I have years of experience working with kids as a photographer, a children's nurse and as a mum which is why my sessions are always family-led and fun. I use available light and engaging prompts to achieve natural, relaxed images that show genuine connection.
My passion for photography began when I started documenting my own family and since starting my own business 8 years ago, I’ve been driven by a set of values that guide my style and the way I work…
I don't use props, posing or outfit styling…
Because I believe that your baby and your family are perfect just the way they are. And because it’s my aim to provide you with images that show the real you and remind you of this time as it truly looks.
My sessions are child and family-led….
I have years of experience working with children of all developmental ages. I don’t put ANY pressure on them to behave a certain way or have any expectations of them on the day. I work with them in a calm, intuitive way to create engaging prompts and achieve natural, relaxed images which show genuine connection.
I prioritise connection over perfection…
I know that we mums are the most likely to get left out of our family photos because we are usually the ones busy taking them. I also know that we are the most likely to put off having a photo session until the “perfect” time. My advice (from experience!) is “Don’t wait for perfect”. Your presence in your family photos is too important.
This guide will help you prepare for your maternity, newborn, or family photo sessions with valuable tips and insights to ensure that you capture the essence of your family at its best including tips on what to wear, how to choose a location, and how to make the most of your time with me.
Where to have your photos taken You can choose to have your photos taken in the comfort of your own home. You don't need to have a huge house (or even a tidy one for that matter!), we can work around anything provided there is enough available natural light. If you're unsure, feel free to send me some pictures of some of the spaces in your house and garden. Outdoor sessions normally take place around Epping Forest, Hollow Ponds or Lloyd Park where there are a variety of backgrounds and perfect lighting. A few days before we meet I will check the weather. If heavy rain is forecast we can either reschedule or plan for an at-home lifestyle session instead. I usually recommend having a newborn session done at home because it's more comfortable and practical for you and your baby.
What to wear This is such a personal thing and ultimately it's down to you. I recommend giving it some thought and trying to coordinate colours simply because it looks neater and less distracting in the final images. But the main priority is that you feel happy and confident in whatever you have on. Please visit my PINTEREST board if you'd like some ideas on what to wear.
Day of the session So that everyone feels relaxed I ask people to allow up to 1.5 hours for the session.
In reality, it usually takes between 45mins -1 hour. If your session is taking place at home, I often use the front room, parents' bedroom or nursery for photos. Please don’t feel like you have to clean the house before I arrive. We can easily tidy up an area that we want to use for photos while I’m there. I do recommend white or neutral-coloured bedding if you have it. Please keep my number handy and let me know if you are running late. If I don’t have anything booked straight after your session then I will always try to accommodate. But I want to give your session the time it deserves so sometimes I will suggest rescheduling.
Babies Your newborn is perfect just the way they are. I don't try and make babies sleep or place them in unnatural poses. That means you don't have to worry if your baby is grizzly on the day and doesn't want to be put down. If your baby is happiest being held then that is exactly where they can stay. I suggest you have your newborn in a simple plain onesie. We can also try to get some nude or near-nude newborn photos as well. I recommend feeding the baby as much as he or she wants about 15 minutes prior to my arrival.
Siblings
You can book a family shoot with your newborn or a newborn shoot and include the family -it's the same thing! I know that having a new baby in the house can feel a bit strange for older siblings so I always try to make a fuss of them first before getting any baby shots.
Kids will be kids I usually try and get sibling and family photos right at the start because little people may lose interest quickly! I think it's helpful to be realistic about what a toddler or young child is capable of when it comes to photo shoots. I have no expectations of them and will never try to force them into doing anything they aren't comfortable with. In my experience, it's a good idea to prepare children for the session by telling them what's going to happen but without putting any pressure on them to behave a certain way.
Feeling confident I know lots of people feel awkward having photos taken and worry about being asked to do cheesy posing. My job is to help you feel confident and guide you through a few relaxed, flattering setups. You don't need to be anything other than yourself.
After your session I edit and retouch each individual image (usually between 50 - 100 images) in my signature style. 5-7 days after your session you will receive access to a personal online gallery where you can view and purchase your photos as high-quality downloads to keep and use whenever you want. Also available via the gallery are a variety of beautiful print products for you to start creating stunning printouts. Your gallery will be available for 14 days. Unfortunately, I’m not able to store every client's gallery indefinitely. Please make sure you download images in time. If you are unable to download your images before the expiry date please get in touch.
Sharing your images on social media It always makes me happy to see photos I’ve taken shared on social media! Occasionally I share images from past sessions too for the purpose of letting potential new clients see my work. Please make sure you read my T&Cs carefully before booking your session and let me know if you have any questions.
More information about maternity
When to have your photos taken I recommend you schedule your maternity session between 32 and 37 weeks of your pregnancy. This is when your bump has a lovely round shape.
What to wear Wear whatever you feel comfortable and confident in. A maxi dress is a good option and creates movement in a still photo. If you want to show off your gorgeous pregnant curves, opt for a body-con dress. Solid colours work well as they draw attention toward the bump. If shooting outdoors, I suggest bringing 1-2 outfit options and layering up so that we can quickly change. Please visit my PINTEREST board for more ideas on what to wear.
I really hope this has helped answer some of the questions you might have had about Family Photography. To check out my Family packages please click here.
Emily X
Please get in touch if you want to know more about any of the other photography services I offer,
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