What to expect during your Dublin family photo session
I offer documentary-style family sessions across Dublin, and here’s exactly what to expect when I photograph your crew.
Every family is unique, and your photo session should always feel like you.
Whether we’re in your cozy home or walking through a Dublin park, this is a moment to slow down, be yourselves, and enjoy some quality time together.
Your session is built around your family’s energy. If your toddler wants to run barefoot in the garden, perfect. If you all want to snuggle on the couch and read a story book, also perfect. There’s no pressure to perform, just space for connection and authenticity. Here’s what’s gonna happen during your family photo session in Dublin:
Getting started: when I arrive
1. We take our time
When I arrive, there’s no need to rush or shift gears abruptly. I’ll take a few minutes to chat, let the kids warm up and meet me, and get a sense of your home or location. You can keep doing whatever you were doing: prepping a snack, playing with the baby, chatting. We ease into things naturally.
2. I’d love a tour!
If you or one of your kid wants to give me a tour of the house, that’s awsome! This way I can get a sense of where the light is the best, if we are shooting in your home. If we meet at a Dublin park, you can let me know which spots are your favorites and let your kids lead the way.
3. Movement, play, and real life
Family life is full of movement and spontaneity. During a family photo session, I gently guide you if needed, but mostly I follow your rhythm. Do what you usually do as a family and go about a normal day. That’s what documentary photography is all about!
4. What I look for as I photograph
The big laughs and hugs, yes! But also the loving glances and the little details like close-up of your hand holding theirs. I pay attention to the small things that make your family yours. You’ll find me crouching in corners, moving with the light, looking for emotion (and not perfection!).
What happens during your Dublin family photo session
1. No stiff poses, no pressure
Forget the idea of “perfect” photos. There, I said it! You’re free!
You don’t need to look at the camera. In fact, the best photos always happen when you forget I’m even there. Don’t feel pressured to look at me and smile, imagine you’re in a feel-good movie about your life. I will sometimes give you prompts to help you, but the great news is: there is nothing special to do, just be you.
2. Including pets and meaningful spaces
If your cat loves to nap on the sofa next to you, let’s include that. If your hallway is decorated with your kids’ drawings, I’ll make sure it’s part of the story. These personal details matter. They make your memories richer, because they’re rooted in real life. If there is something special in your life that you’d like captured, let me know!
3. Time for breaks and snacks? Absolutely
Don’t worry if your child needs a break, a cuddle, or a banana mid-session. We pause as needed. I will follow the flow, and nothing is ever a problem, even tears and a meltdown. Kids will be kids. Being flexible is what keeps the experience joyful and stress-free for everyone.
Want to know how to help your child feel at ease? Read how to prepare your kid for a photo session
4. Ending on a warm note
There’s no sudden “end” to the session, just a gentle winding down. Sometimes we finish with quiet cuddles on the bed, sometimes with a final run across the park. I’ll let you know when I feel we have everything, and we can wrap up in a calm and positive way.
Most of the time, I’ll ask if there’s any photo you feel we might have missed, and I’ll also explain what happens next—like editing timelines and photo delivery. You can read more about it here: what to expect after your family photo session
ARE YOU READY?
If this sounds like your kind of photo session, I’d love to chat.
Let’s get in touch → CONTACT
See my pricing and packages → FAMILY SESSIONS
