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Autumn Family Photo Session in Regents Park | Natural Family Photography in London

Autumn Family Photoshoot in London’s Regent’s Park

There is a particular stillness to London in the autumn. The sun sits lower in the sky, casting a soft light that transforms familiar parks into something ethereal. For a family photographer, it is arguably the most rewarding season; the palette is naturally warm, and the air has a crispness that keeps everyone moving and engaged.

Last season was particularly busy with family photoshoots and I'm only now finding the time to sit back, reflect and write about some of the experiences. I have been so lucky to work with many families across London and Surrey. One of the photo sessions that stands out was of a sweet family of three who who was a joy to work with. They contacted me through my website and after a few emails exchanging ideas on where to meet, we finally settled on Regent’s Park. I had the pleasure of photographing in Regent’s Park on a few occasions. While it is one of London's most iconic and busiest green spaces, the park always holds secret pockets of quiet for those willing to wander.

 
atural family portraits surrounded by autumn leaves in London

Finding the Rhythm of the Family

I like to start family photoshoots with a together portrait. By capturing this important shot early on, the pressure evaporates. Once we have that classic image, we can move into the true heart of the session: the candid, unposed moments that define a family’s dynamic. So, after the initial few shots, I tend to have a little chat with my clients, try to get to know them better. I am always surprised to find that even after a few minutes chatting to people, a connection is formed which transforms people’s body language from reserved to relaxed, which in turn makes for more natural looking photos.

So, after a little bit of a wait to let the crowds clear, we set the scene for a simple together photograph of all the family together. We escaped the main thoroughfares for a path lined with trees. I asked the family to simply walk together, and almost instantly, their little girl decided it was time for a game of swing between her parents' arms. This is where the magic happens. Not in a forced pose, but in the instinctive giggles and the way a child looks up at her parents when she feels most safe. This evoked candid family moments perfect for natural family photography.

 

Capturing Connection Through Play

A nearby bench soon became an irresistible climbing frame. Before long, everyone was sitting close together, chatting and cuddling. Their daughter had collected a few flowers and proudly showed them to her parents. I stayed back, letting the moment unfold, capturing those quiet, unguarded interactions, the kind of images that tell a story long after the session ends.

Documentary-style family photography in Regent’s Park
Mother and daughter sharing a quiet moment in Regent’s Park
Candid family moment during autumn photoshoot in London

We continued wandering through the park after this and found a quiet wooded area bursting with colour. It was a hazel grove dressed in greenish yellow autumn attire, a fantastic setting! We settled here for a little while, enjoying the dappled light and the warm colours of the leaves taking individual portraits with each parent and their daughter, and playing a few games. The favourite game being spinning around!

 

A Discovery in the Rose Garden

Even in late November, Regent’s Park had surprises in store. We stumbled upon a rose garden still in bloom. Seeing a child discover a hidden treasure like a late-season blossom is a storytelling dream. She moved instinctively through the rows, smelling the flowers and glancing back at her parents with pure wonder. By using a long lens and positioning myself so the sun hit from behind (backlighting), she appeared to almost glow against the greenery.

Child photographed smelling roses in the rose garden in Regent's park
Child playing in the rose garden in Regent's park
Child enjoys looking at roses in the autumn light
 

Light, Water, and Reflections

Our walk took us past a fountain where the light was performing a spectacular show. The water droplets were catching the sun, creating a shimmering, backlit curtain. I asked the family to simply observe the water, the girl to stand on the edge and watch the movement. The resulting frames captured a genuine sense of amazement and wonder.

Family pausing by a fountain during Regent’s Park photoshoot

Because it had rained the day before, the park was full of mirrors. Near a beautifully curved bridge, I used a large puddle to capture a creative reflection portrait of the daughter. It’s these artistic touches that turn a standard photo session into a collection of unique pieces of art. I then asked her parents to join her, and captured them all chatting and walking across the bridge. I think these are some of my favorite photographs from the shoot.

Family walk over the bridge in Regent's park with their reflection in puddle
Child splashes in puddles during a family photo session in Regent's park
Girl looks back at her parents while crossing a bridge in Regents park during a family photoshoot
 

Relaxed Family Photography in London & Surrey

We concluded our morning in and around the Japanese Garden, framed by the intricate wooden bridge and the architectural lines of the wisteria. But not before a quick game of hide-and-seek!

My approach to family photography is tailored towards each family I work with. I try to work with natural rhythms of the family dynamic. I believe in setting a beautiful scene, finding the best light, and then letting your family’s story unfold naturally.

 

About Mina | London Family Photographer

I am a Surrey-based family photographer specialising in natural, storytelling photography. My work focuses on connection between family members, documenting families as they truly are, playful & curious children, quiet cuddles, and the in-between moments that often mean the most. I photograph family sessions across London and the surrounding countryside, always with a relaxed, documentary-led approach.

