Booking a family photography session naturally comes with plenty of questions, particularly if you’ve never had professional family photographs taken before.
I’ve answered some of the questions I’m asked most frequently below, covering everything from what to wear and what happens during the session to digital images, prints and sensory-friendly family photography.
If there’s anything else you’d like to know, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Family portrait photography FAQs
Do you offer sensory-friendly or SEND family photography sessions?
Yes. Alongside my regular family sessions, I also offer dedicated SEND-friendly family photography sessions for children who may benefit from additional preparation, flexibility or sensory-aware support.
These sessions include a detailed pre-session questionnaire, optional introductory video call or tailored social story, additional flexibility during the session and a calm, child-led approach throughout.
There is no additional charge for this support. My goal is simply to ensure every family can enjoy the same positive photography experience in a way that works for them.
Find out more about my SEND-friendly family photography sessions.
Do you photograph families with autistic children or additional needs?
Yes.
My family photography has always been relaxed, natural and child-led, and many families already find this approach works particularly well for children who may not enjoy traditional posed photography experiences.
For families who feel their child may benefit from additional preparation, flexibility or sensory-aware support, I also offer dedicated sensory-friendly family photography sessions designed specifically for children with additional needs, disabilities and neurodivergence.
What if my children won’t sit still for photographs?
That’s completely ok. My sessions are designed around natural interaction rather than perfect posing.
Children are free to move, explore, play and engage naturally throughout the session. In reality, those moments of personality, movement and genuine connection are often what make the photographs feel the most meaningful years later.
Do children need to smile or look at the camera?
Not at all.
While I’ll always try to capture a few more traditional photographs where possible, my focus is on genuine interaction, personality and natural family connection rather than forcing children to smile or perform for the camera.
What happens during the session?
Sessions are relaxed, flexible and guided around your family rather than a rigid shot list.
We might go for a walk, stop to talk, play with your children or simply spend time together. I’ll gently guide things where needed, but for the most part I’ll be observing and capturing natural moments as they happen.
My goal is to create photographs that feel honest, natural and true to your family.
How long do sessions last?
Standard family photography sessions typically last around one hour.
Sensory-friendly sessions allow additional flexibility and time where needed, helping ensure children can settle naturally into the experience without feeling rushed.
What if my child becomes overwhelmed during the session?
Family sessions are always relaxed and flexible, with plenty of opportunity for breaks if needed.
My sensory-friendly sessions are specifically designed to allow additional flexibility, helping children settle naturally into the experience without pressure.
If a child becomes overwhelmed during a session, we’ll always take the time needed to pause, regroup and adapt our approach where possible.
What should we wear?
The most important thing is that everyone feels comfortable and confident. Neutral colours, earthy tones and simple clothing without large logos or busy patterns tend to photograph particularly well.
There’s no need for everyone to match exactly. Coordinating colours and styles usually creates a more natural look than identical outfits.
All clients receive a photography preparation guide before their session which includes additional advice and suggestions on clothing choices.
Can we bring the dog?
Absolutely! Dogs are part of the family too and are always welcome to join us where the chosen location allows.
If you’d like to include your dog, just let me know when booking so we can choose a suitable location and plan accordingly.
What happens if it rains?
I’m used to shooting in a variety of weather conditions and use professional weather-sealed equipment, so a little rain doesn’t usually cause any problems.
As long as everyone is dressed appropriately, some of my favourite family photographs have actually been created in less-than-perfect weather.
If the forecast looks particularly challenging, I’ll monitor conditions and discuss the best option with you. I also appreciate that some children may find changes to plans difficult, so wherever possible I’ll work with families to find the most appropriate approach.
What’s included in the session fee?
Every family photography session includes:
• Pre-session questionnaire
• Family photography preparation guide
• Relaxed documentary-style photoshoot
• Hand-edited online gallery
• Social-size digital downloads
Full-resolution digital downloads, professional prints and wall art are available separately.
Will my photos be colour or black and white?
Every gallery includes a carefully curated mix of both colour and black and white images.
My signature black and white style is an important part of my work and often helps create photographs that feel timeless, emotional and free from distraction. However, each image is individually edited in whichever style best suits the moment.
How long will it take to receive my photographs?
I typically deliver family photography galleries within around two weeks of the session, although they’re often ready a little sooner.
Every image is individually reviewed, carefully selected and hand-edited to ensure your final gallery reflects the very best moments from the session. Rather than rushing images out as quickly as possible, I prefer to take the time needed to create a thoughtfully curated collection of photographs you’ll enjoy for years to come.
Once your gallery is ready, you’ll receive access to a private online gallery where you can view, download and order products from your images.
What’s the difference between the included images and full-resolution files
The images included with your session are perfect for sharing online – they’re optimised for phones, tablets, and social media. Full-resolution files are the original, highest quality versions of your images. These are best suited for printing, larger displays, or keeping as a long-term archive. I’d usually recommend downloading these if you’d like to keep a complete, high-quality copy of your images for the future.
Do we need to decide on prints or downloads before the shoot?
Not at all – there’s no need to decide anything in advance. I always prefer you to see your images first and choose what you’d like once you’ve had time to enjoy your gallery. Most families choose to download their images for flexibility, while many also order prints or framed pieces for their home – it really depends how you’d like to use and display your photos.
What do most families choose after their shoot?
Most families choose to download their full gallery in high resolution so they have a permanent copy of their images for the future. From there, many go on to select a few favourite images to turn into prints or framed pieces for their home using the professional options available in the gallery. There’s no right or wrong approach – it simply depends on how you’d like to enjoy your photos day to day.
What’s the difference between ordering prints through you and printing them myself?
Prints ordered through your gallery are produced using my professional print lab, fine art papers and carefully finished framing options. These are designed to give your images the best possible colour, detail, and longevity, and to create something you’ll be happy to display in your home. Printing images yourself using full-resolution files is absolutely an option and can be a more cost-effective route, but the results will vary depending on the supplier and materials used. In short, the two options offer different outcomes – one is a premium, finished product, while the other offers flexibility at a lower price point.
What printed products do you offer?
I offer a carefully selected range of professional print products including Giclée fine art prints, framed wall art, canvases and edge prints.
These products are produced to a much higher standard than typical high street printing and are designed to be displayed and enjoyed for years to come.
You can find more information on available products and pricing on my Products & Prices page.
Why do SEND-friendly sessions cost the same as your standard family sessions?
I believe every family deserves the opportunity to enjoy family photography regardless of disability, diagnosis, additional needs or neurodivergence.
While SEND-friendly sessions may involve additional preparation, flexibility and support, I don’t believe families should pay more simply because their child may need a slightly different approach.
My goal is simply to create the best possible experience for every family.
Do you travel outside Leeds?
Yes. I regularly photograph families across Leeds, Wakefield and the wider Yorkshire area.
If you’re unsure whether I cover your location, please get in touch and I’ll be happy to discuss the options with you.
Can I purchase a gift voucher?
Yes. Gift vouchers are available for family photography sessions, digital image packages and selected product collections.
They make wonderful gifts for birthdays, Christmas, new parents or grandparents and can be purchased directly through my website. If you’d like a bespoke gift package, please get in touch and I’ll be happy to arrange one for you.
Still have questions?
If there’s anything you’d like to discuss before booking, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Every family is different and I’m always happy to talk through locations, preparation, sensory requirements or any concerns you may have before your session.