Achieving natural portraits as a large family

Having a large family, it can really feel like the hardest thing to get them altogether in one shot. Looking at the camera can be hard enough, let alone getting them to look anyway happy!!

I would say my best tip for parents is to get rid of any unrealistic expectations, as a parent to 2 young children myself, I really have to remind myself of this. Especially when wanting to create that beautiful family shot you had in mind!

With social media, the expectations of perfection are far too rife, when all we really want to do is capture your wonderful little family with all their quirks and beautiful characters. Even if they are wrestling and jumping around like lunatics!! In years to come you will look back on the craziness fondly and be so grateful that you captured it, even if it did feel like hard work at the time.

No 2 family photoshoots are the same, the children are most definitely in charge of proceedings and as long as parents are relaxed and comfortable in the situation, then the kids generally follow suit. We simply have fun, some silly games mixed in with having some quiet time when it feels abit much for them. It’s a total balancing act, as is parenthood in general!

If you’re really not sure with what may work for your family, with their specific age groups or the time of year you are hoping to go for simply reach out and I’ll be able to let you know what I think would be best.

My weekends get booked up really quickly so it can be a good idea to combine a shoot during a few days off work for both parents. Or just a lot of pre-planning when it comes to a weekend!

It’ also a great idea to plan a special treat for the kids afterwards. This can be as simple as getting an ice cream or a play at the park but a little prep in the build up to the shoot works wonders for their excitement at doing something special as a family!