 

Family Photography Gift Vouchers

Family photography gift vouchers make thoughtful, meaningful presents for birthdays, new parents, anniversaries or simply to mark a moment in time. Vouchers are available for outdoor family photo sessions across London and can be personalised for the recipient.


Book Your Family Photo Session

If you are thinking of booking a relaxed autumn family photoshoot in Regent’s Park or anywhere else in London, I’d love to hear from you. Get in touch to book your session or to chat about the best location and season for your family.

 

FAQs

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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.

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Isle of Dogs Family and Dog Photoshoot | London Family Photograph

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:

  1. Get in touch via my contact form with your preferred date and location (please see contact form below)

  2. I will reply within 24–48 hours with availability, pricing and next steps

  3. 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!

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Family Photo Session in Bushy Park

This family photo session started in Bushy Park, and continued in the family home close by in Teddington. It was a really nice summer day (I am so behind on my blog posts!) , it was overcast which provided even lighting for my subjects.

We spent the first 15-20 min of the session chatting and getting to know each other. Working as a family photographer, I learnt that this part of the session is the most important. It breaks the initial ice so clients can relax and enjoy the rest of the session. We were looking for some nice areas for a group shot; Busy park can be a bit tricky in terms of locations as it is so open and flat. I saw an old oak tree which I was keen to include into the family portrait - a symbol of strenght, stability and longevity. After that initial family portrait, it was time for cuddles and play. After a short walk, we came to a stream which was the perfect setting to explore the surroundings and look for interesting wildlife living in the stream and on the banks. Getting children to engage with their parents is the best way of obtaining natural looking images.

I really enjoyed this family photoshoot and love some of the photos; they bring joy and put a smile on my face. I hope you like them too.

Following the outdoor session, we went back home for some snacks and quiet time. I wanted to photograph the little girl with the family dog, which proved trickier than planned, but we managed to get them sitting next to each other in the end.

At the end of each photoshoot, I like to do something slightly different and experiment. It is a time when I have fun and try out different things - sometimes it works, sometimes it doesnt. On this occasion, I spotted a lovely painting which the family bought in Australia, while living there. I learned that it was a piece of Aboriginal art, so I was keen to include it in the photograph. It was a rather unglamorous scene - both parents holding the painging while also making sure the baby doesn’t fall flat on its face. In the end, it was a triumph - no injuries and a lovely meaningful background for children’s portraits. I hope you like it as much as I do.

If you are considering having family portraits done, either with or without your dog, please do contact me for more information and to arrange a session. I look forward to hearing from you and discussing your ideas!

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Family Photo Shoot in Guildford

The setting for this family photo session was Riverside Park Nature Reserve in Guildford, a wetland area supporting diverse insect, bird and amphibian life. I recently discovered this beautiful nature reserve while servicing my car in the nearby Slyfield industrial estate and was surprised to find such a gem of a place squshed between the noisy A3, the community recycling centre and the industrial estate. Amazing how nature can thrive in the most unlikely places!

We started our photoshoot with a walk along the River Wey. The powerline which runs along the path provided a dramatic backdrop for a few of the initial shots before we reached the canal. All along the canal were lovely mature oak trees which served as the perfect frame for family portraits. The parents were amazing at enterntaining and engaging this charming and smiley one and a half year old. I love the playfulness that comes through in the photographs.

Half way through the photoshoot, everyone was getting a little tired so it was time to have a play in the sand and bring out favourite toys. Out came the coala and Mr Fox, and it was back to playing games and having fun. I find games really helpful while working with children. They instantly become interested and engaged which creates genuinely candid moments for great photographs. Whether it it]s hide and seek with younger children, building a den with preschoolers and playing ball with older kids, involving them (and parents) in an activity takes the attention away from the camera and puts children and adults in the present moment which is where the joy comes through. This little girl loved spotting insects, playing with hair clips which I’ve given her, waving at boats and touching different plants.
It is nice looking back at these photos when the grasses were lush and everything was so alive. My current family photo sessions are against beautiful autumnal backdrops, a stark contrast to the warm summer days. Nature provides us photographers with the best studio and I am so grateful to do my job outdoors, and experience the beauty of each season with my clients.
I am nearly fully booked for this year, but if you would like to arrange a family portrait session for you and your family for next year, please get in touch to discuss your requirements. You can contact me through the contact page on my website, or sending me an email at info@minamilanovic-photography.com. I look forward to hearing from you!

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Family Photo Shoot in Kingston upon Thames

Indoor Family Photography in Kingston-upon-Thames

Family Photography in London

I went back to my old neighbourhood in West London for a very special family photo session with returning clients. It was a joy to photograph this sweet family who I’ve known since 2014 when I did a dog photoshoot in Richmond park for them. Since then their family has grown considerably and this time I was invited to capture a few family moments as a family of four in their beautiful home in Kingston-upon-Thames.

