Prepare a family photo session, simply

Let's start with your family.

A family session can be exciting and bring up plenty of questions. Will the children cooperate? Should everyone wear matching clothes? Will there be time for a photograph together? Ask me before you come. These questions are part of preparing for the session.

What helps me first is knowing who will be there, the ages of the children and what you would like to keep from this moment. A portrait of you all, some images with the grandparents, the bonds between brothers and sisters… We can choose a starting point together, then leave room for what will happen.

You don’t have to arrive with a precise idea of each photograph. Come with your desires, even if they are still a little vague. My role is also to help you give them shape.

Clothes you feel comfortable in.

I advise you to start with an outfit that you love to wear. It must allow you to sit down, hold a child in your arms or move without having to put it back into place with each movement. For the little ones, the comfort can also be seen in the photographs.

Lay the clothes side by side before the session. If you like the colors together, that’s already a good base. Two or three matching shades are often enough. The materials bring life: a knitted sweater, a soft shirt, a dress that moves with you.

Large logos and high-contrast patterns can catch the eye. If you're unsure between two outfits, show them to me. We will also look at the background or the chosen location, because a color does not react the same way everywhere.

Let your children set the pace.

One child may want to watch for a while before joining in. Another may be ready to move as soon as they arrive. Tell me what time of day your children usually feel most at ease. For babies, feeds and naps are useful starting points.

You can simply explain that you are going to spend time together and have some photographs taken. There is no need to practise smiling beforehand. During the session, I guide you and adapt to the children's reactions.

If a child needs to stay in your arms or take a break, we make room for that. A conversation, a little game, a moment to come closer: these show your connection too. I want everyone to feel at ease, without asking children to become someone else for the camera.

In the studio or outside?

At the studio in Uccle, we have controlled lighting and a space sheltered from the weather. This can be a comfortable option with young children or when you would like a portrait against a simple background.

Outdoors, the setting becomes part of the portrait. A walk, trees, a place you love: your photographs keep something of that atmosphere. We choose the place and time around the season, light, access and your family's pace.

If you are hesitant, start by looking at the images that attract you to the family portfolio. Tell me what you like. We can find an atmosphere that suits you, taking into account the conditions of the day.

Before coming, keep these few points in mind.

• Tell me the number of people, the ages of the children and any special needs.
• Choose comfortable clothes and look at their colors together.
• Plan what usually helps your children feel good.
• Leave a small margin for the journey and arrival.
• Tell me if there is a photograph that is particularly important to you.

You will find the session options and practical details on the session page. The number of people helps us choose the right format. And if you are still unsure, you can write to me : we will watch it together.