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Stefan Desaeyere Fotografie

Family guide

Preparation

Less stress, better photos

Golden hour, the hour before sunset gives the warmest, softest light.

Morning light, gentle and calm, perfect if your little ones nap in the afternoon.

Overcast days, do not underestimate them. Cloud acts as a giant softbox: even light, no harsh shadows.

Avoid midday sun (11:00–15:00): hard shadows and squinting.

A family session takes on average 1 to 1.5 hours. Enough time to:

  • settle in front of the camera
  • try different set-ups
  • catch spontaneous moments
  • take small breaks for the children

Do not plan too much before or after. Rested means relaxed faces.

My approach is relaxed and playful. No stiff poses, but:

  • walking and talking while I photograph
  • games with the children
  • hugs and real interaction between you
  • the occasional gentle nudge on posture

The aim: photos that show who you really are as a family.

Clothing & Kleuren

Coordinate, do not match exactly

Pick two or three main colours that work together and suit the location. Nobody has to wear the same shade, variation adds depth.

Combinations that work:

Natuurlijk & Warm: cream, beige, cognac, rust

Klassiek & Tijdloos: navy, white, denim, camel

Zacht & Romantisch: blush, grey, ivory, sage

Aards & Stoer: olive, mustard, brown, off-white

Cream
Cognac
Sage
Navy
  • Large logos or text, they pull attention away from faces
  • Neon colours, they reflect onto the skin
  • Identical outfits, it looks forced
  • Busy patterns, they compete with the image
  • Brand-new clothes, children never feel at ease in them
  • Lay all the outfits out on the bed to see how they work together
  • Wear comfortable shoes, we walk
  • Bring a spare set for the children
  • Iron or steam everything the night before
  • Avoid anything too tight, you need to move

Preparing the children

Relaxed children make the best photos

Tell them what will happen

Say we are going for a walk and playing games. Call it an adventure or an outing rather than a photo shoot.

Make sure they are rested

Avoid nap time and empty stomachs. A rested child is a willing child.

Bring snacks and water

A small snack works wonders. So does a favourite cuddly toy.

Let go of expectations

Children are unpredictable, and that is fine. The imperfect moments often make the best memories.

"Children do not have to sit still. I will catch them in motion."

Stefan

Locations

A few ideas around Antwerp

At the coast
Strand & duinen
Your home
Intiem & persoonlijk
City park
Groen & speels
Woods or heath
Natuurlijk & rustig
Antwerp city
Urban & karaktervol

The best location is one that means something to you:

  • where you like to walk
  • where you first met
  • your favourite holiday spot
  • or simply at home

Not sure? I know the loveliest spots and am happy to advise.

Want to hold on to a moment?

Let us plan the right session together

Get in touch