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!
Family and Dog Photo Session in Paddington, London W9
A Heartwarming Family & Pet Photo Session in Paddington
Last spring, I received an email from a client who had been gifted a photography voucher for a baby and dog session. Her family wanted to capture some special moments for their daughter’s first birthday, so we began planning for a shoot later that year.
Fast forward to October, and we found ourselves meeting at their charming home in a quiet mews in Paddington, London. It was a crisp yet pleasant day, with overcast skies and just enough sunshine peeking through to keep things cozy.
Team Work For A Successful Family Photoshoot
The family was simply delightful—so playful, warm, and full of love. They really enjoyed spending time together, playing games with their daughter and sharing joyful moments. In my ten years as a family photographer across London and Surrey, I've learned that a successful session is truly a team effort. While I set the scene and guide the direction, it’s the parents' involvement that brings those authentic, candid moments to life. The more engaged they are, the more natural and creative the photos turn out.
At Home and Outdoor Family & Pet Photo Session
We started the session right outside their doorstep, spending around 45 minutes in the mews. The little one, their adorable daughter, had so much fun playing with her parents and their gorgeous black cockapoo—being thrown in the air, cuddles, tickles, and a fair bit of running around with the dog. Of course, there were also a few posed shots, and their dog made sure to steal the show in a few of them. In fact, I got creative and even used the pup to frame a portrait of the little girl. He was a star, and rightfully so!
Children Photography
When photographing families with young children, I often find it helpful to take a short break midway through. A snack, a change of clothes, or just a moment to unwind gives the little ones a bit of a boost for the second half of the session. After a quick breather—and some fun hide-and-seek portraits with their daughter inside—I suggested a change of scenery. We made our way to a nearby private garden for the next round of shots.
Autumnal Family & Pet Photography
As soon as we stepped through the garden gate, the sun finally emerged from behind the clouds, giving us that perfect autumnal glow. The golden light added a touch of magic to the family portraits, as well as some sweet couple shots and more playful images of their daughter.
Family Dog Action & Portrait Photography
To wrap things up, we headed back home for some action shots of the family dog. I had a little fun with this one, positioning him on top of a neighbor’s car (he was quite the model!). It was the perfect ending to a beautiful day of family and pet photography.
Reflections on Family Photography
Every family is unique, but what I love most about these sessions is how they capture the essence of connection—between family members and their pets, between parents and children, and the moments that truly tell a story. Photography is about more than just posing for the camera; it’s about creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.
Booking a Family Photo Session
If you are considering hiring a professional family photographer you’ve come to the right place! To find out more about family photo sessions, please visit my family photography services page. If you’ve already made up your mind, and you would like to book me in for a family session, or to mark your child’s first birthday, or baptism please contact me on mina@minamilanovic-photography.com or send me an enquiry though the contact form on my website. I look forward to hearing from you!
Photography Gift Voucher
Photography Gift Vouchers make unique and personal gifts for any occasion. Whether it is Mother’s Day, a first birthday, an anniversary, your beloved family pet, a baptism or arrival of a new family member, family & pet photography will capture precious memories which will be cherished in years to come. Contact me for more details, or visit my Store to find out more.
About Me
Hello! My name is Mina, I am a professional family & pet photographer based in Surrey, England. I love meeting new families and helping them capture the joy of their family. If you would like to find out more about me, please visit my “About Me” page. If you would like to know more about my family photo sessions, please visit the “Family Portraits” page. To discuss your upcoming family photo session, or family event like christening, birthday party or anniversary, please get in touch - I look forward to hearing 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!
Family and Pet Photo Session with Teenagers in Wandsworth Common | London Family and Pet Photographer
Family Photoshoot with teenagers and puppy
I recently photographed a really sweet family with two teenagers & puppy in Wandsworth. My brief was to photograph the two teenagers and their teenage puppy, a 9 month old golden retriever called Juno, to be used as Christmas cards during the upcoming holidays.
Outdoor Family Photography
We decided to do a home-park split, starting with some relaxed outdoor photographs on Wandsworth Common and going back home for more cozy images. It was an overcast day, the light was lovely and the common was bursting with autumnal colours, giving a gorgeous warm tone to the photographs.
