Autumnal Family Photo Session in Putney | London Family Photographer in Wandsworth Park
Autumnal Family Photo Session
The beginning of autumn is such a lovely time for family photography. The weather is still mild, the leaves are on the trees but starting to gain their autumnal colours and summer flowers lingering about. On top of all that, the light starts to gain a softer quality - ideal for family portraits.
Putney Family Session with a one year old
I was contacted by previous clients who’s wedding I photographed a couple of years ago with a wonderful news that their family has expanded. They asked if they could book in a family photo session with a one year old, which I was totally over the moon with!
Wandsworth Park Family Photography
We chosse to meet at Wandsworth park, the family’s local park, minutes away from the bustling Putney high street, and moments away from the River Thames. I have never photographed here before and was suprpised by the variety of areas. We took a walk around and incorporated some classic family portraits with action shots, baby portraits and striking silhouettes. There was a gorgeous avenue of London plane trees which was my favourite, and a wildlife meadow area - perfect for those relaxed family portraits.
Book a Putney Family Photoshoot
My clients have asked me to respect their privacy, so I am only showing a couple of photographs here for which I got their approval. If you would like to book a family photo session in Putney, Wandsworth Park, or anywhere else in London, please get in touch I would love to hear from you.
About Me
Hello! I am Mina, a Surrey-based wedding photographer drawn to candid moments, natural light, and the in-between frames that tell the truest stories. I specialise in intimate weddings, South London wedding photography, and London micro weddings, photographing in a style that is both fine art and documentary. If you are looking for someone who will gently document your day without intrusion, you're in the right place. For more information about wedding photography packages, please visit my wedding photography page. Please get in touch to discuss the details of your wedding day, I would love to hear from you.
Surrey Wedding Photographer at the Luxury Country House of Lord Beaverbrook
Private Birthday Celebration at Beaverbrook Luxury Country House Hotel
One of the things I love about my job is witnessing families I photograph go though different milestones in their life, including big birthdays. On this occasion, my clients invited me to Beaverbrook Country House near Leatherhead to capture their loved one’s 80th birthday celebration. It was an intimate family lunch followed by cake and family time at Beaverbrook’s stunning gardens.
Nestled in the gently rolling Surrey hills near Leatherhead, Beaverbrook feels at once grand and welcoming. A place where you sense the stories of the past quietly echoing through the corridors, mingling with the laughter and excitement of celebrations unfolding today. Beaverbrook is the quintessential English country house, a former home to William Maxwell Aitket, 1st Baron Beaverbrook, a press mogul and a friend of Winston Churchill. Formaly known as Cherkley Court, the house was build in the second half of the 19th centrury for Abraham Dixon, a metal exporter. The house was acquired by Lord Beaverbrook in 1910 who lived there for the next 50 years and enterntained many well known figures such as Winston Churchill, Bonar Law, H.G. Wells and many others. From the late nineties, for a couple of decades, the house went through restoration, changes in menagement and ultimately in 2017 opened as “Beaverbrook” - an exquisite country house hotel and a space that hosts weddings and parties of all kinds.
And it was a wonderful venue for the milestone birthday gathering I photographed. The family made a booking for a private dining space inside, a room decorated with wood panneling and elegant mahogany furniture. It was a lovely space where the family could enjoy a meal and instantly feel relaxed. After blowing candels on an impressive mustang shaped cake, we stepped outside for family portraits.
Wedding Photography at the Luxury Home of Lord Beaverbrook
In addition to being a venue for private gatherings, events and parties, Beaverbrook’s elegant interiors and 470 acre gardens can be hired as an intimate wedding venue. Working as a wedding photographer, I am always drawn to venues that feel authentic, where the atmosphere is as important as the architecture. Beaverbrook is exactly that sort of place. It is grand and sophisticated yet warm and welcoming. From the moment I stepped in, the staff greeted me with warmth and kindness, directing me to where I needed to go.
I was inspired by the beautifully decorated gardens, seeing photo opportunities in every nook and corner. For a couple who wishes to have their wedding portraits taken here, the choices are limitless. From the stunning view of the surrounding Surrey Hills, to the stone garden temples, wide garden paths thoughtfully planted and alive with seasonal colour, views of the house itself - t - there is something for every taste.
If you’re thinking about Beaverbrook for your wedding or celebration, I can wholeheartedly recommend a visit. Take a walk through the gardens, linger over tea in the Morning Room, and imagine how your day might unfold. It really is a place where memories are made.
