Outdoor Newborn Photoshoot in the Surrey Hills | Surrey Family & Dog Photographer
“Mina was outstanding!
We have a two-week-old baby, and our dog, and I was so nervous it would work as our baby could want a feed at any point, but from the first minute, Mina made us feel relaxed and comfortable.
We loved the two hours, and our dog was living his dream and was so well-behaved. Mina spent equal time with each of us and together. We have photos that we will adore for life, and will 100% book again.
Thank you, Mina”
Autumn in the Surrey Hills is my favourite time of year to take family portraits. The air feels crisp, the colours deepen into warm golds and russets, and families instinctively draw closer together. This year has been a beautifully busy one for me as a family photographer, with back to back outdoor family sessions across Surrey, newborn photoshoots both in Surrey and London and many couple & dog photo session. But one newborn photo session in the Surrey Hills has stayed with me in a special way. It was a morning filled with gentle autumnal light and a slight warmth in the air.
The family were a lovely foursome who had recently welcomed a beatiful brand new baby girl. Coincidentally their daughter’s birthday was on the same day as my daughter’s which created an instant connection. They also brought along Buster, their affectionate cream labrador who they rehomed a few years prior and was very much an important part of the family. In the days leading up to the session the rain barely stopped, but on the morning of our shoot the clouds finally lifted. What emerged was that perfect autumn morning every Surrey newborn photographer hopes for! Cool, bright, and wonderfully still - perfect for lifestyle newborn photography.
A Relaxed Outdoor Baby and Dog Photoshoot Near Dorking in Surrey
We met at Abinger Roughs and Netley Park near Dorking, one of my favourite National Trust locations for outdoor family and dog photography. The varied scenery is ideal for a newborn photo session in the Surrey Hills, offering everything from woodland glades to sweeping views across the countryside. It feels peaceful and secluded, giving parents space to settle in and breathe.
The baby stirred as soon as she arrived and showed signs of being hungry, so I suggested an unhurried breastfeeding break before we began. One of the things I love about outdoor family sessions is the flexibility they offer. There is no rush and no pressure. Babies can feed, nap, or be held close whenever they need it. While her mother got comfortable, I spent a few minutes photographing Buster. He trotted in eager circles, ears perked, delighted to be part of the action. His enthusiasm made for lovely pet portraits, from bounding action shots to quiet moments where he paused and looked toward us with soft eyes.
Natural Newborn Photography in the Surrey Hills
Once the baby had finished feeding, we wandered slowly into the woods. The dappled light filtered through the beech trees, creating a naturally gentle backdrop for newborn photography. I photographed the family walking together, their daughter cosy and content, her parents gazing down at her with that unmistakable mix of pride and awe. As always, my approach was to guide lightly, set the scene, then step back and allow natural family interactions to unfold. The most meaningful images often come from unposed moments, and this family slipped into those moments so beautifully.
Buster stayed close by, occasionally nudging his way into the frame in the softest and sweetest ways. Including pets in a newborn photoshoot often adds a unique charm, especially when the pet already adores the new baby. His presence made their photographs feel even more heartfelt and complete.
As we continued along the woodland paths, the scenery opened into a wide field overlooking the Surrey countryside. The landscape stretched out in muted autumn tones and I stepped further back to capture a few wide angle frames. These images always highlight the scale of the natural surroundings and the small, tender bubble the family inhabit within it. There is something poetic about new parents walking through such expansive space, holding the tiniest new life close to their hearts.
Autumn Outdoor Family Portraits
We finished our loop by stopping at the Witches Tree, one of Abinger Roughs’ most striking landmarks. The canopy glowed with the full spectrum of autumnal colour, and it felt like the perfect final spot for a few quiet portraits. The family gathered beneath the branches, taking in the moment, and I captured the gentle stillness of their new beginning.
Outdoor newborn photography has a special rhythm. Babies settle easily, parents feel more relaxed, and the environment becomes part of their story. This dog friendly family photoshoot in the Surrey Hills captured everything I love about this work. Unscripted connection, natural moments, and the timeless beauty of the Hills.