Dog Action Photogrpahy
We started this family and pet photoshoot with some together photos, but soon the 9 month old puppy became restless and needed to move a little. She loved chasing leaves so I thought an action shot of her jumping to catch leaves would be fun. My two helpers gathered a bunch of leaves and on coundown they threw the leaves up in the air and Juno excitedly went after them. I love the resulting image - it is full of energy and movemet, and to me symbolises the joy of autumn.
Wandsworth Common Family and Pet Photography
Since golden retrievers love water, and Wandsworth common happens to have a large pond with a beautiful little feature bridge, I decided to use it as a backdrop and take the next set of photographs there. The love between the two teens and Juno was evident, and so I wanted to capture all the cuddles and kisses which were given out in bountiful quantities.
Family Portrait Photography in London
The rustic bridge on Wandsworth common was the perfect place for a group family photo. The trees in the background provided a colourful, but plane background, and the gentle uphill raise provided a pleasing perspective. We paused here for a few moments, for me to take a few frames of the family together, and the children on their own with the puppy.
Portraits of Teenagers with Puppy
Before heading back home, I wanted to capture each teen with their beloved puppy, and also take some photos of them having fun together, running around in the field.
London Dog Photographer
Finally just a few portraits of June before it was time to leave the park. By this point she was tired from all the running around, and kept relatively still for me to take a few portraits of her in the dry leaves.
Family and Pet Photo Session at home in Wandsworth
It was then time to head back home, snuggle on the sofa and capture a few quiet moments. I very much enjoyed working with teenagers and their puppy, learning what their interests are and hearing about their ideas for potential photos. I thoroughly enjoyed this family and pet photo session, and I hope I meet this family again to see what they are up to in a few years time.
Book a Family and Pet Photo 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!
Gift a Photography Gift Voucher This Christmas
If you know someone who’s just got a puppy, or would like to surprise a dog lover in your life with a unique gift, then why not consider my family and pet photography gift vouchers? You can purchase a one hour, or 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!
Surrey Family Photographer | Family Photo Session in Sussex
A Family Photo Session in Sussex
I love looking back at this family photoshoot from only a month and a half ago. It feels like forever ago, when days were sunny and warm. There haven’t been many days like these this year; it feels too soon for winter to come.
A garden family photoshoot
The family photo session took place in Sussex, at the family home. We started the shoot in the garden, and followed the little girl’s lead, who was happy to have a little play and cuddle on the picnic blanket. This setup worked really nicely for family portraits. The family was able to interact, play, read books and cuddle which made for candid shots, the ones I strive to capture for my clients.
Custom Family Photography
Every family photo shoot is different, and this one required a short nap break. The little girl got really tired half way into the shoot and really wasn’t happy with being photographed. During her nap, I was able to capture a few frames with her parents together, as well as her mum together with her frandma.
Outdoor Family Photo Session
After a good rest, things were looking much brighter! We continued with a few more shots outside in the garden before moving in indoors for a few children portraits. I wanted to capture a few more natural moments of the family interacting together and playing. I love incorporating games children love playing and this photo session was no different. We included a garden story time, a play with the favouirte ball and some mummy lift ups! After all that activity, it was time to cool off inside the house.
At home family photoshoot
To see the rest of the images from this family photo session, please scroll below. I captured some genuine moments of eating, cuddling and making those special first steps. I hope you enjoy these photos as much as I enjoyed taking them.
Book A Family Photoshoot
If you would like to book a family photo session, please get in touch - I would love to hear from you! I am now fully booked until the end of the year, but I would love to help you capture family memories in the new year. Winter family photo sessions are wonderful - the sun is low, shadows long and we can even be treated to a little bit of magic with mist, fog or frost!
Family Photography Gift Vouchers
Gift a unique gift to a family member this Christmas, or for any other occasion. Not only will you be gifting a unique and meaningful present, you will also be gifting an experience which will capture lasting memories for the whole family. The family photoshoot can take place at home, in a park, on a beach or wherever it is convenient! My family photo session gift vouchers are valid for a year. Family photo shoot gift vouchers start from £195, which includes
Up to two hours shooting time
My time on the day
Travel within 30 miles of RH5
An on-line gallery with 50+ images available to purhcase (digital products sold separately; please contact me for more information)
A complementary 9x6’’ print
Family Photography in the Surrey Hills | Friday Street Family & Dog Summer Photo Session
Surrey offers a plethora of idyllic backdrops for photography. The diverse landscapes and historical sites inspire photographers - local or visiting from afar - to try their hand at capturing some of its beauty. From the rolling hills to the lush woodlands, serene meadows and elegant gardens of stately homes, the county provides a wealth of settings that are perfect for capturing cherished family moments.
