A WOMAN from Bicester has been awarded a coveted title in the Master Photography Regional Awards.

Sarah Plater, who lives on the Kingsmere estate, beat photographers from six counties to claim the title of Newborn Photographer of the Year 2019.

At an awards evening in St Albans last Tuesday, top snappers from the Master Photographers Association (MPA) judged contestants’ work anonymously.

ALSO READ: 'Beautiful Blenheim' exhibition starts at palace on Thursday

Ms Plater’s images were chosen as the best in the central region which covers Oxfordshire, Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire.

The 34-year-old said: “I love all types of portrait photography, but working with newborns is my absolute favourite shoot type. New mums and dads bring their tiny babies to my studio when they are between five and 14 days old, and it’s such an honour to create images of them that they and their families will treasure and enjoy for the rest of their lives.”

Bicester Advertiser:

The photographer, who has been creating portraits since she was 15 years old, has a home studio where she photographs families, newlyweds and even pets.

She said she was glad to have been recognised for her skills especially as more people nowadays settle with taking photos themselves.

She said: “Winning this award means the world to me, as it shows that I am good at what I do.

"We all have cameras now, thanks to smartphones, but I hope this award demonstrates the skill and knowledge that goes into creating images as a professional photographer.”

ALSO READ: Oxford Mail Camera Club reveal all for hidden theme

“My newborn clients have travelled to me from as far as Essex and Wales, but the majority come from Bicester and the surrounding villages. It’s thanks to them trusting me with their precious newborn babies that I am able to do what I do, and I am so grateful to each and every one of them.”

Bicester Advertiser:

The judges awarded points to each image based on five criteria including creation and control, technical competence, lighting, post production and impact.

The photographer with the most points overall takes the regional title.

Ray Lowe, chairman of the MPA, said: “This is the reason why the public should only book a qualified professional photographer to photograph those precious memories in life, their wedding, pets or family and children, as it’s the only way they have of knowing they will get the best creative photographs and personal service possible.”

ALSO READ: Oxford Children's Hospital hosting Breastfeeding Celebration Week events

Ms Plater now will take her images to the national competition, where winners will be announced in November.