A few days ago, I had the privilege of traveling to a beautiful family farm near Dymock in Herefordshire to capture some special family photos. It was one of those rare days where the sun decided to show itself, and we were blessed with perfect lighting for portraits. The weather was ideal—just warm enough for a walk, with clouds occasionally parting to let the sun through, offering a mix of natural light and soft, diffused tones.
We took a good walk around the farm, exploring a variety of locations to make the most of the stunning surroundings. From the rolling fields to rustic barns, every spot we visited offered something unique for the family portraits. This session was a reminder of how, even on a fairly typical family shoot, a combination of nature and light can transform a simple setting into something extraordinary.
Exploring the Farm for the Perfect Family Photos
The family farm near Dymock offered a wonderful backdrop for capturing family moments during a day of portraits near Dymock in Herefordshire, providing a mix of rustic charm and natural beauty. Farms are often my favorite places to photograph families—they have such an authentic and timeless feel. Whether it’s the golden fields stretching out behind them or the textures of old barns, farms always seem to add an extra layer of warmth and connection to the photos.
We explored a range of locations on the property, making use of the farm’s many features. From the wide open spaces of the fields, perfect for relaxed, candid shots, to the more intimate settings of the barn, there was no shortage of picturesque spots. It was important for me to make the session feel as natural and fun as possible, letting the family interact with each other in their environment. The goal was to capture genuine moments and expressions, reflecting the family’s connection to the land and to each other.
The Magic of Natural Light and the Importance of Additional Lighting
One of the highlights of the session was the light—something I can never overstate enough as a wedding and family photographer. On that particular day, the sun played peek-a-boo, sometimes breaking through the clouds, other times retreating behind them. The natural light was lovely, but I knew I wanted to add a bit more to the photos in some areas to bring out the best in the subjects.
The very last shot of the session was taken inside a hay barn. While there was some decent natural light coming in from the left side, it wasn’t enough to fully light the scene the way I envisioned. The dim light in the barn provided an atmospheric feel, but it left parts of the family slightly underexposed, particularly on the right side of the frame.
This is where a little extra lighting came into play.
Using Flash to Enhance the Barn Shot
As a photographer, I’m always thinking about how to balance the natural environment with the technical aspects of lighting. For this shot, I decided to use a Yongnuo flashgun—set to relatively low power—to enhance the lighting without overpowering the natural atmosphere of the barn. The flash was fired remotely, positioned to the right side of the family, and bounced through a white umbrella to soften the light and create a more natural look.
By doing this, I was able to brighten the right side of the frame, providing a more balanced exposure while maintaining the warmth of the barn’s rustic charm. The key was not to flood the scene with too much artificial light, which could have resulted in an unnatural effect. Instead, I used just enough to give the photo a bit more pop without losing the mood set by the ambient light.
The Importance of Creating a Comfortable, Relaxed Atmosphere
One of the things I always prioritise when photographing families is making sure everyone feels comfortable. Family photos can sometimes feel like a chore, especially for kids or those who aren’t used to being in front of the camera. I strive to create a relaxed atmosphere where people can interact naturally, forget about the camera, and just enjoy the moment.
On this particular shoot, the family was wonderful to work with—laughing, joking, and enjoying the time together. It’s moments like these that really make family portraits special. Yes, the setting was beautiful, and the light worked in our favour, but it was the family’s genuine connection that made the photos truly come to life.
Wrapping Up the Day with a Final Photo in the Hay Barn
The final image taken in the hay barn turned out to be one of my favourites from the day. It perfectly captures the warmth and connection of the family, with the right amount of light highlighting their faces and the details of the barn. It was the perfect way to wrap up the session—a beautiful blend of natural light, creativity, and the joy of the family’s togetherness.
In the end, it wasn’t just about capturing pretty photos; it was about documenting a moment in time for this family—a moment where the light, location, and energy all aligned to create something truly special.
Conclusion: The Power of Lighting and Location
Family portrait sessions are a unique opportunity to freeze moments in time, and every element—lighting, location, and mood—plays a role in creating something memorable. Whether we’re working with natural light, adding a little flash to enhance the scene, or simply allowing the family to be themselves in a place that’s special to them, the key to great photos is creating an environment where everyone feels at ease.
This session near Dymock was a perfect example of how thoughtful planning, the right lighting, and an authentic connection to the environment can elevate family portraits into something timeless. If you’re looking for your own family photos, I’d love to discuss your vision and help create beautiful memories to cherish for years to come.
Nikon D780 | 70-200mm 2.8 VRII | ISO 160 | f4.5 | 1/160sec | brolly fill off camera flash
Comments