A Maidstone photographer looking for a way to say 'thank you' to those working hard through the pandemic is asking for people to nominate key workers who deserve a pampered studio session.

Determined to keep busy through lockdown Sophia Moseley, who runs ShutterHut Photography from her home in Albert Reed Gardens, came up with the idea of running a competition that gives key workers something to look forward to.

Mrs Moseley who's 48 said: "For obvious reasons I've not been able to invite anyone in to the studio but instead of just sitting and twiddling my thumbs, I thought it would be nice to offer the kind of session I usually do but this time as a gift to key workers.

"I work with a make-up lady who offers gorgeous facials and makeovers and then I do the portrait secession after.

"I mainly photograph business women who have to have an image done for work. Most of the time they hate the fact they need their photo taken so I spend a lot of time helping to build their confidence and by the end of the session they've really enjoyed it.

"Lots of people have never experienced that truly pampered feeling and whether it's a nurse or a supermarket worker, I want to give them something to smile about.

"And it's not just for women, men can take part too, the make-up session is optional."

Inspired by starting this project, Mrs Moseley decided to also offer sessions to young people who have found lockdown challenging.

She added: "Being at home, I noticed my youngest daughter, who is at secondary school, really began to struggle mentally and it just goes to show that although it's hard for adults, it's so much harder for our children."

There are five sessions on offer for key workers, and five for young people. Mrs Moseley is asking for anyone who knows someone who deserves a treat, to nominate them through her Facebook page by July 31.

At the end of the month, the names will be collated and the winners will be pulled out of a hat by one of Mrs Moseley's daughters.

People can then choose a time later this year to book their personal sessions.

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