This Privacy Policy applies to Irene Chaikeen Photography, a newborn and family photography service based in Buckhurst Hill, Essex, UK

Last Updated: April 2025

1. Introduction

  This Privacy Policy governs the collection, processing, and use of personal data by Irene Chaikeen Photography (“we”, “us”, or “our”) in compliance with the UK Data Protection Act 2018 and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). By using our website (irenechaikeen.co.uk) or engaging our services, you consent to the practices described herein.

  We are the data controller for  GDPR. For any enquiries regarding your data, please contact:
Irene Chaikeen Photography
Buckhurst Hill, Essex, UK
irene.chaikeen@gmail.com
+44 777 0 997 232

We are registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).

2. Information We Collect

2.1 Personal Data Provided by You
We collect personal data that you voluntarily provide, including but not limited to:

• Name
• Email address
• Telephone number
• Postal address
• Session preferences

This data is collected when you:

• Enquire about or book a session
• Subscribe to our newsletter
• Purchase products or services

2.2 Automated Data Collection

We use analytical tools (e.g., Google Analytics) to collect anonymised data about your website usage, including:

• IP address (anonymised)
• Browser type and version
• Pages visited and session duration
• Referral sources

This data does not identify you personally and is used to improve our website and services.

2.3 Payment Information

All payments are processed securely by third-party providers (e.g., Stripe, PayPal). We do not store or have access to your full payment details at any time.

3. Use of Your Information

3.1 Primary Uses
Your personal data is used to:

• Provide and manage our services
• Process bookings and payments
• Deliver purchased products
• Communicate with you regarding your session

3.2 Marketing Communications
Where you have given explicit consent, we may:

• Send newsletters or promotional offers
• Inform you about new services or products
• Share relevant content (e.g., seasonal offers)

You may withdraw consent at any time by contacting us or using the unsubscribe link in our emails.

3.3 Legal Compliance
We may disclose your data if required by law, including to:

• Regulatory authorities
• Fraud prevention agencies
• Legal or governmental bodies

4. Data Sharing & Transfers

4.1 Third-Party Processors
We engage trusted service providers for:

• Website hosting
• Payment processing
• Email delivery

These parties are contractually obligated to protect your data and comply with GDPR.

4.2 International Transfers

Your data may be transferred outside the UK/EEA (e.g., via cloud servers). Where this occurs, we ensure safeguards are in place, such as:

• EU Standard Contractual Clauses
• Data Protection Agreements

4.3 Business Transfers

In the event of a business sale or merger, customer data may be transferred to the new owner under confidentiality agreements.

5. Data Security & Retention

5.1 Protection Measures
We implement:

• SSL encryption for data transfers
• Secure password protocols
• Restricted access to personal data

5.2 Retention Period
Your data is retained for:

• Active clients: 3 years from last interaction
• Financial records: 7 years (for tax compliance)
• Session images: 12 months (unless otherwise agreed)

After these periods, data is securely deleted or anonymised.

6. Your Rights

Under GDPR, you have the right to:

• Access the personal data we hold about you
• Rectify inaccurate or incomplete data
• Erase your data (where applicable)
• Restrict or object to processing
• Port your data to another provider

To exercise these rights, contact us at irene.chaikeen@gmail.com. We respond to requests within 30 days.

7. Cookies Policy

7.1 How We Use Cookies
Our website uses cookies to:

• Enhance user experience
• Analyse site traffic
• Remember preferences

7.2 Managing Cookies
You may disable cookies via your browser settings, but this may limit website functionality.

8. Policy Updates

We reserve the right to amend this policy. Changes will be posted on our website with an updated revision date.

Contact Us
For questions or requests regarding your data:
Irene Chaikeen Photography
Buckhurst Hill, Essex, UK
irene.chaikeen@gmail.com
+44 777 0 997 232