Family Photo Ideas for Parents Who Don't Like Posing
I have been photographing families in Hertfordshire, UK for the last 12 years. My favourite portraits always end up being the ones where you are interacting with your children. They will also be the portraits you and your children will connect with the most in years to come. Imagine 10 years from now, sat showing your now 14 year old a portrait of you reading their favourite book from when they were 4.
“oh god I remember that book! You loved it! Made me read it 5 times a day for about 3months. I still remember it word for word, do you remember?” Fingers crossed it will spark a memory for them of being snuggled up to you with that book. Such a simple moment but so precious.
5 Ideas for Relaxed Family Sessions that do not include posing
A Picnic
Bring along a blanket, some cake and fruit, and find a shady spot beneath a tree. Imagine little fingers reaching for strawberries, crumbs on cheeks, and children proudly sharing their favourite snacks with Mum and Dad. There might be cuddles on the blanket, tickles in the grass, and moments where everyone simply slows down together.
The best part? There's no pressure to sit still. Children can wander, pick flowers, or curl up beside you with a full tummy while I quietly document all those natural moments of connection.
Reading Time
Kids love stories, and there's something special about snuggling up together with a favourite book. Whether you're sat under a tree in the park or wrapped up on a blanket, reading gives children your full attention and helps everyone relax.
As little ones point excitedly at pictures, climb onto laps, or turn pages with concentration, they quickly forget about the camera. The result is a collection of affectionate images that feel genuine and full of connection.
Woodland Adventure
Perfect for children who prefer exploring to standing still. Head into the woods together and see where the adventure takes you. Hunt for sticks to make magic wands, search for animal tracks, balance along fallen logs, or collect leaves and pinecones along the way.
A nature hunt can make it even more exciting. Look for a yellow flower, an interesting rock, a feather, or the biggest stick you can find. Think forest school rather than photoshoot. Your children can lead the way while you enjoy being present with them, and I'll capture the wonder and curiosity as it unfolds.
Garden play (in your own home)
Perfect for warm summer days and children who feel happiest in familiar surroundings. If you're Stevenage based, I offer at home sessions where I come to you and document an ordinary morning made special.
Fill up the paddling pool, bring out the hose, blow bubbles, kick a football around or enjoy ice creams in the sunshine. There might be wet feet, grass-stained knees and lots of laughter. Being at home often helps children feel completely relaxed, allowing me to capture authentic documentary style images of family life exactly as it is.
Baking (in your own home)
Spend a morning making cupcakes, decorating biscuits or flipping pancakes together. Children love helping in the kitchen, even if half the ingredients end up on the worktop instead of in the bowl.
Expect flour covered hands, stolen chocolate chips, proud smiles as they stir the mixture, and plenty of giggles when things don't go quite to plan. Afterwards, sit together around the table to enjoy the treats you've made. These sessions are full of interaction, storytelling and the kind of everyday moments that families often look back on most fondly.
Bonus Idea- Rainy Day at home
Rainy days can make for some of the cosiest family photographs. Make hot chocolates piled high with marshmallows, build a blanket fort in the living room, read stories together or snuggle up on the sofa for a favourite film.
Listen to the rain against the windows while your children curl up beside you. These slower moments often create the most heartfelt images. The kind that remind you exactly what family life felt like during this season of life.
If capturing portraits like this is on your to do list, I recommend booking as early as possible. Summer sessions are always in high demand. Weekends usually sell out 2 months in advance. Why not get in touch to discuss your dream photo session? <3
With love
Jen
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