A Day In The Life Of A Photographer

I can’t promise this is true for every photographer, but this is a day in the life of THIS photographer!

Good morning, sunshine

Thankfully, part of the beauty of being my own boss is that I get to design my life to work for me. How I start my day sets me up in the best way possible, so that I can show up fully for myself, my work and my family. 

I start every morning with an espresso at 5am. It’s a non negotiable, because coffee is key. Then I do at least an hour of editing before a 6am PT session or a big hike up The Peak (on mornings that I don’t shoot). There’s really nothing better than moving your body, especially when 90% of your job is sitting behind a screen editing. Next up is breakfast, which is usually a protein shake, eggs, or oatmeal. 

On a shoot day, I do a quick gear check (I usually pack for a shoot the night before) and head off for the most exciting part of my day. 

Say cheese

Every shoot day looks a little different depending on what I’ve got on the books, but the process is always the same. I’ve modernised and digitised my processes to make everything more streamlined and less intimidating for my clients. The proof is in the photo pudding!

Before we jump straight into a shoot, I like to speak to everyone first. It’s so important for you to feel at ease behind my lens, which means I take extra time getting to know the family I’m working with. For school shoots specifically, I take more time with each child - we chat and joke around until genuine smiles emerge. 

Then, the magic happens. This usually goes by in a flash, because we’re all having so much fun! I remind everyone to really soak it in and be present in the moment.

When the fun’s over, the editing begins.

Edits, life and everything in between

The craziness of the day is just beginning at this point! And this is the least scheduled time of my day. I’ve tried to block out time to get certain things done, but it’s truly impossible. I’ve really had to learn to go with the flow and take whatever comes my way during bath and dinner times.

Once the kids are in bed, tummies full and eyes heavy, that’s when I properly sit down and look at the raw photos I captured earlier. I choose the very best stills and go into editing mode. I’m in the zone for a couple of hours, and my husband knows I simply don’t exist to the outside world during editing time!

Then, I finally get ready for bed, excited knowing that I get to do this all again tomorrow.

What does your typical day look like? I’d love to know. Chat to me on Instagram, or pop me an email!

How to Include Siblings in Newborn Shoots

When one becomes two, one tends to feel a little left out. Let’s make sure they don’t!

Odds are you’re already navigating the nuances of sibling jealousy with a newborn at home. If this is making you nervous about booking a newborn shoot with me, that’s totally normal. And also, I’ve got you covered!

1. Go with the (mood) flow.

I work with your kids' moods and not against them. Being a mom myself definitely helps me here, but the aim of the game is to tailor the session towards how the older sibling(s) are experiencing the shoot. If they’re feeling like being centre stage or if they need a break, we work around it and remove any pressure on anyone to perform. 

2. Routine matters, mom.

Let’s schedule the session around your routine. This goes for all shoots, obviously, but in this particular case, I’d focus on the oldest child’s routine. The best time to shoot is when they’ve had something to eat and aren’t tired. I find mid-morning generally works best, but this is always a case by case scenario. 

3. Lights, camera, big sibling in action.

The main point of a newborn shoot is to not only show off the little one, but to also capture the family. And in doing so, I prioritise taking a photo of the big sister or bother, too. This way, they don’t feel left out, and they have their own moment to shine, which reminds them that they are still so loved. It’s also incredibly important to get snaps of the newest little with the OG little, so they are seen as a unit, rather than one getting all the attention. 

BONUS: Timing is everything. 

Sometimes kids can get overwhelmed by having a new baby in the family and it can take them a little while to adjust. If that’s the case, I generally recommend scheduling our photoshoot for when your newborn is around the 6 week mark. The whole reason we want to include siblings in a newborn shoot is to capture the bond growing between them and this helps me celebrate that bond authentically. 

I could go on with this list, not only because I’ve got years of experience to draw on, but because I really love what I do and capturing the love between siblings is a magical experience every time.

If you want to book your shoot with me, my inbox is always open!

