WELCOME
First of all, thank you so much for finding your way to me. Whether you have found me through a friend recommendation, social media or online search, I am so happy you are here and looking forward to connecting with you and creating a wonderful photography experience!
This guide is here to help you find out a bit more about me and the way I shoot and give you an idea of what to expect during your session with me.
ABOUT ME
I’m Lidiya and I am beyond excited that you are here.
I am drawn to quiet moments, gentle touch and beautiful details. I see them and I feel them. They tell stories that I love to capture. My own life is far from quiet and probably this is why these moments inspire me. I have two beautiful, searching and growing kids and our daily life is as chaotic as can be. However, there are always those special moments that make you forget the daily struggles and fill your heart with immense joy and gratitude.
I take photos of mine, print and preserve them and I would be honoured to capture yours too.
THE EXPERIENCE
As a lifestyle photographer, I aim to capture authentic moments and connection. To achieve this, I guide rather than pose. I will give you prompts to get you started and then I will observe and document the story that unfolds.
All I will ask from you will be to allow yourself to be just that - yourself.
Don’t be afraid to love on your babies and your partner and show them how much they mean to you. They will respond in a beautiful way and I will be there to capture it all. Don’t worry about anything and just focus on the moments that matter. I will ask you to squeeze in close and talk, walk and hold hands and very soon the awkward feeling of being in front of the camera will vanish. I will probably ask you to look at me only once or twice during the whole session. Do it, let’s capture those smiles and then go back to the cuddles, tickles and whispers as they are what really matters.
Last but not least, create and enjoy your own moments and avoid picturing your session based on a list of Pinterest poses.
Every family is unique and so is their story and session. I would love to capture yours.
HOW TO PREPARE
Be Yourself: The most important part is to be relaxed and be yourself during the session. Being in front of the big camera might feel strange and vulnerable in the beginning, but I will be there to help and guide. The awkward first minutes will pass quickly and then we will enjoy our time together!
Be prepared: For outdoor sessions, bring plenty of water and some snacks for the kids (nothing messy though). We can always stop the session for a quick bite if they get tired. Have some rubber bands or clips to tie back your or your daughter's hair in case there is strong wind. I can’t stress enough how important this is for desert shoots when the wind starts raging.
Get your home photo ready: In preparation for a home session, take a look around and remove all items that you would not like in the pictures (water bottles, medicines, boxes, remote controls, charging phones, etc.) Anything that will be out of place in the photos should be removed and stored away.
Be on time: Plan well your trip to our location and be on time. There is nothing worse than going through all the process of getting everyone ready for the shoot and then arriving late only to see that the best light is gone.
WHAT TO WEAR
When planning your family's outfits for the session consider the following highlights:
Dress for the season and the location
Dress comfortably
Compliment each other’s outfits rather than matching them
Choose natural materials and earthy colours which look amazing at all locations in Dubai
Avoid large prints, big logos, huge stripes and dots and frills too
Bring some accessories as hats, scarves, jackets
For more detailed information and tips head over to the Styling Guide