6 Tips for Candid Family Photography in 2026

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Let’s be honest... posed photos aren’t always IT where family photography is concerned

There's something quietly powerful about a photo where a toddler is snuggled into their mum’s chest, thumb in mouth, gently stroking their newborn sister’s forehead. It doesn’t need bright lights, props, or perfect outfits. That’s the kind of image I aim to capture - the ones where you forget I’m even there.

As an Edinburgh photographer specialising in candid, unscripted family photography, these are the quiet, unposed moments I’m always watching for - the ones that unfold naturally when families are allowed to just be.

One of my most memorable sessions involved a lovely family at home in Edinburgh. They had a toddler, a new baby girl, and a spaniel who was wandering about like a curious sibling. I'd never met them before, but I knew her husband's brother, and there was just... an ease. No scripts. No stage directions. The toddler curled right into her mum and baby sister on the bed, completely unprompted. Mum was feeding, her toddler, thumb in mouth, eyes half-closed. If I hadn’t had my camera in hand, I might’ve missed it entirely. Toddlers don't sit still for long after all.

You can absolutely have these moments too - even if your child’s idea of cooperation involves throwing snacks on the floor. Here are a few gentle tips to help things feel more natural when your family steps in front of the camera.

It's ok to let go of "perfect" when you're in front of a lens

Most parents during a photo session are quietly wondering, Will my toddler be a whirlwind? Will the baby sleep? Will my partner actually loosen up and play along?

You’re not alone.

The truth is, those unpredictable “what if's” often lead to the most real and powerful moments. That’s why I intentionally bring no rigid plan to family sessions. Children lead the way, and we work around the rhythm of the day. If your baby needs to feed, please feed them. If your toddler wants to read a book, cuddle under blankets, or bounce on the bed - go for it. What I really want is to photograph your life as it is, not as it “should” look.

My only 'rule' is this: be yourselves. I’ll quietly take care of capturing those fleeting touches and knowing glances while you focus on your people.

How to keep your candid family photography session unscripted and relaxed

1. Pretend I'm not there

I know, it's easier said than done. But the camera becomes forgotten surprisingly quickly when you're just busy being yourselves. The more you ignore me, the stronger the photos tend to be.

In that Edinburgh session I mentioned earlier, mum fed her newborn in the kitchen while the dog waited nearby and the toddler crunched on a rice cake. I didn’t direct it. I just paid attention.

Let go of performance, and trust I’m seeing the beauty in all the everyday things you might not notice anymore.

2. Don’t over-prepare the kids (or yourself)

There’s no need to rehearse smiles or discipline a toddler for wiggling. In fact, the messier and more spirited the day, the better. I always gently engage little ones with playful questions like “Who’s got the messiest bedroom?” or “Who eats the most biscuits?” It’s not about getting them to pose - it’s about making them feel involved and heard.

What really matters is connection, not performance.

3. Use familiar spaces

Especially for newborn or toddler sessions, the comfort of home makes a huge difference. Beds, snuggly sofas, or that spot where you usually feed your baby naturally invite closeness.

Your home - with its soft window light and well-loved corners - has stories within its walls. This is where children can be themselves, pets join in, and you can move through the day without pressure.

4. Look at each other, not at me

This is one of my go-to tips. While I’ll capture a few classic shots for the grandparents now and then, most of the time I’ll gently encourage you to look at each other. Whether that’s a loving gaze, a shared joke, or a bump of foreheads - those are the moments that matter most.

Think of our session as a chance to slow down together, not just something to tick off the to-do list.

5. Bring the mood as it is

If your little one is teething or overtired, that’s okay. If your partner isn’t thrilled to be photographed, I get it - and I’ll work gently around that energy. If someone wants to stay in the background, that’s perfectly fine too.

I’m not expecting sunshine-in-a-bottle from anyone. You don’t need to “bring your best self” - just your real one.

6. Let me know what feels uncomfortable

If you don’t want close-ups, or there’s a part of your house you’d rather avoid using, just say. It’s genuinely helpful to know what feels good to you - and what doesn’t. I’m here to honour your preferences, not override them.

These sessions are for you - not for Instagram, not for trends, and not for anyone else’s approval. My only aim is to tell your story gently and thoughtfully, just as it is.

The magic is in the mood not the set up

Capturing children as they are, in real-time emotional rhythms, reveals more power and truth than any studio backdrop ever could. Whether it's a quick cuddle before dinnertime or a tired toddler leaning into your neck as the baby naps on your shoulder - those are the images that bring people to tears years later.

That’s why I don’t use flash, I don’t pose newborns in baskets, and I don’t airbrush baby skin to look unnatural. What matters is the emotion, not the polish. And that only comes from stillness, patience, and trust.

Want to capture you family in a quiet and honest way?

I photograph families across Edinburgh, Midlothian, East Lothian, and surrounding areas, specialising in candid, at-home and outdoor family photography. My sessions are relaxed, in quiet places where children and parents alike can breathe.

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If all this sounds like a good fit for your family, and you are drawn to a more candid feel to your family photos, you can read more about my approach or book a quick 15 minute chat to start setting the wheels in motion here.

Slow down, look to your children, and let whatever happens... happen.

I’ll be right there, quietly watching it all unfold.

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