My Top 3 Valentine’s Day Gifts

It’s the LOVEliest time of the year! This Valentine’s Day, why not spoil your loved ones with something a little more timeless?

#1: A Family Photoshoot

Gift your other half a family photoshoot - because if ever there was a good excuse, what better reason for a shoot than celebrating all the love you’re lucky enough to have?

#2: A Gorgeous Print

The gift just keeps on giving, because you can frame your favourites from the shoot and have ALL your gifting requirements sorted for Christmas (and birthdays… and even anniversaries), too. 

#3: A Personalised Goodie

Take it one step further and get those images printed on items like mugs, bed linen, pillows… the opportunities are endless, and personalization is huge at the moment!

So, what are you planning on getting your special someone for Valentine’s Day this year? Let me know in the comments!

5 Ways to Include Your Fur Family in Your Photoshoot

Family photoshoots should include your fur-kids. It should actually be a rule. Family is family, if they have two legs or four - and there is absolutely no reason why we can’t include them in your family photoshoot. Here are some of my favourite ways to include your fur-family members in your next session. 

1. Have a plan. 

Including your fur baby will affect things like where we shoot and how. If your pet is comfortable being out and about with you, we’ll make sure to choose somewhere they’re familiar with. For the most part, cats mean home photo shoots - but either way, we’ll work together to find the best fit. 

2. Be patient. 

Don’t worry too much about having your pet ‘pose’ for a photo. If they’ve got more tricks up their paw sleeves than a magician, then rest assured the fanciness will be caught in action. It’s more important to go with the flow, and allow yourself and your family members to interact as you normally would - which is all the better for me!

3. Embrace the outtakes. 

In fact, they’ll be guaranteed to be among your favourites. Animals have a way of reminding us that “perfect” is anytime we’re with our loved ones, and that’s just about all that matters. Embrace the zoomies, the surprise licks and the rogue tail wags. 

4. Stick with what you know. 

Shoot day is not the day to try new things like letting your pup off-leash for the first time. If there are certain tricks you want captured, make sure they’re well practised so your pup (or kitty) can put their best paw forward. 

5. Give them a pamper.

I get it, there may be a muddy puddle between bath time and shoot day, but we can try anyway, right?

Now, I’d love to hear from you - would you include you fur baby in your next photo shoot? Let me know your thoughts!

Photo Session Trends: To Prop Or Not To Prop?

It’s a great question, isn’t it? Now, I don’t want to spark a whole argument. I’m just here to share both sides - at the end of the day, it’s really your decision whether you use props in your photo session or not, and I want you to make an informed one. So, let’s jump right in.

ARGUMENT #1: TO PROP

Props create movement, add interest to the composition, and they may even have a special meaning to you and your family, which adds to the magic of the photo. Adding a prop to a shoot removes any nerves and awkward poses, because you feel more natural holding and interacting with something. (But don’t worry, I’m here to help you feel comfortable no matter what). 

Props also help you engage with your environment. A great example here would be something like bubbles. Kids will naturally engage with the bubbles and ‘forget’ there’s a camera anywhere near them. Something like this can really help ‘break the ice’ and make the whole shoot a lot more fun. 

Prop ideas: Favourite toys, board games, sporty items (such as a football), bikes, kites, edible treats, and bubbles.

ARGUMENT #2: NOT TO PROP

Your prop needs to make sense, otherwise it’s an unnecessary addition that may detract from the moment, and may even start to look a little staged (and I am NOT about that life). If your location is dynamic enough, you may not even need a prop. Shooting around Hong Kong means there’s already a stunning, interesting, and vibrant environment to work with. Rather interact with things around you if you’re feeling a little nervous or unnatural. Pick up a pebble on the beach, or stop and smell the roses (ha!) along the way.

Family shoots are great, because you can engage and work with each other, sans props. At the end of the day, you want to do the things you’d normally do with the people you love - it’s my job to capture the smiles, glances, laughs and connections that already exist in front of my lens.

You have all the info, so tell me: Are you pro-prop or no-prop?

