Girl looking up at camera pleasing to be allowed to take a picture to at Hayes Common in Bromley

Do I ignore you during our family photo session?

24/01/202424

There’s a common misconception about documentary family photography: the idea that the photographer fades into the background. That I will be awkwardly lurking in a corner while photographing you. But, in reality, it’s quite the opposite. I don’t aim to be a silent observer; I’m here to actively participate and become a part of your day.

Child trying to grab the camera during a family photo session and not ignoring the photographer

‘I felt slightly apprehensive as to how natural we could be as a family knowing a camera was present! I needn’t have worried. From the moment Saskia arrived she put us very much at ease. We didn’t have to ignore her as I thought we might, but rather just include her in our afternoon.’ – Joanne & Stuart from London

Perhaps you’ve had concerns similar to Joanne & Stuart. Initially, they felt a bit apprehensive, wondering if they could be their natural selves while having to pretend I was not there. However, from the moment I arrive, my goal is to make you feel at ease. Please do not ignore a documentary family photos…as that would be very uncomfortable for me as well 😀.

Child looking straight into the camera as the family documentary photographer is a part of your day.

“A portrait is not made in the camera but on either side of it.” – Edward Steichen

I love the above quote! To get the intimate moments of family life that matter, I need to build trust, and you can only do so by building a relationship…which means interacting is actually a key part of the process. Include me into your day. I am there to chat, play, answer questions, and expect me to ask you loads as well!

To know more about what your family photo session will be like you can have a look at my article ‘Your Family Photography Experience will go like this…‘.

Do you want to find out if I am the right photographer for your family? Send me a message via my contact page to start to get to know each other. I can’t wait to learn more about you and your family and spend time with you where we will have lots of fun.

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Saskia Albers

Hi, I’m Saskia — your photographer and filmmaker.

This work is for people who want to recognise themselves in their photos and films. Not a polished version or a performance, but real moments, real connection, and real personalities. Images and films you’ll grow to love even more with time.

Whether you’re a family, a small business, or a charity, the focus stays on the beauty of what’s already there.