Planning your family photo shoot should feel exciting – not overwhelming. At Stables Photography Studios, based just outside Abergavenny in beautiful Monmouthshire, we create relaxed, heartfelt family portraits that truly reflect you. Whether you’re coming with toddlers, teens or grandparents in tow, a little preparation goes a long way.
Here’s our guide to preparing for your family portrait session – and making sure it’s a joyful, authentic experience from start to finish.
Choose comfort over formality
When it comes to clothing, our biggest advice is simple: be comfortable.
If your outfit feels stiff, fussy or unfamiliar, you won’t relax – and that comes through in the photos. Choose clothes that feel good on your skin and let you move easily. Well-fitting jeans, soft knits, floaty skirts and worn-in boots all photograph beautifully.
Avoid large logos or slogans, which can distract from your faces and feel out of place in timeless portraits. Instead, opt for soft textures, solid colours or subtle patterns that complement each other.
Think colour coordination, not matchy-matchy
There’s no need to match exactly – in fact, overly coordinated outfits can feel a bit forced. But a gentle colour palette can bring a sense of harmony to your portraits. Think in terms of tones and textures rather than identical items.
For example, navy, cream and soft brown work beautifully for autumn. Soft pastels and light denim suit spring. You might even base your colours around a favourite family blanket or the room where your portraits will hang.
If in doubt, lay your chosen clothes out on the bed together. If they make a pleasing picture, you’re good to go.
Be unshamefully yourselves
We’re not after a ‘perfect’ version of your family. We’re here to capture the real version – the giggles, the cuddles, the sideways glances. So please don’t worry if your child is lively or shy, or if someone forgets to smile on cue.
Come as you are. Laugh. Chat. Let your family dynamic unfold naturally. That’s where the magic lives.
We work gently and at your pace, creating space for natural interaction and real emotion. That’s what makes a portrait feel true – not polished poses, but heartfelt moments.
Bring the little details that matter
What makes your family unique? A favourite toy, Granny’s shawl, your teenager’s battered guitar – these little details say so much. Including them in your portraits can turn a beautiful photo into a deeply personal one.
Let your child bring their superhero cape or their well-loved rabbit. Wear the earrings your mum gave you. These touches help children feel at home, and they give your portraits a deeper emotional connection.
What makes your family tick?
Before the shoot, take a moment to reflect. What’s important to you as a family? What do you want to remember about this season of life?
Whether it’s the chaos of toddlerhood, the quiet strength of grandparents, or the bond between siblings, we’ll help you capture it with warmth and honesty. No forced smiles. No rushed poses. Just meaningful photography that tells your story.
Your Studio Experience in the Heart of Monmouthshire
Our family photo shoots take place at our beautiful photography studio just outside Abergavenny, in the heart of Monmouthshire. It’s a warm, welcoming space designed with families in mind – calm, private, and full of natural light.
We’ve created an environment where you can truly relax. Children can explore safely, there’s space to change or pause if needed, and everything is set up to make your session feel more like a comfortable visit than a formal appointment.
Because we shoot entirely in-studio, you don’t have to worry about the weather, muddy shoes or windblown hair – just turn up as yourselves and enjoy the experience. Whether we’re capturing cuddles on the sofa, playful moments on the floor, or quiet parent-and-child portraits, our Monmouthshire studio offers the perfect setting for natural, emotive family photography.
The experience matters
A portrait session at Stables Photography Studios isn’t just about getting a great photo – it’s about enjoying time together as a family. Many of our clients tell us their shoot felt more like a lovely day out than a formal appointment.
That’s exactly how it should be. When you feel relaxed, the images reflect it.
So don’t stress about getting everything ‘right’. We’ll guide you through with care, patience and warmth. Just come as you are – unshamefully yourselves – and let us take care of the rest.
Ready to capture what makes your family you?
We’d love to welcome you to our Monmouthshire studio. Give us a ring on 01873 857439 or drop us an email at info@stablesphotography.co.uk to book your session.
Gareth & Per