Yana Skakun
Journal
Photography Blog
Tips, guides, venue spotlights and behind-the-scenes stories from my photography sessions across England.
Photography Tips
7 July 2026·9 min read
Film vs digital photography: What is the difference and does it matter?
Film photography has had a remarkable revival. Here is an honest look at the differences between film and digital, when film makes sense, and why most wedding and portrait photographers still shoot digital.
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Portrait Tips
6 July 2026·10 min read
What to Wear for Prom and Graduation Ball Photography
Prom and graduation ball photography celebrates a significant milestone — and the grand, formal nature of the occasion calls for clothing that photographs beautifully on the night. This guide covers ball gowns and suits that work on camera, colour choices, couple coordination, group photographs, and what to avoid.
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Portrait Tips
4 July 2026·10 min read
What to Wear for Creative Portrait Photography
In creative portrait photography, clothing is the primary visual language of the image — not a background element. This guide covers concept-led clothing choices, bold colour use, texture and visual complexity, collaboration with your photographer, and the balance between expressive styling and authentic self-presentation.
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Family Tips
4 July 2026·6 min read
Summer family photography in England: Best locations & tips
Long evenings, wildflower meadows, and golden light that lasts until 9pm — summer family photography in England is extraordinary. Here's how to make the most of it.
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Family Tips
2 July 2026·6 min read
How to Get Natural Smiles in Family Photos (Without Saying Cheese)
Why 'cheese' produces forced smiles, what actually creates natural expressions, and the techniques photographers use to get genuine, joyful images from families.
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Family Tips
2 July 2026·9 min read
What to Wear for a Countryside Portrait Session
Countryside portrait photography produces some of the warmest, most visually rich results available — but only when clothing and landscape work together. This guide covers earthy tones, layering, footwear, seasonal considerations, and family palette coordination for rural outdoor sessions.
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Photography Tips
1 July 2026·5 min read
Team Branding Sessions: Consistent Visual Identity for Your Business
When every team member's photo looks different — different lighting, different backgrounds, different quality — the company looks like it was assembled rather than built. Here's the fix.
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Newborn Tips
1 July 2026·6 min read
Sibling and Newborn Photos: Introducing Big Brother or Sister
How to include older siblings in your newborn session — timing, safety, how to prepare children of different ages, and why the meeting shot is irreplaceable.
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Photography Tips
1 July 2026·6 min read
Photography as a gift: The ultimate guide for UK families
A professional photo session is one of the most thoughtful and lasting gifts you can give — for birthdays, anniversaries, new babies, and Christmas. Here's how to do it right.
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Maternity
30 June 2026·6 min read
Best Time for Maternity Photos: A Week-by-Week Guide
When to have your maternity session, why 28–34 weeks is the optimal window, how seasons affect your choices, and when to book your photographer.
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Headshot Tips
30 June 2026·10 min read
What to Wear for a LinkedIn Headshot
A LinkedIn headshot is a professional credibility signal viewed by potential clients, employers, and collaborators. The clothing choices communicate professionalism, industry belonging, and approachability. This guide covers what to wear for a LinkedIn profile photograph across different industries and career levels.
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Photography Tips
30 June 2026·7 min read
Golden hour photography: Timing, locations & what to expect
The golden hour transforms ordinary light into something extraordinary. Here is how to make the most of it — when to shoot, where to go, and how to prepare for this fleeting window.
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Photography Blog — Tips, Guides & Inspiration
Welcome to the photography blog by Yana Skakun — a professional photographer based in Cambridge, England. This journal covers everything from practical wedding planning guides and engagement session advice to family photoshoot tips, newborn photography guides, portrait session prep, and venue spotlights across Cambridgeshire, London, and East England.
Whether you're a couple planning your wedding, a family getting ready for a seasonal portrait session, or a professional preparing for a headshot shoot — you'll find honest, experience-based advice here. Every article is written from real sessions and years of capturing life's most meaningful moments across England.