where do I start?

When it comes to kids and a photo shoot, the overwhelming thing I’ve noticed is that kids are happy when they get to spend time with their parents. If they feel happy, they’ll look happy and they usually look their very best when they get to be themselves and to laugh because something’s funny, and not because they’ve been asked to say, ‘CHEESE!’

Sometimes meltdowns happen and that’s just part of life and being around kids, but those moments can often be the funniest pictures from the session. Just remember, I’m flexible and I’ve worked with all sorts of families and I have a family myself, so I’m very good at going with the flow!

To help make your kids comfortable, perhaps tell them that your friend is coming over with a camera to take a few photos. Keep it casual so they’re not nervous. It’s always fun to have a few special toys on hand for kids, or things like sunglasses, hats, gumboots, trikes, bubbles, autumn leaves and found objects. Include things that are uniquely part of your child’s life at this time—the book they’re currently reading, a favourite doll or scooter or bowl they use. Have a change of clothes on hand for the kids if you think they’ll need it.

Four-legged or other furry friends are important family members and are always encouraged to be part of the shoot too if you’d like them to be!

I also understand that there may be an adult in the group who is not so keen on the idea of a photo shoot, and it will be my mission to make them feel comfortable, to help them warm up and to knock their expectation of the session out of the park. I feel like I’ve nailed my job when that person says to me, ‘that was actually really enjoyable, thanks Hayley!’

Yes – but only a few. I generally start a shoot with a few lovely clear photos of everyone together—I call these the ‘Nana will be happy shots’. I’ll help direct your crew but it will still be a very relaxed arrangement and I know for a lot of people it’s still important to have. I really like when this image is done because afterwards you can truly relax, be with your kids and that’s when the really good stuff emerges.

The majority of the images I shoot will not be posed. I’ll shoot both the details and the broader scenes of your family/friends hanging out together, engaging, playing, chatting, dancing, tackling, grimacing—whatever naturally unfolds when you’re together.

I aim for 1.5-2 hours for family and friends sessions. That may seem a little long, but in reality, it flies by and the longer I’m with you, the more meaningful and honest the pictures become.

A 50% deposit is due when you book your shoot. This secures the date and time but it’s also transferable should you need to re-schedule. The balance is payable on the day of the shoot. See my information on packages for details of price, or contact me if you’d like to talk about a specific job.

Wear what you feel good in—that’s the most important thing. It’s totally up to you if you’d like an outfit change or you’d like to add an accessory along the way. My main advice is to avoid clothing with large logos or text on the front as this can compete visually in an image. Also try to create contrast between hair colour and outfits. I.e., if your child has dark hair, avoid putting yourself in a dark shirt or dress.

You’ll receive your full collection of high-resolution images approximately 2-3 weeks after the shoot and it will be sent via email with password protection (via my website). I’ll also provide detailed instructions about how to download and save your gallery of images.

Check out my advice on printing, art books and packages for my top tips.

Oh yeah!