What to Expect During a Family Photoshoot in Devon With Me

Jade Collins
Jan 1
5 min read

Updated: Jan 2

Booking a family photoshoot can feel exciting… and also a little terrifying! If you’re thinking “We don’t have a clue what we’re doing , you’re going to have to tell us what to do” take a breath. You are not alone!

Almost every family I photograph feels nervous before their session. Especially the mums who organise it all.

This blog will walk you through exactly what to expect during a family photoshoot in Devon with me, so you can relax, show up as you are, and enjoy the experience you’ve invested in.

A women sitting in tall grass gently strokes a small blonde child lying on her lap. Both wear light blue jeans and white tops. the scene captures a tender peaceful outdoor moment.

You Don’t Need to Know What You’re Doing

Let me say this clearly:You do not need to perform. You do not need to pose. You do not need perfect children.

Most dads turn up worried about “messing it up,” not really understanding why these photos matter so much. And here’s the truth, it’s because mums are so rarely in the frame. These photos are about making sure your children can look back one day and see that mum was there too.

And I promise you this: I’ve got you.

What Happens Before Your Family Photoshoot in Devon

Once you book, I don’t just leave you guessing.

You’ll receive:

I’m very involved in the planning. Especially when it comes to location and time of day, which makes a huge difference to the final images.

If you’re unsure what will work best, I’ll guide you (this is explained in more detail in my Best Family Photoshoot Locations in Devon blog).

No question is silly or too small. Outfit worries? Child concerns? Nerves? Ask me anything.

If you haven’t already, you might also find my blog on what to wear for a family photoshoot in Devon really helpful . It’s all about comfort, movement, and letting kids be kids.

A women in a white dress stands in a grassy field lifting a small child joyfully into the air. wildflowers and tall grass surround them, with trees and a blue sky in the background.

Meeting for the First Time — How Your Photoshoot Begins

When we meet, there’s no pressure.I’ll introduce myself, have a little chat . How was the journey? Love your outfits. Isn’t the light gorgeous today? and then we ease straight in.

I’ll gently say something like:

“Just play with your children like you would at home. Cuddles, kisses, piggybacks, peek-a-boo. Don’t look at me or the camera, enjoy this moment you’ve invested in.”

And then something important happens…

I step back.

During Your Family Photoshoot, Your Children Lead

On my shoot days, your children are always in charge.

I don’t line you up.I don’t ask children to stand still and smile.I don’t want those photos and neither do you.

Instead, I use playful prompts:

Ring a Ring o’ Roses
Hide and Seek
Cuddle attacks
Running, spinning, rolling in the grass

Your child would much rather belly laugh while being tickled than stare at a stranger with a camera and that is exactly what we will capture.

I want to be a fly on the wall, the bird in the tree, quietly documenting your family as memories unfold.

A man sits in tall grass smiling with a baby oh his shoulders. The baby has an open mouth as if laughing or shouting. Trees and a blue sky are in the background.

What If My Child Doesn’t Cooperate During the Photoshoot?

This is one of the biggest worries I hear, and honestly? It’s not a problem.

Shy children

Shy children are completely normal. I am a stranger, after all.That’s why I don’t step in too much.

You are your child’s safe space! So I let you play with them, distract them, cuddle them. When it feels like it’s “just you and them,” their true selves come out. That’s what we want.

Wild or chaotic children

Amazing. I’m here for it.

This is why comfy, moveable clothes matter (and why snacks and water are always a good idea). We don’t change who your child is ,we photograph it!

Children who walk away or say no

We don’t bribe. We don’t force. We don’t make it worse for future shoots.

Instead, I might gently say:

“Mummy really needs a hug, she’s feeling a bit sad.”

And usually? They come running in for that cuddle.

Because connection always works better than control.

How Long Does a Family Photoshoot Last?

Around one hour.

That’s the sweet spot before little ones get tired, bored, or ready to go home, and that’s okay. I would never force a child to keep going for two hours just for photos. That wouldn’t be fair on them, and it wouldn’t give you the memories you’re investing in.

A women and man stand in a grassy field , holding a baby in festive clothes. A dog in a red sweater looks up at them. The background features trees and a blue sky.

Outdoor Family Photography in Devon

I’m an outdoor photographer through and through. I love nature, movement, and space.

We might:

Walk together
Explore gently
Let children lead the way

In summer, I love countryside locations.In winter, quieter beaches work beautifully (I cover this more in my Devon locations and best time to shoot blog).

What Happens If the Weather Isn’t Perfect?

Ah, British weather, we know it well.

Cloudy days: perfect, soft light
Light rain: no issue unless you’re uncomfortable
Heavy rain / winter rain: we reschedule

I keep a close eye on the forecast and stay in touch right up until we meet. You’re never left guessing.

A women stands in a field of tall grass, holding a small child who kisses her on the cheek. Trees and hills are visible in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

What I Want You to Focus On During Your Family Photoshoot

During your shoot, your only job is this:

Focus on your child
Be present
Play
Connect

If I’m quiet, you’re doing it right!

Forget perfection. Forget Pinterest boards (sorry, they need to go). There is no such thing as “perfect,” and chasing it stops everyone from relaxing.

Put your phone down. Be you. Enjoy this hour with your family.

What Happens After Your Family Photoshoot

After your session, you’ll receive your images via a private online Pic-Time gallery, within a week.

From there, you can:

Download your images
Order prints
Create albums
Invest further in your memories

Seeing my work printed and displayed in your home honestly gives me butterflies because these moments deserve to live beyond a screen.

A women and young child sit together in a field of tall grass under blue sky , both looking toward the sunlight and smiling softly.

How I Want You to Feel About Your Family Photoshoot

I want you to walk away thinking:

“That was such a good investment. We forgot the camera was even there.”

And years from now, when your children look back at these photos, I want them to see:

Love
Chaos
Connection
And proof that you were there

Family Photoshoot in Devon — Frequently Asked Questions

What if my child needs a break?

Of course we can take a break that is not an issue.

can grandparents join?

Of course they can the more the welcome. Make it a whole family experience to remember.

What do we wear ?

Tricky to know right. But thats okay my outfit guide and blog will help you and if you need further help I am here.

Ready to Book Your Family Photoshoot in Devon?

If this sounds like the experience you’ve been looking for: relaxed, playful, and deeply meaningful! I’d love to photograph your family.