Niko’s Christening at the Greek Orthodox Church in Brighton | Sussex Christening Photography

7 Oct

Christening Photography, family documentary photographer capturing a Greek Orthodox Christening in Brighton, East Sussex. Christening photography in Brighton, London and all over Sussex. Baby boy getting christened. — Since our move from London to Hove I've documented quite a few Christenings here in Sussex, but back in July I had the pleasure of capturing my very first *Greek Orthodox* Christening, and it was such an honour to be a part of this little boy's special day!
Niko and his two mums live in Chichester, but booked his Christening here in Brighton as this is where their nearest Greek Orthodox Church is based.
There was so much happening during Niko's Baptism - always great for a documentary family photographer, and I wanted to make sure I captured everything!
After the first prayers, when the priest proclaimed Niko's Christian name, he was immersed in holy water. The priest blessed him with olive oil, pouring it into the water, and then Niko's Godmother rubbed it onto the baby. The oil signifies the gift of the Holy Spirit and protection from evil.
After the baptism, the priest anoints the baby with holy oil, known as “chrism.” This represents the child receiving the Holy Spirit and being sealed in faith. The priest also cut a small lock of Niko's hair in the shape of a cross. This is an offering to God, and represents the child's first sacrifice.
Finally, after Niko got dressed into his new clothes, the priest and godparents carried Niko around the altar in a procession, symbolising his entry into the church community.
After the ceremony, Niko's mums held a small reception to celebrate and I was able to enjoy lots of amazing traditional Greek food, it was definitely a shoot to remember! Below are some of my favourite image of this very special day.

If you are looking for a photographer who can document your child’s Christening or Baptism with some gorgeous, natural candid shots then I’d love to hear from you. I’m happy to also include some family portraits outside the church after the ceremony. I’m based in Brighton & Hove, but I also cover London and also work all over Sussex.