A relaxed family photoshoot in London – at home or outdoors
If you’re imagining a family photoshoot where everyone stands still, smiles on cue, and the children politely cooperate then keep looking, this is not that kind of session.
But if you’re here I assume this is exactly what you wanted to hear, right?
That a relaxed family photoshoot is not about perfect behaviour or ideal posing. It’s about creating a safe space where everybody in your family can be themselves. The photographer is there to photograph what is naturally unfolding, gently managing the situation rather than forcing behaviours or situations.
Here’s how a family photoshoot with me looks like.
Before the photoshoot: we talk
Before we even meet, I always like to have a proper chat. You most likely have found me online, read all the practical details – pricing, timings, packages, but this call gives you a chance to ask me further questions and me to get to know you a little bit.
To plan a session best suited to your family I’d like to know:
- how you spend time together
- what your children are like
- what feels natural (and what doesn’t)
It’s also important that we vibe. You’ll be spending time with me in your home or some of your favourite places, being vulnerable, and you should feel comfortable and relaxed with me. Think of it if you get the vibe you and I could have a chilled coffee together? If yes, then we’re all good 😉
Location: somewhere that already feels like you
Think of a place that makes you happy. Is it your home? Playground in the park? Little coffeeshop on town?
I’d like you to take me to one of those places, because it already feels familiar, your life happens there already.
At home it also comes to deciding on the corners that are actually used by your family – last month I photographed most of the photoshoot in a play kitchen area at my clients house, because their 4yo just looooooves playing there. And that was super sweet and real.
Other time the session was the route of usual doggie walk, as this was what the family liked to do together on a Saturday morning. There might have been a playground on the way and some super swing skills presented, because that was who they are.
During the session: no posing, no pressure
You have to know I don’t immediately take my camera out when I arrive. First I want to hang out with you, especially the kids! Trust me, we spend 5 minutes talking about their favourite Pokemons and the session goes smoothly.
I won’t constantly pose you, ask kids to smile, interrupt real moments. I will observe what’s going on and react to it. The more you are ready to go with the flow and follow the kids and whatever wild they’ll come up with – the better photos we’ll have in the end.
I come to the shoot with a plan in my head, but adapt to whatever is unfolding. We do games on different pace, take breaks, accommodate. I’ll guide you and make sure no double chins are in the view 😉
Outfits: let’s make it real
We will talk styling before the shoot. It needs to match the location and season. It doesn’t have to be matchy-matchy tho!
I’d much rather have you guys in your real everyday clothes (semi colour coordinated), than white tops and jeans… that’s a no no.
I have a client wardrobe with some amazing dresses for mums, give me a shout if you’d like to see it!
Your gallery: a story, not repetitions
Your final gallery is telling the story of your family and the time we had together. Prepare to get emotional and have hard time to choose your selection. I don’t include 20 versions of the same photo, but different expressions – I really work hard to deliver a variety of images that tell a cohesive story.
So what does a family photoshoot actually look like?
If you want to summarise it, when all stars align and we prepare well, a family photoshoot with me is:
- kids being kids
- Parents being relaxed and having fun
- Chaos, cuddles, laughs, great times
That’s my goal, every time. I’m always happy to bring crazy ideas to life, or follow you in more calm scenarios. Let’s chat about your dream family photoshoot!