Derby Family Photographer
Capturing Memories In Derby, One Family At A Time
Family life is an absolute whirlwind – trust me, as the father of a ‘strong willed’ toddler, I know! One moment she was taking her first steps, and now here we are, buying her first school uniform. I can’t quite understand where all that time went! Let me help you capture these memories in the most authentic way possible as your Derby family photographer!
The obvious milestones, such as the first time my daughter walked, or the first time she said my name (dada!) were easy to recognise. These moments had me quickly reaching for my phone and taking a photo to capture this special moment. Do these pictures look good? Not really. I took them on my phone at very short notice! But does this really matter?? I’d argue not. It’s the emotional attachment I have to the photograph, rather than the materialistic nature of the photograph that’s important to me.
Then there’s the less obvious moments. Sitting on the floor with my daughter yesterday, and I gave her some dice to roll. It occurred to me then that this was likely the first time she’s rolled dice in her life. Maybe this wouldn’t have been so important, were I not an avid Dungeons & Dragons player (yes, I am a nerd.), but it still seemed like an important moment. She rolled a 1 – ah well!
And finally, there’s the moments that we miss. Maybe we’re just too bust at the time to note their significance but they’re there nevertheless. Maybe it’s the way my daughter smiles when she sees her grandparents, or how she runs towards me when I pick her up from nursery.
I think what I’m trying to get across is…
It’s All About The Emotion!
As a Derby family photographer, I feel that it is my job to recreate these emotions and capture them in the most beautiful way possible. How do I achieve this? I’m glad you asked!
- Stress-free experience: Let me handle the details while you just have fun with your family! I’ll do a bit of posing, but mostly I just want you to be yourselves. Don’t like having your photograph taken? No worries! Clients have often told me they were having such a fun time that they forgot they were even having their photographs taken! Whilst we’re at it, see what other lovely things my clients have to say about me 🙂
- Genuine connections: I take the time to get to know you! The more relaxed everyone is. the more fun everyone will have and the better your pics will be 🙂
- Have your family photoshoot outdoors!: First off, I should say that there’s absolutely nothing wrong with studio photoshoots! They definitely have their place, but if you’re wanting to capture genuine emotion and authenticity in your family photos, there’s no better place than the great outdoors! Kids (and pets!) can run around and have fun, and if the kids are happy – everyone’s happy!
My Favourite Locations In Derby For Family Photoshoots
Choosing an ideal location for your family photoshoot can be a bit daunting, but don’t worry! I’m here to help you 🙂 I have years of experience so I like to think I have a good idea what will work for your family. My ‘go to’ places include…
#1 Elvaston Castle
Elvaston Castle really does have something for everyone! Found just outside Derby, it provides a wonderful setting for your family pics! There’s winding woodland walks, beautiful hidden gardens and most importantly, a fab cafe! At approximately 321 acres, it’s also easy to get away from the crowds. For years, Elvaston castle has been one of my absolute favourite places to photograph families.
#2 Sherwood Pines
Sherwood Pines is a fantastic location for family photos. The huge pine trees make a wonderful backdrop to family portraits, and there’s loads for kids to explore. It also, like Elvaston, has a lovely cafe too! One of my favourite things about Sherwood Pines is how easy it is to get away from everyone (even on busy weekends!) and find beautiful secluded areas for your photos. Why not check out this recent photoshoot I did at Sherwood Pines for this beautiful family!
#3 Ilam Park
Having your family photoshoots in the Peak District feels like cheating – it’s just so easy!! Ilam park truly feels like a hidden world where family memories are just waiting to be made! It has everything, a backdrop of rolling hills, riverside walks and of course, Ilam Hall itself! Every corner you turn in Ilam park offers a new scene, and as a Derby family photographer, I never have any doubts when recommending the park for family photoshoots! In fact, here’s an extended family photoshoot I shot at Ilam park just a few months ago…
#4 Wollaton Park
Ok, so although not ‘technically’ Derbyshire, Wollaton Hall just had to make the list! If you haven’t been to this stunning location, you’re missing out! Not only is it home to Wayne Manor, but it also has some stunning wildlife in the form of the local deer.
#5 Kedleston Hall
I love Kedleston Hall! Just the other day we took our 3 year old their for the annual Easter egg hunt and she loved every moment of it 🙂 Kedleston also makes a fantastic location for family photographs, thanks to the combination of beautiful architecture, vast open parkland and woodland trees. The mozzarella and pesto panini is also to die for… I’m starting to think as I write this that I pick these locations based primarily on how good their cafes are…
Let’s Create Some Mamoties Together!
Your family story deserves to be told! Let’s do it together in the most relaxed and chill way possible. I promise you’ll love the results, and will cherish them for years to come! Contact me today and let’s start planning your perfect Derby family photoshoot!