Why Choose an Outdoor Newborn Photoshoot in Surrey
Outdoor family & dog photography sessions offer something unique for families searching for a Surrey newborn photographer. Babies naturally relax in the fresh air, the surroundings shift softly as we walk, and parents feel free to move, feed, cuddle, and simply be themselves. Locations like Abinger Roughs and Netley Park provide a variety of backdrops, from woodland textures to open fields, all of which help create a full and meaningful visual story of this fleeting newborn stage. Dogs love it here, with plenty of space to run around, explore and make friends.
About Me — Surrey Newborn Photographer
Hi! I am Mina, the newborn and family photographer behind Mina Milanovic Photography. My style is natural, gentle, and rooted in storytelling. I believe newborn sessions should feel relaxed and real rather than staged or rushed. Whether photographing at home or outdoors, my aim is always to create images that feel authentic and emotionally rich, reflecting who you truly are as a family. The Surrey Hills has become one of my favourite places to work, offering peaceful landscapes that beautifully complement the quiet moments of early parenthood.
Best outdoor locations for baby photos Surrey
Surrey has so many amazing locations for newborn photography as well as family & dog portraits. Abinger Roughs and Netely park is certanly one of my favourite spots. Other favourite locations include Holmbury Hill, Leith Hill, Friday Street, Headley Heath, Blackheath Common, the picturesque village of Shere, Box Hill and so many other places! If you have a favourite location where you would like to have your family photographs taken, please get in touch to discuss this further.
Three Tips For Taking Great Newborn & Dog Photos
Whether you want to have a go at taking newborn and pet photographs on your own, or you have an up-coming photo session, here are 3 tips for a successful newborn & dog photo session:
Discuss the photo session with your clients. Find out what they would like to get out of it, what they feel comfortable with and whether they have any ideas for locations and shots.
Choose a location which is well suited for a family with a newborn baby and a dog. For some families this will be their home, their local park, or a beautiful woodland walk. Each family is different so it is important to be flexible and agree on location that works for everyone.
Create a relaxing environment. Choosing a great location is the first step in making people feel comfortable with taking pictures, but the second one is reassuring them that all will be well. Babies and children take cues from their parents, so making parents relaxed and engaged in what they feel comfortable doing will calm babies and engage the kids, and this type of interaction makes for great photos.
Gift Vouchers for Newborn Photography in Surrey
Newborn photography gift vouchers are a thoughtful and long lasting present for new parents. My vouchers can be used for outdoor sessions in the Surrey Hills or for in home lifestyle newborn photography. They make a meaningful gift for baby showers, maternity leave celebrations or for friends who want to give something personal and heartfelt. Each voucher includes guidance on preparing for the session so new parents feel supported from the moment they receive it. The voucher also comes with a complementary 9x6’’ print, and is valid for one year from the date of purchase. To find out more, please visit my on line store, or email me directly.
How To Book a Newborn Photo Session in the Surrey Hills
Booking a newborn photo session is simple. You can go on my newborn photography page to find out more about the process and pricing. I will do my best to accommodate you and your family, and help you choose the approach that best suits your family. Outdoor sessions can be scheduled anytime within the newborn period and are suitable for babies of all ages. To reserve a date please contact me through my website or email me directly. I will guide you through choosing a location, planning around feeding and nap rhythms, and making sure your session feels peaceful, enjoyable and well supported.
Ready to Plan Your Newborn Photoshoot?
If you are looking for a Dorking newborn photographer or a Surrey newborn photographer and love the idea of a natural, family focused outdoor session, I would love to hear from you. Let’s create beautiful, meaningful photographs of your growing family in the Surrey Hills.
Notting Hill Family Photo Shoot | Outdoor Newborn & Family Photography London
A Joyful Outdoor Newborn & Family Photography Session in Notting Hill
There’s something incredibly special about being invited back by returning clients. It’s not just a professional compliment, it also feels personal. Being welcomed back into the rhythm of a growing family, trusted to witness and document their journey once again.
This recent outdoor newborn and family photography session in Notting Hill was my fifth session with a family I’ve come to know and adore. Over the past few years, I’ve photographed their wedding, birthdays, and tender family moments as their story has unfolded. And this time, I was asked to meet and photograph their newest family member, baby number three, now five months old, in the familiar private garden of their West London neighbourhood.
Outdoor Newborn Photography with a 5-Month-Old
While “newborn” sessions traditionally happen within the first few weeks, photographing a five-month-old has its own magic. At this age, babies are just starting to show their personalities. This little one was full of smiles, chubby cheeks, cute fingers and toes, and already deeply engaged with the world around him.