5 Photoshoot Trends to Get Rid of in 2023

Yeah, you read that correctly. There are photography trends that need to stay in 2022, IMO. Let’s leave behind:

#1 Cheesy poses. 

This one may be pretty obvious, but it’s the top of my list for good reason! Cheesy poses detract from the overall ‘feel’ of the photo, and they’re pretty much the number one way to make sure you don’t get the natural photos you want. My solution to this is shooting in an environment that encourages you to be yourself. I capture the candid moments because it’s my job - you shouldn’t have to pose at all. 

#2 Clinical school portraits.

We’ve all been there. And as hilarious as some of those photos may be to look back at, we can do so much better. Part of my work includes a whole new way of approaching school portraits - think modern backdrops, natural lighting, and more time with each child. All of this with the goal to turn school portraits into something everyone looks forward to. 

#3 Keeping photos on your phone instead of printing them out.

If you’re anything like me, your camera roll is FULL of photos of your kiddos and loved ones. But how many of those do you actually go back to look at? It’s time to print them out and sprinkle them around your house (in frames, obviously). 

#4 Uncomfortable clothes.

Chosen because it’s what you think you ‘should’ wear to a photoshoot. Instead, choose an outfit that makes you feel good, because you already look good! How you feel on the day will absolutely impact the outcome of the photos, and we can definitely eliminate one uncomfortable element before we even get started by making the best outfit choices for the big day.

#5 Matching white t-shirts and jeans.

Just, no. We can do so much better. Transfer the idea of ‘something that works for everyone’ to colour palettes, and make sure your clothes and environment complement each other.

#6 Bonus photoshoot trend to get rid of: Nerves.

Let’s say goodbye to those pesky feelings. Trust me, I get it. There’s a reason I prefer being behind the lens rather than in front of it - and only part of it is because I love what I do. When we work together, everything we do cultivates an experience to settle the nerves and help you relax into the magic of being yourself.

Ready to leap into 2023 and leave these trends in the dust? Get in touch today - next year’s schedule is already filling up!

4 Reasons You Should Ditch Traditional School Photos

Why do you need to move away from stuffy, old-school school photos, you ask? Great question. A question that I’ve pretty much answered in that very first line.

School photo days are notorious for being cheesy, forced, unnatural, stiff, and incredibly pressured. Kids only get one shot to feel and look their very best, and the photographer is trying to pack everyone in like sardines. So, here are 4 reasons why Boutique School Photography should be a thing at your child’s school.

#1 Cheesy backgrounds be gone!

You can picture it without even having to explain, can’t you? You know the awful painted background - the one that gives you nightmares of walking past the fridge as a kid and seeing your school photo? It’s the furthest thing from natural, and it ups the cheese factor. Instead, I use modern backgrounds that really highlight your little one. They’re timeless, and are incredibly frame-worthy.

#2 Bad lighting is switched off

Let’s not even get into the harshness that is fluorescent lighting. It highlights absolutely everything and contributes to the stark look of school photos. The lighting I use enhances your little one’s features, and creates an interesting contrast to the backdrop.

#3 You’re not just a number

The worst possible part of school photos is waiting to see them, because you can’t remember if you smiled properly, or if your hair looked okay. There are so many worries that come along with one shot wonders.

I’m not trying to get through everyone as quickly as possible. Instead, I take my time and get to know my little subjects. We chat and joke around until genuine smiles emerge.

#4 It’s all digital

Okay, this is something your photographer should already be offering, but I need to emphasise it again. We’re way past the complicated paperwork and admin at this point in life - there should be a digitally-based system that lets you access your gorgeous photos whenever you want.

And that’s exactly what I use.

Are you ready to elevate school portrait day? Get in touch, and let’s make magic!

5 Reasons You Need a Professional Headshot

In the digital age, everyone is a photographer. The quality of quick snaps on your phone is undeniable, and it makes capturing a cute moment easier than ever before. But however strong your selfie game may be, it’s not quite the way to go for all occasions - and there is no replacement for working with a professional photographer. Especially when we’re talking about headshots. 

