A review of Balmoral Bathers Pavilion from a photographer’s perspective

Candid photos of a christening

Candid and natural photos are wonderful, like this one taken of a little girl at Balmoral Bathers Pavilion during a christening function.

But naturally beautiful photos are elusive. I recently photographed a christening function at Balmoral Bathers Pavilion where a brother flew in in from America and the godmother flew up from Melbourne.  So this was a really special occasion unlikely to be repeated for a while. The photos were really important. However, when you want to photograph four or more people, it simply isn’t possible to photograph them candidly.

But how do you stop people in group photos looking forced? First, your christening venue needs a smart and comfortable “photo studio’ where people can sit. If people have to stand, they often wo’’t feel comfortable, and it will show. Grandmothers may not have the strength to hold the infant while standing.

Not many christening venues come with their own “photo studio” where people can comfortably sit. Fortunately, Balmoral Bathers Pavilion is the exception.

Photography Studio no 1

Balmoral Bathers Pavilion has an ideal area to photograph family group shots with an uncluttered background. Balmoral Bathers Pavilion is well light and comfortable. What’s equally important is that it is easy to block off this area. This prevents people wandering in and out of the background, disturbing the composition and sitters.

Photography Studio no 2

Balmoral Bathers Pavilion has more than just one photographic backdrop – thanks to its excellent interior design. The foyer is also ideal for photographing groups who felt comfortable standing.

Photography Studio no 3

And even though the christening was in the middle of the day with harsh sunlight, balcony shots were possible because of overhead shading.

But a venue will fail if its staff are miserable, or the food is lousy. This definitely wasn’t a problem at Balmoral Bathers Pavilion. The staff were friendly and competent. This helped create a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where the guests felt at ease which comes across in the photographs.

In short, I highly recommend Balmoral Bathers Pavilion as a christening venue. It makes for great photography, not only of candid subjects but also of family and friends. And with its three photographic backdrops in cream, aqua and outdoors, it gives a perfect selection of choice which means the photos are more interesting and attractive.