Bristol Autumn Family Photography – The Steimetz Family

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Autumn Family Photography – Stockhill Woods 

When I initially planned this shoot, I had a picture in my mind of vibrant autumn leaves. However, whilst I scouted for a location, I realised that I was looking for soft autumnal tones and I was over the moon to discover the unique beauty of Stockhill Woods. It was a little further from Bristol than I usually travel but I knew this family would be up for an adventure! It is the perfect balance of dense woodland and open moorland with the additional bonus of beautiful ponds.

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Family Photography – Outfit Choices

Although I am always keen to reflect every client’s individuality, I have begun to realise the value of planning outfit choices. Having a cohesive look and considering colours and patterns in clothing can have a huge impact on the overall look of your images. I am not suggesting for a second that you all wear matching outfits but rather think about complementary colours and patterns. This family fully embraced this concept and I think the success is reflected in their final photographs.

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What to Expect from a Family Photography Shoot

I will always visit a location before a shoot as this allows me to find and plan the best spots. I have worked with children as a Primary School Teacher for over ten years and I know that when working with children plans need to be flexible! I usually start off with a group shot of you all together, but I really don’t ask you to pose or even look at the camera. My goal is to capture your natural interactions with each other. That means there is time for fun, adventure and play! This family were amazing and totally up for a relaxed experience. When they got cold, they sprinted up and down the paths and when they got bored, they had a fight with autumn leaves. These kids are bike crazy, so we even snuck in a cool shot of them on their bikes! 

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When to Book a Family Photography Shoot

I love to shoot at ‘golden hour’, the hour after sunrise or the hour before sunset as it produces beautiful, soft diffused light. I know this can be a challenge with young children, but I promise you that it is worth it. I am REALLY not a morning person but for that light, I will do it! Luckily, this was a sunset shoot and even though the forecast was for rain we managed to escape the downpour and end up with some striking moody skies. 

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Thank you to the Steimetz Family! What a fun time we had together! I hope you enjoy your photographs for years to come!

What to Expect from a Family Photography Session

I am interested in people and I genuinely want to learn about your family. Having worked with families and children for over 12 years as a primary school teacher, I am continually inspired by the different ways in which families engage with each other. My aim as a photographer is to capture your family in the quiet moments, the loving moments and those moments filled with fun and laughter. I don’t have a formula for posing families because I want to photograph your family as you truly are. 

Let’s Talk

When I arrive at your home or meet you in an outdoor location, we will talk and there will be time for your children to feel comfortable around me. Perhaps your children want to show me their favourite toy, read a story or have a look at my camera. The best photographs come from feeling relaxed and I will never begin a session until we are all familiar. 

Let’s Explore

Once we have had time to chat, I will ask you to show me around your home or we will take a walk in the outdoor location you have chosen. I am not looking at how tidy your home is but what I am always looking for is beautiful, natural light. My images are driven by light and locations I believe will give you the most flattering photographs. We will choose a few of our favourite settings together and then the photography session can begin!

Let’s Play

While everyone is feeling fresh and happy, I will begin with a family photograph. Don’t worry this doesn’t mean a stiff, formal group pose with everyone forming a cheesy grin. In fact, I won’t even ask you to look at me! After all its not about me, it’s about your family. I might ask you all to hug, tell a story or joke but please don’t worry about looking at the camera. If the little ones begin to wriggle, then it is time to move on to a game or an activity. Parents always worry about their children’s behaviour but as a mother myself there is absolutely no judgement from me. Sometimes it’s just about a change of direction or more often than not just time for snack. I always allow plenty of opportunities in a family photography session for breaks, play and just time for children to be free to explore. 

Interested in booking a newborn or family photography session? I can’t wait to hear about your family!