BUBBLING FACES beamed away as they were snapped by a top local photographer in her hunt for the baby or toddler of the year.
Jude Gidney, who has 13 years’ experience as a professional baby and child photographer, launched her competition in January at The Reclamation Room in Uppermill.
She is looking for the baby or toddler who is amusing, cute, naughty or cheeky enough to be baby or toddler of the month.
The competition will be held on the last Friday of each month in 2017 to find 11 babies or toddlers (aged up to four years old by 31 Dec 2017) and then a final outright winner.
And after keen youngsters were entered into the first month’s competition, voting is now open to the public.
Jude said: “The first session was greeted with excitement and babies bubbling and happy to be photographed and show why they should be baby or toddler of the month.
“After some had had their breakfast at the cafe, Scona in the Reclamation Room, they came through for a shoot knowing the babies would be happy with full tummies.
“More little ones appeared after Boom Ting, a musical baby session in the church hall next door.
“We had four firm favourites that can be voted for. It’s about the character of the baby and not just how they look.”
Looking ahead to next month’s event on February 24, Jude added: “A few babies couldn’t make it this time but have asked to come next month.
“It’s free to enter and the babies really did seem to enjoy being out in the spotlight.”
“Children are so expressive, even the very shy, and are a joy to photograph. I have a number of very creative ideas and hope parents will be inspired.”
The Reclamation Room, which is hosting the photographic sessions, is an ideal place to bring family and children, with a great selection on their menu.
Emma Givvons, joint owner, said: “We have very much enjoyed the last year of hosting creative exhibitions and workshops and welcoming families into our room.
“We look forward to seeing more in 2017 and supporting this exciting initiative with Jude.”
Competition entry is free and children may be entered in more than one month although they can only win once. Prints are on sale, and for each bought £1 will be given to Dr Kershaw’s Hospice.
The next session will be Friday, February 24 at The Reclamation Room in Uppermill, from 9.30am-3pm.
The overall winner will be crowned as the face of the year for Jude Gidney Photography and will receive four photoshoots (each season of the year) and two 12×9” prints from each session – a prize worth over £600.
Competition images are viewable and can be voted for on Jude Gidney Photography’s website.
You can also contact the Saddleworth Independent to vote: simply send the name of the baby or toddler who wish to vote for by email to aimee@saddind.co.uk or write to Baby Competition, Units 3-4, 45 High Street, Uppermill, Saddleworth, OL3 7JQ. Voting for January’s competition must be received by Thursday, February 23.
All email addresses submitted will be used by JGP only and not passed onto a third party. All children photographed will have signed permission by a parent or legal guardian.