We chose to take this family photography session outdoors in Notting Hill, embracing natural light and a private garden the family have access to. One of my favourite things about photographing in this part of London is how effortlessly beautiful it is and how hidden gardens create a perfect backdrop for natural light photography.
A Relaxed and Joyful Documentary-Style Family Session
My approach to family photography is lead by storeytelling, using documentary-style photography to tell a family’s story. With three children under the age of six, there’s already a beautiful, unfiltered rhythm to a session. One minute the older siblings are climbing on trees, the next they’re wanting to cuddle their new baby brother.
There’s a candid chaos that I welcome and work within, letting the children lead, being quick to spot moments of connection, and knowing that the most powerful photographs are often the unscripted ones.
A Family I’ve Watched Grow
Photographing the same family over several years is a gift. I’ve watched this family grow, seen their dynamics shift, and witnessed the joy the children bring to their parents’ lives. During our latest session, we took a quiet moment to replicate a photo from a previous shoot, the two older siblings cuddling on a garden bench. This time, with their baby brother tucked between them, it felt like a perfect full-circle moment.
These kinds of storytelling photographs hold so much meaning. They become a visual timeline of a family’s evolution, layered with love, laughter, and life.
Why Outdoor Family Sessions Work So Well
While many imagine newborn photography as indoor, wrapped, and stylised, I’m here to champion outdoor newborn and family photography as a beautiful, natural alternative. Especially in London, where parks and architecture blend so seamlessly, taking your session outdoors can lead to the most stunning, timeless portraits.
Natural light, fresh air, and space for children to move freely all contribute to the relaxed, authentic feel of the images. And for families with older siblings, it’s often a much more enjoyable and stress-free experience.
About Me: Mina Milanovic Photography
Hi! I am Mina, a Surrey-based family photographer specialising in natural light, storytelling photography that captures the honest beauty of everyday moments. I’ve been photographing families in London (and beyond) for over a decade, and I bring a calm, warm energy to every session.
My work is rooted in connection, between a parent and a child, between siblings, and between families and the places they call home. Whether it’s an afternoon in your local park or a morning in your living room, I want to help you remember not just what this season looked like, but what it felt like.
Photo by Alex Carlisle (@reximusprime)
How to Book Your Family or Newborn Photography Session in London
If you're thinking about booking a newborn photography session in London, or simply want to update your family portraits, I’d love to hear from you.
I offer:
Newborn photography (0–6 months) in London and Surrey
Outdoor family photography sessions in London & Surrey
Documentary-style at-home sessions
Seasonal mini sessions (limited availability)
To find out more or to secure your session date, head over to my Contact Page or drop me an email at mina@minamilanovic-photography.com. Booking early is recommended, especially during spring and autumn, when outdoor sessions are in high demand.
Please note that for privacy reasons, only photographs which do not show my client’s faces have been used in this blog post. Other images, where consent has been granted, have been used for illustrative purposes.
Surrey Quays Newborn Photo Session | London Family Photography
Natural Photography Newborn Portraits
My work as a family photographer gives me some wonderful opportunities to meet different kids of families - families with dogs, families with young children, those with older children and teenagers or extended families. On this occasion, my work took me to Surrey Quays in London to photograph a family with a newborn.
Newborn Sessions
I really enjoy photographing newborn babies, it is such a special time in any family’s life and passes by so quickly. Capturing moments from this stage ensures that this time is treasured in years to come. Although cozy and sweet, these sessions can be slightly unpredictable as one never knows what a newborn baby will be like on the day - sleepy, alert or unsettled. I was really pleased that the baby was very chilled, full of wonder and loving all the cuddles and kisses it was getting from mum & dad. We started the shoot in the bedroom, a large window allowing lots of natural light to come through, flooding the room with beautiful soft light. The family snuggled up on the bed which set the scene for natural candid moments I captured with my trusty Canon R5. After a busy morning, the newborn baby was getting a bit tired so it was the perfect time for some milk and a short nap.
