Frequently asked questions

What kind of photos will I expect?

A mix of story telling images showing that moment when something is happening: a cuddle, a laughter, an action filled instant… and candid portraits. I love taking portraits that encapsulate my subject’s personality. And I love capturing moments that show the connection and the emotions too. My goal is to leave you with images that make you smile and feel the warmth there is in every simple gesture and the love you share. Also, it will be a mix of colour and black and white images.

We are nervous about spending so much time with a stranger.

I always get a little nervous too, we are humans in the end. But I am a very friendly and happy type of guy, I am a dad myself who loves kids and loves interacting with them and this allows me to bond with them pretty quickly. Family I have photographed so far have loved seeing their children enjoying their photoshoot experience with me so, I promise, it will be easier than you think. I am very laid-back and my sessions are very relaxed, which means that you won’t feel like you are having a photoshoot. I will interact and melt within the family so that after a little time you will no longer think about the camera and about me as a stranger but a friend. What is important is that you gain trust in me and the more comfortable you are with me the more you will be at ease in my company and the photos will be beautiful. I am happy to meet you briefly in person if you live locally or on a video call to break the ice and get to know each other.

What if my children won’t behave during our photoshoot?

Don’t worry about this. As a parent myself I know too well how children can suddenly build up emotions. It can last a bit long or be very short but these moments, as strange as it may sound, will become fond memories. And as parents we love those funny moody faces on a picture, don’t we?

What if my child is ill?

Don’t worry about this. Being a father myself I totally understand if your little one is feeling under the weather - it's no problem at all to reschedule when they're feeling better.

We don’t do much at home. Won’t it be a bit boring?

We all tend to think some days or some routines are boring, but trust me, there is nothing boring in a ordinary family. That is the reason why I love documenting family life, as we suddenly discover beauty in small things like sitting next to each other reading a book or enjoying a meal, brushing teeth or having a bath. The ordinary family life is full of loving and unexpected moments.

Our house is a bit of a mess most times. Do we really need to tidy it up before the photo shoot?

This is another thing you really should not worry about! I still haven’t seen a house with children - including mine - that can be kept tidy for more than 5 minutes. The story we want to tell is about real life and the beautiful you. No matter how messy your house can be it will be vibrant and colourful in my eyes and it will look great in the photographs.

What areas do you cover?

I work all across London and Essex and often travel further afield for shoots. If you have any queries drop me a message.

How many photos will I get from the photo shoot?

Every shoot is different; it depends on which package you pick. On average, you can expect to receive between 25-30 fully edited images for a short session; more for longer sessions. Each of these images will be able to stand alone, and when viewed together, they will tell a unique story of your family.

What should I wear?

Muted colours work best when taking photographs, but the most important thing is that you feel comfortable with what you wear. Whatever makes you feel at ease will work. If you still wish to have suggestions on what helps photos look great, I would say neutral colours with a touch of colour work really well. If possible, avoid black tops, logos and strong patterns.

Do you only do sessions at home?

Not at all. I love to do sessions in family homes as they are always very relaxed. The children are comfortable in their own surroundings and the photos capture all those lovely little things that portray this time of your lives: favourite toys, blankets, outfits etc, it's all on hand. However, it's also great to be able to escape and explore parks, meadows or woodlands if you have a favourite place to head to.

Some families request a photo shoot whilst they enjoy a day sightseeing in central London or travel for a day out of town to the beach or to the countryside (travel expenses may apply).

Can we include grandparents in the photo shoot?

Absolutely! Feel free to include the people you love for part of, or the whole of, your session. Just let me know ahead of the shoot and I can make sure we have lots of opportunities for you all to be involved.

Do you shoot family events, reunions or birthday parties?

Absolutely! Whether it is a birthday party, an anniversary, a christening or a family reunion, my approach to special occasions is very much the same documentary approach that I have in my family photography. The aim is always to capture unposed, candid moments as they happen as well as all those little details that you have spent so long planning.  Get in touch for a quote.

You will have a beaautiful collection of your special celebration that you might wish to preserve in a photo album so that you can look back with joy for many years to come.

Do you provide a framing service?

Yes. We can discuss various product options (prints, photo albums and framed prints) on the day of the shoot and I will provide you with a bespoke quote depending on the type and size of the product you're looking for.

How do I book a session?

You can email me at info@mauroarena.com, use the contact form, or call me on 07988775941. I’d love to hear all about your family and plan the perfect photo shoot to tell your story.

How do I secure a date for a family or a portrait session?

A 30% non-refundable deposit is required to secure a date for your photo shoot. The balance will be due one week before the session.

I do not shoot more than one session a day which means there is no pressure from and on me. I want to accommodate your needs the best I can and make sure you have a great and enjoyable experience.

Where can I read your Terms & Conditions and Privacy policy?

Here are the links to my T&Cs and Privacy policy.