I’ve heard all sorts of objections over the last eight years about why people aren’t quite ready to book a photo shoot. Of course, those reasons are all valid. But when it comes to a family portrait session, I guarantee you’ll be more annoyed at yourself in years to come because you delayed and missed some important and memorable moments. Here are the 4 reasons people delay a family photo shoot and exactly why you should ignore them! Let’s see if I can put your mind at ease and have future you thanking you for getting your session booked in.

#1: I need to lose the baby weight first

I understand those feelings you might be having once your baby has arrived. Feeling overweight, unattractive or frumpy is natural. You’ve just had a baby! It’s normal that your body doesn’t feel it’s best. But here’s the thing… I’m not there to capture only your appearance. That might sound strange, but let me explain. Rather, I’m there to capture your relationship with your family, your spirit and your personality. And I’m also there to capture the memories of those first precious days or weeks or your little one’s arrival. All those things are completely unchanged, whatever size you are.

As a photographer, I’m very skilled at posing you in ways that highlight your best features – like your stunning smile, beautiful eyes or your soft Mama curves. Let me do my job and pose you to make sure you look gorgeous in every photograph. I promise you, giving you bad pictures of yourself isn’t part of my job description!

#2: I’m camera shy, or I feel awkward having my photo taken

If I had a penny for every person who told me this, I wouldn’t need to be a photographer anymore! Camera shyness or nerves about having your picture taken are much more common than you think. And, as a photographer, I am very well equipped with how to deal with them.

The most important part of any photography session is about helping you feel comfortable in front of my camera. I will do whatever it takes to help you relax. I’m known to crack silly jokes, play games and chat with you. And, of course, I’ll guide you into some gentle poses if you need it. 

If we get to the end of your session and you don’t feel like you were chatting with a friend taking some photos, then I haven’t done my job!

#3: My home isn’t picture perfect

I’ve heard it all. Your house is too small, or it’s cluttered or dark. It’s being renovated. Or it’s not “photo shoot material”. Friends, I promise you, your house is the perfect backdrop however it looks, because it’s your home.

I am well used to shooting in UK homes of all shapes and sizes. I’m also very adept at seeking out spaces within your home with great natural light. 

It might make you feel better to know I don’t need to work in every room of your house. I tend to gravitate towards a few key areas, like your living room or bedroom. We can even work near your front or back door, or move into the garden. Wherever I find good light, I can create beautiful photographs. Find out more about preparing your home for a family photo shoot.

Above all else, remember… your home doesn’t need to look like something from a Pinterest board to get beautiful photographs. It’s all about how it’s your home, your sacred space full of the memories your family have shared there together.

#4: We have nothing to celebrate

It’s funny how so many people think there has to be a reason or a specific milestone to arrange a family portrait session. What about celebrating your beautiful family and its growth through the years?

I believe there is so much beauty in the ordinary, in the everyday. And that’s worth capturing. Not to mention your kids are constantly growing and changing, or maybe you won’t be living in this home forever. Today is the occasion, and that should be enough.

I arrange a family portrait session every year or so. And, if living through a pandemic has taught me anything, it’s that life can change in a blink. So, why put off to tomorrow what you can do today? And have some beautiful photographs to remember it by.

If you’re ready to embrace the moment and capture your family as it is right now, get in touch and let’s get you booked in.