It’s such a common refrain from families. We’d love family photos but we feel so awkward or shy. Or maybe you’re worried about how your children might behave during the session. Sometimes when I arrive for a family photography session little ones greet me with open arms and willingly show me around and start chatting to me. They might even ask me to take their photograph and then of course to look at it immediately. Then there are times when children are reluctant, shy, having a bad day, or are just more reserved in nature. This of course is true for adults too. I’m very often hired by people who will say - we hate having our photo taken but we value family photographs, can you help?

As a family and child photographer I am very used to photographing children, and even adults, who perhaps would rather not be in front of a camera. My family photography sessions are extremely relaxed and ahead of meeting we will chat about your family and what I might expect. I always approach a session by matching the pace I am greeted with. You’ll never hear me say cheese, smile or even look at the camera. I always tell my families not to look at the camera, except if you feel it. For some portraits we do look into the camera, but I help you with how to do this best and when to expect it. Talking, touching and connecting with each other is a great way to relax and not feel awkward in front of the camera. I’ll guide you through it. Here are some ways that we get the best out of a session with those who are a little more reserved.

1. Start right with low pressure. My family photography sessions are about being relaxed and letting moments unfold naturally. It’s okay to let children warm up and I always try and match the pace of the family I am photographing. We don’t need to perform right off the bat. So first off I won’t get my camera out, I’ll chat with you and your children. The least successful sessions are when children are rushed to sit still and smile. When I hear these words I actually freeze up a little. It’s not my style of shooting and I know that for reluctant children these words are like a red flag. The more we push the less likely it is to happen. If your session is at home I will often recommend that you leave some of the getting ready for when I am there. This takes the pressure of everyone to be buttoned up and ready to go. I highly recommend in-home sessions for the very shy or reluctant. It’s a safe space where children can retreat to their comforts if the pressure feels too much. We typically thrive in our own spaces and children can be really proud to show me their room or toys.

2. Plan an activity. It can be a great ice breaker to bring a ball to the park or a frisbee and start out by playing. Worried about getting dirty? Bring a top to change into after we’ve run around. More often than not after we’ve let a little steam off we will find ourselves relaxed, curled up in laps and enjoying a snack and then if we play our cards right we can get that beautiful portrait together. I have a few tricks and if we give everyone the space and time to find their rhythm it usually works. At home we might do some baking together, read, do a puzzle, put on some music and dance! Whatever is your normal that’s where we’ll meet.

3. True reflections. It’s entirely possible that you won’t get everyone looking at the camera and smiling together, and you know what? That’s okay. Some of my favourite family portraits are the ones where someone is upside down, someone is laughing, someone is looking the other way. There is beauty in the chaos and the un-posed and letting people be who they are. Would you be happy looking at a portrait of your family and seeing a forced smile or would you much rather see the beauty in a face that beats to their own drum. A true portrait will reflect our personality and uniqueness. We’ll focus on the moments, the connection, your story.

So those are just a few ways we approach a session with those who prefer a more relaxed pace. To be honest, they are my favourite, they speak of real and true moments. So if you’ve been thinking about arranging family photography but are worried that your children might be reluctant, or your partner might not be keen, then maybe I’m the photographer for you. My family photography sessions focus on being together as you are and creating a keepsake of your now, however that may look. I’ve pasted just two of my testimonials from families with shy little ones. You can read more of my testimonials here.

If you have questions or would like to know more I’d love to hear from you.

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