Indoor Family Photo Session
The family had received a photography gift voucher from their friends, to mark the birth of their baby daughter. After discussing possible locations, we settled on meeting at their flat in Surrey Quays, which felt appropriate for the time of year (it was early spring and still a bit chilly) and the age of the baby. It is nice to get some cozy shots inside the house when the baby is in that newborn stage. Indoor photo sessions also give me a challenge - to find new and interesting ways of photographing a family in the confines of their home.
After a very short nap, it was time for some more food. I took this opportunity to take a few quiet images of the baby feeding. After she was finished and when she settled back to sleep, I photographed those tiny toes and tiny fingers before leaving the family in peace and making my way back home.
Book a Family Photo Session
If you like what you saw on this page, and would like to book a family or a newborn photoshoot, please get in touch - I would love to hear from you!
Photography Gift Vouchers
If you have friends who are expecting a baby, or have just bought their first puppy, or want to capture a few family moments, you may wish to consider gifting them a photography gift voucher. Gift vouchers are available for newborn, family, dog and couple photo sessions. They are valid for one year from the date of purhcase, you can purchase a gift voucher alone or add credit towards photography products. I will meet the recipient at their home or at an outside location. For more information, please visit my gift voucher store.
Autumnal Newborn and Pet Photo Session in Wimbledon | London Family and Pet Photographer
Newborn and Pet Photo Session
This was one of my favourite family portrait sessions from last year. This sweet family were gifted a pet photography gift voucher as a 30th birthday present. Because of their circumstance at the time, they asked me if they could upgrade the pet photoshoot to a newborn photo session, and postpone the shoot until the baby was born. I am so pleased that they did!
We arranged to meet on Wimbledon common as it was a half way location. It was an overcast autumnal day, the soft light perfect for family portraits. We started the shoot with together shots of all the family, to get the important shots done while the baby was awake and content. In my experience working as a professional family and pet photographer, it is important to seize the moment and not follow a well structured plan and order of shots to take.
Outdoor Newborn and Pet Photoshoot
Newborn photoshoots are often associated with cozy interiors and snuggled up babies. I do like an indoor newborn photoshoot, but there is something really nice about being outside in nature with the little one and documenting those first weeks in a new family’s life. If I was asked what is the main difference between photographing newborns indoors and outdoors is, apart from the obvious light conditions and the setting, it would be that babies tend to be calmer in the natural environment. They seem to really enjoy the sounds, smells and sights, looking more engaged, awake and interested in what is going on around them. During this particular outdoor newborn photoshoot, the baby was super calm, enjoying cuddles and soaking in the surroundings.
After a few initial shots cuddling with mum, this little girl was really content and calm so I took the opportunity to photograph her up-close, capturing those sweet looks and sleepy yawns.
It wasn’t all about mummy cuddles during this family photo session. It is just as important to capture tender moments between dad and baby, to document those initial weeks when bonds are being formed and both parents and children are discovering each other. I really like this set of photos and they made such amazing prints (more to come later in the blog!)
Outdoor Pet Photography on Wimbledon Common
A big part of the joy when doing a baby and pet photoshoot is photographing the pet (often a dog or a cat) while the baby is feeding or being changed. Doughy the cockapoo was the perfect model, posing very patiently when asked to wait and looking very handsome indeed.
A pet photo session wouldn’t be complete without a few action shots. I chose a wide path which was filled with fallen beech leaves, and bordered with trees, all in their autumnal attires. The resulting colours and simplicity of the background really made the subject stand out. I love the resulting frame of Doughy running - the expression of pure joy and freedom.
Autumnal Photo Session For the Whole Family
The next set of photographs was focused on family portraits. We found a beautifully colourful beech tree and decided to use it as a backdrop for autumnal family photography. The baby had eaten and fallen asleep; it was lovely to take a few snuggly photos and even capture a mid-sleep smile.
We finished this family photography session with a few casual shots of the family walking together, Doughy in the middle of action, and with the baby peacefully sleeping in their parents’ arms.
Who Are Outdoor Newborn and Pet Photoshoots Suitable For?
Outdoor Newborn and Pet Photo Sessions are great for people who love the outdoors and want to capture precious moments after their baby’s born, together with the whole family (pet included!).
These sessions are also great for dog owners, who in the past have considered having a dog photo session but have never gotten round to doing it. A family & pet photo session provides an opportunity to have pet portraits taken while at the same time capturing tender family moments.
For more information about newborn photography, please visit my Newborn Photography page.
