Today I set up a mini family shoot for my metalhead friends and their mega cool little girl. I love meeting metalhead families - they might look fearsome but they’re usually sweethearts underneath it all. Plus how cute are those little Dr Marten’s boots paired with the tutu skirt?!

Having previously worked as a baby photographer in a studio, I decided to turn my little living room into a studio, with added fairy lights for soft background twinkles and thought ‘Let’s Go’.

Now, here’s the challenge of working with excited toddlers - they loves to move. Capturing a still moment when your tot won’t stay still…is hard. So you might as well embrace the mood and do the dance.

In the still moments I had to work super quickly. I used my 50mm lens which was my workhorse back in the studio days. In a small space, this lens makes depth of field your best friend (when you catch that one focus spot at the right time) or your worst enemy (when baby moves an inch the wrong way and you lose the focus).

This shot worked really well, it’s crisp and well lit and tells a story of Dad being silly while baby wonders what on earth he’s doing.

After the dancing and stomping, we settled into some gorgeous portraits of cuddles and play. Mum had some curl enhancing conditioner spray which brought out some cherub-like bouncy waves, and had brought along several outfits which certainly had me envious of her style.

Photographing babies and toddlers brings plenty of ‘aww’ moments, excitement and mischief. My biggest priority is always creating that warm and welcoming space where people can be themselves and enjoy expressing themselves, then the magic really happens. Off camera, both Mum and Dad sung and danced for their little one, creating endless giggles and adoring looks.

Thank you to this gorgeous family for letting me share today’s images. If you’d like a photography session for your family, then get in touch and let’s celebrate the love and joy between your loved ones.