How to get natural family portraits without forced smiles
Natural family portraits that don’t feel awkward
Everyone wants family photos that feel honest. The kind that make you smile because you remember how it felt, not how hard you tried to stand still and smile. But how do you actually get natural family portraits when you feel awkward in front of the camera, or your kids never sit still?
It’s all about choosing a photographer who knows how to work with real life, not against it.
Gentle guidance that feels like play, not posing
You don’t have to know how to “act natural” in front of the lens, that’s my job. I’ll gently guide you through little prompts that feel more like play than posing: holding hands while you walk. Reading a book together. Dancing in the lounge. Whispering something silly that makes your child burst out laughing.
These are small, easy things to do, but they create big, beautiful moments. No stiffness. No pressure. Just real bonds, happening naturally. Read more about relaxed poses ideas
The beauty of documentary photography
One of the best ways to get natural family portraits is to skip the posing altogether. With a documentary approach, you don’t have to do anything at all, except be yourselves. I follow your family’s rhythm and capture the moments as they unfold.
Whether you’re baking muffins, getting little shoes on, breastfeeding your baby or playing on the living room floor, these ordinary moments are filled with real emotion and intention. No two sessions are alike, because no two families are. Read more about documentary photography
You don’t need to look at the camera to look beautiful
Looking into the lens isn’t required. In fact, some of the most moving images are the ones where no one is looking at the camera, because you’re too busy living your life.
You’re cuddling, exploring. You’re laughing at something no one else saw. These images capture who you are, not just what you look like.
When you stop trying to perform, something magical happens: you become photogenic without even thinking about it.
Real smiles come from real comfort
Your kids don’t have to sit still. You don’t need a perfectly clean house. You don’t need to “behave” to deserve beautiful photos.
When everyone is free to be themselves — loud, quiet, silly, sleepy — that’s when the most meaningful moments happen. My job is to make you feel safe, seen, and respected. That’s when the smiles come on their own.
That’s how we get the good stuff. The warm, wild, wonderful stuff! Read more about how to get your child ready
Natural family portraits are really just about trust
Not in the perfect pose, but in the connection. Not in the way you look, but in the way you love.
And if you’ve never done a photo session before, or if you’re nervous, that’s okay! I’ll guide you. You’ll feel seen. And we’ll create images that feel like you.
Because your family is beautiful just as it is.
FAQ – Getting natural family portraits
How do I prepare my family for a natural photo session?
There’s very little prep needed! Dress comfortably, choose clothes that feel like “you,” and let your kids be kids. I’ll guide gently so nothing feels forced. You can read more about preparing for a family photoshoot
What if my child doesn’t want to cooperate?
That’s completely okay — kids are naturally curious and expressive. I never pressure them to pose. Some of the best photos come from letting them just be themselves.
Do we have to look at the camera?
Not at all. In fact, most of my favourite images are the ones where no one’s looking at me. You’re simply enjoying your time together — and that’s what I photograph.
Is a messy house a problem?
Absolutely not. Life is messy, and real homes make for the most honest and beautiful photos. I focus on emotion, connection, and light — not clutter. Read more about how to prepare your home
Do you retouch the photos?
Yes, I carefully edit every image for colour, light and composition. I might remove a distracting detail (like a tiny spill), but I never alter bodies or erase real-life features. You are perfect just as you are.
Based in Dublin?
I work with families all over the city — from Sandymount Beach to Clonsilla — to create warm, honest, natural family portraits that reflect your real life. No pressure. No awkwardness. Just you.