What Will I Receive After the Photo Session?
After the photo session, I will edit a selection of photographs and upload them onto a private gallery where you will be able to access and view the image for two weeks. You will be able to choose which photograph you would like printed, as your complementary print, and choose any additional digital files, prints or other photography products. These can be purchased at an additional cost. Most people choose to purchase digital files, and some clients choose prints and framed prints which are great as gifts or finished products that can be enjoyed on display at your home. This lovely family chose to frame several prints. I work with a local framer who offers handmade fine art framing in a variety of finishes, with optional mount boards and anti-reflective glass. I would highly recommend framing some of your family and pet portraits as it really lifts photography to another level and provides a beautiful artwork in your home. Below are a couple of examples from this recent session.
About Mina
I am a family and pet photographer and live in the beautiful Surrey hills with my husband and children. I’ve always enjoyed looking at old family photographs and reliving the moments, or imagining the time that once was, with my ancestors being the main characters of their life. I use natural light to capture connections between families (and their pets) and joyful moments which can be treasured in years to come. I provide gentle guidance and create an environment which would provoke natural reactions, enabling me to capture genuine moments - children having fun, dogs running with ears flapping, families having a good time.
I offer outdoor and at-home newborn, family, couple and pet photo sessions across Surrey and London. Whether you would like to document the first few weeks of your new family, capture your dog on your favourite walk or to record a moment in time in your family life, I am here to help.
If you are expecting a baby, or would like to document your family, please get in touch, I would be delighted to hear from you!
Please fill out the form below or get in touch via mina@minamilanovic-photography.com.
Newborn Photo Session in the Surrey Hills | Surrey Family Photographer
A Relaxing Outdoor Newborn Photo Session
This newborn photo session took place entirely at an outside location. We arranged to meet in the beautiful Surrey Hills, in an area covered with pine forest. My clients and I spent a wonderful morning taking photographs in a gorgeous spot which looked more like the Pacific North West coast of Canada than Surrey. It was an overcast day which provided beautiful even lighting.
Outdoor Family Photography
It is so rewarding photographing families with their new family additions. I love hearing about members of the family getting to know the baby. It is great to hear (and remember!) all those routines and early stages. But most of all, it gives me great joy and satisfaction knowing I am capturing those magical early moments, so often missed or unappreciated due to demands of looking after a tiny baby.
Natural Baby Portraits
I work with natural light to capture portraits of your newborn baby, but also their little features, their tiny noses, eyes, little fingers and tiny toes. I also put quite a lot of emphasis on photographing you with your baby, documenting the spacial bond developing between parents, siblings and grandparents with the little one.
Book A Newborn Photoshoot
If you are expecting a baby, and would like to discuss hiring me to photograph your newborn baby, please get in touch - I would love to hear from you. I work across Surrey, London and the surrounding areas and can always travel further afield at a small travel cost.
Surrey Newborn Photographer / Newborn Photoshoot in Epsom
I have had a really nice variety of work this summer. Family photography sessions, pet photography, christnening photography and quite a few newborn sessions in London and Surrey.
Natural Newborn Photography
My approach when photographing newborn babies is to allow plenty of time for photography and to keep things as relaxed as possible for both the parents and the baby. I give gentle direction when it comes to posing, mainly to position clients where the good light is, where to stand, look or hold their hands. Over the years, I found that this level of direction-giving produces more natural and candid looking photographs. I am able to capture a special look, a little touch, a private moment whilst maintaining natural looking body language which fits the mood of the photograph.
Surrey Newborn Photoshoot
Photos below are from a recent newborn photoshoot in Epsom, Surrey. This was one of my favourite recent newborn photoshoots, as the baby was awake and alert for most of the time, it was engaged and it made the cutest little sounds when swaddled! I also enjoyed experimenting with family poses a bit more which produced some lovely shots of the new family. Finally, this photo session was for return clients of mine - I did a couples photo session, and a post wedding photo session for Paulina and Chris before, so it was great to catch up and see their family grow.
Surrey and London Newborn Photographer
As a newborn photographer, I work across Surrey and London photographing babies and their families. Often this is to mark the arrival of the first or the second baby into the family, but occasionally my clients want me to photograph the extended family meeting the new arrival. If you or your partner are expecting a baby, and are thinking of documenting this special time in your life with a set of beautiful, fine art newborn photographs, please contact me to discuss your ideas. I would be dlighted to capture this special time for you!
