Where is the best place for a family session?
Family Sessions in East Sussex
I often get asked for recommendations for where to have your family session and the answer in a nutshell is ‘It’s up to you!’ but here are some thoughts I have and things you should consider when choosing the location of your session.
Nostalgia. Maybe there is a place you go to frequently with your kids to hang out? A specific part of the beach that you love as it’s quiet. Maybe a woods you walk the dog in often or a place you went to when you were children with your family. I think the emotional connection with a location is a super important point to consider. If there isn’t anywhere specific outside of the home, then your home is the perfect place for a session, too. Never mind the mess or if it is only half decorated, kids love to show me their bedroom and all their toys!
Consider the crowds! Fancy a session on Camber Sands in the Summer at 1pm? Think again. But a session at Camber in the evening sun on a weekday? Perfect! If you are feeling uncomfortable at the thought of a busy cityscape then consider the time of year to have your session and also where would be quieter. The woods is always a great idea for avoiding the crowds, and also avoiding school holidays and weekends!
3. Think about the light. If the only time of day you can do is the middle of the day as that works around snack and nap times, then I would avoid very open spaces like the beach. As much as I do love playing with harsh light, I know young children can be quite sensitive to it. And who wants a bunch of pictures with everyone covering their face, in sunglasses or just squinting!? The sun is super harsh in the middle of the day but in a more shaded location, this shouldn’t be too much of a problem. An area with lots of trees or even tall buildings to block out some of the direct sunlight are good ideas too.
4. Stay at home (if you want)! If you have multiple children with different routines and schedules then staying home may be the best option for you! The less disruption to your day the better, and we can do some fun little activities working around nap times, like baking or playing games! Being at home means everyone is a bit more relaxed, too. I love in home sessions for this reason!
In short, I think picking the place where you and your children will feel most comfortable and at ease is the best option for you. I hope this has been helpful if you were considering location before booking a session with me! I photograph families all over the South East and I would love to do a few more family photo shoots in Brighton, too! So if you are based in Brighton then let me know and I will give you a cheeky discount 😏
You can download my e-brochure here!
Can’t wait to chat more,
Charlotte x
