I provide family photography in Derbyshire, Leicestershire, and surrounding areas, capturing authentic, joy-filled moments that reflect your family’s unique story.
Or choose a playdate session
A session where childhood leads — and I simply follow
Let your children be just as they are. There’s no pressure for perfect poses or practiced smiles—just space to be curious, wild, and wonderfully themselves. Whether we’re in the comfort of your home or out in nature, chasing sunlight, climbing trees, and uncovering tiny treasures, we’ll focus on the joy that lives in the real, everyday magic of childhood.
Let’s make these days the best of their lives, moments that will stay with them forever. So, when they look back on these photos, they won’t just see the pictures; they’ll feel the memories. They’ll remember the sand between their toes, the softness of the leaves in their hands, and the warmth of the sun on their cheeks. Let’s make it so real, so vivid, that the joy of today will live in their hearts for a lifetime.
What Is a Playdate Session?
A Playdate Session is a slow, nostalgic, documentary-style hour (or more) where I quietly follow your children as they move through their world. There’s no posing. No pressure. No expectation to perform for the camera.
Just real life — preserved honestly, beautifully, and as softly as you remember it.
These sessions are perfect for families who:
- prefer a documentary, child-led experience
- want natural images of their children without the need for posed family portraits
- treasure the magic of everyday life: the ordinary moments that become extraordinary with time
- want an alternative to studio portraits — something warmer, more emotional, more meaningful
The heart of all my work is gentle storytelling, but Playdate Sessions allow me to lean even deeper into nostalgia, simplicity, and truth.
What a Playdate Session Can Look Like
Every family is unique — and every child’s world is different. Your session can unfold in any way that feels natural to them. Some ideas include:
- building Lego cities or train tracks
- drawing, painting, or crafting at the kitchen table
- baking together, covered in flour and giggles
- reading favourite books in their cosy corner
- playing in the garden — running, climbing, exploring
- jumping on the bed or dancing in the living room
- washing up at the sink, sleeves rolled up, making bubbles
- watering plants or helping in the garden
- having a picnic on a blanket in the park or your garden
- playing with pets
- collecting leaves, sticks, or “treasures” on a walk
- doing puzzles, playing board games, or making dens
Anything that feels true to your child’s world can be part of your story.
These are the moments that become heirlooms — not because they are grand, but because they are real.
The Feeling of the Session
Playdate Sessions are slow, warm, and deeply relaxed.
I move quietly through the space, photographing from a child’s eye level, allowing life to unfold at its natural pace.
It feels like:
- an hour of uninterrupted play
- soft storytelling rather than staged moments
- a gentle documentary of who your child is right now
- a time capsule you’ll hold onto long after this season is gone
This is the photography you’ll show them when they’re older.
This is the childhood they won’t remember — but you will.
FAQ
What if my baby is unsettled?
Babies do baby things—and that’s okay. I plan time for breaks, cuddles, and feeds. Some of the most tender moments come when you're simply comforting your baby. There’s no rush. As a mum of two, I know just how beautifully intense and truly challenging those early months can be. I'm there not just as your photographer, but as a friend and a helping hand—someone who gets it and will meet you exactly where you’re at, with zero judgment.
What should we wear?
Once your session is booked, I’ll send over a style guide to get you thinking about how you imagine the feel of your photos. From there, we can chat in as much—or as little—detail as you'd like about what would work best to bring that vision to life. Whether you're drawn to soft neutrals, bold textures, or something meaningful from your own wardrobe, I’ll help you pull it all together in a way that feels totally personal to you.
What if it rains or the weather is bad?
For outdoor sessions, we can reschedule or pivot to a cozy indoor session. Overcast skies can actually make for the dreamiest light.
I’m nervous about being in front of the camera…
That’s okay. Most people feel this way. I’ll help you feel at ease by focusing on real interactions, not stiff poses. It’s about connection, not perfection.
When will we receive our photos?
Your gallery will be delivered within 2–3 weeks. I hand-edit each image with care, so you'll receive a curated collection that truly reflects your story.
Can we choose the location?
YYes! I love working in places that hold meaning to you—whether that’s your home, a favourite trail, a local park, or even the everyday corners of your town that feel like “yours.” I also have a list of go-to locations if you’re looking for ideas or inspiration.
What’s the ideal age for a newborn session?
If you’re after that true “newborn” look—with tiny features, curled-up sleepy poses—sessions within the first two weeks are ideal. That said, I consider anything up to 3 months to still be newborn, and those slightly older babies bring their own kind of magic. You’ll often get sweet smiles, gentle eye contact, and a more settled rhythm (though usually less sleepy!). It all depends on what you envision for the session—we can create something beautiful at any stage.
Why are film images listed as “up to 36”?
Film is shot on a single 35mm roll, which allows for up to 36 frames. Unlike digital, not every frame will always be usable — light, movement and the natural unpredictability of film are all part of its charm. I shoot each frame with intention, and you’ll receive the strongest images from the roll, carefully scanned and edited to sit beautifully alongside your digital gallery.
What if my toddler is wild or doesn’t want to listen?
Perfect. That’s their magic. I expect play, chaos, meltdowns, and giggles. I’ll guide gently but never force a moment—your child leads, I follow with my camera.
Do we need to pose?
Not at all. I’ll gently guide you into moments and let them unfold naturally. I’m there to capture connection, not perfection. Before the session, I’ll send you a short questionnaire that helps me get a feel for what you're hoping for—whether you’d like to be gently directed, prefer a completely hands-off approach, or have a few specific poses or moments in mind. It’s all about creating a space that feels right for you and your story.
Can we include pets?
Yes, always! They’re part of the family.
What if my home isn’t “photo ready”?
Your home is part of your story. I work with natural light and find beauty in lived-in spaces—blankets on the couch, toys in the corner, dishes in the sink... it’s all okay.
Can I gift a session to someone else?
Absolutely. A photo session is such a meaningful gift. Get in touch, and I can help you create a custom voucher.
How far in advance should we book?
The sooner, the better—especially for weekend or golden hour sessions. I recommend booking at least 4–6 weeks in advance if possible, but feel free to reach out anytime in case I have space.
When is the best time for a maternity shoot?
The ideal time is usually between 28 and 36 weeks—when your bump is beautifully visible but you’re still feeling relatively comfortable. That said, it’s never too early or too late. It all depends on the kind of look and feel you’re dreaming of. Your session can be as casual or as elaborate as you’d like—think cozy cuddles with your partner, sweet moments with older siblings, or a solo celebration of your changing body in a beautiful gown, radiating goddess energy. It’s totally your choice, and I’ll help you bring your vision to life.
FAQ FOR PLAYDATY SESSION
Do you direct the children at all?
No — these sessions are entirely child-led. I follow their natural rhythm and document what unfolds.
Where do Playdate Sessions take place?
At home, in your garden, at a favourite field or park — anywhere your children feel free and comfortable.
What makes this different from a Family Session?
Family Sessions include gentle, natural family portraits as well as storytelling moments.
Playdate Sessions focus solely on the children and lean deeper into a documentary, everyday-life feel.
Can parents be in the photos?
Absolutely, if you’d like to be. But you don’t have to be. Many parents choose this session specifically because they want the children to take centre stage.
What if my child doesn’t “cooperate”?
There is no need to! These sessions aren’t about cooperation or posing — they’re about letting your child be themselves. Even quiet, shy, energetic, or chaotic moments are beautiful and truthful.