The portrait experience

You don’t need to know what to do.
That’s my job.

A little guidance. Room to be yourself. Photographs that feel like the people in them.

Sessions from £125Artwork chosen separately

Family of four enjoying a relaxed studio portrait, dressed in black against a purple background

Your people. Their personalities. All together.

Ian Boichat, your portrait photographer

Camera-shy people welcome.

If having your photograph taken isn’t usually your idea of a good time, I totally understand, after all it’s not something we normally do every day! Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered, and I’m sure it will be more fun than you thought. Here is a guide to your photo shoot with me.

Ian · Origin Studios, Flaunden, Hertfordshire

From our first chat to your finished portraits

Four simple steps.
Something lasting.

01

Let’s talk.

Before we pick up a camera, I’d like to get to know you a little. Who’s coming along? What are they like? And which relationships would you love to see in your photographs? Those conversations help me notice the things that make your family yours.

We’ll also talk through clothing, location and timing, and anything you’re wondering about. You don’t need a fully formed idea. That’s something we can work out together.

02

Your session.

We won’t rush straight into taking photographs. There’s time for a drink, a chat and a chance to settle in. There’s usually someone who would rather be somewhere else, so a little breathing space can make all the difference.

Children sometimes need longer to warm up, and that’s fine too. While everyone gets comfortable, I’m getting to know the personalities and the little interactions between you. Then I’ll guide you through the photographs, without making everything feel stiff or over-rehearsed.

03

Viewing & design.

Around one to two weeks after your session, I’ll invite you back to see your edited and retouched photographs. This is one of my favourite parts: seeing which pictures make you laugh, which surprise you, and which mean more than you expected.

We’ll look through them together and explore how you’d like to enjoy them, from a framed portrait to a wall collection or an album. I’ll help with sizes and layouts, and explain the prices before you choose.

04

Collection & installation.

There’s something lovely about holding your finished album or seeing your portraits properly printed and framed. I still get excited by it. Once everything is ready, we’ll arrange for you to collect your artwork and take it home.

If you’d like help putting your wall pieces up, I can also offer an installation service. And when they’re in place, do send me a photograph. I love seeing where your portraits end up and how they become part of your home.

A young girl outdoors in soft summer light
Grandparents surrounded by their six grandchildren

For the little moments. And the whole family.

Five finished sports portraits displayed together above a sofa in a client’s home

Made for your home

Not just taken.
Lived with.

A portrait on the wall becomes part of everyday life. An album gives you something to sit down with, turn the pages and come back to.

We’ll work out what suits your photographs and your space. You choose the artwork you love, with clear prices before you decide.

A few useful details

Before you ask.

What does the session cost?

Sessions start from £125. Artwork is chosen and purchased separately at your viewing. I’ll explain the options and prices before you make your choices.

What if I’m awkward in front of a camera?

You’re in good company. You don’t need to be a natural or practise a smile. I’ll guide you throughout and give you time to feel comfortable.

What should we wear?

We’ll talk about that before your session. I’ll help you choose clothes that work together, feel comfortable and keep the attention on the people in the photograph.

Can we include children, grandparents or the dog?

Absolutely. Tell me who you’d like to include when we plan your session, along with anything that will help them feel at ease.

Start with a conversation

Let’s talk about
your portraits.

A family milestone, someone you love, or simply time for a photograph that includes you too.