A Heartwarming Family Shoot at Pegwell Bay in Kent
March 11, 2025
Family shoots in the Spring, Summer or Autumn are ideal, but when a client wants a family photo shoot in Winter I’m always up to the challenge. Winter in the South East brings a crisp feel to the coastline that requires brave, hardy people and a location like Pegwell Bay in Ramsgate is no exception. The rugged beauty of this stretch of Thanet’s coastline provided the perfect simple setting for this Winter Family Photo Shoot at Pegwell Bay in Kent. Despite the chill in the air, this session was full of warmth, love, and connection—everything that makes family photography so special.
Mum, Dad, their delightful three-year-old daughter, and their energetic black cockapoo braved the winter breeze to create memories in a place that held deep meaning for them. They wanted to capture this moment in time before Christmas, ensuring they had beautiful images to adorn their home and to gift to their loved ones as bespoke wall art. And what better way to tell the story of their family than through high-quality printed photographs?
Why Pegwell Bay Was the Perfect Choice
Having just recently moved to the Thanet area, this family were keen to have photographs somewhere that meant something to them. You see, Pegwell Bay is a hidden gem along the coast, known for its sweeping sandy expanses and dramatic skies, but their dog just loves walking there. Choosing a location with sentimental value always enhances a family shoot, as it adds an extra layer of meaning to the images.
The session started with the family walking along the pathway as the beach was way too far out. Wrapped up in cosy layers, their daughter ran ahead with their cockapoo bounding by her side full of energy and laughter. Capturing these candid moments—her tiny boots kicking up the pebbles, her parents watching on in pride—was a reminder of just how fleeting childhood is and why preserving these moments is so essential.
My Dad always had his camera out on family times, and he even often brought his video camera out too. I grew accustomed to it as a kid, but never hugely valued it until I grew to have a family of my own. Even though I always bring my camera out for special family moments, I also see the value of family photography and book shoots for us too!
The Importance of Printing Your Family Photos
We live in a digital age, where images are often stored on phones and shared fleetingly on social media. While digital images have their place, they don’t compare to the richness of seeing your family displayed beautifully in your home. This family understood the significance of printed photographs and wanted to ensure they had tangible, high-quality products that would last a lifetime.
Believe it or not, there is growing evidence that children benefit from seeing printed photos of themselves in their home environment. A study by psychologist David Krauss suggests that children who grow up with family photos displayed in their home have a stronger sense of belonging and self-worth. When children see images of themselves surrounded by love, it reinforces their place within the family unit and builds confidence. Having printed family portraits on the walls isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about shaping a child’s identity and providing a constant, visual reminder of their importance within the family. So, as lovely as your phone background is, it’s printed products that your family will value above just digitals.
Talking of children, I honestly can’t believe just how quickly my son is growing up. It only feels like months ago he was falling asleep in my arms and now he’s running around pretending to be the Beast from beauty and the beast! Capturing those moments before he is big and hairy is a priority for me!
Digital vs. Bespoke Printed Products: Which is Best?
As a professional family photographer based in Ramsgate, I offer two distinct services to suit different needs.
- Digital-Focused Service – This is ideal for families who prefer to have their images in digital format for easy sharing and archiving.
- Bespoke Product Service – This is designed for those who appreciate the beauty of high-quality prints and wall art, turning their photos into statement pieces for their home.
While digital images provide convenience, they often remain forgotten on hard drives or social media. I often even forget to post them on my private socials! On the other hand, printed photographs become part of your daily life. Imagine walking into your living room and seeing a stunning framed portrait of your family, reminding you of a beautiful day spent together. Printed products have a way of making memories feel more real and tangible, rather than just another file on a device.
For this Winter Family Photo Shoot at Pegwell Bay in Kent, choosing a bespoke product package meant they could enjoy their images in a way that truly brought their memories to life. I usually recommend a large framed aluminium product of your favourite portrait to go on your favourite wall, and a collage of your favourite images either near your staircase or bedroom. If walls aren’t your thing, handcrafted albums to pass down through generations are a great idea too—a timeless keepsake far more meaningful than a digital folder.
The Magic of Winter Family Photography
Many families assume that the best time for a family photo shoot is summer, which I would be inclined to agree, however winter has its own unique charm. The soft, diffused light, the dramatic skies, and the way a family naturally huddles together for warmth all contribute to incredibly emotive images. The cool tones of Pegwell Bay in winter created a stunning contrast against the warmth of this family’s interactions.
This Winter Family Shoot at Pegwell Bay in Kent was filled with natural moments—Dad lifting his daughter high into the air as she giggled, Mum giving her little one a kiss, the family dog being cheeky. These are the types of images that tell a real story, capturing love and connection in an authentic way.
Creating Lasting Legacies Through Photography
Every family session I capture is a reminder of why I do what I do. Weddings are one thing which I will always cherish, but there’s something about family photography that is much less pressure and another moment in time paused. I believe photography isn’t just about taking pictures; it’s about holding on to moments in time. The images from this session won’t just sit on a computer—they will be cherished in frames, on walls, and in albums for years to come. They will be a constant reminder of love, laughter, and the fleeting beauty of childhood. I recently turned 30 and I’m more aware that time goes far too quickly.
If you’re considering a family photography session in Ramsgate, Margate, or anywhere in Thanet, I encourage you to think beyond digital images. Printed photographs have the power to transform a house into a home, offering daily joy and connection.