Surrey Wedding Photographer
My name is Mina, I am a professional family and wedding photographer working across London and Surrey. As a wedding photographer, I strive to capture the emotion and unique personalities of my clients during their wedding day. I use documentary style photography to portray the day unfolding, working with natural light to create relaxed, candid shots of you and your family and friends having a good time. My photography style is unobtrusive, professional and fun. I will give direction for big group shots and intimate couples shots to make sure I get the best possible picture, but otherwise I work quietly and discreetly to capture natural moments of you and your wedding party enjoying themselves. Please visit my wedding photography page for more information.
Get In Touch
If you’d like to talk more about photography at Beaverbrook or any other Surrey venue, I would love to hear from you. Please get in touch by sending an email to mina@minamilanovic-photography.com or fill out the contact form below.
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.
Spring Family Photo Session in Richmond Park | Richmond Family Photographer
It was a lovely early spring family photo session in Richmond park. This family of three was relocating to Hong Kong and wanted a set of photographs as keepsake from their favourite local park. We had arranged to meet at Pembroke lodge, a Grade II listed Georgian mension in the heart if Richmond park, surrounded by beautifully kept gardens and opening up to the park. It was a fairly mild, dry overcast day, perfect for family photography.
Fun Family Photography
The morning began with lots of energy and hence action shots! The little girl was very keen to show off her running skills, swing in between her parents and play chase with her dad. I love it when parents join in the child’s invitation to play, the moments captured are full of joy, laughter and life! We continued to wander slowly through the gardens, stopping where we found interesting areas and features. For a moment, the little girl stopped by some hellebores and heard a bee buzzing, this gave me an idea for a framed image of her next to the flowers. The moment felt peaceful and tranquil, but soon it was time for more excitement and further things to explore.
We next walked to the King Henry's Mound telescope and tried to see the protected 10-mile view to St Paul’s Cathedral. Due to the mist that morning we were unable to spot it. However, it well worth the try as the telescope ended up providing minutes of good fun (and photographic opportunities)!
Spring Family Photoshoot
The signs of spring were everywhere - in the cherry blossoms, daffodils, primroses, hellebores and all the wonderful flowers, shrubs, hedges and trees around us. Nature was ready to burst into life! The pink cherry blossoms cought my eye so we spent a few minutes under the trees - the little girl trying to catch them, flying under them and being thrown into them. I love the colour palette and the sculptural form of trees in this set of photographs, combined with the joyous expression on this gorgeous two year old’s face.
From here, we walked down towards Elm Walk. This area of the park contains large conifers with beautiful green gray needles which I thought would be a wonderful backdrop for some more family portraits. We found a large fork-like branch which served as a “boat” in our maritime game, and then as a kitchen for some cookary classes. In addition to the warm, close-up portraits of the whole family I also wanted to capture a few images of the family surrounded by these great old trees. I love the spontanious yet timeless nature of this set of images.
Family Portrait Photographer
As our time together gently came to a close, we paused for a well-deserved snack—just enough to recharge those little legs and give the moment a soft landing.With crumbs still on tiny fingers, I saw an opportunity for a few final portraits. She sat quetly, relaxed and full of wonder. Just then, she started chatting to her parents. It was tender, unhurried and sweet. I lingered in the background, camera in hand, capturing those final frames - her wonderous look, a little smile and excitment caused from touching primroses. It was a wonderful day at work for me, one I will remember with fond memories.
About Me
Hi! I am Mina, a family photographer based in Surrey. I specialise in documentary-style photography, telling the story of your family and capturing candid moments as they happen. Whether it is an important event in your life or you are just looking to update your family album, I aim to document your life events and memories in a set of beautiful photographs which will evoke happy memories, with a hint of nostalgia in years to come. My working style is professional, relaxed and unintrusive, focusing on trying to capture genuine moments using soft natural light. My photoshoots are easy going and fun, done at a location of your choice, either in the comfort of your home, in your favourite park or both! I work across London, Surrey and the South East, but also happy to travel further afield.
Booking a Family Photo Session
Booking a family photography session is easy. Just fill out the contact sheet on my website, drop me an email on mina@minamilanovic-photography.com or call me on 07793 677 867 and tell me a little bit about yourself, where and when you would like to have the photoshoot done. I will then get in touch with some information and potential dates.
Pembroke lodge - The Perfect london Wedding Venue
In addition to being a great location for family photography, or the perfect venue for a christening reception, Pembroke Lodge is the only licenced venue within a London Royal Park, and therefore a unique setting for your big day. If you are planning a wedding and you are looking for a Richmond Wedding Photographer, please get in touch to discuss your ideas and your requirements. I offer tailored photography coverage to meet your needs, from 2h to full day wedding photography service.
