Photoshoot at St Dunstan in the East London

St Dunstan in the East is one of London’s most beautiful hidden gems, perfect for birthday portraits, solo photoshoots, or any special occasion. Nestled between the historic buildings of the City of London, this secret garden feels like stepping into another world. Its ivy-draped arches, stone walls, and dappled light create a timeless, storybook setting that feels peaceful and full of character - ideal for anyone wanting elegant, atmospheric portraits in the heart of London.

I recently had the pleasure of photographing a solo traveller who booked a birthday photoshoot here as a gift to herself - something she loves to do every time she travels. She wore a stunning dress that complemented the stone backdrop perfectly, adding colour and flow to the space. Although she was a little camera-conscious at first, we started with easy poses and natural movements, chatting throughout to help her relax. Within minutes, she was laughing, smiling, and completely in the moment. The photos captured her confidence, joy, and sense of self - and I’m so thrilled to share that this very photoshoot was published in Malvie Magazine! It was such a special session to be part of, and the results truly spoke for themselves.

Tips for a Portrait Photoshoot at St Dunstan in the East

Opening hours:

The gardens are open daily from 8am to 6pm.

Best day to shoot:

Sunday mornings are ideal - quiet, calm, and beautifully lit.

Best time to shoot:

As early as possible! 8am–9am gives you that soft, natural light and peaceful surroundings before the city wakes up. By late morning, the area fills with tourists and locals on their way through the city.

Travel tips:

• By Tube: Monument and Tower Hill stations are both just a few minutes’ walk away.

• By car: Parking is extremely limited, so using the Tube or an Uber is usually the best option.

Permit:

You do need a permit to shoot at St Dunstan in the East. If you’re interested in a session here, just get in touch - I can share all the details and guide you through the application process.

Footwear:

Wear whatever makes you feel your best! Just make sure you’re comfortable walking - there are cobblestones, so thin heels aren’t ideal. If you’d like to wear heels, go for a thicker or block heel for stability.

Outfit recommendations:

Avoid grey tones since the church walls are already stone-grey - colours that contrast will make you pop beautifully. Think whites, pastels, jewel tones, or light fabrics that move naturally with the breeze.

Seasonal tips:

• Summer (June–August): Lush greenery and golden light bring the space to life.

• Autumn (October–November): Deep reds and warm tones create a romantic, cinematic atmosphere - my personal favourite.

• Winter: Bare trees give a moody, timeless feel, and it’s much quieter.

• Spring: Fresh greenery and soft light make it perfect for airy, uplifting portraits.

Here are some of the photos from my photoshoot at St Dunstan in the East with Alyssa

Shooting at St Dunstan in the East is always a magical experience - peaceful, timeless, and full of natural character. My goal is always to help clients feel completely at ease so that their confidence and personality shine through.

If you’re planning a birthday photoshoot in London or just want to treat yourself while travelling, St Dunstan in the East is an unforgettable location. Get in touch, and let’s create something beautiful together!