Indoor Family Photography

Most of my family photo shoots take place outdoors, however on this occasion we decided to stay indoors. I always feel more challenged when photographing inside, and feel like I need to work harder at finding the right angles and light. However indoor spaces provide such fantastic opportunity for creative family photography, where I use anything from house plants to furniture to create more interesting frames for my clients.

Pets in Family Photos

I often get told that I’ve chosen really hard photography subjects - children and pets! I love photographing both! They are fun, engaging and spontanious. My experience has thought me that if I or the parents try to impose too much control over what is going on, the kids (and pets!) will be fairly uninterested in engaging with me. Initiate a game, or leave them to their own devices and suddenly they forget who is there and an opportunity for genuine family photography is created.

Book a Family Photography Session

If you would like to book a family photo shoot, please get in touch. I also offer separate one hour and two hour dog photography sessions, as well as pet photography gift vouchers. If you would like to book/purchase a voucher, please contact me or visit my store.

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Children and Pet Photography in Surrey

I have been photographing families and pets since 2013. I very much enjoy photographing both subject but most of the photoshoots were either dog photo sessions, focusing on the dog, or family sessions where the main focus is the family. I recently started a personal photography project called “Family Dogs” where I combine my passion for two. I am interested in capturing the relationship families have with their pet dogs and vice versa.

This photography session was for a family of three. A two year old girl, a seven year old rhodesian ridgeback/boxer cross and their lovely mum. We decided to meet at Blackheath Common near Guildford which was the perfect backdrop for outdoor family and pet photography. The two girls had sa very special bond especially when it came down to treat time! The dog loved performing tricks and showing off which commands it can do and was rewarded by the girl with some yummy treats.

Below is a selection of some of my favourite photos from the day - I hope you enjoy viewing them as much as I enjoyed taking them.

If you would like to book your dog photography or family photography ssession, or if you would like to participate in my Family Dogs project, please get in touch!

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Surrey Family Photographer / Family Photo Session in Sutton

Surrey Family Photo Session

It gives me great joy doing photoshoots for return clients. Not only do I get to meet up and catch up with people who continue to support me, but I also get to see their families grow. A couple of months ago I did a family portrait session in Sutton, for a lovely family who has grown from four to five (including the family dog!).

Surrey Children Photographer

I have spent a part of the morning getting reacquainted with the older sibling who I photographed a few years ago (there was a lot of Lego talk when I first arrived), and getting to know the one year old who was on the move and ready for action! Working as Surrey children photographer, I enjoy getting to know the children who I will be photographing, finding out what their interests are and being let into their world, at least for a couple of hours.

Family Location Photography

Once the introductions were over, it was time to take some photos. We stayed around the family home and garden as the weather was unpredictable on the day. This was a great opportunity for me as a photographer, to challenge myself and find interesting backdrops and angles indoors. There were lovely splashes of colour and personal touches throughout the house and garden which I wanted to capture for the family. And the photoshoot wouldn’t have been complete without some action on the trampoline, and a few family portraits.

Here are some photos from this session - I hope you enjoy viewing them.

Family Portraits in Surrey, London and the South East

If you would like to discuss having family portraits done, in a relaxed setting, at home or outdoors, please get in touch to discuss your requirements. I offer location sessions for newborn, children, family and pet photography, and I am happy to travel around Surrey, London and South East. Photoshoots which are further afield are charged a travel cost. I hope to hear from you!

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London and Surrey Family Photographer / Richmond Park Family Photoshoot

I really enjoy catching up with return clients and finding out what they’ve been up to. It was lovely to hear from Berry, who’s Cockapoo Joey I photographed a few years ago. He was a young dog then, and was very energetic so taking portraits was a big challenge! Below is a photo from that photo session; a moment of stillness before more energetic running around!

Since our last meeting, there has been a new addition to the family, and there was a big family get together to celebrate the occasion! As London and Surrey family photographer, I work at different locations across the capital and Surrey, but it was a special treat to go back to Richmond park for this photoshoot. The biggest challange this time was to get everyone comfortable and happy in front of the camera; to arrange a large group of people and take a shot while everyone was looking! I found an old tree branch which looked like the perfect spot for a big family photo. The curves of the branch provided lovely lines for an interesting compositing, and contained enough perching spots for everyone to sit (not so comfortably!), or stand around. After a few attempts, the children and Joy looked directly at me, and by some miracle I was able to capture the big group shot! The rest of the shoot was done in the lovely tall grasses in the park, and around beautiful Isabella plantation. Here are a few photos from the shoot - images will automatically change, but do use the previous and next controls if you need to.

If you are organising a family get together, or are celebrating a special event, please get in touch, I would love to hear from you!

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