A new baby meant updating the family photos for Manly mum Candy, her husband Murray and new big sister Amelia, 2.

How was the photography experience for you and your family?

The shoot was fun! We simply played with the kids and had some playful cuddle time as a family. Elena was really upbeat and amazing keeping Amelia engaged with the camera and gave really casual direction that made us feel really comfortable. Orlando was a little irritable during the shoot, which was poor timing, though Elena’s photos really didn’t capture that. She changed direction if he wasn’t happy laying down or being held in one ours arms.

Did you have any concerns before the shoot? How did it turn out?

The only concern I had was doing the shoot at our home. Elena had said with newborns it’s best to keep them in their own environment. I wasn’t sure where or if we had a photoshoot worthy backdrop but somehow Elena magically made our bedroom a suitable area which added to everyone feeling natural and at ease. We love the photos and how candid they have turned out.

Did anything surprise you about your 2 year old daughter being photographed?

Amelia seemed to love the camera and really played up to it. Elena got her interested in the lens and all of the buttons so she became really curious and was very happy to be the front and centre subject. I didn’t expect her to be so camera happy! She was very content posing and enjoyed the experience. She giggled all the way through it which made it a great experience for us too.

How did your photos make you feel?

The photos give me a really warm sense of family fun time. Elena so perfectly captured the joyful moments. When looking at them I can feel the hugs from the day. I love how they weren’t posed and how natural they are. Very us.

What are your best memories of the day?

For me it’s how much fun Amelia had jumping up and down on the bed and laughing. She was delighted by the attention and wanted to be in every shot. It was such a nice thing to do on Murray’s birthday and I’m thinking of making it a yearly ritual.

What advice would you give to another family considering getting photos done?

I would recommend everyone to have a shoot done with Elena and to trust her vision and approach. She has such a lovely style and seems to know how to frame your personality in the photos. She coached us on what were the best colours to wear, directed us to simply play as a family and I adore the result.

What do you think you’ll miss most when you look back at these photos in five, or ten year’s time?

I’m sure when I look back at the photos I’ll be amazed by how small the little ones are and how young my husband and I look! I know Elena’s lens has probably helped us on that front too! I’m so grateful that we have these beautiful family images. Our extended family, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins all love them too.

If you’re expecting or know someone who is, have a look at our newborn baby portfolio here

Interview Janine Phillipson

Little Manly Photography