Child photography – your questions answered
Child Photography FAQs: Everything You Need to Know Before Your Session
Childhood is fleeting — one moment they’re building castles in the sand, the next they’re curled up reading a book. Capturing these moments is what makes child photography so special. Our portrait sessions in the New Forest, Hampshire, and Dorset are relaxed, natural and full of life — designed to preserve your child’s personality and your family’s story.
To help you feel confident and prepared, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about child photography sessions.
Where will our child’s portrait session take place?
You have the choice of working in our studio or enjoying the great outdoors. The advantage of the former is of course it’s not weather dependent and it gives us the chance to produce some beautiful timeless portraits. And we love outdoor locations that allow children to explore and play freely — woodlands, meadows, beaches, or even a garden you love. The New Forest, Hampshire, and Dorset offer endless natural settings for authentic, joyful photographs.
If there’s a special place your child enjoys, we can certainly use that too.
What should my child wear?
Comfort and confidence are key. Soft, natural colours and simple textures like linen, cotton, or knits photograph beautifully. Avoid bright logos or patterns that might distract from your child’s personality. Layers are ideal, especially for outdoor sessions, and allow for playful movement and variation in your photos. Want help choosing? Send me some outfit photos or colour ideas and I’ll happily guide you.
How long does a session take?
The best sessions generally last around an hour or two, giving children plenty of time to warm up, play, and be themselves. If you’re booking for siblings or extended family, we allow a little extra time to ensure everyone is relaxed and enjoying the shoot. We do offer a shorter 30 minute session too, The Brief Encounter Session. Not sure which suits your child best? Drop me a message and we’ll figure it out together.
What happens if the weather isn’t ideal?
We work with British weather all the time! If it’s truly unsuitable, we’ll happily reschedule. Sometimes a little wind, soft rain, or mist can actually create beautifully atmospheric photographs.
When will we receive our photographs?
Your online gallery will be ready in two to three weeks. From there, you can choose your favourites to download, or include in a photo album or any of the other keepsake options we offer. We guide you through the selection process to make it easy and enjoyable.
Can siblings or family members join the session?
Absolutely! We love capturing the interactions between siblings, parents, and even grandparents. These sessions often produce the most heartfelt, timeless photographs and these would fall into our Family Photography Collection.
Can our pets join the session?
Yes — pets are part of the family too! Dogs and other pets can be included naturally in your session, adding fun and spontaneity to the photographs.
How do we book a session?
Booking is simple. Get in touch via our contact form or email, or use the WhatsApp box. and we’ll chat about your child, your preferred location, and the kind of feel you’d like from the session. Once confirmed by a 50% booking fee, we’ll provide a few easy tips to prepare, so all you need to do is relax and enjoy the experience. Have a look at our Child Photography page to see the sessions available to you, along with the fees.
Capturing Your Child’s Unique Spirit
Every child is unique, and every session reflects that individuality. Our goal is to create authentic, joyful photographs that you and your family will treasure forever. From candid laughter to quiet, thoughtful moments, these images capture the essence of childhood — memories that will last a lifetime.
