Family Photoshoots in Ware & Hertford: What to Expect

If you’ve ever taken photos of your family, or a large group you’ll know that getting everyone to smile at the same time is pretty much impossible, so I don’t try to force it! Some posed photos work really well. They’re lovely to look back at and most families I photograph still request these; even if they’re just for Nana and Grandad! Great photos don’t stop there though, and natural, happy and unposed moments are fab. They’re your youngest falling over their own feet and everyone cracking up, or your eldest deciding they’re far too cool to hold hands, then doing it anyway thirty seconds later.

I’m Mike, a family photographer based in Ware, just down the road from Hertford. I’ve been taking photos of my own kids since our first was born (and still do!), and that’s really where all this started. So if you’re thinking about a family photoshoot in Ware or Hertford but aren’t quite sure what to expect, here’s how it works.

What happens on the day

My family sessions are 60 minutes, which is the perfect amount of time to explore, relax and get some lovely photos without anyone flagging. I’m not a clock watcher though. Some kids need a bit longer to warm up, others have had enough a bit sooner, and that’s completely fine. We’ll go at whatever pace works for your family.

I like a mix of natural, unposed moments and some that are more gently posed or directed, so you get the best of both. If you’d rather lean one way or the other, just let me know. And if you’ve got a dog, bring them along. They’re part of the family too!

Where we can go around Ware and Hertford

One of the things I love about this part of Hertfordshire is how many beautiful spots there are right on our doorstep. You’re welcome to pick somewhere that means something to you, or I’ll suggest a few places.

Around Ware, the Ware Priory has a natural feel in a small space, with old stonework, the grounds and the rivers in the background. Hertford is only a few minutes down the road, and the Castle Grounds are great for families who want that timeless look with lots of open green space for kids to runaround in. The trees here provide some sensational colour in Autumn. There are almost endless options at Panshanger Park with rivers, open fields, footpaths and some very impressive trees. Further afield, the Lee Valley opens up loads of options through the seasons with its plethora of walks and footpaths. As does Cedars Park in Cheshunt – a popular choice amongst a lot of families – with lots of open space, its wonderful tree lined footpaths and spaces to relax for photos, all in a relatively compact area – ideal to prevent little legs from aching!

The best time of year

Honestly, every season works, they’re just different.

• Spring means bluebells and fresh green leaves. It’s always popular, so if you’d like one of my bluebell mini shoots in Hertfordshire, it’s worth booking early.
• Summer gives us long evenings, so we can shoot later once the harsh midday sun has softened.
• Autumn is hard to beat for colour, with golden leaves to throw about (kids love this bit).
• Winter is a bit underrated. Soft light and bare trees can look beautiful, and of course there’s Christmas. Have a look at my Christmas mini shoots and at home Christmas shoots.

What you get

Before the shoot we’ll have a chat about what you’d like, where to go and what to wear. Afterwards, every image is hand edited and they’re all included, so there are no awkward decisions about which ones to pay for. You’ll get your own private online gallery where you can download your photos and order prints. Family sessions start from £175, and you can see everything that’s included on my family photography in Ware page.

If you’d like to start with something shorter, my seasonal mini shoots in Ware run on set dates through the year. And if you’ve got a little one on the way, have a look at my maternity shoots too.

Ware, Hertford and beyond

I’m based in Ware and photograph families all over Hertfordshire, Essex and North London, including Hertford, Hoddesdon, Cheshunt, Harlow, Stevenage, Hatfield and Welwyn Garden City. If you’re not sure whether you’re close enough, just ask. I’ll always reply within 24 hours.