What is like to have a family shoot with a small baby at the heather in the peak district?
During the heat we experiance in September 2023, I managed to have a wonderful photoshoot with this lovely family during a warm Sunday morning in September! I was looking for a place in the heather (as they were in bloom) where you could walk with a baby which is less than a year old without a pram and enjoy the beautiful nature. This one was only 5-10 minutes walk from the car, located on the edges of the Peak District, 5 minutes drive from suburbs of Sheffield. I love the place, the open space and this very young forest where the heather grows as well. Looked like from a fairytale!
As usual, we took a walk and did some different variations of poses.
It's lovely to see when babies don't really need that much to get excited during a shoot. A touch of wildflowers, the grass, the rocks, a passing dog or a cyclist, a snack from its parents, a hug, a kiss, overall attention. All these small things keep the baby interested :D If you worry the baby will cry, don't! Kids love everything what's new to them!
WHAT POSES COuld you do with a baby thats not even a year old?
As you can see at the photos, your baby doesn't have to walk yet to be able to have some great photos. You can sit with them on a blanket, on the grass, on a rock, put the baby on your knees, hold it, or even sit it on your shoulders. As long as it can sit on its own, there are plenty of possibilities. It can crawl, lay on its back or stomach, or climb on you. There're actually more poses than I thought :)
What should you take with you for a family shoot?
If it't warm and sunny there's not that much but still:
- A blanker that matches your outfit
- Snack and drinks (milk, water whatever the baby its drinking)
- Water for yourself as you may get tired holding a baby
- Some different outfits for the baby or yourself if thats within the package I offer
- Favourite toy or a book to read
- Sunscreem if its an open sun
- Accesories such as glasses, hats
Some of you know how much I love exploring new places, especially in the Peak District National Park. Nature tends to create such great backgrounds, nothing like what you see in the studio. If you are an oudoor person and love exploring as well we may be a great fit for each other if you are looking for a photographer! I can follow you whenever :)
The heather season lasts from the very beginning of August to the very beginning of September. You may see it in the middle of September, but it will likely not look its best. In 2024, I'll try to let you know before they start blooming so we can do more of this next year!
Enjoy watching!
