On a chilly Spring morning in April I had the pleasure of meeting Gemma Fisk, owner of the fields surrounding the quaint and ancient church of St Hubert. The Patron Saint of Hunters.
I found Gemma while doing a google search for Flower fields near me that I could possibly use for photo shoots. Finding locations and having permission to use them, particularly if horses are involved, is difficult and finding new locations is a constant challenge.
There are of course some locations who allow photography but sometimes the fees the photographer is charged can be pretty hefty!
I have seen many photos taken of St Huberts church and I always thought what a stunning place and backdrop for photos. So, imagine my delight when I looked on 'Fisk Farm Flowers' (Gemmas website) and realised her her flower fields encircle it.
I emailed Gemma about the possibility of me doing photo shoots, equine and people, in her flower field. In most cases I prepare myself for disappointment but she responded all most immediately with the most positive reaction.
We arranged for me to visit and take a photo of one of her livery clients with their horse that I could use for advertising and Gemma was keen for me to visit within the next couple of weeks while the rape was in flower.
Unfortunately, that morning as I made my way to the field and church in Waterlooville (just over the West Sussex border in Hampshire)She contacted me to say that due to the rain the evening before they were unable to get a horse from her yard, which was the opposite side of the train tracks and road, to the fields due to flooding.
I was disappointed but I was already half way there and wanted to meet Gemma and actually visit the location anyway.
It was well worth the trip, even without the horse to photograph.
I spent some time chatting with Gemma and then she left me alone to have a wander around.
Surrounded by the Downs, as I took a stroll round and looked out good angles for photos the Sky larks twittered above me.
After perusing the exterior area of the Church, I couldn't resist taking a look inside it.
I am a bit of a history lover and particularly enjoy old buildings. Inside there is a wall painting that was discovered in 1864 showing St Hubert blessing the Hunters.
Pre dating the Dooms day book, this little church accessed by footpath through Gemmas field, is still in use today holding Sunday communion and weddings. It also opens for midnight mass on Christmas Eve. The cross lights up in the dark and I can only imagine what a magical atmosphere it must be walking over that little foot bridge and up the hill on a dark winters night.
There is much history at this site and in the area with Bronze age burial mounds discovered on the downs. This is just one great reason to come here for a photo shoot. You can really make a day of it. Gemma sells flowers at the site, you can pick your own and leave money in her little honesty box by the gate.
She also allows people to have picnics in the field, she wants everyone to enjoy the site and what it has to offer. If you enjoy a walk there are also other footpaths to access from the site.
Starting with the rape in March/April Gemma grows a variety of plants, including Sunflowers, right through till October. Photo shoots can take place with me anytime including During the 'Golden Hour' (1 hour before sunset). So if you would like some photo shoots at St Huberts, family, child or equine and enjoy this beautiful and historic location please do get in touch with me via my contact page.
Fisk Farm Flowers website: