I believe those authentic, unposed moments are where the true magic lies. So no forced poses or smiles – just photos of natural laughter and the smiles that come from sharing life with your loved ones.
Family photoshoots can take place at home, down the park or out and about in Derbyshire.
Playing ball games in Bakewell, bouncing on the bed in Matlock or paddling in the sea all the way over in Skegness. However you enjoy spending your time together – let’s capture it!
”Simon worked with us at home just observing the children at play and they were totally relaxed with him. As a result he managed to capture their spirit, their sense of wonder, the magical in the mundane and the normal chaos of family life. It is those moments that we will want to look back on in years to come.
RosieFamily Photoshoot at Home in Derby
Documentary family photography is all about capturing real life — not the polished, posed version, but the honest, beautiful, everyday moments that make your family yours.
Instead of everyone lining up and smiling at the camera, I simply step into your world and quietly document what’s happening as it unfolds. That might be pancake breakfasts in pyjamas, muddy walks in the park, chaotic bath time, or quiet cuddles on the sofa.
The idea isn’t to make your life look perfect — it’s to tell the story of who you are right now. The laughter, the mess, the little in-between moments that often get missed.
Think of it less like a photo shoot and more like me being a friendly fly on the wall, capturing your family just being yourselves. These are the kinds of photos that, years from now, take you straight back to how it felt.
”Simon captured some wonderful family photos for us during an Autumn day in Markeaton park. We hardly noticed he was there while we entertained our 2 year-old by throwing leaves and climbing on logs, so we were amazed that he managed to capture so many beautiful shots.
Carol, MIke & RobinMarkeaton Park, Derby
I shoot in a very relaxed and natural style. It’s often referred to as photojournalism, documentary or reportage. It doesn’t involve posing and it relies on letting you and your family be yourselves.
Anything your family enjoy doing together is really helpful. Flying a kite, playing a ball game…. with older families we’ve even played card games for the photo session.
We can either reschedule before the session – move the session indoors or put coats and wellies on and go and splash in some muddy puddles.
Family photography can take place in a family home, in a forest, down the park… anywhere you feel at home with your family.
In Derbyshire we’re wonderfully placed for the Peak District, Dovedale, Buxton & Sherwood Forest and Derby has several wonderful parks.
My priority is that you feel relaxed and comfortable for your photos – so what you feel comfortable in is the best advice I can give! After that, try to avoid large logos / text and bold patterns…. although all these rules are there to be broken!
The family photoshoot is for up to 5 family members – with a £30 surcharge for each additional participant.
You have a digital gallery where you can download your images and order lab prints.
Please get in touch using the form on this page and tell me about your family and requirements and we’ll get the ball rolling.