#1 First Impressions

You only get one chance to make a first impression, and a headshot really demonstrates your professionalism. Whether you’re hoping to put your best foot forward (or face, in this case) for a potential employer or your own clients, a professional headshot shows them you mean business. 

#2 Showcase your Personality

A quality headshot gives people an idea of who you are before they’ve even met you. A picture really does speak a thousand words, and key players in your industry will be able to tell a lot about you from your headshot. A good photographer will be able to showcase your personality while also keeping things professional. 

#3 Build Trust

A quality, current headshot shows people what you look like now. This one seems obvious, but it can be pretty off-putting in business meetings if you look different in person than you do in the images those people may already have seen of you. It’s a very subtle, effective way to build trust right off the bat. 

#4 Networking Tool

A good headshot is a networking tool. It has the power to jog the memory of any contacts you might meet in passing and can help you more readily secure opportunities in the future. It quite literally helps people put a face to a name. 

#5 Humanise your Business

Professional headshots are an opportunity for you to include a little more life and fun into what you do professionally. It’s a fine line to walk, and a good photographer will get it exactly right. It’s a really effective way of humanising your business and gives people a taste of what it will be like to work with you.

Are you interested in getting a professional headshot taken? Look no further - I’m here to assist. Get in touch today!

Things to Ponder when Choosing an Outdoor or Indoor Location

When it comes to picking a shoot location, it’s always a good conversation to have with me, because it’s really important that you’re happy with what we choose. Some people love the effect that an interesting backdrop adds to their photographs - whereas for others, it’s all about the individuals in the pictures, and the space itself is secondary. If you’re not quite sure which camp you fall into yet, read on.

Regardless of the final choice, lighting is everything.

Obviously, good lighting is a non-negotiable, and there are certain weather requirements that I need in order to shoot, but beyond that, the choice of location really depends on what helps you and your family come alive. 

Outdoor:

Generally speaking, I recommend outdoor locations wherever possible, simply because the locations we have at our disposal in Hong Kong really add so much richness to the finished product. I mean, just take a look at these examples of incredible Hong Kong locations - you can’t go wrong! From Repulse Bay Temple to Sheung Wan Streets, an outdoor shoot in this magical city is unforgettable (and you’ll make some great family memories on the day, too).

Indoor:

If we’re talking newborn shoots, I tend to stick with indoor locations (such as your home), because it’s an environment where everyone is already comfortable - and it’s far easier to work with your new baby if you’re already settled in your space. As the parent of a newborn, you’re probably already a little stressed out about numerous things (been there, done that!) so doing the shoot at home usually is the best route. Here are my four simple tips for a newborn shoot to get you prepared for the experience.

If you don’t have a newborn but you just want to zoom in on your family life, an indoor shoot is also a great option. We’ll be capturing memories of your space as well as of the people who dwell there.

All that being said, I believe that your shoot location should be a part of your story - something that adds value to your pictures and speaks to what your family loves - rather than just being a background that looks cool. If you want to capture the beauty of Hong Kong whilst spending time with your family, let’s shoot outdoors! But if you’re more keen on snapping intimate family moments or bottling those newborn memories, an indoor shoot in your house is the way to go.

Got more questions? Let’s chat!

3 Questions to Ask Your Photographer

Once you’ve decided you want to invest in a professional shoot, choosing a photographer can be really hard. Trust me, I get it, and I’m here to help. Aside from the basics, like dates and rates, it’s difficult to know what you should be asking - especially if it’s your first professional shoot. Here are some example questions for you to ask a photographer before setting up a session.

Q1: What style of direction (if any) can I expect during the shoot? 

This is important because it will help you get a feel for things before you commit. Each photographer is different and will conduct their shoot according to their preferences. While the final shot matters, how you get there matters, too. With me, shoots are prompted as opposed to posed, and are completely tailored for even the least cooperative of family members. This means I won’t be directing you into poses, rather allowing you to be your wonderful selves as I snap away.

Q2: What kind of wardrobe works best?

