Yana Skakun
Cambridge Photographer
Punt Photographer Cambridge
Photography sessions on the River Cam — from the iconic College Backs to the meadows of Grantchester. Couples, engagement, family and portrait sessions on the water.
Book a SessionRiver Cam Photography
Photography on the River Cam
The River Cam is one of the most photogenic waterways in England. Punting past the College Backs with King's Chapel rising behind a willow-trailed bridge is a scene that has captured imaginations for centuries — and as a backdrop for couples, engagement, portrait and family photography, it is simply extraordinary.
I offer dedicated punt photography sessions on the River Cam, working either from the riverbank at key landmarks along the route or — for smaller sessions — aboard the punt itself. Sessions are typically arranged with a chauffeured punt so that you can fully relax and be present together, while I capture natural, unposed moments as they happen.
Whether you are celebrating an anniversary on the water, planning a romantic engagement session along the Backs, or simply want beautiful family photographs with Cambridge's most iconic backdrop, a River Cam session produces photographs that are not replicable anywhere else in the world.
River Cam Photography Locations
The Cambridge Backs
King's, Clare, Trinity and Queens' — the iconic College Backs seen from the water produce some of the most architecturally beautiful photography locations in the UK. Late afternoon light on the stonework is extraordinary.
Grantchester Meadows
The slower, wilder stretch of the Cam from Cambridge to Grantchester is perfect for relaxed portrait and family sessions away from the punt-hire crowds — wildflowers, weeping willows and birdsong.
Golden Hour on the River
Summer evening light on the River Cam is unmatched. The warm late-afternoon sun reflecting off the water and the pale stonework creates a natural studio effect that is almost impossible to replicate in any other location.
Chaperoned & Private Punts
Sessions can be arranged with a chaperoned hire punt (so you both relax) or with your own self-hire punt if you prefer. I liaise with punt hire companies to arrange logistics so the session runs seamlessly.
Engagement & Proposal Sessions
A private punting experience with a photographer aboard or shooting from the riverbank is an instantly memorable backdrop for an engagement session — or for capturing a punt-based proposal discreetly.
Families & Groups
Family punting sessions capture children's delight at being on the water with the Cambridge skyline behind them — completely naturally and without the stiff, posed awkwardness of studio photography.
Cambridge River Cam Gallery
Punt Photography Packages
All packages include punt hire liaison, on-location guidance, professional editing, and an online gallery.
River Cam Portrait
£195
1 hour
- On-water or bankside session
- 1 hour on the river
- 30+ edited photographs
- Online gallery
- The Backs or Grantchester
Most Popular
Couples & Engagement
£295
2 hours
- 2-hour punting session
- The Backs + Grantchester route
- 60+ edited photographs
- Online gallery + hi-res download
- Punt hire liaison included
Family Punt Session
£350
2 hours
- Family punt experience
- 2 hours on the river
- 75+ edited photographs
- Online gallery + hi-res download
- Multiple photo locations along route
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a punt photography session work?
We arrange a punt hire in advance (chauffeured or self-hire depending on preference). I either photograph from the riverbank at key landmarks along the route, or for smaller punt sessions I may join you aboard. The session is relaxed and conversational — the river does the hard work of creating beautiful, natural moments.
Which part of the Cam is best for photography?
The Backs — the stretch between King's College Bridge and the Mathematical Bridge at Queens' — is visually stunning and very popular. For a calmer, wilder feel, the Grantchester stretch is beautiful, especially in late spring and summer.
Can you photograph a proposal on a punt?
Yes — punt proposals are among the most romantic in Cambridge. I position myself covertly on the riverbank at the agreed landmark and use a telephoto lens to photograph the entire sequence without your partner knowing I'm there.
What time of year is best for river photography?
Late April through September offers the best light and warmth, with the river at its most lush. Bluebell season (April–May) around Grantchester is particularly beautiful. Evening sessions in June and July offer extraordinary golden light.
Do you travel beyond the Cambridge city centre stretch?
Yes — Grantchester Meadows is a favourite for its wild, peaceful atmosphere. I can also work further upriver towards Fen Ditton or along the Cam through Waterbeach and Ely for more remote riverside sessions.
Get in Touch
Let's Create Together
Tell me about your vision and I'll be in touch within 24 hours.