FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Family photography sessions can be rewarding and infinitely more so with a little thought and preparation. I’ll guide you through from start to finish and answer any question you have. Here are some of the more common queries I have received along with my responses.
How long will our lifestyle portrait session last?
The majority of my portraiture sessions last between 3 - 4 hours (a morning). I like to start early to make the most of the soft morning light and also find that children tend to have the most energy at the beginning of the day. There is no time pressure and this means multiple breaks for coffee and snacks, for temper tantrums and outfit changes if necessary. I will work around you and your family, getting to know what inspires you all so that I can capture something truly unique.
What should we wear?
It is important that you wear clothes in which you feel relaxed and comfortable. However, please try and avoid bright primary colours as well as black and bold patterns or strong stripes. These tend to distract the eye from the subject. When it comes to dressing your children, please choose darker colours for trousers and tights (particularly if it has been raining). Muddy puddles can make for some of the best photos, so we won’t shy away from them!
Can I invite other family members to my photoshoot?
You can invite whomever you wish to your family photoshoot. I will always do my best to capture as much variety and to get the very best photos of you and your loved ones, however, the more people I have to photograph, the less I will be able to compose of each grouping or individual working within the same time constraints.
I would recommend keeping your lifestyle family photoshoot to those that are closest to your unique family relationship, such as grandparents, aunties and uncles or even cherished family pets. All families are unique and I’ll work with yours to capture your special bond.
Where do your photo shoots take place?
All of my family photography sessions take place on location. I will photograph you in your home and outdoors at a favourite park or woodland.
Whilst I can recommend suitable locations, the photos will have more meaning with a backdrop that is well loved and part of your family story. This will also help you all to feel relaxed in front of the camera.
What areas do you cover?
I am based in Sevenoaks and cover all of the Kent and Sussex area, including West Malling, Kings Hill, Maidstone, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, Bexley, Bromley. I am also available for family photo shoots in London and further afield but will apply relative charge relative travel costs to my final fee. Please contact me to discuss
What if it rains?
In the lead up to your shoot I will keep an eye on the weather forecast and liaise with you if I think that we need to reschedule.
If it is drizzling then we can wait for the best moments to venture outside and enjoy the puddles. If it is pouring and shows no sign of stopping then we can play indoors. Sometimes, the soft light that comes with grey overcast skies can produce the most flattering images.
What if we are all camera shy?
I try to avoid static poses in my portrait sessions and all you need to do is interact with your children as you would normally; cuddles, tickles, den building, bug collecting, and anything else that you would normally do as a family.
You don’t have to look directly at the camera and often this leads to more authentic images.
What if my child is ill?
Please let me know if your child is ill and we can reschedule your session. My photo shoots are about having fun and this is only possible when you are all at your best.
I have children and I understand how quickly these things can creep up on us.
How many images will I be able to choose from?
I like to take lots of photos so that I don’t miss anything. When I have carefully selected and fully edited the best images from your session; I will provide you with a collection of 60 - 80 pictures for review.
Do you offer images in black and white?
I offer images in colour and black and white. Personally, I love black and white photography and believe it has a timeless quality. Also, given the absence of colour, there is very little to distract the eye which encourages the viewer to focus on the subjects and their emotions.
How do we choose the photos?
After your shoot I will contact you to arrange a viewing session within a period of 28 days from the date of your portrait session. This would normally take place in your own home at a time that is convenient for you.
GET IN TOUCH
Please let me know if you have any more questions at all. I’d love to tell your family story…