Last Updated on 02/06/2025 by Armands Sprogis
Natural Family Photography – Day in Life Portraits
The journey of storytelling with natural family photography.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like when you don’t need to pose for family photos? Someone would just follow you and record whatever is happening at that time, like a photojournalist type of approach. Today I would like to talk about natural family photography or also called Day in Life photography.
I have photographed families since 2010. You can check my studio family portraits here.
As much as I love my studio work, I also enjoy totally off-the-hook natural family photography where everything just unfolds in front of you.
Recently, I explored the idea of showing what it would look like if we were focusing sessions purely on the natural approach. Doing less ‘site down and poses for a camera’ and more ‘let’s be you’.
Around a year ago, I got inspired by Kirsten Lewis. Her natural storytelling portraits are just amazing. She was talking about spending a longer time with family rather than the typical 2 hour shoots, that I normally do. These sessions are called Day in Life or Slice in Life photo sessions. Depending on spending half or a full day with you. I loved the idea of just being there and observing and waiting for those moments to unfold.
I was hooked and wanted to try out a more natural documentary approach to family photography. As a photographer, you want to evolve and keep trying out new ways of photography.
Dad’s birthday story family photography
King family decided to do their family photo session on dad’s birthday. It was very special to them and perfect to do some baking and enjoy the day as a family.
Activities included baking, magic show, lego building, pillow fight with me, walk to the local park and to finish the day we enjoyed the cake. So much personality and connection in family captured. Perfect natural family photography.
Watch this stop-motion video I created from the photo session
Why Choose Natural Family Photography?
I completely understand. Inviting a photographer into your home for several hours, or even a full day, is not for everyone. Some families prefer the classic photo where everyone is smiling at the camera, and that is absolutely fine. I offer those types of sessions regularly.
But if you are looking for something more meaningful, something that truly captures who you are as a family, then natural family photography might be the right choice for you.
The more time I spend with you, the more you start to relax and be yourselves. You begin to forget that I am even there. That is when the genuine moments happen. The laughter, the little hugs, the quiet moments between the chaos, and yes, even the occasional tears from the kids. All of it is part of your story, and all of it deserves to be remembered.
One of my first Day In Life family photo sessions with the Numbro family.
If you are anything like me, you treasure those little in-between moments with your children. The ones where no one is looking at the camera, just playing games, laughing, and being completely yourselves. There is no need for the perfect shot. These types of portraits tell a real story, one that looks beautiful in an album or as a collage on your wall.
It is completely up to you what kind of session you would like. Later on, we will go through the differences between session types so you can choose what suits your family best. Be sure to check that out.
Preparing for a Day in the Life Photoshoot
These family photoshoots are quite different from my usual portrait sessions. You will plan out your day or half-day and let me know what you would like to do and when you would like to begin. Most families choose to start in the morning, but I have also done lovely afternoon and evening sessions.
When I arrive, we always begin with a relaxed chat. I love hearing about your family, your plans for the day, and especially from the kids—their favourite games, routines, and what they are excited about. There is no rush. Everything flows naturally.
You will give me a little tour of your home, we will decide together what everyone will wear, and once everyone feels comfortable, we will be ready to begin.
Check out the Thomson family photography story.
Here is what Alison said about the photo session. Perfectly sums up the experience.
” We wanted relaxed, natural photos which would reflect Elicia’s personality and we could record activities she enjoys the most.
Armands was very accommodating to our daily routine and came over to our house at 7am so he could capture the moments from Elicia first waking up. Armands took the time to get to know Elicia and instantly won her over with his fun and playful personality. That alone was an achievement as Elicia often shies away from people she doesn’t see very regularly.
Throughout the day Armands was both imaginative & patient & made us all feel very much at ease. We went to our local park where Elicia loves to play and just did what she loves doing. This was very different to any photoshoot we’ve experienced or heard of before. Armands was able to create beautiful real life images that capture the spirit and essence of our family.
I feel like we had a very special time as a family, focussing on Elicia. It really felt like a family day, not a photoshoot.
He was lovely to have around & his energy and optimism are second to none. By the end of the day Elicia was having so much fun with Armands that she started putting on her shoes to leave with him when he was going home! “
Alison
Edinburgh
What happens during the family photo session?
Once we know what activities are planned for the session, I create a mental plan for where and what I will be photographing. By this time, I have already looked around your home and know where the best natural light is. If the family plans to do some baking, for example, we’ll stay in the kitchen. For other activities, I’ll suggest spaces that work well with the light and help create beautiful, natural images.
I do not give any direction during the session. If your chosen activity is reading together, I will simply decide which room offers the best setting for that moment. If you want to play games, we will find the best space for that too.
After that, it is all about capturing the day as it unfolds. I do not interfere. I quietly observe and choose the best angles to document your story in the most authentic and natural way possible.
Slice in Life photo session with Karyn’s family
Differences Between a Regular and a Natural Day in the Life Photo Sessions
1. Length of the Session
A standard family session usually lasts around two hours.
A Day in the Life session spans the whole day—typically from morning until evening, about 12 hours.
A Slice of Life session is a shorter version, lasting around 4 to 5 hours.
2. Style of Photography
While regular sessions include more traditional, posed portraits, a natural session focuses on real, unscripted moments. I document everything that happens, those genuine interactions, spontaneous laughs, and quiet in-between moments.
3. More Time for Activities
You have the freedom to plan a full day with a variety of activities. We can start at home, head outdoors, stop for a meal, and truly make the most of the experience. There is no rush, just real life unfolding naturally.
4. Number of Portraits
Because these sessions are longer and more relaxed, you receive a much larger gallery of images. This gives you the opportunity to create a beautiful photo album or a wall collage that tells your family’s story in a meaningful way.
5. Cost of the Session
A Day in the Life session is similar in structure to wedding photography in terms of time and creative energy. I spend many hours with your family, so the pricing reflects that extended commitment.
6. Building a Lasting Relationship
Spending so much time with you allows me to really connect with your family. Many of my clients come back year after year, and I often become their family photographer for life.
Jennie’s family photography story
And there you have it—beautiful results and truly special keepsakes for your family.
Personally, I believe these types of natural, honest moments will hold more meaning over time than a perfectly posed portrait with everyone smiling at the camera. These photos show who your family really was at that moment in life. What the children were like. Whether they were having a tantrum, laughing uncontrollably, or quietly reading a book in their favourite corner.
I document my own family this way too. Just those little snippets of everyday life—simple, real, and unforgettable.
If you would like to know more about these sessions. Please contact studio here