Depending on where you’re shooting, the lighting and the overall aesthetic of the images you’re looking to create - your photographer should give you some recommendations on your outfits. Personally, I always make recommendations based on the factors I believe you need to be aware of - but it’s really important to me that you have the final say, because you need to feel good in whatever you choose to wear.

Q3: Out of all your photos, which one is your favourite and why?

This is a great way to get to know your photographer. Generally speaking, we love speaking about our own work and we love connecting with our clients - well, I do anyway. It’s a wonderful way to understand how your photographer pieces their art together and will help you establish whether or not it resonates with you. 

A photo session with me is a chance to pause and step back from life’s daily pressures. It’s a chance to turn down the background noise and be fully present with the people you cherish most, or simply for you to be with yourself. If you have any questions, my DMs and emails are always open, or you can get in touch with me right here.

4 Simple Tips for Your Newborn Photo Shoot

Preparing for your newborn photo shoot is a big part of making those picture perfect moments come true. Depending on how you and baby are doing, this may even feel a bit like their first official outing! Thankfully, years of experience mean that I’ve been able to compile a simple guide for you to help you on the big day.

#1 How to prepare

If you can, try to keep your baby awake for about 2-3 hours before the shoot - give them a bath and make sure they’re fed just before we’re due to start. We want to get those gorgeous sleepy shots and this recipe generally helps get us there. 

#2 What to wear

Dress your baby in a simple, loose outfit that doesn’t have to be lifted off their head, and definitely avoid tight socks - not just because they may leave lines on the skin, but also because we absolutely want to see those little toes!

#3 What to have

Have their favourite dummy on hand, if they have one, just in case we need something to help in the moments where the baby has no contact with mom directly. 

#4 When to book

Book your shoot within the first four weeks after your due date, as this is the best time to capture that newborn magic. Some photographers work with newborns as early as 7-10 days.

Expecting mamas, book your newborn photo shoot session with me sooner rather than later. I’m more than happy to answer any questions you have!

Snack Secrets for Your Photo Shoot

When it comes to family photo shoots, preparation is key - especially if we’re talking about food to bring along for your little ones! Read on for my top tips for easy, relaxed snacking at a photo shoot.

#1: don’t panic, there will be Snack Breaks

Breaking for snacks is an easy way to help the photo shoot seem a little less never-ending for the little ones. We like to keep an eye on energy levels, and snack time always soothes away any moments of frustration or irritation. 

#2: Keep it Clean

Ideally, we want fuss-free snacks that aren’t likely to leave too much mess behind. Crumbs are an easy one to dust away, and if you’re at all worried about the spillage factor, pack an extra outfit just in case. 

#3: Snacks to bring

Fruit, veggie sticks and small easy nibbles are going to be your best friend, while yoghurt - or anything with too much of a sauce component - will not. Think pre-sliced fruit, carrot / cucumber sticks, jelly beans or gummy bears (in moderation), dried fruit or crackers and cheese. 

#4: Snacks to avoid

Chocolate, lollipops (they take too long to eat), ice cream, chocolate milk or green juice - these last two stain teeth, which is not ideal for photos. Anything too fibrous that can get stuck in their teeth should also be left at home. 

Now, figuring out what fits in with your little ones tastes and what they’re actually going to be happy to snack on within these guidelines - well, that’s the ultimate riddle that only you can solve!

Ready to book a family shoot with me? Let’s chat!

How To Choose The Perfect Outfit Colours For Your Family Photo Shoot

Whether you’re booked for a Hong Kong beach shoot, or you’re staying home - it’s important to be selective when it comes to what you choose to wear for the big day. 

It can be daunting when you don’t know where to start, so here are my top tips for selecting the perfect colours for your family photo shoot.

Tip #1: Consider the time of year

Light, bright colours work best in spring and summer, while browns and darker colours (jewel tones) suit autumn and winter months.

Tip #2: Setting is everything

Are you roaming around the city, or lounging in the comfort of your own house? Either way, consider the patterns and colours of your surroundings. You don’t want to clash, but you don’t want to blend in, either.

tip #3: Skip the bold prints

If you want to include a print, make sure it’s subtle, or on one person only. The outfits and colours should complement each other, not fight for attention.

