Relaxed Autumn Family Photos in Thornton Hough

Autumn is one of the best seasons to have your family portraits taken and thanks to the incredibly dry summer we’ve had, it’s coming early this year!

Whether it’s a misty morning or late afternoon golden hour, Autumn light is so soft, which on film just looks incredible and I just love shooting outdoors amongst all those gorgeous rich colours.

It was early one morning in October last year that I had the pleasure of photographing the Epps family in the picturesque village of Thornton Hough on the Wirral.

I know the village well as I went to Primary School there what seems like a hundred years ago! I knew the village green and beautiful chocolate box houses would make a great backdrop for family portraits.

We had SO much fun taking pictures for an hour or so… like all my family sessions, it was super relaxed and easy-going. We started as I always do by nailing some beautiful whole family portraits, before letting their little boy Charlie take charge and play as I captured it all on medium format film.

I asked Mum and Dad whether they’d be happy to share some feedback on their experience and here’s what Tray had to say…

Had you ever had a family photo shoot before?

We had done a few casual shoots in the past - nothing too formal - but this was completely different. Despite the chaos of a wet British morning and two preschoolers running the show, Victoria brought a calm, thoughtful energy that made it all feel very natural.

It didn’t feel staged or stressful; it felt like she was just part of the day, quietly capturing everything as it unfolded.

Did you know it would be shot on film? What do you think of the quality/difference to digital?

I did know Victoria shot on film and it was actually one of the reasons we were excited to work with her.

We hadn’t had film photos taken before, but now I’m completely converted. There’s a depth and softness to the images that just doesn’t feel the same with digital. The colours, the grain, the imperfections - they make it all feel timeless and real.

How did you prepare for your family photos to be taken? 

I definitely over thought the outfits at first, but Victoria was brilliant at helping me pare it back.

She gave really thoughtful advice on what would look good on film - nothing too matchy, just tones and textures that would complement each other and the setting. She helped us choose a location that felt personal and relaxed and the timing felt just right (even with the rain!).

Did you enjoy the experience of your family portrait session?

Beforehand, I think we were mostly nervous about the weather and whether the kids would cooperate. But honestly, once we got going, it was just fun!

Victoria had such a gentle way of guiding things and she was completely unbothered by the drizzle or the toddler mood swings. By the end of it, we felt like we’d had a lovely, slightly muddy family day out - with the bonus of someone capturing it beautifully. 

How did your kids find the session?

Victoria was incredible with them. Charlie and Ruby can be… let’s say “spirited,” but she totally went with their energy.

She never pushed them to “perform,” and I think they sensed that. It felt more like she was playing alongside them than trying to get a perfect shot - and somehow, she got them anyway.

What did you think of the finished photos? 

We honestly couldn’t believe how beautiful they were. They feel like proper heirlooms - full of feeling and little moments we didn’t even realise she’d caught. We’ve framed a few, gifted some to grandparents and I find myself scrolling through them regularly just to soak it in again.

Would you recommend Victoria? (You can be honest!)

Absolutely, without hesitation. Victoria has that rare mix of technical talent, creative eye, and warm presence that makes you feel totally at ease. Especially with little kids, that makes all the difference.

The experience was as lovely as the photos - and that’s saying something.

A huge thank you to Tray & Victoria for their kind words. It was such a fun session and it makes me very happy to think these photographs are now up on the walls of their family home for their kids to see every day.

September to November is a time of year when I love to get outdoors… and so do my girls. With puddles to splash in, fallen leaves to throw up in the air, Mother Nature provides endless entertainment!

If your kids love to get outside in Autumn too and you’d like me to help you capture those fleeting moments on film; head to my Investment page for more details and check out my Autumn session availability.