If you’re thinking about booking a family photo session, but feel a little nervous about what to expect, I get it and I’m here to put your mind at ease.
One of the most common things I hear from parents is: “We’d love some natural family photos, but we’re awkward in front of the camera.” And the good news about that? I’ve got you completely covered!
My family photo sessions are designed to feel relaxed, playful and (unsurprisingly) led by your little people. Rather than focusing on perfect Pinterest poses (don’t get me wrong, I will probably throw one or two in anyway), I focus on connection, personality and all the little moments that make your family your’s.
Here’s exactly what happens during a family photoshoot with me.
Before Your Session
Once you’ve booked your session, I’ll send over everything you need to feel prepared.
You’ll receive:
- A welcome guide
- Style and Outfit advice
- Tips for helping children feel comfortable
- Information about your chosen location (if it’s a studio or outdoors)
- A short questionnaire so I can get to know your family
This helps me understand who you are, what your children enjoy, and the kind of images that matter most to you. Whether your little one is shy, energetic, sensitive, or somewhere in between, I want to know beforehand so I can tailor the experience to them.
I’m also on hand to answer any and every question you might in the lead up to your family photo session.
Choosing the Perfect Location
Many families worry about choosing a location, but I can help with that too. I‘ve scoped out many parts of Greater London, as I’m pleased to say that it has paid off! I’m well versed in beautiful locations for stunning outdoor family photos.
Some families love the comfort of home, while others prefer the freedom of an outdoor session.
As a North London girly (but always open to travel further afield), popular outdoors locations include:
- Hampstead Heath
- Highgate Woods
- Alexandra Palace
- Greenwich Park
- Kew Gardens
- Your favourite local park
But honestly, the best location is somewhere your children can simply be themselves.
The Day of your Photo Session
When we meet, we won’t jump straight into taking photos. I like to spend a few minutes chatting, setting up, letting children warm up to me and explore their surroundings (if we’re outdoors). For younger children especially, this makes a huge difference to the flow of the photo session. There is never any pressure from, nor expectations and there’s absolutely no need for anyone to perform.
The goal is to create a space where everyone feels comfortable enough to relax in front of my camera.
What If My Child Doesn’t Cooperate?
Honestly? I expect them be cautious and curious to start with. After all, I’m normally a stranger with a piece of suspicious equipment. Children are not meant to stand still and smile at me for an hour. They’re meant to run, explore, cuddle, climb, laugh and occasionally refuse to do exactly what we hoped they would.
That’s completely normal. In fact, some of my favourite photographs come from the moments parents think have “gone wrong”. That’s the beauty of a family photo session – often it’s the photo you never knew you’d love, that you end up loving the most.
A child picking flowers, a toddler running away, a sibling giggling uncontrollably, a cuddle after a wobble.
These are often the moments you’ll treasure most in years to come.
Do We Have to Pose?
A little guidance? Yes. Awkward posing? Absolutely not. Throughout the session I’ll gently direct you into beautiful light and natural positions through prompts and interactions. It could be as simple as:
- Walking together holding hands
- Playing a game of hide and seek
- Having a cuddle
- Telling jokes
- Swinging little ones in the air
- Exploring the surroundings
This allows genuine moments to unfold naturally.
What If We Feel Awkward?
You might do at first and that’s completely normal. The first ten minutes are often preparing to get in front of the camera. But, then something wonderful happens. You stop thinking about the camera and notice your children. And they notice you. And before long, everyone forgets I’m even there.
Many clients tell me afterwards that the session felt more like a wholesome morning/afternoon/evening, spending quality time together than having photos taken.
That’s exactly how I want it to feel.
How Long Does a Session Last?
I don’t believe in rushing families. My family photo sessions aren’t timed – they take as long as they need to. Most sessions last around 45 minutes, but slightly younger children and newborns, it can take up to 90 minutes, but I will always work at your family’s pace.
If your children need a snack break, we take one. If they’re having the time of their lives exploring, we keep going. The session is designed around your family rather than the clock.
After the Session
Once we’re finished, I’ll carefully select and edit the very best images from our time together. You’ll receive a private online gallery where you can view your photographs from the comfort of home.
Your gallery will be filled with a mixture of:
- Beautiful family portraits
- Genuine candid moments
- Individual photographs of each child
- Black and white versions of sincere moments
- Connection between parents and children
- The little details you may not even have noticed in the moment
These are the photographs that become part of your family’s story.
The Images I Hope You’ll Love Most
Of course, you’ll receive some lovely smiling photographs, but my hope is that you’ll fall in love with the images that feel something. The way your child reaches for your hand. The way they look at you, maybe even at you from behind my camera. The laugh that only appears when they’re truly happy. The cuddle they still give that feels like second nature to them.
Those tiny moments are often the ones that matter most.
One day, sooner than may realise, they’ll change and these photographs become a way to hold onto them.
Ready to Book Your Family Photo Sessions?
If you’re looking for a relaxed family photographer in London who values connection over perfection, I’d love to hear from you.
My sessions are calm, child-led and designed to capture your family exactly as you are right now.
Because these ordinary days you’re living through? They’re the memories you’ll miss the most.