Tip #4: Check the weather

I love it when clients wear pops of colour on overcast days, because the colours look so gorgeous against the greyish weather (which happens quite a lot in Hong Kong - it’s always overcast!). So, make sure you have a look at the weather forecast the day of your shoot and plan your look accordingly.

tip #5: Pick a palette

Choose 2-3 colours that work well together, without being too matchy-matchy (no one wants to see another white t-shirt and jeans combo on every single person). Otherwise, find options that have the same colour in different variations - perhaps one is quite bold, while the other is muted, and the last is a subtle print.

Tip #6: Warm or cool?

In general, different colours work for different people. Look at the underside of your wrist - are your veins more blue? Wear something cool-toned. Green veins? Go for something warm-toned. 

tip #7: Neutral is always a good idea

When in doubt, neutral is your friend. Tans, greys, whites, creams… you can never go wrong with any of them.

tip #8: Bring options

Pack a few different-coloured options and let’s play around!

My top tip of all time? Just be you! I want to see YOU and your personality, so whatever you choose to wear, make sure you love it and it makes you feel good. And for more help, check out my full outfit guide.

I can’t wait to see you in front of my camera!

How To Act Natural In Front Of The Camera

If you’ve ever been in front of the camera, odds are you’ve had that weird moment where you actually can’t remember what your hands are for, or what they’re supposed to be doing to look “natural” for the camera click. 

I’ve worked with so many wonderful families over the years, and I’ve built up some tools and tips to help you get from shy, awkward, or nervous, to natural and glowing - and I promise you, it’s easier than you think!

Tip #1: Interact

Whether it’s with other people, or simply the space around you, movement is usually your friend. If you’re having your portrait taken, interact with the camera like it’s your best friend - smile directly at it or look directly into it for a more intense effect.

Tip #2: Be yourself, with each other

When it comes to family shoots, I’m looking to capture the relationship between the subjects, so the best advice I can give you is to engage with your loved ones as you normally would: kissing, hugging, tickling, laughing together, jumping, running, doing an activity, or even just looking at each other.

Tip #3: You have joints, bend them

We want to move away from stiff limbs and torsos, and embrace a little more movement. This helps with looking and feeling natural. Without a bit of movement, we end up in mannequin territory.

Tip #4: Wear something comfortable

And something that makes you feel good. Even if you’re dressing up a bit for the shoot, make sure you’re at ease. There’s nothing worse than the added discomfort of your outfit to first-time nerves.

Tip #5: Leave the cheese in the fridge

It’s a tactic that doesn’t provide genuine results. We’re looking to capture the magic of a smile that lights up the entire face, and unless you really feel that way about cheese, those prompted grins tend to land a bit flat in photos.

Tip #6: Let them be themselves

When it comes to photographing the little people, it’s essential to let them be themselves during the photo session. Kids will be kids, and however your little one usually is, is what we want to capture on the day. Let them run, play and explore, and trust me to catch their very best moments on film. 

I will be the first to tell you that I get it! It can feel weird and unfamiliar to pose in front of a camera, but I’m here to help you through it. Besides, telling first time clients to “be natural!” can be incredibly confusing, because how are you supposed to know what that means if you’ve never done it before? The simplest advice I can give you is to have fun, smile and don’t worry about posing perfectly. Your job is to be you, mine is to capture your magic. My favourite shots usually happen when you aren’t expecting it, anyway 😉

Ready to book your shoot with me? Let’s chat!

How To Convince Your Partner To Do A Family Shoot

You might think your kids will be the difficult participants in a photo shoot, but often it’s your partner or spouse who needs convincing. I’ve worked with a lot of wonderful husbands and dads who did their best to help the shoot run smoothly, but sometimes they are a little reluctant (or just plain camera shy) - and that’s okay!  

