July at Phoebe Berridge Photography

Family Photography, Summer Adventures & Looking Ahead to Autumn

Welcome to the July edition of Moments with Phoebe.

June was a month of beautiful family sessions, sunshine, a little rain (because it wouldn't be a British summer otherwise!) and plenty of wonderful memories being captured.

One of my favourite things about photographing families at this time of year is the way the sunlight filters through the trees. Whether we're exploring woodland paths or enjoying a relaxed outdoor session, there's something magical about those pockets of golden light and the beautiful backdrops they create.

As we head into the summer holidays, I'm sure many of you are counting down to family adventures, days out and hopefully a little sunshine. We're also preparing for a special family holiday of our own as we're heading to Cornwall for the first time in August. If you've got any must-visit places, hidden gems or family-friendly recommendations, I'd love to hear them!

Why Candid Moments Matter More Than Perfect Smiles

One of the biggest worries I hear before a family session is:

"What if my child won't sit still?"

Or:

"What if they're not in the mood?"

The truth is, they don't need to be.

Some of my favourite family photographs come from children doing exactly what children do best running, exploring, laughing, cuddling and simply being themselves.

Of course, we'll always try for a few photographs where everyone is looking in the same direction, but the moments family’s treasure most are often the ones in between.

A little hand reaching for Mum's.

A burst of laughter.

A cuddle that wasn't planned.

Those are the moments that tell your family's story.

Outdoor family photography allows children the freedom to be themselves while I quietly capture those genuine moments as they unfold.

A Little Note For The Dads

Let's talk about the dads for a moment.

I hear it all the time before a family session:

"I've had to drag him along."

"He's not really a photo person."

"He hates having his picture taken."

And honestly? That's fine.

The best family photographs aren't about perfectly posed smiles and everyone looking at the camera. They're about connection.

They're about piggybacks, silly jokes, chasing little feet through the woods and cuddles when those little legs get tired.

My job is to guide you through the session, so nothing feels awkward or forced. Before long, the focus shifts away from the camera and onto spending time together—and that's usually when the magic happens.

And often, the dads who arrive saying they don't enjoy photographs leave saying:

"That wasn't actually that bad!"

High praise indeed.

Client Love

One of the highlights of every month is reading your lovely feedback.

This month I'd like to share some kind words from Emma following her Spring Mini Session:

"We did a mini session with Phoebe and couldn't recommend it highly enough. We attended with our 1-year-old daughter and our Labrador, and Phoebe handled the slight chaos very well. The location was beautiful, and the pictures have come out wonderfully."

"Phoebe kept us really updated beforehand with super clear guidance on what we needed to do, which was really appreciated."

"So pleased to have such lovely pictures of us as a family, memories that we will cherish forever."

Thank you so much, Emma, for your kind words.

Reviews like this always remind me why I love what I do.

Something Autumnal Is Coming...

🍂 Autumn Mini Sessions will officially be launching on Friday 31st July.

Think golden light, cosy colours, beautiful family memories and one of my favourite seasons of the year.

These sessions are always incredibly popular and newsletter subscribers will be the first to hear all the details before they're shared elsewhere.

Keep an eye on your inbox!

Phoebe's July Favourite

One of my favourite things about this time of year is the long summer evenings.

Whether it's an evening walk, time spent in the garden, or simply not having to rush the children indoors quite so early, there's something so special about making the most of those extra daylight hours.

Sometimes the simplest moments become the ones we remember most.

A Little Christmas Reminder

I know... it's only July!

But Christmas Mini Sessions have already been available for booking for several months, and a number of spaces have already been snapped up by returning clients.

If Christmas photographs are on your list this year, now is a great time to take a look at the remaining availability before the festive season sneaks up on us all.

Thank you for reading this month's Moments with Phoebe.

I hope you're enjoying the start of summer and making lots of wonderful memories with your families.

See you next month.

Phoebe x

Phoebe Berridge Photography
Family, Newborn & Baby Photographer in Bedfordshire

Read more Moments with Phoebe