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Bristol family photographer

Family photography in Bristol.

Family life changes quickly. One minute they’re tiny, the next they’re taller than you and rolling their eyes.

A family photoshoot gives you a reason to pause and document this stage properly before it disappears into busy weeks and camera rolls.

My family photography in Bristol is relaxed, natural and focused on real connection. No stiff posing. No forced smiles. Just honest portraits that feel like your family.

You don’t need to worry about children sitting still or behaving perfectly. They won’t, and that’s fine. Sessions are calm and enjoyable, with space for movement, laughter and those in-between moments that often mean the most. I guide things gently so it never feels awkward or over-directed.

The result is a collection of photographs that actually feel like home. Images you’ll want on your walls, not hidden on a hard drive.

If you’re looking for a Bristol family photographer who will make the whole experience straightforward and relaxed, I’d love to photograph this stage for you.

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Preparing for your family photoshoot

A family photoshoot is a chance to slow down, spend time together and document this stage properly. Sessions are relaxed and enjoyable, focused on natural moments rather than stiff posing.

Every session is planned around your family. I only photograph one family per day, so there’s no rushing in and out. You have time to settle, breathe and actually enjoy it.

Afterwards, you’ll receive a carefully edited gallery that reflects your family honestly and naturally. These are photographs designed to be printed, framed and lived with for years to come.

What to wear

Wear something you feel comfortable and confident in. Timeless, neutral tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus on you rather than the clothes. Simple combinations like denim with white, cream or black work well.

If you’d like more guidance, my Family Guidebook includes outfit ideas to help you feel prepared without overthinking it.

Bringing pets

Pets are always welcome. If your dog is part of the family, they’re very welcome to join in.

How to prepare

For outdoor sessions, we’ll choose a location that feels relaxed and suits your family. If we’re in the studio, everything will be ready for you when you arrive.

If there are specific images you’d love, or if anyone has additional needs, just let me know beforehand. I adapt every session to keep things calm and comfortable.

I’ll guide you throughout so you’re never left wondering what to do. The aim is simple: natural photographs that feel like you and capture your family exactly as they are right now.

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"Thanks So much, Katie for such amazing photos you have truly captured some beautiful shots.
I would recommend Katie every time I have used her for several photo sessions Weddings, family & pets and she has provided stunning images with lasting memory. Thanks again x"

Family Photoshoots in Bristol and Portishead

I’m a family photographer based in Portishead, with easy access to some of the best outdoor locations across Bristol. You can choose between a calm studio session or a relaxed outdoor shoot, depending on what suits your family best.

Outdoor sessions take place in well-loved spots including the coastline around Portishead, Leigh Woods, Ashton Court, Arnos Vale, Oldbury Court and Kings Weston House. These locations give children space to move and explore, so nothing feels overly posed or staged.

Seasonal sessions run throughout the year. Spring and early summer are ideal for bluebell woods, while autumn and winter bring softer light and quieter backdrops. I also offer confetti field sessions and other limited seasonal locations at selected times for families wanting something a little different.

Around a week after your session, you’ll be invited back to the studio for your viewing appointment. Your fully edited gallery is presented on a large screen, giving you time to choose your favourite images and decide how you’d like to display them in your home.

If you’re looking for a family photographer in Bristol or Portishead and would like to book a session, or chat through whether studio or outdoor would suit you best, you can get in touch using the form below.

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Natural family photography in Bristol’s most beautiful outdoor locations

A black and white professional photo of a father holding his baby daughter and kissing her cheek in a photo studio in portishead near bristol

"I had a couple photoshoots with Katie for me and my son and she is just Amazing as a person and photographer. The pictures she create was just so Beautiful.
I also had a portrait session for my model portfolio update and wow, love love all the pictures.
Katie is also kind and very friendly and make me feel and my son very comfortable during the session. If you like to have some outstanding pictures for you and your family book photoshoot with Katie Now! What a talent !!! Highly Recommended!  Thank you for great memories till next time!"

I also photograph weddings across Bristol for couples who value relaxed, natural photography and genuine moments.

Looking for something a little more playful and creative? My In the Box sessions are a fun studio option that children love and make brilliant wall art.

If you love themed or limited-edition shoots, you may also enjoy my seasonal photography sessions, including bluebells, autumn confetti, and creative studio themes.

Seasonal Photography Sessions

Bluebells

Confetti fields

Creative Studio

Christmas (coming soon)

family photography in bristol
BOOKING FEE

£65
 

Your booking fee reserves your familly session and the time set aside just for you. It covers the photoshoot itself, use of the studio wardrobe if applicable, gentle guidance throughout and the careful editing of your images.

Image collections are chosen separately after your session, once you have seen your finished gallery. The booking fee is not deducted from your chosen collection.

family pricing

0% interest monthly payment options are available on orders over £495. Just ask if you would like more information.

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guidebook
family photoshoot bristol
family photoshoot bristol
family photoshoot bristol
FAMILY
PREPERATION GUIDE

"We really treasure the family photos Katie took for us. She's got vision, is inventive, but is also amazing at the simpler more traditional images."

Enquire about your family photoshoot
If you would like to talk through a family photoshoot, I would love to hear from you.

Because connection is everything

Family Photography FAQs

Where do family photoshoots take place?

You can choose a studio session at my Portishead studio or an outdoor family photoshoot around Bristol and the surrounding areas. We’ll pick what suits your family best and what you want your photos to feel like.

What if my children won’t sit still or behave?

That’s normal. Kids do not need to sit still for great photos. Sessions are relaxed and child-led, with plenty of movement and breaks built in. I’ll guide things so it feels easy, not like a performance.

What should we wear for a family photoshoot?

Wear outfits you feel comfortable in and can move around in. Neutrals and simple, timeless colours photograph beautifully and keep the focus on connection rather than clothing. If you want help, I can send outfit guidance and my Family Guidebook.

How long does a family session take?

Most family sessions last around one to two hours. I don’t rush, and I only photograph one family per day so you can settle in and enjoy it.

Can we include grandparents or extended family?

Yes. Extended family sessions are welcome. Let me know who’s coming and what you’d like, and we’ll plan it so it stays calm and organised.

Can we bring our dog or other pets?

Yes, pets are very welcome, especially dogs. If your pet is part of your family, they should be in the photos too.

When will we see our images?

Around a week after your session, you’ll be invited back to the studio for your viewing appointment. Your fully edited gallery is presented on a large screen so you can enjoy the images properly and choose your favourites.

Do you offer prints, wall art and albums?

Yes. I offer high-quality prints, framed wall art and albums designed to last. During your viewing appointment, I’ll help you choose options that suit your home and how you want to display your photographs.

Do you photograph family sessions all year round?

Yes. Family sessions work beautifully in every season. Spring and summer give you greener backdrops, while autumn and winter bring softer light and quieter locations. Seasonal minis are also available at selected times.

How do we book a family photoshoot?

Get in touch using the contact form with a rough idea of what you’re looking for. If you’re not sure whether studio or outdoor would suit you best, tell me and I’ll help you decide.

© 2026 Katie Forshaw Photography
Portishead, Bristol, North Somerset

 

katie@katieforshawphotography.co.uk
 

Empowering maternity, family and personal brand photography.
Luxury, confidence-led photography in Bristol and the South West.

Maternity photography, family portraits, creative portraits, business headshots and weddings.

Based in Portishead, photographing families, professionals and businesses across Bristol and the South West.

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