Here are my top tips on how to get your hubby on board for a family photo shoot:

Tip #1: Explain Why It’s IMportant

Because yes, it is important to have beautiful photos of your family. One of you is always behind the camera, and this is the best way to have you all together AND looking good.

Tip #2: Reassure him that you’ve found a great photographer

(Ahem, hopefully, me 😉). Spend some time explaining that this won't be an awkward posed shoot. I’ll do my best to make things as relaxed and easy-going as possible - all he has to do is bond with you and the kids while I snap away in the background. 

Tip #3: Include something he loves to do

Maybe it’s playing soccer on the beach with his kids or watching them ride their bikes along the waterfront - whatever it is, we can incorporate it into the shoot to help him relax and forget I’m there.   

Is there a trick that’s worked for you in the past to convince your partner to do a shoot? I’d love to hear it!

4 Tips To Help You Roll With (And Embrace) The Chaos

I hate to break it to you, but your family photo shoot will not go as planned. There will be shouting and noise and hopefully a lot of laughter, but it will not be the day you envisioned. And that’s okay!

 If you’re a little prepared for the unexpected (as much as one can be), we can ensure you still have a wonderful day with your family, as well as beautiful pictures to remember it by. Here are my top 4 tips on how to deal with unexpected hiccups during a shoot.

TIP #1: Pack Snacks

This is my number one tip for good reason! Kids get cranky when they’re hungry, so bring a variety of their favourite snacks to the shoot.

 TIP #2: Bring Extra Outfits

With snacking comes the possibility of messing, which is fine. Just have an extra shirt or dress on standby so we can do a quick wardrobe change if necessary. 

TIP #3: Have Fun and Relax

Your kids respond to your energy, so if you’re anxious and uptight about getting those “perfect photos”, guess what? Little Johnnie isn’t going to calm down any quicker. Do what you need to for your kids to feel seen and heard, whether it’s a snack or a cuddle, and then we’ll carry on. 

TIP #4: Expect Tears

And resistance. We may be lucky and have a morning or afternoon of joy and play, but chances are pretty good there will be one or two tense moments (depending on the ages of your kids). Breathe. Play a familiar game or go for a quick walk together. It will pass. 

 A family shoot gives you wonderful memories to cherish for years to come. It won’t always be smooth sailing (or maybe it will be), but remember that you are in experienced hands and applying the above tips will help with any potential hiccups.

How to Ease Homesickness on Family Holidays While Living Abroad

It’s no secret that packing up your life in one place and moving to a new country is tough, especially when it comes to those important family holidays - like Easter or Christmas. You’re all too aware of the missing grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. 

I’m counting myself lucky to spend Easter with my family in SA this year, but I’ve missed plenty of other holidays over the past 2 years - and trust me, there are a few ways to make things easier on yourselves and your little ones. Here are my tips on how to celebrate family holidays as expats living abroad!

tip #1: REcreate Old Family Traditions

How did you used to celebrate Easter in your home country? Did you have an egg hunt for the kids? However you spent the day, try and create the same excitement around it in your new home, even if it means having an egg hunt indoors!

Tip #2: Cook a Traditional Meal

And have lunch with your loved ones! Is there a specific dish you would have eaten in your home country? A little familiarity can help you and your children if it’s one of your first holidays in a new place.  

Tip #3: Get everyone involved

Hang up a few decorations to bring cheer and excitement. Get the kids involved and let them help as much as possible.  

Tip #4: Start a new tradition

Create a new ritual that embraces your new home. You’ve decided to move to a new place, so don’t forget to make the most of it. Focus more on what you’ve gained and less on what you’ve lost. 

Tip #5: Get outdoors

Plan to get out of the house after lunch with an activity unique to your new home. Hong Kong has plenty of options to choose from, from a cruise on the Star Ferry (with views that take your breath away) to checking out the city from the Sky100 observation deck, to simply strolling through Sheung Wan or the stunning Victoria Peak Gardens.

Homesickness can hit you like a ton of bricks when you least expect it. Don’t take the chance - be prepared, and you’ll ensure that this Easter is as cheerful as the ones you’ve spent in your home country.

