What is a sunset session?
Well, a sunset session is exactly what it says on the tin. A maternity or family photoshoot at sunset on location somewhere in the Cairns region.
A sunset session is for you if you would love relaxed, playful and natural family photos at one of our beautiful locations here in Cairns.
Whether that be a beach, an open field or something else, you can expect something that captures both the heart of the tropics, and your connection as a family.
Who are sunset sessions for?
Sunset sessions are for families of all shapes and sizes. Who want something a bit more traditional than one of my activity based sessions (more on those here) but still want relaxed and natural photography based on play and FUN!
No fake smiles or bribery here! We love to splash, tickle, get thrown in the air, snuggle, laugh and enjoy an uninterrupted hour of togetherness.
Whether you have one child or 8. Are adventurous or quiet and placid, this is all captured at your sunset session.
I capture both maternity and family sessions out on location.
How do I choose my locations?
Children have the attention span of a gnat. They don’t want to stay in one place, they LOVE exploring and they are brimming with energy!
I choose my locations where I know there will be lots of variety in visuals and things to do. Be this rocks to climb and sit on, water to play in. A bridge to cross. Trees to climb. I chat with you about your family, who you are and what you love and recommend locations accordingly.
How would I describe my style?
I would describe my photographic style as playful, natural, relaxed and fun. I don’t believe in bribing children for photos because this only works if you want ONE photo, and if the bribe is immediate. The way I get natural smiles from children (and parents) who I photograph is by getting to know them through my pre-session questionnaire, and during their session and tapping into those personalities. I would say I pose loosely. To ensure your photos are more than just a snapshot, are compositionally pleasing and tell the soy of your own family, there will always be an element of ‘posing’. Let’s call it directing. No-one would be able to attend a professional photoshoot and know what to do if they were told to ‘Just go and be natural’. I create the moments and then capture what unfolds. Unposed posing if you will. I encourage you to put away your phones, be fully present, and expect a bit of a workout!! Lots of tickling, chasing, climbing rocks, shoulder rides – that type of thing. I like to say that my sessions are so relaxed, even Dads don’t mind getting involved 😉
What should I wear to my sunset family photoshoot in Cairns?
My biggest tip is to be yourself. If you don’t wear dresses, don’t wear a dress. If you love your hair in a pony tail, now is not the time to be trialling your hair down (hello sticky neck). If you stay true to yourself, you know you’ll be more relaxed on the day.
Beyond that, I can give you tips on how to coordinate colours and patterns for a polished, professional feel.
My biggest don’t is no low cut tops, or short skirts! When you are chasing little ones, you don’t want to be worrying about pulling things up and down constantly. You may also find yourself sitting for some photos, and it’s very hard to sit in a flattering way with a short skirt or dress. Longer clothing items also elongate the body and are super flattering. Think jeans instead of shorts or long dresses over short ones.
I regularly have families ask for my advice and send me lots of options to consider and I help them choose.
Can I bring my dog to my sunset session?
If you have a well trained dog, you are more than welcome to include them in your family or maternity photos.
What about older children or teenagers?
Lots of people think family photography is just for newborns and younger children or babies, but teenagers are every bit as welcome to come along for my family sessions. In fact, I insist. I try (probably in the most uncool way, to them!) to see them where they are at and just try to have a bit of a laugh with them. They are definitely more self conscious than a carefree toddler, but I’ve had many teens leave saying it was actually fun. (Yep, you heard that right!)
If you think a sunset session is for you, you can contact me here to book, or send me an email directly lizzy@lizzyhannaford.com.au.