Family Photography in the Surrey Hills
This family and dog photo session took place at the bottom of Leith Hill, in a lush bit of woodland which comes out to a small holding. I met the family there in the middle of summer, when vegetarion was lush and green, and days were long. I wanted to incorporate the surroundings into the photographs so for the first set of photos I took of the whole family together, I asked the family to go right in amonst the bracon. This was such a nice clean backdrop, which made the family really pop in the photos, the light blue of the shirts contrasting with the green tonally, and the light pink of the girls’ dresses complementing the green tones.
Natural Family Moments
After a bit of walking, the youngest memeber of the family was a little tired so naturally it was time for cuddles. I love capturing these genuine, tender moments, they are a record of not only the time in a family’s life but of all the little moments which are fleeting and gone before we know it.
Surrey Children Photographer
I often hear comments like “never photograph children and dogs”. I love photographing both! In fact, I am happiest when there are children and dogs together. I really enjoy engaging with children, letting them show me their favourite games, tricks or telling me their favourite stories. On this occation, we had some bubbles at hand, which provided endless enterntainment. The girls were so engaged in making the bubbles, chasing and bursting them, that this activity set a scene for some lovely spontanious, natural moments which I was ready to capture with my camera.
Family Photography with Dog
A family photoshoot wouldn’t be complete without a dog. I love photographing families with dogs and capturing special bonds family members have with their four legged friends. In this instance, there was a special connection between this sweet little rescue cocker spaniel and the dad. I love the photo below, when I look at it, it conveys pure love and joy!
If you would like to enquire about a family and dog photo session, please get in touch. I love photographing families with their dogs, and would love to capture moments for you which will evoke joyful memories in many years to come.
Family Photography in the Surrey Hills
If you would like to find out more about my family photo sessions, please visit the family photography page.
Booking a Family Photo Session
To make a booking, please email at mina@minamilanovic-photography.com or fill in the contact form on my website. I am looking forward to hearing from you and capturing your memories for you and your family.
Surrey Family Photographer | High Elms Country Park Family Photo Session with Dog
Family and Dog Photo Session in London Borough of Bromley
I recently photographed a newborn baby and her family in High Elms Country Park in Bromley, London. The baby’s mum got in touch about a year ago to enquire about a dog photo session. Due to scheduling difficulties that photoshoot never took place, but a year later the family welcomed a new member and wanted to document this special time with a set of family portraits.
Natural Style Newborn Photo Session in a London Park
We arrived at High Elms Country Park and were greeted by fairly good weather; mainly overcast with periods of sunshine. Contrary to popular belief, overcast days work really well for photography as the cloud cover provides even lighting for the subjects without harsh shadows and glaring light. Overcast days are also better for newborns as parents don’t need to worry about exposing their child’s delicate skin to sunlight.
The baby was a few weeks old and coming out of the sleepy stage. She was able to stay awake for longer periods of time which allowed me some time to photograph her interacting with her parents and observing the world around her.
However, after such a busy morning looking, exploring and posing it all got a little too much and sleep suddenly took over. This is the time where everyone can relax a bit, and I can focus on tcapturing quiet moments and details. I hope you enjoy looking at these sleepy photos as much as I enjoyed taking them, my heart was full and bursting with how cute this newborn baby was.
Outdoor Dog Photography
A family & dog photoshoot can’t go by without a few featured shots of the family’s beloved canine companion. This little cockapoo lady called Cindy was particularly fun to photograph. She was full of energy, up for doing tricks and chasing her ball - perfect for action shots! One of my favourites from this session was of Cindy leaping high into the air, ears and tail up! I feel I really captured her personality, just happy to be there. The photo really covays that sense of joy, it makes me want to go out and run around on a grassy field!
Dog Portrait Photography
Portraits of Cindy were more of a challenge - sitting wasn’t quite her thing but we somehow managed to get her still for a few seconds, just enough for me to capture a few frames including this one amongst English lavender in full bloom.
If your family is expecting a baby and you wish to book a relaxed, newborn photo shoot with your dog please get in touch to discuss details.
