Family photography devon

As a documentary photographer who is big on moments, I LOVE photographing families. A parent myself, I really see the value in family photography.  I know how much I treasure the few photos I have with my son, Cato.

I have a camera roll full of photos but less than a handful of ‘good’ photos with him, as I was always the one with the camera. Whilst I love the photos I have taken myself, I wish I hadn’t waited for the time I’d feel more comfortable in my skin, or more confident before booking a shoot – or even asking a photographer friend to take some. I was always too unconfident or awkward, thinking there would be so much time… but that time passes by very quickly… so, don’t be like me and seize the day.

Our children are only little once and trust me, even if you don’t love yourself in the photos straight away, you will love them in the future – because its not really about us, its about our connection; its about this time now in our lives with our children and the relationship we have with them.

Why documentary family photography?

Because I hear so often from families that one parent is always the one taking the photos and the other parent is never in any of the photos, and the few they are in, are just not up to scratch. This also goes for single parents (like myself!) who have a camera roll of attempted selfies!

This is where I come in! I spend an hour or two with your family and encourage you to be authentically you. There are no forced poses or smiles so adults and children alike can relax and not worry about what the stranger with a camera is telling them to do!

Whilst the shoot is as natural as possible, you might also like a more traditional type photo for the wall/frame, so we usually make sure to get a couple in-between the more natural moments.

What about meltdowns or over stimulation?

We all feel that way sometimes! I always recommend bringing favourite snacks, a change of clothes and shoes and for smaller children, working around nap time. If things get a little to much for your child, or if they’re tired or hungry, its completely fine to take some time out and don’t worry, I definitely don’t charge extra for that!

The way I work as a documentary family photographer enables your children to carry on doing their thing and be themselves, while you try and squeeze in a few extra cuddles and interaction. My shoots are child-led as this enables us to get the very best of them and let their personalities shine! We all know happy children means happy adults!

Do you only work in Devon?

Whilst I am Devon-based and offering family photography in Devon, I also travel for family shoots and have been known to take road trips around the country photographing the families of my previous wedding couples!

What do we receive from the shoot?

My images are taken with high quality equipment and provided in high resolution edited jpegs for you to share, print, and love, there are no limits on image usage and no confusing packages or up-sells.

This all sounds great but where?

Locations for family shoots in Devon can be anywhere from your home, to the beach, to your favourite cafe or woodland play park. Normal family days walking your dog hold just as much every day magic as a big day out, so I never expect you to plan anything fancy.

What shall we wear?

I get asked this A LOT. Sure, colour co-ordination looks great but in all honesty it doesn’t really matter a huge deal, it’s all about the moments. Comfort is key, and that goes for everyone. Trying to keep a cute but possibly not very comfortable outfit on a young child might end up being a bit too stressful for you all so my advice would always be comfort over style, but no one knows your children better than you. I’d usually recommend avoiding heavily branded sports-type clothing, unless you’re an influencer looking to collaborate with a brand!

Additional needs

To some children the idea of a family shoot can be overwhelming. I was an extremely shy child myself and I am the parent of a neurodivergent son who used to really struggle to take to strangers. I completely understand that each little person’s idea of fun and comfort level with new adults can vary hugely, especially a camera wielding stranger!  I am extremely experienced and patient with a gentle and calm approach, allowing the children to interact as much or as little as they feel happy with.

If there’s anything else you’d like to know or you’d like to chat more, please get in touch.