Documenting milestones: A surprise family photoshoot.
Explore how documentary photography can capture family milestones in a meaningful and authentic way and how party prep is just as interesting as the celebration itself.
It was a very cold January evening at the Vintage Tea Rooms in Chesterfield, Yorkshire, and all the family had gathered together to prepare for the surprise! Balloons and decorations going up, cousins playing while the adults made the final preparations, catch up and finalise the details. I love being asked to document the pre-party affairs, the excitement, family meeting up, discussing if the surprisee suspects anything, what’s the time of her arrival, the plan, the whispers and the secrets all form part of the story.
The birthday girl was suitably surprised and delighted to see everyone, and a wonderful time was had by all with afternoon tea, a family quiz, video messages from around the world, party props (of course), a lot of laughter, joy, humour, love and togetherness filled the room.
It was such a pleasure to be invited to this milestone birthday to tell the story of the day, and here’s a few of my favourite photographs.
Let’s Capture the time of your lives!
I LOVE a good party, and photograph all types of occasions throughout the UK with a storytelling approach. I strive to make real photographs of loved ones, families, and friendships that are filled with narrative and meaning. If you are interested in learning more please have a look at my Event photography page or get in touch to find out about availability and collection options.
More stories about events can be found on the Journal
Explore how documentary photography can capture family milestones in a meaningful and authentic way and how party prep is just as interesting as the celebration itself.