Family Photographer Oxshott: A Natural Family Session in Claygate and Claremont Landscape Garden
A few weeks ago, I photographed a lovely family in Claygate. We started at their home, then headed to Claremont Landscape Garden for a walk around the lake. The winter light was stunning, and it was one of those sessions where everything just worked.
This is how I approach family photography in Oxshott, Claygate and the surrounding Surrey areas - starting where families feel most comfortable, then exploring the beautiful locations this part of the country has to offer.
Starting at Home in Claygate
We began the session at the family's home. This is something I do often, especially with younger children who need time to settle before they're comfortable with a stranger and a camera.
The children showed me their rooms, played with their toys, ran around the garden. I just followed along, camera in hand, capturing them as they were. No direction needed - when children are in their own space, they're naturally themselves.
The grandparents were visiting, which made it even better. Multi-generational family photos don't need to be formal or posed.
Starting at home gives everyone time to forget about the camera. By the time we're ready to head out, the session already feels easy and natural.
Why Claremont Landscape Garden Works for Family Photography
After the home portion, we left the grandparents behind and drove to Claremont Landscape Garden. It's only a short drive from Claygate, and it's one of the best locations for family photography in this area.
Claremont is a National Trust property with a large lake, woodland paths, open grass areas and beautiful mature trees. It has variety without feeling overwhelming, and it's peaceful - even on a weekend, it doesn't feel crowded.
The winter light that day was exceptional. Low sun, long shadows, that golden quality that makes everything look warmer than it actually was. We did a loop around the water, stopping whenever something caught the kids attention.
This is what makes Claremont work so well for family photography in Oxshott and Esher - it gives children things to discover while providing beautiful natural backdrops that don't feel forced or staged.
Natural Family Photography in Surrey
As a family photographer working in Oxshott, Claygate, Esher and the surrounding Surrey areas, I focus on creating relaxed sessions that feel more like spending time together than having your photo taken.
No stiff poses. No awkward "everyone look here and smile." Just walking, exploring, being together as a family.
The combination of starting at home and then moving to a location like Claremont means you get variety in your images - intimate indoor moments, relaxed garden time with extended family, and beautiful outdoor portraits in natural surroundings.
What Makes This Area Special for Family Photography
The Oxshott, Claygate and Esher area has some exceptional locations for family photography:
Claremont Landscape Garden - Beautiful National Trust property with lake, woodland and open spaces. Perfect for walking sessions.
Esher Common - Wild, natural, great for families who want something less manicured.
Prince's Coverts - Woodland walking trails near Oxshott, lovely dappled light.
Home sessions - Many families in this area have beautiful gardens and comfortable homes that work perfectly for the documentary style of photography I do.
The area also has that Surrey village feel - leafy, spacious, quiet. It photographs beautifully in all seasons.
Combining Home and Location Sessions
Starting at home before heading to an outdoor location works particularly well for:
Younger children who need time to warm up Families with grandparents or extended family who might not want to walk far Anyone who wants variety in their images - indoor and outdoor, intimate and landscape Families who feel awkward being photographed and need time to relax
The home portion usually lasts 30-45 minutes, then we spend another hour at the outdoor location. It's unhurried, flexible, and creates a good mix of images that tell the full story of your family.
Family Photography in Claygate, Oxshott and Esher
If you're based in Claygate, Oxshott, Esher or the surrounding Surrey villages and looking for natural, documentary-style family photography, I'd love to work with you.
I regularly photograph families across Surrey and South West London, creating images that feel authentic and true to who you are. Whether we start at your home and head to Claremont, spend the whole session in your garden, or meet at Esher Common for a walk - the approach stays the same: relaxed, natural, focused on real connection.
You can find more information about my Esher family photography services, pricing, and availability, or get in touch to discuss your session.