The story behind the picture - courgette We were asked by our friends Matt and Angela Walker of the Leaf Café in Malvern to photograph their food for their website and promotional materials. We got up early and were there for their deliveries, including these courgette flowers.

Time was of the essence, as the flowers were wilting before our eyes, so we quickly placed the flowers in the large windows. We did use flash, bouncing it from the ceiling to give a softer light.

Photographing food is notoriously difficult, as studio lights tend to cook ingredients all by themselves. Our tip would be to use as much natural light and fresh materials as possible.

Taking pictures of real models is interesting, because they see a camera and compose themselves automatically.

It's a fascinating experience. This model was at a hairdressing convention in London, held in an unpromising aircraft-hangar like environment with messy and confusing backgrounds.

I was struck by the model's defiant and empty expression. I used flash, bouncing the light on a nearby trade stand for a slightly softer look. The colours have been slightly heightened.

Since hanging this picture at Malvern Theatres, we have been asked repeatedly if it's a man. It's not. We don't think so anyway.

This is our famous "hairy baby" picture, which most people assume was taken in a studio. Well, it wasn't and here's how I did it.

The photo was taken in a tiny lounge, with Dad holding a white blanket up behind Mum and baby. Mum was propping the baby up so that he was peeping over her back. I had to work very quickly as he was nappy-less and timing was crucial! To get this shot I lay on my stomach with my legs out of the French windows and away we went!

Tips to remember - although I used flash, the daylight flooding in behind me means that the image looks natural. Pictures of babies and children almost always look better when taken from their height. Use props from home - white blankets are great. If time is critical plan your shot and angle before you start. Good luck and happy shooting!