In home Session guide
In-home sessions are some of the most meaningful sessions I photograph.
Your home is where your real life happens. the cuddles on the couch, the snacks at the bench, the toy chaos, the little routines, the way your kids move through the spaces they know best. These sessions aren’t about a perfectly styled house or getting everyone to sit and smile. They’re about documenting your family as you are, in the place that holds your everyday life The result is a gallery that feels deeply personal. not just beautiful photos, but memories of this season in the place you lived it.
What to expect
Before your session, think about the things you love doing together. This gives us a starting point and helps shape the natural rhythm of your time at home.
There’s no expectation for anyone to sit still or perform for the camera. We let life unfold as it does, and I photograph the moments as they happen, the movement, the connection, and the in-between.
This might look like painting at the kitchen table, baking on a slow Sunday morning, watering the garden, swimming in the pool, building cubby houses, playing board games on the lounge room floor, jumping on the bed or having music on while you sing and dance together. It could be puzzles, craft, feeding the dog, or jumping on the trampoline.
You don’t need a detailed plan, just a few ideas you enjoy doing together. We may only spend time with one or two of them, and that’s more than enough. Often, one small moment naturally leads to another.
The session follows your family’s rhythm. Some moments will be playful, some quiet, some beautifully imperfect. I’m there to observe and document what’s already there, the way your child leans into you, the shared glances, the laughter when things don’t go to plan.
If it’s part of your everyday life, it belongs in your photos.
Your session usually runs for around two hours. In-home sessions are slower and gentler by nature, and I don’t cap the time. We move at your family’s pace, with space for snacks, cuddles, and settling in when needed.
Home sessions are most often booked in the morning, when the light is soft and little ones are generally at their best. That said, afternoon sessions can be just as beautiful if your home gets good natural light, especially when the golden sun streams through the windows and fills your space with warmth.
If naps or life get in the way, we’ll find a time that works for your children (and you). There’s no pressure to fit into a rigid schedule, we’ll make the timing suit your family.
Around two weeks after our session, your online gallery will land in your inbox.
A note for parents.
You don’t need to entertain, perform or keep things under control.
I love big energy! I won’t ask your kids to stop running, in fact I’ll probably encourage it. If they want to climb, splash, spin, shout or take off running through the house, that’s fine with me. Your role is to run with them, connect, play or sit quietly for a cuddle if that’s what they need.
And one more small but important thing, please don’t point at me and ask your kids to smile. It usually just ends up with photos of parents pointing at the camera! Instead just give them YOUR full attention, even a little tickle to bring on a natural laugh.
The most meaningful photos aren’t when they are smiling on cue, it’s always in the moments that happen in between.
What to Wear
Comfort first
What you wear plays a big role in how your photos will look and feel, but the most important thing is that everyone is comfortable. When you feel good, it shows. Choose soft, breathable fabrics that allow you to move freely especially for kids! So they can run, climb, and play without feeling restricted.
Colours matter
Try to avoid everyone rocking up in all white T-shirts, instead, aim for complimentary colours that work together. Think soft, earthy tones or muted shades that sit nicely alongside each other. Small patterns or subtle textures are fine, but avoid anything too bright that will distract from the natural flow of the images.
For a deeper dive on colour choices, layering, and styling your family for your session, check out my style guide here.
Dress for the environment
At home, it’s all about feeling like you belong in the space, your comfy jeans, a loose dress or shorts and linen shirt choose something that feels like you and fits the everyday vibe of your home.
A few styling tips
Wear texture — denim, linen, and soft knits photograph beautifully and add depth.
Avoid big logos — they date easy and can look out of place in an outdoor environment (a small logo is fine, but big characters can dominate the image).
Keep patterns simple — a few subtle patterns are great to mix it up but too many bold prints together can feel busy.
Avoid bright white cotton t-shirts for the boys and men! — they don’t photograph well, especially in bright locations like the beach. Soft cream or grey works much better.
Add a pop of colour — one bold piece can look amazing, but keep it balanced across the family.
Bring a backup outfit — especially for kids who will run straight to the water!
If you’re still unsure, have a browse through my style guide for more inspiration on how to bring your families outfits together in a way that is authentic to you.
Client closet
If you’d rather not think about what to wear, take a look at my client closet page. I’ve got pieces for mum and children that you are welcome to borrow for you photo session.
A final word
Focus on Each Other
Try to forget the camera is there. Spend time with your family, laugh with your kids, share a cuddle with your partner, and stay in the moment. I’ll take care of capturing what unfolds naturally.
If you’d like a photo with everyone looking at the camera, just let me know. Otherwise, kids tend to be far more settled and engaged when your attention is on them, not on being asked to perform
Embrace the Chaos
Kids will be kids, and that’s where the good stuff lives. They don’t need to be still or quiet. Let them move, explore, and be themselves.Some of the strongest images come from kids doing what they love, whether that’s running, climbing, or getting completely sidetracked. Those moments are often the ones that feel most true when you look back.
Be Present
There’s no need to manage the moment or aim for anything specific. Just be with each other.
Whether you’re holding your newborn, playing with your children, or sharing a quiet moment with your partner, being present allows real connection to come through, and that’s what turns photos into lasting memories.