5 Tips to Feel Your Best at Your Maternity Shoot

Expecting a child is a wonderful experience, but let’s not lie - pregnancy can be VERY uncomfortable 😂 This is a moment in time worth capturing, though, so here are my top five tips to feel your best during your maternity shoot:

Tip #1:

Schedule your shoot for when you’re 32 – 36 weeks along. Your belly will show nicely, but you’ll still be comfortable enough to pose. 

Tip #2:

Wear something you feel beautiful in. Clothes affect your confidence, so wear something that makes you feel good, and I’ll take care of the rest.    

Tip #3:

Have your hair and make-up done if you’d like to. See this as a chance to pamper yourself - after all, you’re growing another human!  

Tip #4:

Be open and honest about how you’re feeling. If you need a break to drink water, take off your shoes, or just rest, feel free to tell me. 

Tip #5:

Trust me to direct you during the shoot. I’ll be doing my best to make you feel beautiful and comfortable every step of the way.

And if you haven’t done so already (wink wink), go ahead and book your maternity shoot with me! I can’t wait to capture your beauty during this special time.

Great Locations Across Hong Kong For A Family Photo Shoot

Hong Kong lends itself to a variety of great locations for a family photo shoot. There’s no shortage of bustling city scenes, historical landmarks, or tranquil parks and landscapes. Here are a few of my favourite spots for a photo session in and around the city!

#1 Repulse Bay Temple

Repulse Bay is a little slice of heaven. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong, I love shooting here for the combination of nature and culture. The beach is beautiful, of course, and just a few steps away is the most incredibly colourful temple. With so many backdrops to choose from, you can’t possibly go wrong with a shoot at Repulse Bay.

#2 Sheung Wan Streets

Did someone say street art?! These gorgeous alleyways are bursting with life and colour. On every corner you’ll find an amazing backdrop for your family photo shoot, and the foodie scene in this area is *chef’s kiss*.

#3 The Star Ferry & TST Promenade

The Tsim Sha Tsui promenade is where the Kowloon Peninsula meets Victoria Harbour in Hong Kong. It’s a beautiful spot for a family photo shoot, as is the iconic Star Ferry that docks in the harbour.

#4 The Victoria Peak Gardens

Is there any better way to spend the day than in a garden with your loved ones? I think not!

#5 Hong Kong Beaches

Honestly? All Hong beaches photograph well. But one of my favourites has got to be Shek O beach. “Shek O” means “the rocky bay”, and it’s a truly delightful spot for photographing families. This location is where everyone can really take their shoes off, let their hair down, and have fun together.

So, which location do you like the most? Get in touch today and let’s explore Hong Kong together!

Hong Kong Family Photo Shoot: Repulse Bay Temple

The Repulse Bay Temple is one of my favourite locations for a family photo shoot, as it's gorgeously colourful and has an authentic Hong Kong vibe. There’s also a beautiful little beach adjacent to the temple area, which means you don’t need to travel too far to get a nice variety of shots in one session.

I really loved this particular shoot, which took place last November. Not only was the weather perfect, but the family was so full of love and the parents were totally relaxed - they just went with the flow and let me do my thing. So often it’s the uptight parents expecting perfection (and not their kids!) that ruin a shoot. 

The children were lovely to work with and you could see that they were all truly enjoying this time together as a family. Their relaxed, warm vibe just shines through the photos!

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Never been to Repulse Bay? It has a fun story. While its Chinese name, Tsin Shui Wan, means “Shallow Water Bay”, the origin of its English name is quite mysterious. It’s said that the bay was once used as a haven for pirates, who were “repulsed” by the British Royal Navy. Whether it’s true or not, I’m not sure - but what I do know for sure, is that Repulse Bay is an ideal location for your next family shoot.

If you’ve been considering a session but you’re stressed about a city shoot with young children, never fear! I’ve got 4 tips for prepping your kids so that the entire experience is a dream. Enjoy the read, and I hope to see you in front of my lens (perhaps at Repulse Bay?) very soon.