Natural, candid moments...
As the nights are drawing in I thought it was about time I talked out my 'at-home' photo sessions. As a documentary photographer, I love an in-home family session, there is something magical about in home shoots, so much more personal and real. In-home family photo shoots are a wonderful way to capture the intimate and personal atmosphere of a family's life. These sessions take place in the comfort of your own home, providing a relaxed and familiar environment, which often results in more natural and candid moments.
Don't worry - you don't have to be instagram perfect!
Some of my clients tell me they worry about having photos at home, that it isn’t ‘ready’ for photos. I wanted to address these worries and hopefully reassure families so they feel confident and happy about having photos at home!
Photos at home are an honest representation of your family home life at that point in time. If you wait for the ‘perfect’ time and place, you’ll miss out on how your family is now, totally perfect exactly as it is. So put away the hoover, ignore the dodgy wallpaper and love the home you’re in! You won’t care about any of it in 20 years time, but you’ll still treasure these photos!
Natural light is key!
Get your home ready - This will literally take you 10 minutes – let in as much natural light as possible. Move any bulky furniture or accessories that might be obstructing/blocking the windows, fully open the blinds/curtains, and clear any clutter from windowsills unless it’s part of the design of the room… Anything to flood the house with as much lovely natural light as possible.
Tell the story of your family...
Often the things people think they have to tidy away when they have photos at home are the things that make their home unique and show their personality. Kids’ paintings, books, toys, gifts, postcards, kitchen paraphernalia, prints, bric a brac… These are all things that give your home character and reflect your personal loves and interests. Leave them where they are and let them be seen, they’re all a valuable part of the story of your family at this moment in time.
Why Choose an In-Home Photo Shoot?
Comfort and Convenience: You don't need to travel to a location or worry about the weather. Everyone is more at ease in their own space, which helps me capture genuine emotions.
Personalized Background: Your home adds a unique, personal touch to the photos. It reflects your family's personality, and certain spaces in your home might hold sentimental value.
Candid Moments: The familiar environment helps children and pets feel more relaxed, making it easier to capture natural smiles, laughter, and everyday moments.
Real Life: These sessions emphasize the beauty of everyday life. Whether you're baking in the kitchen, reading stories in the living room, or playing in the backyard, these moments are captured in a natural setting.
Don't forget man's best friend...
If you have pets, they can also be a part of the shoot. Dogs, cats, and other pets often add warmth and personality to the photos.
Special occasions...
A fabulous time to have an in-home photo shoot is Christmas! Your home is already decorated!
Benifits of having an in-home photo shoot...
Personalization: No two homes are the same, so each session is uniquely tailored to your family and your space.
Flexibility: Especially helpful for families with young children or newborns, as you don't need to worry about packing up and traveling.
Memories in Your Space: The photos serve as a nostalgic reminder of your home, especially if you move in the future.
In-home family photo shoots are ideal for capturing your family in a genuine, loving setting where everyone feels at ease.
Beauty in individuality...
So that’s it! The overall message is don’t worry! Homes, like people, come in all shapes, sizes and appearances, and their beauty is in their individuality, not their perfection. Embrace your home and start making some memories in it!
You and your kids will thank you for it later!