian. The contact phone number is 07930 166715.

Wheatrig Business Hub Wheatrig Longniddry EH32 0PL · Phone: 07930 166715