Richmond Family Photographer / Kew Family and Newborn Photoshoot
Newborn Photoshoot in RIchmond-upon-Thames
This newborn photoshoot was organised to mark the arrival of the second baby into this lovely family. I really enjoyed getting to know, and to photograph this family. The location for the photoshoot was the family home in Kew, London. We discussed splitting the photo session and doing a part of it indoors, and (weather permitting) doing the second half in the garden. Luckly, the weather gods were with us on the day, so we were spoilt for choice.
Natural Newborn Photography
At the beginning of my photography career, I tried a few different setups when photographing newborns. I found these to be quite awkward and un-natural, and I think I have finally set on photographing newborns in quite a natural way; being adored by their parents, having a curious look during their awake time, sleeping in their cot, interacting with their older sibling(s). This little baby boy was only 5-6 weeks old during this newborn photo session but very much awake and alert nearly the whole time I was there (he eventually dozed off just before I left). I was therefore able to capture a few sweet looks, and tender moments with his parents. We spent some time in the sunshine taking family photos, where I was able to not only photograph the newborn but also the older sibling, and to take a few family photos. After all those family portraits, and outdoor time, it was time for the baby to sleep and what better way to go to sleep than with a gentle kiss from your big brother. The photo, at the very end of the slide show, melts my heart!
Surrey and London Newborn Photographer
If you are interested in having some baby or family photos taken, please contact me to discuss your ideas and requirements. I work across London, Surrey and the South East photographing newborns, babies, children, families and pets!
London Family Photographer / Dulwich Family Photoshoot
London Family Portrait Photographer
I am based in Surrey but the great thing about my job is that I can travel to meet clients at different locations, including London, Surrey and the South East. I always enjoy going into London for a family photoshoot as I spent ten years living in South West London. Every photoshoot relives memories, or gives me an opportunity to explore a new area, not previously visited. South East London is one area which I haven’t visited an awful lot whilst living in London, but have in the last few years been lucky enough to explore, mainly though family photoshoots.
A recent family photoshoot in South East London was close to heart as I got to photograph our friends’ newborn baby. She was adorable and surprisingly alert for such a small baby. Working indoors, and with natural light, I was able to capture lovely family moments and a few awake portraits! Some photographers specialise in using props and creating super-cute photos of tiny newborn babies (which are adorable), but I love photographing babies and capturing the new bond parents and siblings have with their new additions.
After the baby photos were done, it was time to head out for some outdoor fun! We headed over to Nunhead Cemetery, for a walk and a run around. This is another place in South London I haven’t visited before, and what a gem it was! One of the (seven) great Victorian cemeteries in London, it was quiet on a weekend, with lovely paths going around the park, a chapel to visit and an amazing view! Great for photographing children running around! During this half of the session I focused more on photographing the older sibing (and my daughter who was photo bombing!), as he had lots of fun to things to show me, like jumping in puddles and showing me how fast he can run! I played around with slow shutter speed to introduce a sense of motion - something I’ve done during my pet photoshoots and now trying out in family sessions too.
If you are considering having photos taken of your family, please visit my newborn and family photography pages for more information on my photo sessions, prices and how to book. You can contact me if you have an idea which you would like to discuss - I would love to hear from you!
Dorking and Surrey Hills Newborn and Baby Photographer
Working as a London newborn and baby photographer is great as I get to meet new parents and photograph their lovely babies in places like Richmond or Dulwich. This particular photo session was held in leafy Surrey and had a very personal touch.
If you would like to book a newborn photo shoot with me, please contact me to discuss your due date and arrange a session - I would love to hear from you! I work across Surrey, London and the South East.
Newborn photoshoot, Epsom
I was delighted when I got contacted to take photos of a brand new baby girl, Grace who was only 12 days old when I met her.
It was lovely to spend some time with Grace and her family, and capture these really special moments. What made it even more special is that I got to photograph her with her big brother, who was a baby himself last time I saw him.
If you would like to book a newborn photoshoot with me, please contact me in your second or third trimester to let me know when you are due. It is best to photograph newborns in the first few weeks after the birth so I will do my best to have some flexibility around your due date.
