This family photo session took place around Mudchute Farm on Isle of Dogs in London, earlier this year.

Outdoor Family Photography In EAst London

It was one of those days when the forecast promised one thing, yet the sky had an entirely different plan. I arrived at the family’s home for their London family photoshoot, and with the rain “apparently” holding off, we decided to head out for a relaxed walk around Mudchute Farm. It is a brilliant place for outdoor family photography in London; wide open spaces so the kids could run wild, the dog could burn off some energy, and we could capture those natural family photos everyone loves.

We began the photoshoot in Millwall park, one of my favourite places for a family photoshoot thanks to its mix of open green spaces and little pockets of woodland. We eased into a few candid family portraits as they walked together, but it quickly became clear that their gorgeous Tamaskan pup had plenty of energy to spare. So, we shifted gear, letting the kids and their four legged buddy chase, run and just be themselves. These playful moments make for the most heart-melting photos, and they set the tone beautifully for calmer portraits later on.

And just as I was getting into the groove with a set of silhouettes, the rain rolled in. Typical London timing! Usually during a family photoshoot in London, I’ll scout out shelter so we can wait out the rain. On this occasion, however as my clients wanted an outdoor & home storytelling session, so the start of the rain was a natural break and we headed indoors for shelter.

A Dog-Friendly Family Photoshoot on the Isle of Dogs

After everyone got dry and had a refreshment, we took a family portrait, all snuggled up on the sofa. The moment of stillness lasted about 5 minutes, then it was time for action (again)! The kids were keen to show off their acrobatics skills, their hiding places, their rooms and their toys, so for the next 20-30 min I followed them around and took photos of them jumping, playing and hiding. The dog was much calmer after the walk and had settled in for cuddles and treats - perfect for more intimate shots.

Who Are Outdoor Family and Pet Photoshoots Suitable For?

Outdoor Family & Pet Photo Sessions are great for people who love the outdoors and want to capture precious moments of their family together with the family dog! As a dog-friendly family photographer in London, I tailor sessions so you, your children and your four-legged companion all feel relaxed and 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.

The sessions are designed to allow everyone a chance to be together and connect. There is plenty of playtime for your dog and your kids. I will suggest pet-friendly and child-friendly locations in London (including Isle of Dogs, Greenwich Park and Victoria Park), and provide gentle guidance for posing with dogs so your photographs look natural.

For local dog-friendly inspiration, here are a couple of helpful external resources you may enjoy:

Mudchute Park & Farm (official site): https://www.mudchute.org/
Dog-friendly London guide: https://thelondog.com/dog-friendly-london/

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 living in the beautiful Surrey Hills with my husband and children. I’ve always enjoyed looking at old family photographs and reliving the memories, 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.

How to Book a Dog and Family Photoshoot

If you are thinking of booking a family photo session in East London (or elsewhere in London or Surrey) and are looking for a photographer to capture emotion, connection and those beautifully imperfect in-between moments, I’d love to create something special for you. Booking a session is easy! All you need to do is:

Get in touch via my contact form with your preferred date and location (please see contact form below)
I will reply within 24–48 hours with availability, pricing and next steps
We’ll plan your session together, from wardrobe support to dog-friendly locations

Start Your Journey Here: Book Your Family & Dog Photo Session Here

Family Photography Gift Vouchers – A Meaningful, Personal Present

Looking for a thoughtful and unique gift for new parents, grandparents, baby showers or birthdays? A family & dog photography gift voucher in London is more than just a present; it is an invitation to celebrate the love between humans and their furry companions. They provide an opportunity to spend a couple hours together, enjoying nature and connecting through walking, play and doing things as a whole family. The result is a set of beautiful photographs, a gift of memories that will be treasured for years to come. So, whether it’s for a birthday, a unique Christmas gift, or simply to show you care, consider gifting a family & pet photography voucher. It’s a heartfelt gesture that families with dogs and dog owners will surely appreciate, allowing them to capture the essence of their beloved pets in a beautiful, artistic way.

If you would like to purchase a gift voucher, please contact me or visit my store. Please note that gift vouchers come with a 9x6’’ print (additional prints/files can be purchased separately) , they are beautifully presented and can be posted or emailed and they are valid for one year from the date of issue.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Isle of Dogs Family and Dog Photoshoot | London Family Photograph