"It was by absolute chance two days before my wedding day I ran across a model who referred me to Peter. That very evening, just three short hours after I made my first, desperate phone call to the studio, they had me laughing, sharing stories and completely at ease. The artistic talent that sets them above competitors is blaringly obvious within any of the portfolios, but it is not the only unmatched characteristic the studio possesses. I cannot think of words to explain the sheer joy and comfort they have given to us at the most important time in our lives by producing photos that capture our love and excitement with the rare quality of absolute excellence. They are really that good."
The Photographer
About Peter Farrar Portrait Photographer in Basingstoke
Portrait Photographer · Author · Mentor
Photography has been a lifelong passion and profession that has taken me across continents, introduced me to remarkable people, and allowed me to capture some of life's most important moments.
Professional Portrait Photographer in Basingstoke
Over the years I have worked as a professional photographer in both the United States and the United Kingdom, specialising in portraits, weddings, special events, and commercial assignments. My career has provided opportunities to photograph people from all walks of life, helping individuals, families, professionals, performers, and businesses preserve memories and tell their stories through photography.
Today my primary focus is portrait photography in Hampshire and Basingstoke, creating professional portraits that capture personality, character, and genuine emotion. Whether working in a studio environment or on location, I strive to create images that feel natural, authentic, and timeless.
Experience Across the UK and USA
My photography career began in the United States, where I founded Kenneth Light Studios in Charlotte, North Carolina in 2008. Over the following years I built the business into a full-time professional photography studio, photographing weddings, portraits, commercial assignments and events across North Carolina and beyond.
After relocating to the United Kingdom in 2014, I continued to develop my skills and client base, photographing people across Hampshire and the South of England. In 2026, I rebranded to Peter Farrar Portraits to bring my name and my photography together under one consistent identity, the same approach, the same standard, the same commitment to creating portraits that last.
My career has never been limited to photography alone. Throughout the years I have also worked on video and film projects for clients, gaining valuable experience in visual storytelling, lighting, composition, and creative direction. These skills continue to influence my photographic work today, helping me create images that go beyond simply recording a moment.
A People-Focused Approach to Portrait Photography
Portrait photography is not just about technical ability, it is about understanding people. Every successful portrait begins with communication, trust, and creating an environment where clients feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera.
My sessions are unhurried by design. There is always time to settle in, try different approaches, and find the images that genuinely reflect who you are. I do not believe in rushing people or pushing for a result before the subject is ready. The best portraits come when people forget about the camera, and that takes time, patience, and the right atmosphere.
This approach has helped me build lasting relationships with clients and produce portraits that reflect who they truly are, not just how they look.
Published Author and Photography Educator
In addition to my work behind the camera, I am a published author with books covering both photography and leadership. Peter Farrar Books covers the full range of my writing work, including the Mastering Digital Photography three-volume series and The Complete Photography Field Guide — a 538-page reference covering technique, workflow, business, and UK and US photography law in a single volume.
Teaching and mentoring others has always been important to me. I have trained over 300 photographers throughout my career, sharing the techniques, approaches, and practical knowledge that come from decades of professional work. Whether helping aspiring photographers develop their skills or sharing leadership principles from my corporate career, I enjoy encouraging others to grow.
Creative Influences
Creativity does not end when the camera is put away. I have a lifelong appreciation for music, film, and visual storytelling. Many of the principles that make powerful cinema resonate with audiences, composition, emotion, timing, and narrative, can also be found in strong portrait photography. Every portrait is a story, and finding that story is what drives my work.
Travel has played an important role throughout my life as well. Experiencing different places, cultures, and perspectives has shaped both my personal outlook and my creative vision. From the mountains of North Carolina to the Hampshire countryside, every environment offers new inspiration and a deeper appreciation for the diversity of people and the stories they carry.
Portrait Photography Across Hampshire and Basingstoke
Based in Basingstoke, I work with clients throughout Hampshire and the surrounding counties. Studio sessions take place in Basingstoke, offering full control of lighting and environment. Location sessions are available anywhere across Hampshire, from the countryside and villages of the Test Valley and Itchen Valley to urban settings in Winchester, Reading, Newbury and Farnborough.
