The setting for this family photo session was Riverside Park Nature Reserve in Guildford, a wetland area supporting diverse insect, bird and amphibian life. I recently discovered this beautiful nature reserve while servicing my car in the nearby Slyfield industrial estate and was surprised to find such a gem of a place squshed between the noisy A3, the community recycling centre and the industrial estate. Amazing how nature can thrive in the most unlikely places!
We started our photoshoot with a walk along the River Wey. The powerline which runs along the path provided a dramatic backdrop for a few of the initial shots before we reached the canal. All along the canal were lovely mature oak trees which served as the perfect frame for family portraits. The parents were amazing at enterntaining and engaging this charming and smiley one and a half year old. I love the playfulness that comes through in the photographs.
Half way through the photoshoot, everyone was getting a little tired so it was time to have a play in the sand and bring out favourite toys. Out came the coala and Mr Fox, and it was back to playing games and having fun. I find games really helpful while working with children. They instantly become interested and engaged which creates genuinely candid moments for great photographs. Whether it it]s hide and seek with younger children, building a den with preschoolers and playing ball with older kids, involving them (and parents) in an activity takes the attention away from the camera and puts children and adults in the present moment which is where the joy comes through. This little girl loved spotting insects, playing with hair clips which I’ve given her, waving at boats and touching different plants.
It is nice looking back at these photos when the grasses were lush and everything was so alive. My current family photo sessions are against beautiful autumnal backdrops, a stark contrast to the warm summer days. Nature provides us photographers with the best studio and I am so grateful to do my job outdoors, and experience the beauty of each season with my clients.
I am nearly fully booked for this year, but if you would like to arrange a family portrait session for you and your family for next year, please get in touch to discuss your requirements. You can contact me through the contact page on my website, or sending me an email at info@minamilanovic-photography.com. I look forward to hearing from you!