Book A Newborn Photo Session
To make a booking, please contact me through the contact form on this webiste, call me on 07793 677 867 or drop an email at mina@minamilanovic-photography.com. I will get in touch within 24h or receiving your email. If you haven’t heard from me, please check your junk folder.
Photography Gift Vouchers
Photography gift vouchers are the perfect present for birthdays, anniversaries, engagements, or just because you want to show someone you care for them! I offer different options, including photo sessions or photo sessions with added credit. You choose the package, and they get a custom experience they will treaure in years to come!
To purchase a gift voucher, simply contact me and I’ll send one straight to your inbox (or post a beautifully printed & wrapped version if you prefer!).
Mini Family Photo Session in Abinger Roughs and Netely Park | Surrey Hills Family Photoshoot
Mini Family Photo Sessions in the Surrey Hills
I recently organised mini family photo sessions in Abinger Roughs and Netely Park, in the beautiful Surrey Hills. These sessions are great for families who would like to have a taster of what a family photo shoot might feel / look like, for those who would like to update their family photos, have a busy schedule, or those who would like to gift a mini session - I offer a variety of gift vouchers in my gift voucher store.
Abinger Roughs Family Photo Shoot
The Spring mini sessions took place at Abinger Roughs and Netely Park, a beautiful National Trust walk with ancient woodland and wildflower-rich grasslands. There is a natural play area, great for settling kids into the session and burning off some access energy. Beyond is a birch rich wooded area, a pine tree plantation, ancient beech trees, open fields and hilly vistas - perfect backdrops for a family photoshoot.
Surrey Hills Family Photographer
I organise family mini photo sessions a few times a year, at selected locations in the beautiful Surrey countryside. Each mini session lasts half an hour, it is centred around your family and we enjoy activities you like to do as a family. I will make sure you have a nice time; I will play games with the kids, ask them to run, jump or play hide and seek so I can get a nice selection of images for you to choose from. You will receive a link to a private gallery with 10-15 images to choose from. Three digital files are included in the price of the mini session; these will be sent to you via on line transfer to your email address.
Thinking About Booking?
Please contact me to enquire about the next mini sessions. I require a 30% deposit to book me in for the session, with the remainder of the fee payable before the photoshoot. I look forward to hearing from you!
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:
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!
Family Photo Session with Dog in Kingston
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it is easy to overlook the simple joys that bring us together as a family. One delightful way to create lasting memories is through a family photo session, and what better way to make it extra special than by including our four-legged family member? This blog post is about one such family; it was a gorgeous autumnal family photo session with their beloved dog.
Family Photoshoot With a Dog
The day began with a mix of excitement and anticipation. I arrived at the family home to be greeted by a very excited cocker spaniel, and a very excited one year old. As we prepared to go outside to a park the family frequents, I took out my camera and started photographing the family getting ready. This enabled me to capture a few genuine expressions, as no one was focusing on me being there. I love the above photo of the girl looking at her dad while her mum was dressing her up - such intensity in one look!
Outdoor Family Photo Shoot
Selecting the right location for this family photo session was crucial. We opted for a scenic park with lush greenery, providing a natural backdrop that beautifully complemented the family's dynamics. The wide-open spaces allowed the dog to run around freely, while a few more formal areas provided some colour and a nice backdrop.
The Unpredictable Joy of Pets
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the photo session was the unpredictable joy that the dog brought to the experience. She brought an infectious energy into the session, creating candid moments that I hope the family will cherish forever. The genuine smiles and laughter captured in these images are a testament to the joy this little furry bundle brings to the family dynamic.
Indoor Family Photography Session
After we spent about an hour outside, it was snack time so we headed back home. After a bit of a rest and recuperation, it was time to take a few family portraits at home, as well as some children’s portraits of the little girl, in her home.
This was one of my favourite family photography sessions with a dog. It was filled with laughter, love, and the unpredictable charm that pets bring to family life. It was a day of creating cherished memories, both in front of and behind the camera. As I look back at the images, I am reminded that the essence of family lies not in perfection but in the genuine moments we share, and including our furry friend made those moments all the more special. So, the next time you plan a family photo session, consider inviting your dog along for the ride—you may just capture the magic of your unique family dynamic. Please have a browse through the gallery below and contact me if you would like to arrange a family photo session with your pet.
