family photography Mina Milanović family photography Mina Milanović

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!


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Dog Photo Shoot with Family

Family Dogs

Family Dogs is a personal project which documents the relationship families have with their dogs and vice versa. The project came about from my two photography passions - photographing dogs and photographing families. It is currently in its third month and I am greatly enjoying meeting all the fabilous dogs and their owners.

Working on location

Working as a dog photographer, I photograph dogs all over London and the Soth East. This project, however is focused on Surrey dogs and photoshoots take place mainly in outside locations. This particular photoshoot, with the sweetest little cavapoo you’ll ever meet, took place in the family home.

Family Photography with Dogs

This family has a really special bond with their dog. She is adored by the whole family and loves being cuddled. I wanted to capture the bond children have with her, but also how the whole family interacts with her. Photography sessions with children and dogs can be tricky but this particular dog was like a model - as soon as she heard the camera clicking, she would look straight at me, raise her ears and pose. In my career working as a dog photographer, I haven’t seen anything like it!

Getting Involved

If you have a pet and would like to get involved in this project please fet in touch at info@minamilanovic-photography.com. I would love to hear from you!

Photography Gift Vouchers

I offer gift vouchers for pet photoshoots, family photo sessions, newborn photoshoots and couple photo sessions. If you are looking for a different kind of present for a birhday, an anniversity or christmas, do get in touch or visit my store where you can directly buy photography gift certificates.

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