Autumn Family Photoshoot at Lightwater Country Park | Surrey Family Photographer
Autumn is a great time for family photo shoots - crisp air, golden leaves, and soft afternoon light. My recent session at Lightwater Country Park with a lovely family of five - Mum, Dad, and their three beautiful daughters - was a perfect example of why this season works so well for photos.
Lightwater Country Park
Lightwater Country Park is a lovely heathland & woodland area at the edge of Lightwater Village. It comprises of some 59 hecters of varied habitat that not only provides a great photography backdrop, but also a valuble wildlife habitat. The area of heathland within the Country Park has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). We took the first few shots in the wooded area of the park, but then quickly moved as the girls were full of energy from the start, eager to explore. The second set of photographs was taken exactly in this heathland area of the park, the smells of heather lingering in the air. I love to let kids lead the way in sessions, making it relaxing and fun for them, which in turn enables me to capture their personalities and energy.
Children portraits
We then moved into the woodland part of the park, but this time the backdrop was quite different - it was filled with oak and pine trees. This was a great place for a little rest and a sack. I took the opportunity to photograph the girls one by one, having their portraits taken with autumnal sunshine backlighting them. I was being silly making up different stories with the girls in hope they would engage and that their personalities would come out. I love their little expressions - each telling a little story of who they are as a person.
After stillness comes action (and cuddles & giggles)! We thought it would be fun to walk in a line (which didn’t work!) and give Mum and Dud lots of cuddles. This turned into a bit of a workout for the parents, holding each girl for a photo - and then all of them together at once!
Fun Family Portraits
The games continuted until the end of our session. We threw leaves into the air, played peek-a-boo with autumnal leaves, and had a mini race along one of the woodland paths. The gilrs had a blast running, making for some great natural action shots. Mum and Dad were relaxed and happy, laughing as they watched their girls enjoy themselves. Some of my favourite photos from this family photo session were the simple moments - Dad carrying all the girls, parents laughing because the girls photo bombed their photo, and the three girls running together with the autumn colours, joy filling their faces.
As we were going back to the car park, a little path presented itself as a nice location for some more ‘formal’ shots. After a few frames, and an afternoon of fun, we headed back to the cafe for some refreshments before going our separate ways.
Lightwater Country Park is such a great location with its mix of heathland, woodlands, ponds, areas of scrub and views over Surrey, making for a beautiful location for family photography. Working as a Surrey family photographer, I am sure I will be back there again soon!
Family Photo Session Gift Vouchers
With Mother’s Day fast approaching, now is a great time to gift a family photo shoot voucher. Whether it’s for parents who want to capture memories of their children or grandparents who love family photos, a family photo session gift voucher is a meaningful and lasting present. My vouchers are beautifully presented and valid for a year, so you can choose the best time for your shoot.
Booking a family photoshoot
If you’d like to book a session or find out more about my vouchers, please get in touch. Let’s capture some great memories together!
Working with Mina
A little about me... I’m Mina, a family photographer based in Surrey. I focus on capturing real moments—natural, relaxed, and full of personality. My sessions are easy going and fun, making sure you feel comfortable and enjoy the experience. If that sounds like what you're looking for, I’d love to hear from you!
Surrey Family Photographer | Autumnal Family Photo Session in the Surrey Hills
Family Photography in Surrey
The second half of last year was really busy with family photoshoots. As a working parent of two children (one of them under three), I was just about managing to do the photo sessions and edits during the week. My blogging took a hit, so I am trying to catch up now that the Christmas fever has passed and we have entered a slightly quieter part of the year. Although my calendar is slowly filling up, January is the perfect time to catch up with admin, and in my case - my website!
Autumnal Family Photoshoot
This autumnal family photo session in the Surrey Hills was one of the highlights from last year. The day was sunny and mild, the family so sweet and our location absolutely gorgeous. During the session I tried to incorporate a mix of slightly directed shots where I would set the scene and let the family interact, but also capture genuine moments when the family was interacting, playing or laughing.
Outdoor Family Photography
Sunny days can be a bit of a challenge in terms of light. Since this family photoshoot was done in the middle of autumn, the sun was low so lighting wasn’t a major challenge, but there were a few instances where we had to search for shaded areas to avoid direct sun or glare. However, sunshine also brings an abundance of opportunities, like great contrast for black and white family portraits, playful shots involving shadows and beautiful back-lit soft light portraits.
Children Portraits
I always enjoy finding quiet genuine moments during the family photo sessions. We found a bench and stopped for a little rest and a few cuddles. The boy was really content and soon started looking out into the garden, and looking for birds that were chirping around us. The light was coming from behind and made a beautiful scene for a few portraits of the boy.
