We’re thrilled with our recent family portrait shoot, introducing the very beautiful Poppy and her gorgeous little brother, Oliver, from the Milton Keynes area.
Oliver has that very cheeky, lovable grin that would have you believe he’s a saint! In fact, he’s full of boundless energy that only a (nearly) 2 year old knows, and he’s a boy who knows his own mind. We wouldn’t have it any other way, spirited 2 year olds mean fun filled photo shoots and some hilarious moments as we go, but admittedly, leave us worn out for a while afterwards. We just have to go about the photography a bit more tactically….with plenty of toys!
Poppy has incredible patience for a 5 year old, and impeccable manners. She was also incredibly giving of herself, happy to listen to instruction to get the best out of her moment in front of the lens and was a real joy to work with. Together, their sibling bond was strong and there was lots of fun be to be had, especially our peekaboo game from behind the back of the sofa, the only time when most children have permission to climb up!
Mum and dad were superstars! They encouraged and reassured both the children which helped the shoot to flow, keeping the children focussed as they started to tire. Although our shoots can take as little as half an hour and up two hours, whatever the time in the studio it’s always tiring for children, and they usually leave ready for a snooze on the journey home.
We keep our siblings-together shots (family portraits) till the end so they are relaxed in front of the camera, as their initial coyness lends itself well to some characterful individual shots. This allowed us to show case Oliver’s cheekiness and Poppy’s confidence. Girls with long hair always create fab results as we go for some lift with the fan to achieve great artistic frame-filling shapes, and this formula works well in Poppy’s images.
We didn’t quite bargain on Oliver’s love of stickers and toys, so much so that he wanted them with him in the final family shots. With our combined adult mastery of communicating with looks and knowingness, we were able to whisk them away, including sneaking away our studio tiger toy which he’d fallen in love with!
We also resorted to good old fashioned bribery when Poppy started to tire, as the promise of sweets usually helps to get those last few shots. Definitely a shallow tactic, but more importantly, effective!
This shoot was a real pleasure and the reason we do what we do. Thanks to mum, dad, Oliver and Poppy for brightening up an autumnal Saturday. We hope you enjoy the photos as much as we do.