Question 1

How far in advance should I schedule?

Accepted Answer

Ideally, as soon as you know you want to do this, especially if you are aiming for a specific time of year, a milestone, or a particular day of the week. As a simple guide, around 2 to 4 weeks’ notice is ideal. Family and pet experiences tend to fill up fastest from Thursday to Saturday, while newborn and boudoir sessions are usually available Tuesday to Thursday. If you are unsure what you need, we will help you plan the best timing.

Question 2

Where does the experience take place, and do you come to us?

Accepted Answer

Most experiences take place in our studio near Edinburgh and East Lothian. For families and dogs, we can also use a woodland location close to the studio for something more outdoorsy and relaxed. We will help you choose the setting that best suits your family, your pet and the type of portraits you would love.

Question 3

What makes GWS Photography different?

Accepted Answer

Our portrait experiences are fully guided and designed to feel relaxed, natural and enjoyable. We do not expect clients to know how to pose or what to do. We guide the session so the portraits feel like you, not a stiff or forced version of you.

Question 4

How do we schedule a Discovery Call?

Accepted Answer

You can schedule a Discovery Call using the short form on the website. It is a quick, no-pressure chat to make sure the experience feels like the right fit. You can also phone the studio directly on 07930 166715.

Question 5

What happens during the Discovery Call?

Accepted Answer

We talk through what you would love, what you are unsure about, who will be involved, and what would make the session feel easy and enjoyable. We also cover location, timing, availability and any questions you have before booking.

Question 6

Which days do you photograph families, newborns, pets and boudoir?

Accepted Answer

Newborn baby and boudoir experiences are usually available Tuesday to Thursday. Family and pet experiences are usually available Thursday to Saturday. We keep the diary structured so each type of session gets the right time, energy and support.

Question 7

Do you photograph dogs and cats, and can they be included with the whole family?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Dogs and cats are very welcome, and they can be photographed on their own or with the whole family. Sessions are planned around your pet’s personality, energy and comfort, so they do not need to be perfectly trained for this to work.

Question 8

Is this experience suitable if we are not a picture-perfect family?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our sessions are designed for real families, not perfect ones. If the kids are lively, someone feels self-conscious, or your dog is a bit chaotic, that is completely normal. We guide the session so it feels relaxed and genuine.

Question 9

We are interested in newborn photos. Who will be photographing our baby?

Accepted Answer

Leanne, our specialist baby photographer, photographs newborn sessions. She has worked with hundreds of babies and has completed baby first aid training, so your baby will be handled calmly, gently and safely throughout the experience.

Question 10

Is it safe to bring our baby for a newborn experience?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Newborn safety is always the priority. Sessions are slow, gentle and led by your baby’s needs. We allow time for feeding, settling and cuddles, and we guide parents through everything before and during the session.

Question 11

Do you offer both studio and outdoor options?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The studio is the main option, and for families and dogs we also have a woodland location close to the studio. We can help you decide which setting best suits your family, your pet and the finished portraits you would love.

Question 12

What if my question is not listed here?

Accepted Answer

Please ask us. If you are wondering about something, it matters. You can send us a message, phone the studio, or bring your question to the Discovery Call and we will talk it through properly.

Day: August 17, 2025

Why Training & Experience Matter in Family Photography

Family photography studio a short ride from Edinburgh. Beautiful photographs of families, babies, portraits and pets.