There are more than 95 million photos being uploaded to instagram per day, due to the rise of smartphones. Each time we experience something that we want to remember, one of the first things we do is reach for the phone in the back pocket. Go to any major concert and you will see thousands of people with their phones in their hand, watching the event on a little 5-inch screen, even though it’s happening right in front of them.

One of the reasons that we ask our families to switch off their phones during their in-home photography session is because we want them to be participants and not spectators. A wonderful thing happens once the phone goes away; personalities start to come out, interaction happens and moments are created. Spontaneity and creativity is allowed to happen.

During a photo shoot, people relax when they feel natural and are well directed. Trust then starts to build between both the photographer and the people being photographed.

When they are both engaged in what is happening, things will happen of their own accord. It is the rhythm between the two that creates the sweet-spot where magic can happen.

You will begin to see the bond that families have and the unique little quirks and relationships that exist; maybe they are a fun and playful family, or maybe they like to just to relax and laugh together. Maybe Dad is all about the tickles and Mum is about the cuddles.

When deciding to be present, we can create long-lasting memories and moments that we can bottle and remember; not just how they looked, but how they felt.