Family Photography in Orpington, Kent
As an experienced Orpington family photographer, I’ve been lucky enough to capture countless families, from glowing expectant mothers to tiny newborns and toddlers full of life. While I’ve spent a great deal of time showcasing maternity and baby photography on my blog, I feel it’s time to shift the focus slightly. Many of the children I photographed as babies aren’t so little anymore—and I want to highlight the importance of capturing those older childhood years too.
After 30 years as a photographer and 13 years at my studio for family photography in Orpington, Kent, I’ve seen my clients’ families grow and evolve. Many parents, after seeing how quickly the early years slip by, have returned to capture their older children or to arrange full family portraits, especially post-COVID. The pandemic reminded us of life’s fragility, and more families wanted to preserve the precious moments with their parents and grandparents through updated photographs.
Don’t get me wrong—I absolutely adore photographing babies and toddlers. Whether I’m pretending to be a dinosaur or making silly faces, the joy and spontaneity of those early years are irreplaceable. However, I also believe that as children grow, there’s incredible value in continuing to document their journey, even as they become more self-aware and perhaps a bit camera shy.
Why Photographing Older Children Matters
In the UK, it seems common for many families to ease up on professional photography once children start school, relying mainly on the annual school photos to capture those years. But in my experience, studio family photography offers something entirely different—a chance to truly showcase the personality and bond of your family in a creative, controlled environment. School photos, while lovely, can’t capture the unique dynamic of your family or the playful quirks that make your child who they are.
As children get older, they may become more self-conscious—whether it's about their appearance, their skin, or other body insecurities. But I’ve seen firsthand how a well-done portrait can build self-esteem. Hanging beautiful, authentic portraits on the wall gives your child a sense of pride and belonging, and reminds them of the love that surrounds them. These images aren’t just for today—they become heirlooms that help build confidence and lasting family connections.
Freezing Time: Why Portraits Are Priceless
Life moves so fast. One minute you’re running around with your toddler, and the next, they’re off to secondary school, and your weekends are filled with sports, study sessions, and a flurry of activities. Amidst the busyness, it’s easy to let time slip by. That’s why I encourage families to take a moment to come back to the studio—even if it’s just every few years—to capture the next chapter of their story.
These portraits do more than decorate your home; they freeze time. When you look at them years from now, you’ll not only see what your children looked like but also remember what it felt like at that moment. Family portraits are powerful reminders of love and connection, no matter how far apart we may be. Especially now, in a world where so many of us live far from loved ones, these images become even more precious.
A Timeless Heirloom for Generations
The portraits we take today aren’t just for us—they’re for future generations. I’ve photographed so many families who return to me again and again, and it’s always a joy to see how the children have grown. One lovely family I’ve worked with several times recently came back to update their portraits. They brought their two beautiful girls to my studio, and we captured some timeless, simple images. These photographs will be cherished for years to come, becoming part of their family history.
And I have to admit... it’s always fun to bring out the wind machine for a little added drama!
If you’ve been thinking about booking a session for your older children or even a full family portrait, now is the perfect time. As a family photographer in Orpington, I’m here to help you create beautiful, lasting memories that you and your family will treasure for generations.
Feel free to give me a call or to email —I’d love to help capture this next stage of your family’s journey.