Family Portraits in a Beautiful Autumn Garden
Before heading to the playground, we took a moment to observe art and spend a little bit of time in the formal gardens which still had late autumn flowering plants like gorgeous salvia, and beautiful climbers around archways. These made a very photogenic setting for some more relaxed family portraits.
Fun Children Photography
Once we were finished with group family portraits, and individual shots of mum & baby and dad&baby, we headed towards the playground for some fun! I really enjoy taking photos at playgrounds, the equipment provides a lot of opportunities for creative shots, and children engage in activities therefore forgetting I am there.
I couldnt resist a few final shots of the family playing and lauging together…
And last but not least - those important shots of mum & dad, so easily forgotten with a little person in tow, but an important reminder of the love couples share for one another, even after becoming parents.
Hope you enjoyed viewing this blog post as much as I enjoyed taking the photos and reminding myself of the good time we had while writing this post. If you would like to book a family photo session, find out more about me, or purchase a photography gift voucher for someone, please scroll down.
Book a Family Photography Session in London and Surrey
If you’d like to book a family and pet photoshoot, please contact me though my website, or email at mina@minamilanovic-photography.com. I would love to capture memories of you and your family and pet enjoying each other’s company.
I look forward to hearing from you!
Surrey family photographer
Hello! My name is Mina, I am a professional family, pet and wedding photographer, offering location based, natural photography across Surrey, London and the South East.
Whether it is an important event in your life or you are just looking to update your family album, I aim to document your life events and memories in a set of beautiful photographs which will evoke happy memories, with a hint of nostalgia in years to come.
In addition to family and dog photography, I offer wedding, baptism and branding photography services across London, Surrey and the South East. My working style is professional, relaxed and unintrusive, focusing on trying to capture genuine moments using soft natural light. My photoshoots are easy going and fun, done at a location of your choice, either in the comfort of your home, in your favourite park or both!
A Photography Gift Voucher For Any Occasion
If you know a family who would like to document their family life with a set of beautiful photos, why not consider my family photography gift vouchers? You can purchase a two hour photo session, and gift a fun experience together with captured memories which will be cherished in years to come. Please visit my gift voucher page, or contact me directly to discuss your requirements. Thank you!
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.
Family Photo Shoot with Dog in Surrey
This family received a Christmas dog photography gift voucher from their daughter. She thought the whole family would enjoy the experience of having their photos taken in company of their elderly dog, in their beautiful home in Surrey.
Family photo shoots with dogs are always fun! Dogs bring a different energy to the session, and I find that people tend to be more relaxed in front of the camera when dog is around. There is another being to think about, to instruct, pose and cuddle, diverting the attention away from thinking about how we look or feel in front of the camera.
When photographing dogs and families, I work to initially take a few group shots. Then, depending on the energy level of the dog I am photographing, I either take dog portrait shots, or dog action shots. Then I would move over to individual family member portraits with the dog, and finally focus on more spontanious and creative images. That way, I ensure I have a wide variety of photographs my clients can choose from.
I am based in Surrey, but will travel to your home or one of the stunning locations in Surrey and London for family photography or family and dog photo sessions.
To purchase a dog photography gift voucher as a birthday present, or a Christmas gift, please contact me to discuss your requirements. Alternatively, head over to my Gift Vouchers page where you purchase a one hour or two hour pet photography gift certificate directly from my website.
Surrey Family and Dog Photography
Family Dogs was a personal project which I ran last year, and which I hope to continue once the lockdown restrictions are eased on the 29th March. The aim of this project was to explore the relationship pets have with their families, and to do the project locally in Surrey.
As a Surrey dog photographer, I really enjoy meeting different dogs and getting to know them in the time I am there to photograph them. This little dachshund was a bit unsure when he first met me. It took him a little while to relax and be comfortable. During this time, I photographed the little girl who was all smiles and enjoyed hearing the click of my shutter button. When the dog relaxed, I was ready to photograph both the girl and the dog, and all the family together. This was the opportunity to capture some genuine and homey moments.
The outside session allowed me to experiment with family photography. I wanted to capture the family in a natural surrounding but also to use natural elements creatively in my photography. A fallen branch, a reflective surface and soft light provided some wonderful opportunities.
I really missed doing family photoshoots in Surrey the last few months and I can’t wait to get going again. You can see similar blog posts if you visit my blog. Please get in touch if you would like to participate in this project. If you would like to find out more about my family photoshoots, please visit my family photography page. If you have a dog and would like to find out more about my dog photo sessions, please visit my dog portraits page.
For information on photography gift vouchers, see my store.
Any questions - drop me a line!
