As you well know, my specialty are unposed, documentary photoshoots, be it 2 hours or the whole day, breakfast to bedtime. While with a Day in the Life photoshoot it’s basically a no-brainer: you get on with your normal day and I document it, a shorter photoshoot stumps some of my clients for ideas on what to do.
So, I’ve put together a list of things you could do together as a family for your documentary photography session in the Spring – whatever the weather. Choose one that speaks to you as a family – either something you do together on a regular basis, or something you’ve always wanted to do and know will enjoy.
I was up bright and early (or, rather – dark and early since we’re talking December in London here) to join this wonderful family at their home in Islington at 8am. An expat family from LA, California, they were keen to capture their time in London and include not only their time at home with their son, but also the wonderful neighbourhood they call their home in England.
They booked a half Day in the Life session which is becoming really popular with many of my clients, as they want to capture a big chunk of their everyday activities, from morning until naptime, in addition to some directed lifestyle portraits.
One of my favourite things to do as a photographer is to document the average, sometimes pretty boring, family days. See, I don’t think they are boring. I look at your life and see the wonder, and beauty, and humour, and something worth remembering, in every moment, however insignificant.
It all began with Pinterest. Row upon row of perfectly styled Christmas trees, creatively wrapped presents and stylishly dressed children skillfully making star shapes out of cookie dough. Everything in perfect order.
As a photographer who documents real life of real families – mess, warts and all – I of course knew this perfection was an illusion. I know how these photographs are created, mess creatively cut out of the frame, decorations skillfully arranged in good light, children expertly entertained with fart noises to get the most gorgeous smiles, all the tantrums left on the cutting room floor. I know how it’s done because I’ve done it myself for many years.
My mission is to make sure every family remembers not to chase “perfect moments” or “perfect family photos” but instead takes the time to document the little everyday things that are unique to you – things that one day in not so distant future will become the big things, and the things you miss the most.
When the weather outside is less than ideal (I’m writing this as 40mph winds rage outside and the rain is lashing against the windows) many parents are inclined to delay their family photoshoot and wait until spring/summer/better weather.
While I absolutely love being outside and capturing family fun in the great outdoors, what I don’t love is waiting until later to capture precious memories of your children growing up. But there’s no better time than right now. So here are my top 6 family photoshoot ideas to try at home, whatever the weather.
