On a glorious sunny morning earlier this month, we created some family photographs in a location that was really special to this family. I met up with them somewhere they had spent a lot of time together during lock-down for a family picnic, a walk, some football and a photoshoot.
We managed to get a real mixture of images: we got some lovely looking-at-camera shots at the beginning of the session - the grandparents popped along for a short visit to get some images with the family too. (I love including extended family members in my sessions, so please do ask me about how we can involve any other family, pets, or even special friends if you'd like to.)
I always keep shooting during the in-between moments. I love all those little interactions that occur between a family when they aren't so aware of the camera. The more documentary parts of the shoot are my true love, and I think this is where the real magic happens.
Take these little moments below: the time that the littlest one fell over and came to Daddy to kiss her knee better (below, left); the daughter just sitting to have a minute to herself near the tennis courts (middle); the son playing around with his football (right). These little unguarded moments, whether involving connection, motion or stillness, all capture different sides of these family members.
From there, the family just took time to interact as they typically would in this area. They went for a walk, played football and had some picnic snacks. I took documentary style images while they just did their own thing.
Combined sessions like this, where we created a few guided images and then have some time for documentary-style shooting, where everyone can just interact as they usually do, are a great idea if you're still not sure exactly how you want your family photographs to look. You will find a real range of images in your final gallery.
These combined sessions (as well as fully documentary sessions) are also great for convincing any reluctant children- tell them to bring their football, remote-controlled car or whatever it is that interests them along. I absolutely love capturing children exploring their passions, and they usually relax when they find out that we can play as well as making meaningful family photographs.
The feedback from this session was that the children really enjoyed the shoot. And I really believe that if you have fun during the session, you will enjoy looking back on the finished photographs so much more- they will be a reminder of a fun day that you spent together, instead of a forced photoshoot that no-one want to be at!
Which of the two family photos above is your favourite? Do you like the more guided, looking at camera one (on the left), or this totally candid image, where everyone is just doing their own thing (the right hand side)? If you're still not sure, why don't you book a combined session with me - then we'll create both kinds of portraits for your family.