Whether you are looking for a professional headshot, a relaxed family portrait, personal branding photography, or a creative commission, my goal is the same: to create images that you will be proud to display and treasure for years to come.
Thank you for taking the time to visit. I look forward to meeting you and helping tell your story through photography.
18+
Years Experience
300+
Photographers Trained
2008
Founded
5
Published Books
Client Testimonials
What Clients Say
A selection of testimonials from clients photographed across the USA over eighteen years of professional work.
"We had family pictures done as well as our twins' four year old pictures. We found Peter to be extremely professional and courteous. He works well with adults and children alike and even had our kids laughing and acting like themselves during the shoot. I hate to have pictures taken of myself and actually found myself feeling comfortable with Peter. We were very pleased with the final results and will definitely go to Peter in the future and would recommend him to anyone looking for a great photographer."
Michelle, Lance, Bellea & Dylan
"Very flexible, and willing to take time to be patient with all of the guests and family. I appreciated so much that he recognised and repeated to me, this is your day! He really made me feel special."
Dionne & Teke
"Thank you so much for making my wedding ceremony and engagement pictures so special! I am amazed by the pictures, and in awe of the artistic ability you have. You did a great job with the angles and artistic side that I so much appreciate. I would recommend you for any photo shoot."
Dionne & Teke (six months after the wedding)
"Peter is a very professional photographer. We had such a great time during the shoot. My sister wanted professional pictures and that is exactly what she got, plus more."
Amanda
"Peter is a great photographer. He was humble, gave direction well, and very kind. The pictures turned out great and I love the photo book. Thanks again for everything."
Jeray
"I am speechless! You did an amazingly outstanding job! I am not sure what to say, except you are a WOW photographer and I am so glad we met. Such a pleasure, and had so much fun with you guys on the shoot. Thank you so much Peter."
Mary
"Peter greeted us as his own personal friends from the first time I spoke to him on the phone to the minute we left his studio. Peter was extremely professional and our session was truly enchanting. He allowed my son to express a side to him I had not realised even existed. I have had many compliments on his work, and I am glad to brag on his exceptionally talented gift of photography, with a special twist in public relations. Thank you again Peter for everything."
Zander Family
Why Peter Farrar Portraits
What Makes the Difference
Portrait photography in Basingstoke is competitive. Here is what sets Peter Farrar Portraits apart from the rest.
18 Years of Professional Experience
Founded in 2008, Peter Farrar Portraits brings genuine long-term professional experience to every session. This is not a side project or a hobby, it is a dedicated portrait photography practice built over nearly two decades across two countries.
Unhurried, Client-Focused Sessions
Sessions are never rushed. The time is taken to make sure every client feels comfortable, confident, and ready, because the best portraits come when people relax, not when they are under pressure.
Published Photography Expert
As the author of The Complete Photography Field Guide and the Mastering Digital Photography series, the technical knowledge behind every session is grounded in deep, published expertise, not just practice.
Studio and Location Flexibility
A fully equipped studio in Basingstoke plus the flexibility to shoot anywhere across Hampshire and the surrounding counties means every session can be tailored to exactly the environment that suits you best.
Explore Peter Farrar Portraits
Portrait Gallery
View a selection of portrait work
Investment
Session types, what's included and how to book
Book a Session
Get in touch to discuss your portrait
The Journal
Photography insights and session stories
Author Site
Photography and leadership books by Peter Farrar
Contact
Email Peter directly — response within one working day
Behind the Lens
Peter Farrar in Action
A selection of film and testimonial work from across the years.
Wedding Testimonial
Testimonial from a wedding couple after their wedding day. They later visited my studio for a relaxed chat and kindly shared their experience of working with me.
A Couple's Love Story
A romantic love story filmed at the beautiful Land of Oz and Beach Mountain area of North Carolina, USA.
Studio Time-Lapse
A behind-the-scenes time-lapse filmed in my Charlotte, North Carolina studio featuring my good friend Amy Castro HMUA.