What Actually Happens on a Family Photo Shoot (and why you should book one!)
When you think of a family photo shoot, your brain might conjure up images of forced smiles, matching outfits, and a toddler having a full-scale meltdown because their sock “feels funny.”
Sound familiar?
Yeah… that’s not what we’re about here.
At The Wild Love Club, family photo shoots aren’t about posing perfectly or bribing your kid with 43 snacks just to get one half-decent photo. They’re about capturing the chaos and the cuddles, the muddy knees and the belly laughs – all the real-life magic that makes your family yours.
So if you’re wondering what actually happens on a shoot (and why it’s 1000% worth booking one), here’s everything you need to know.
First things first, no, you don’t have to ‘perform’ on a family photoshoot
There’s no awkward standing in a line, no fake grins, and no saying “cheese” unless you brought a Babybel in your pocket (which, let’s face it, is a parenting win).
Instead, we’ll go somewhere that suits your family – a park you love, the woods for a wander, even your own home if that’s your vibe. Somewhere your kids can run wild, climb trees, splash in puddles or snuggle up with you on the sofa. You just do your thing. I’ll do mine – which is snapping those little unscripted moments that you probably don’t even realise are so beautifully you.
Don’t panic though, if you need a little more direction or you’d prefer some shots that feel a bit more purposeful, we can sprinkle in a bit of that too!
It’s kind of like a playdate – just with someone third-wheeling with a camera
There might be leaf fights. There will definitely be laughter. Sometimes someone ends up barefoot (and it's not always the kids). I’ll give a little direction here and there, but nothing stiff or staged, just gentle guidance so you feel comfortable. The goal? To catch all those genuine interactions: the way your little one tucks into your shoulder when they’re tired, the wild-eyed grin mid-cartwheel, the sleepy finger-hold of your tiny little newborn.
Life isn’t perfect, and your photos shouldn’t be either. They should feel true.
“We had a fantastic mini photo shoot in Jesmond Dene in August with Nicola. We don’t get the opportunity to get photos of the 3 of us together, which Nicola captured beautifully.
This is our 2nd shoot & Nicola knows how active & adventurous our son is & got some beautiful natural photos. Thank you so much! Highly recommended x”
Why a family photo shoot matters
Let’s get mushy for a sec. The truth is, your babies won’t stay babies for long. One minute they’re learning to walk, the next they’re rolling their eyes when you ask for a hug in public. Time moves fast. And while the days feel long (especially the ones with 4am starts and no clean socks), the years are short.
Photos freeze time in the best way.
They become part of your story.
And one day, they’ll be what your kids show their kids.
Booking a family shoot isn’t just about nice photos for your wall, it’s about capturing this chapter, exactly as it is.
So, should you book a family photo shoot?
Honestly? Yeah, you should.
Whether it’s your first shoot as a new parent, a yearly tradition, or a spontaneous “we’ve got 300 pics of the dog and none of the kids” moment – it’s always a good time to press pause and soak it all in.
And the best part? You don’t need to ‘get ready.’ You just need to show up as you are.
Come wild. Come wonderful. Come exactly as your family is right now – because that’s the magic.
Ready to capture your gang in all their glorious, giggling chaos?
“We had an amazing experience with Nicola during our family photo shoot! From the start, she made us feel so comfortable and relaxed, which really showed in the photos. The results were stunning, capturing the essence of our family. The attention to detail, creative angles, and perfect location (the beach!) made the photos feel both authentic and timeless. We couldn’t be happier with the outcome and will cherish these memories forever. Highly recommend!”
