Family portraiture

Family portraits are all about capturing the individuality of your family at a moment in time. Jo’s natural and spontaneous family portraits do just that, capturing the true essence of each family. No two portrait sittings are the same, each family’s individuality is reflected in the images Jo takes.

Jo works with families in their home surroundings. Children feel more comfortable and relaxed in familiar surroundings making the experience more natural and, above all, enjoyable. This often includes outdoor shots or a location shoot at a local park or favourite place. This produces a far more personal set of images than a blank white studio, and captures memories of childhood surroundings at the same time. The sittings are always fun, and you can be sure you’ll be spoilt for choice when choosing your final photographs.

Children and babies all warm to Jo’s friendly and relaxed approach, and being a female photographer (and mother) is a distinct advantage when working with babies and young children in putting them at ease. Jo will guide the portrait sitting at a pace suited to your children, her patience is endless and she can naturally bring out the best in them. With young children and babies it is also important to choose a good time in the day when they are at their best, and having drinks and snacks and a favourite cuddly toy on hand is not a bad idea either!

The session is made up of a combination of informal family and individual poses and natural, 'reportage style' fun photographs taken around the family home and garden. Jo’s photography is all about capturing the personality of your children and your interaction with them so smiles and spontaneity are the aim! With older children, Jo will often take photographs of them without parents present, as they are usually less self conscious and more at ease bringing out another side to their personality which Jo can capture.

Jo works with a handheld digital SLR camera and where possible utilises natural light creatively to produce flattering photographs. When required she will use tungsten lighting in the home, which is less intimidating than flash lighting when working with babies and children.

It is best to wear something timeless - simple, casual clothes are generally best. Bright colours look great in the final photographs, but make sure you compliment rather than conflict! The main thing is everyone needs to feel happy and comfortable in their normal clothes rather than feeling dressed up.

After the portrait sitting you will receive contact sheets of all the final photographs and have your own private web gallery to view the photographs online. Photographs can be purchased in various print sizes, framed or presented in an album. Digital files can also be purchased. There is no minimum order value.

I also attend family events, predominantly focusing on taking natural candid shots of the event, however a number of portraits can also be taken before or after to record the day more formally.

Sitting Fee- £80 (typically 1 - 2 hours)
Group sitting - £100 (more than 5 people)
Event Fee - £80 per hour

Children, babies and adults all warm to Jo’s relaxed and friendly style, please view the testimonials page for examples of commendation.

Jo is available for portrait sittings all across Surrey and London and offers a flexible, friendly and professional service. If you wish to discuss your individual requirements please contact Jo by email (jo.hughes@captivephoto.co.uk) or by telephone on 07810 368370.