This was the second time I have photographed this lovely Notting Hill family - the first being when their younger daughter was only a few weeks old! It’s amazing how time flies, and a good reminder to try to have family photos done regularly. We were lucky enough to have a gorgeous spring day for our outdoor photoshoot in Holland Park and all the tulips were out in force (appropriately for a Dutch family)!

Natural family photos

The family were keen that the photos were very natural and “unposed”, as though they were photos that they could have taken themselves. With that in mind I only gave minimal direction to the family during the shoot itself, and the final images were edited with a very light touch. This shoot is a great example of my approach to natural family photos - with my focus being on making sure the light is gorgeous (by placing my subjects at the right angle to the sun) and the technical elements of each shot, and leaving the love and interactions to the family for me to capture as though I am not part of the scene.

Black and white portraits

I love the connection between mum, dad and the kids - and the two sisters themselves. Whilst the images are full of warmth and golden light, there is something in the emotion and expressions captured in the photos that lends itself so well to black and white toning. With all the colour removed from the image the eye immediately focuses on the connection of the subjects. The high contrast of the deep blacks and bright whites created by the strong sunlight also means these photos really suit a monochrome tone (unlike some photos which are too low contrast to work quite so well). Black and whites are so timeless and elegant - there is a reason why so many high-end fashion brands choose black and white imagery in their campaigns! (Think of all the Swiss watch or Calvin Klein Eternity commercials). If black and white photos are your thing too, you can see more of this style of portraits in my black and white family and kids portfolio. If booking a family photoshoot with me, make sure I know in advance if you would particularly like black and whites!