Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Professional School & Event Photography Services in Southampton
Established in 1969, we are a friendly, family-run business now in its third generation, proudly serving clients across England and the Channel Islands for over five decades. Our reputation for outstanding quality and exceptional service began in Southampton, where Stan and Molly Cardwell opened their first studio on Church Streeta location weve cherished ever since. In 1971, Tony and Ruth Simons founded Simons Studios in Winchester, and our shared passion for excellence led to a merger in 1992, creating the longest-running photography company on the South Coast. Our ethos has always been rooted in community, having raised over 10 million for clients through our high-commission model while delivering treasured photographs for families.With a state-of-the-art in-house digital laboratory and a team of 30 experienced professionalsincluding award-winning photographerswe ensure every stage of your photography journey is handled seamlessly. Our dedication to innovation and tradition allows us to offer tailored services, from school portraits to military photography, all underpinned by a commitment to capturing moments that become lifelong memories.
Services
Primary School Portraits
Senior School Portraits
Sibling Photos
Group Photos
School Leavers
Military
Weddings
Family Photos
Festive Photos
Free School Services
Details
- Year established: 1969
Highlights and features
- We offer over 50 years of experience in school and event photography.
- Our family-run business prioritises community engagement and client support.
- Photographers are award-winning and undergo rigorous in-house training.
- We provide 24/7 customer support for urgent queries and assistance.
- All services are managed in-house, ensuring quality control and efficiency.
What people say
Excellent quality
Fantastic customer service
Beautiful photos
Highly recommend
Quick response
Services
Primary School Portraits
Our primary school portraits capture timeless moments with a blend of traditional and contemporary poses, tailored to complement school uniforms and settings. With decades of experience, our photographers ensure minimal disruption to lessons while delivering high-quality images. We offer a wide range of affordable packages, including digital and print options, ensuring every family can preserve these cherished memories.
Senior School Portraits
Senior school portraits mark a pivotal life stage, combining classic and modern styles to reflect individuality. Our team works efficiently within tight schedules, offering flexible indoor and outdoor settings. With quick turnaround times and diverse product ranges, we ensure students and parents receive exceptional quality images that celebrate academic milestones with professionalism and creativity.
Group Photos
From class photos to large-scale group shots, we create customisable images that highlight unity and personality. Our photographers expertly compose shots for events like sports victories or school celebrations, with options for traditional, contemporary, or composite styles. All group photos include free copies for schools and staff, ensuring lasting mementos for every participant.
Military Photography
We specialise in military photography, providing named individual and group portraits for recruits and staff. Our purpose-built staging accommodates up to 1,000 people, adhering to strict safety standards. Services include platoon composites, regimental photos, and event coverage, all delivered with the professionalism and respect owed to our armed forces.
Weddings
Our wedding photography service offers 12-hour coverage, capturing ceremonies and celebrations with artistic precision. With rapid turnaround times and a USB of edited images provided within a week, couples receive a comprehensive keepsake. Optional add-ons and custom packages ensure every couples unique story is beautifully documented.
People
Andy
Photography Manager
Andy oversees our photography services and offers a discounted wedding photography package to Cardwell & Simons Photography customers. With extensive experience in event photography, he ensures every client receives tailored support and high-quality results.
Questions
What photography services do you offer for schools?
We provide primary and senior school portraits, sibling photos, group shots, school leavers’ photography, and free complementary services like staff portraits and promotional materials.
Can I order photos online?
Yes, our user-friendly online ordering system allows you to select and purchase prints, digital downloads, and packages quickly and securely.
Do you offer photography for special events?
We cover events including dance performances, military occasions, weddings, and festive photoshoots with tailored options for each occasion.
How long does it take to receive ordered photos?
Orders are typically delivered within two weeks, with digital downloads available almost immediately after processing.
Are your photographers experienced with children?
Yes, our team is highly skilled in engaging children, ensuring relaxed, natural portraits that capture their unique personalities.
Do you provide free services for schools?
We offer complimentary staff portraits, group photos, ID badges, and promotional photography to support schools and fundraising efforts.
Reviews (5)
Svitlana Kondzelya
Jun 08, 2022
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Extremely professional and most importantly very sensitive people work here! Aviv Simons, learning that my son immediately broke his school photo the day he received it, offered to make a new one and bring it home to us! I admire such people and such deeds! Thank you very much again!
KitKat Magic
May 09, 2022
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My son missed out on his class photo and Aviv was great - always friendly, quick to respond to emails and he really went the extra mile to help us. Thank you!
Andras Csoti
May 08, 2022
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Thank you for the amazing photos. They are just professional every each of them. We are very happy. Aga & Andras
Kathryn Griffith
May 05, 2022
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Absolutely excellent customer service. Communication is first rate with super-fast responses to emails and such a positive approach to all queries. And of course, lovely lovely photos! Would recommend to all.
Hannah Barnett
Apr 06, 2022
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I have used this company in connection with school photographs of my children for the past 8 or so years. Over the years I have found them to be extremely responsive and incredibly helpful. They always go above and beyond expectations when resolving queries. I have no problem in recommending them.
