Family Photography

Family Photographer in Nottingham

Beautiful, relaxed images are what my family photoshoots are all about.

I’m Ali J, a family photographer based in Nottingham, working across Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire and the wider East Midlands and happy to shoot elsewhere too! I specialise in natural, relaxed family photography, capturing real moments, genuine connection and the everyday magic of family life.  My approach is calm and unobtrusive, focusing on honest storytelling – without stiff poses or forced smiles.

My family sessions are about telling your story as it really is: playful, emotional, imperfect and full of love.

Outdoor Shoots

We’ll spend some time together outside around a favourite place you all like to explore .  I’ll stay in the background for the most part, letting events unfold around me, noticing the small details, glimpses into characters and settings, capturing those natural moments and leaving you with a set of images to cherish and look back on over the years.

Natural and Relaxed 
Family photography doesn’t need to feel awkward or overly posed. My approach is calm, friendly and unobtrusive, allowing children (and parents!) to relax and be themselves.

I focus on

  • natural interactions and movement
  • connection between parents and children
  • laughter, cuddles and quiet moments
  • images that feel timeless and honest.

Whether we’re outdoors, at home, or somewhere meaningful to you, I aim to create photographs that feel true to your family.

“Ali is absolutely brilliant! We wanted some family photos but with reluctant teenagers I was doubtful we would get any good shots, but somehow Ali managed to get genuine natural smiles and laughter and the results were beyond anything I could have hoped for.” – Eloise

Outdoor and lifestyle family photography

Many of my family sessions take place outdoors, in woodlands, open spaces or favourite local spots, which works especially well for energetic children and families who love being outside. I also offer lifestyle sessions at home, which are perfect for capturing quieter, more intimate moments in a familiar environment.

What to Expect from Your Family Session

Before your session, we’ll talk about your family, your children and what you’d love from the photographs. I’m happy to offer guidance on locations and clothing, but nothing is over-directed. During the session, I gently guide when needed, while letting moments unfold naturally. After the session, you’ll receive a gallery of carefully edited images that tell your family’s story and stand the test of time.

Family Photography Across Nottingham and the East Midlands

I’m based in Nottingham and regularly photograph families across Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Rutland and the wider East Midlands. Travel is easy, and I’m always happy to meet you at a location that feels right for your family.

The Wonderful Everyday

Shoots that take place around your home-  just hanging around and capturing your family at home, letting your story develop in front of me.  Watching and waiting, taking pictures as the moments arise – reading books, running up the stairs, those glimpses as you check in on the kids, holding hands on the sofa watching tv, grabbing snacks together or even cooking, building lego – anything goes.

 

Those moments that we take as given, you guys just doing your thing – but ones that show real life, raw moments that are so quickly gone and that we usually take for granted so much.  They live in our memories but aren’t seen as special enough to be captured, until it’s too late and the kids have got too big to enjoy snuggling on the sofa together and meal times are rushed to be able to get off to the next activity.

“We had a family photo shoot with Ali last week and my 2 boys absolutely loved it! They had so much fun playing around in the woods whilst Ali snapped away! I can’t recommend Ali enough, she was brilliant with the boys and the photos are all gorgeous! The trouble is deciding which ones to choose!”  – Sophie

Whatever your child’s age, I tailor your photoshoot around you as a family: the things you enjoy, how you laugh and the things you love, making sure we capture unique images for you.

Book a Family Photographer in Nottingham

 

If you’re looking for a family photographer in Nottingham or the East Midlands who values connection, authenticity and natural moments, I’d love to hear from you.