Over the years, I’ve found that families will generally have the same questions or concerns when it comes to family photography sessions.
Family photos shouldn’t be a stressful experience, so I’ve put together a bit of a FAQ blog post to hopefully put you at ease and answer any questions you might have.
Where do your family photography sessions take place?
I shoot all of my family photography sessions outdoors throughout Ireland. I am based in Manorhamilton, Co. Leitrim. So, while I am here I frequently use Florence Court House & Gardens which is in Fermanagh. Tullan Strand Beach in Bundoran, Co. Donegal, or Peace Park in Sligo. I do travel throughout Ireland for Family Sessions and will generally try to pencil in a date in Limerick, Galway, Mayo and Dublin each year also.
I should mention that my work is not limited to these locations, and I do travel throughout Ireland for family sessions.
What location would you recommend?
My preferred location is always a beautiful garden, in an estate or the grounds of a hotel. In mid-summer, these locations are at their best and filled with colour making a beautiful backdrop to your photos.
I love photographing families at the beach, but these sessions are really best suited to families with children aged 4 and up. The reason being that I tend to run these sessions close to sunset for the best light, so it can often interfere with bed times for younger children! The conditions at an Irish coast can also be that little bit harsher and not ideal for babies.
I’m worried my kids will play up?
This is always a concern parents have and I hope I can put you at ease if this is a worry for you also! The majority of your gallery will be made up of candid shots of your children playing, running, laughing and just being themselves. I will of course capture traditional portraits of you all looking at the camera and smiling. To achieve these, I always recommend a little bit of bribery (aka treats!).
I would encourage parents to pull out all the stops to make their little ones smile – any party trick or antic that usually sets them off is a great place to start! Tickles, throwing them up in the air, chasing – these not only guarantee smiles, but make for some fantastic, natural photos.
This particular concern often sits with parents of toddlers. This is such a beautiful age, one you want to capture. So please don’t let this worry prevent you from photographing your children at this adorable stage!
Will you guide us on how to pose for family photos?
Absolutely. I will offer some gentle guidance on how to pose, particularly for the more formal portraits.
I specialise in a very natural style of family photography, so I will really focus on encouraging you to interact with your family in different ways to allow me to capture you as you are with your children.
How long does a family photography session take?
I allow an hour for all family sessions.
What should we wear for our family photos?
Once you book with me, you will receive my Family Photography Preparation Guide which includes tips and guidance on what to wear. I also have a blog post on this very topic which gives my top tips on what to wear for your family photo session.
Do you include prints in your packages?
For family photography, I offer three packages. A digital collection in which your images are delivered in digital format through an online gallery. A print collection, which includes a selection of beautiful fine art prints. And, an extended family session which is tailored towards family reunion-style sessions, and also includes prints. To view my packages and the different options available for family photos, please get in touch and I would be happy to share my brochure with you.
Can I bring along my parents / siblings and their kids?
Yes, absolutely! I offer extended family sessions where families are welcome to include grandparents, aunts & uncles and grandchildren. This is a really beautiful way to capture three (or more) generations together.
How will I receive my gallery?
You will receive a link, via email, to a personal online gallery where you will receive your images in digital format. From here, you can download, save and share your images as well as make selections for prints if you have opted for this.
Your images will be stored here for one year after your gallery is delivered.
How much does a family photography session cost?
Starting prices for family photography can be found here. To view my packages and the different options available for family photos, please get in touch and I would be happy to share my brochure with you.
Can I purchase a gift voucher for a family photography session?
Yes, absolutely and although I am very biased, I think it is such a beautiful gift to give any family. If you would like to purchase a photography gift voucher and want to suss out the best option, pop me a message and I would be delighted to help!
Any advice for someone who hates having their photo taken?
Ironically enough, I’m much happier behind the camera rather than in front of it and I always have been! Because of this, I always try to make every effort to make you feel comfortable and at ease having your photo taken. For the majority of shots, I will ask you to look at the people you are with and not directly at the camera. This generally calms any nerves people may have.
It’s always important to think of the why behind having your family portraits taken – these are a keepsake for your children and grandchildren for years to come and a beautiful way to document this wonderful stage in your life.
Please don’t let insecurities get in your way of capturing such a beautiful chapter in your story!
How can I book a family photo session with you?
To view my family photography packages and book a family photo session with me, please get in touch today and I would love to start planning this with you!
