I love photographing people… but I have to admit if there’s a dog or a cat to include I’m even happier! So when Shane got in touch and asked if I’d be ok to include Simba, their giant Rhodesian Ridgeback, in their dog and family photos I was thrilled! Shane & Akhil often head to Black Park (technically in Buckinghamshire but just a short drive from London) to enjoy the beautiful forest paths and lakeside spots with their daughters Siyana & Ishani – and it’s one of Simba’s favourite spots for a dog walk.
I think a walk is often a great activity for relaxed and natural family photos, as it lets us stop in lots of different pretty spots, chat as we wander and there’s something about walking that just helps people feel comfortable in front of a camera. Simba was slightly puzzled that for these dog and family photos we were stopping on his walk, but was happy bounding around. He definitely likes as much love as he can get and bounced his way into photos if his people were paying too much attention to each other and not enough to him! I hadn’t explored the park before, but it is really special – from quiet avenues between the fir trees where needles carpet the ground, to a sparkling lake with seats in the sunshine. We found dens made of branches and walked down paths through the trees in this woodland adventure.
When I sent the sneak peek photos, some of my favourites from the day, I got a lovely message from Shane:
“Hannah WOW! These are absolutely AMAZING!! You have captured some beautiful shots, can’t decide which ones we like more. We absolutely love them and cannot wait to see the rest of them. Seriously impressed Hannah, thank you so much!!!!!”
Whether you have a giant Rhodesian Ridgeback or a somewhat smaller pet, I’m always happy to include your furry friends in your family photos – or even do a pet portrait shoot for you. I’ve been lucky to include pets in engagement photos – from an at home shoot including Chutney the cat, to a sunset dog walk with Bjorn the golden retriever. And of course pets at weddings are always special – Bjorn celebrated with his dads at their vineyard wedding and you’ll find all my top pets at weddings inspiration on Pinterest.
Of course even without pets I’m happy to photograph you and your family! I’d love to talk about how we can create gorgeously relaxed and natural family photos – please send me a message.
