Winter Family and Pet Photo Session in Sussex | Surrey Family Photographer
At home family photoshoot in west Sussex
I had the great privilige of photographing a lovely family of three with their two dogs in the Sussex countryside last winter. Winter photoshoots can be a bit temperamental in terms of the weather, but we were lucky on a gorgeous February morning. The sun was shining, the light was beautiful and the company even better!
We started the photo session at home, spending some time in the garden while everyone got ready. This was a fantastic opportinity for the more shy members of the family to get to know me and relax in front of the camera. Both dogs were ready for action and I was keen to capture their unique personalities. One of the dogs was more extroverted and people oriented, whereas the other - a collie mix - was always on the ready, waiting to herd! I waited for a few moments of stillness and captured these portraits below.
A few negotiating steps and final touches - waterproofs, hats and gloves for a cold winter’s day, and we were all ready to venture out and explore the great outdoors!
I love photographing toddlers. They are always ready for an adventure and are so into everything! Muddy puddles, worms, bees, birds, playing hide and seek, you name it they’ll join in and investigate!
Outdoor Family Photoshoot
I often aim to get some together shots first thing when we go out. I find it takes the pressure off somewhat, knowing that I have some shots of all the family together. On this occasion, I took the opportunity to take a candid family portrait as we were walking down the road, the family chatting, unaware that I was taking photos. The resulting images are natural and spontanios, telling the story of this family’s weekend routine.
When photographing families with young children, I often suggest we meet first thing in the morning. Children are rested and in a good mood, parks empty so there is no worry photographs will be cluttered with people in the background. We can spend a good couple of hours outside and have a variety of backdrops for a really nice and varied set of images.
Action Photography for Active Dogs
While photographing families, I love to take some time during a break in the session, for instance when it is child’s snack time, and focus on the dogs. These two were only still when for short periods of time, so I had to work fast and get their portraits. They gave me run for my money, being constantly on the move and chinging directions. I was very impressed with my Canon EOS R5’s auto focus system, which kept focusing on the chosen dog even at high speeds and while dogs were chasing the ball and changing directions.
Family and Dog Photo Session in the Sussex countryside
We followed a loop which intersected Downs Link, a long distance route which follows two unused railway lines. Since trains stopped using these lines, the tracks have become a green corridor, providing an important lifeline for wildlife surrounded by arrable fields. Due to the combination of clay soil and flat ground, a lot of the land was flooded and colonised by a variety of waterfowl, egrets and harons, which provided a lot of interest and enterntainment.
After a long walk, and a wonderful morning spent playing, lauging, jumping in puddles and smelling flowers it was time to head home. It was a fantastic family photo session from beginnig to end, and I am really happy with how the photos turned out.
Photography Gift Vouchers
This family & dog photo session was gifted to this family as a Family Photography Gift Voucher. Photography gift vouchers are the perfect gift for any occasion - anniversiry, birthday, new baby, or a unique Mother’s day gift. If you would like to puchse a gift voucher, please visit my gift voucher store or get in touch.
About Mina Milanovic Photography
Mina Milanovic is a professional photographer with years of experience capturing beautiful, authentic moments. My passion for photography is rooted in a deep appreciation for the connection between people. My work focuses on capturing these connections, in an outdoor setting where everyone feels more relaxed and comfortable.
Whether you're looking for a portrait to celebrate a special milestone or want to capture the love you share with your family, I am here to capture those moments and help you cherish them.
Book Your Family & Dog Photo Session Today
If you enjoyed seeing the photos in this blog post, and are thinking of booking a family session, please get in touch to discuss your requirements. I am available for family photoshoots on weekdays and weekends, and I work across Surrey, Sussex, London and the South East. For more information on family photoshoots, please visit my Family Portraits page.