Welcome! Your Family Photography Guide

For sessions with Kate Jackson Photography in collaboration with the Solihull Approach

Hi there! I'm Kate, your photographer for this session and I just want to say a big thank you for taking part in this special project. The aim of these sessions is to capture genuine, everyday moments between you and your family: the small things that show love, connection, and being in tune with one another.

This guide is here to help you feel relaxed, prepared, and confident about what to expect.

What This Is (and What It’s Not)

This isn’t a formal photoshoot no awkward posing, no forced smiles, no “say cheese!” It’s simply about spending time as a family and letting me quietly document the everyday moments that reflect who you really are.

I'll gently guide things if needed, especially when it comes to light or helping you feel at ease but my approach is very relaxed and natural. Think of it more like:

“We’re just doing our normal thing—and Kate’s there in the background with a camera.”

That said, I will take a few more posed photos of your family when it feels right, these are just for you to have and enjoy, not for use in the project.

A mum and dad helping their child get ready for school in a pink childs bedroom. The dad is sitting on the bed giving a fluffy dog a fuss and mum is plating the little girls hair | Day in the life family photography in Birmingham

What Kind of Moments Are We Looking For?

The Solihull Approach is all about attuned relationships—those small moments where you’re really “in tune” with one another. That might look like:

  • A parent guiding a child off the climbing frame

  • Helping with a jumper or coat

  • Laughing together over something silly

  • A quiet cuddle on the sofa

  • One parent making the other a cup of tea

  • A shared look between parents while the kids are playing

These kinds of things—often overlooked in day-to-day life—are full of warmth and connection. That’s what we’re aiming to capture.

If you’d normally be making dinner, running the bath, doing homework, or chatting over a cuppa—do it! The more natural and familiar the setting, the more honest and meaningful the images will feel.

Would You Normally…? Then Do It!

  • Would you usually cook tea while chatting with your partner or the kids?

  • Would someone usually bring the other a brew without being asked?

  • Would you all curl up and watch something or read before bed?

Please don’t feel the need to “perform” for the camera, these are the very moments that matter most. They say so much about the way you care for each other.

Your Home Doesn’t Need to Be Perfect

I can’t stress this enough: your house does not need to be spotless. Life is real, busy, and sometimes a bit chaotic and that’s exactly what makes these images feel like you. Don’t tidy away the things that make your home feel lived in. The only thing I ask is to let in as much natural light as possible if we’re indoors (open blinds, curtains, etc.).

Simple Activity Ideas That Work Well

If you’d like a bit of structure during the session, here are some easy ideas that help spark connection:

  • Reading together

  • Baking or cooking a simple meal

  • Playing a board game or doing a craft

  • Gardening or potting a plant

  • Walking to the park

  • Bedtime routine: bath, brushing teeth, pyjamas, stories

What to Wear?

There’s no dress code. Comfort is key. Whatever feels like “you” is perfect. If you’d like to avoid big logos or slogans, that’s helpful but not essential. Don’t worry about matching or coordinating unless that’s something you enjoy doing as a family. When I’m home I mostly where my PJs and slippers, and can guarantee I’d be covered in cat hair no matter what I’m wearing.

Pets Welcome!

If your dog, cat, or guinea pig is part of the family, I’d love to include them.

How You’ll Get Your Photos

After the session, the images will be reviewed by the Solihull Approach team. When they’re ready, you’ll receive a private online gallery with access to download and keep your images for personal use my thank you for being part of the project.

Any Questions?

If there’s anything you’d like me to know ahead of the session about your children, your home, or anything at all, feel free to pass that along via the Solihull team.

Thanks again for being part of this. I’m really looking forward to spending a bit of time with your family.

Engagement Wedding Photos