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Taken by Jess
Kent Photographer

Family | Newborn | Maternity | Pets | Lifestyle | Brand | Outdoor & At Home Photography


My Favourite Family Photography Locations in Kent | A Local Family Photographer's Guide
Looking for the perfect place for family photos in Kent? Discover my favourite photography locations across Kent, from woodland walks to sandy beaches, all photographed with real families.
takenbyjessphotogr
Aug 154 min read


Summer Availability + 20% off bookings before end of term
summer is the is the perfect time to visit one of the stunning Kent photography locations on our doorstep and record some family memories. Outdoor photography sessions give families the freedom to move, play and explore, while I capture all the little moments that happen along the way. Make an afternoon or evening of it, pack a picnic or bring some games and give them a summer to remember.
takenbyjessphotogr
Jul 173 min read


At-Home Newborn Photoshoot Checklist | Everything You Need to Know Before I Visit
There's something incredibly special about photographing a new baby in the place where their story begins – home.
No packing up the changing bag, no rushing out of the door and no worrying if your baby needs feeding every 20 minutes. My in-home newborn sessions are designed to be relaxed, natural and completely baby-led, allowing you to simply enjoy these precious first weeks.
takenbyjessphotogr
Jul 43 min read
Introducing the Social Sessions - Now available Summer 2026
If you love the idea of a mini session but wished you could choose your own date and location, I have something new for you…
takenbyjessphotogr
Jul 32 min read


What to Wear for Family Photos: 5 Simple Tips for Beautiful, Timeless Images
One of the first questions I get from families after booking their session is: "What should we wear?"
It's completely understandable. You want your photos to look natural and timeless, but choosing outfits for the whole family can suddenly feel like a much bigger task than expected.
The good news? You don't need to buy a whole new wardrobe or spend hours trying to make everyone match perfectly. The best family photographs are about genuine connection, laughter and the litt
takenbyjessphotogr
Jun 273 min read


Maternity vs Newborn Photography: When Should You Book Each Session?
Looking for maternity or newborn photography in Ashford, Folkestone, Tenterden, Maidstone, Rye, Hythe or Dover? One of the most common questions expectant parents ask is whether they should book a maternity photoshoot, a newborn photoshoot or both.
The answer depends on the memories you want to preserve, but each session captures a completely different stage of your family's story. Together, they create a beautiful timeline from anticipation to those precious first cuddles.
takenbyjessphotogr
Jun 114 min read


The Best Beaches, Woods and Fields for Family Photos in Kent
Kent is one of the best places in the South East for outdoor family photography. From wide sandy beaches and dramatic coastlines to woodland walks, wildflower meadows and rolling countryside, there’s no shortage of beautiful locations for relaxed family photos.
takenbyjessphotogr
Jun 63 min read


Why You Don’t Need Perfectly Behaved Kids for Beautiful Family Photos
If you’ve ever put off booking family photos because you’re worried your children won’t sit still, smile nicely, or behave perfectly — you’re definitely not alone. It’s one of the most common concerns parents mention before a family photoshoot.
The good news? Children don’t need to be perfectly behaved for beautiful family photos. In fact, some of the most meaningful images come from the in-between moments — the cuddles, giggles, running around, and even the chaos.
takenbyjessphotogr
May 302 min read


Father's Day Photography in Kent — Gift Vouchers, Beautiful Locations & Something Exciting Coming Soon!
Celebrate the dads, grandads, and father figures in your life with a professional photography session in Kent. Discover beautiful photography locations across Ashford, Tenterden, Folkestone, Hythe, Canterbury, Maidstone and Romney Marsh — plus gift voucher ideas and a very exciting announcement coming soon from Taken by Jess!
takenbyjessphotogr
May 234 min read


Beach Photography in Kent: Natural Family Photos by the Coast (From Dover to Dungeness)
There’s something timeless about the coast. The open space, the fresh air, the sound of the waves — it creates the perfect setting for relaxed, natural photography. If you’re looking for beach photography in Kent, the coastline stretching from Dungeness to Romney Marsh, and along to Folkestone and Dover offers some of the most beautiful and varied backdrops for family photos.
takenbyjessphotogr
May 163 min read


Extended Family Photography: The Best Value Way to Capture Everyone (and Everything That Matters)
Planning time together as a big family isn’t easy. Whether you’re travelling across Kent (or even further!), coordinating busy schedules, or gathering for a special occasion, getting everyone in one place is something worth making the most of. That’s exactly why extended family photography sessions are one of the best-value ways to update your photos — especially if you’re looking for natural, relaxed family photography in Kent that captures everyone, not just the big group s
takenbyjessphotogr
May 93 min read


How to Get Natural Smiles from Kids During a Photoshoot - Tips from a Kent Photographer
Capturing genuine smiles from children is the holy grail of family photography. Parents don’t want stiff, forced grins, they want real laughter, personality, and those fleeting, authentic moments that truly reflect their child. If you’re a photographer (or even a parent with a camera), knowing how to bring out natural smiles can transform your images from average to unforgettable.
takenbyjessphotogr
May 23 min read


Best Age for Family Photography With a Baby
One of the most common questions parents ask when looking for a family photographer in Kent or Ashford is when the best time is to book family photos with a baby. With so many changes happening during the first year, it’s completely natural to worry about choosing the “right” age. The truth is, there’s no single perfect moment — each stage of your baby’s development offers something unique and meaningful.
takenbyjessphotogr
Feb 133 min read


Mother’s Day Mini Photography Sessions: A Thoughtful Gift Mum Will Truly Love
Mother’s Day has a funny way of sneaking up on us. One minute it’s January, the next you’re panic-scrolling for a last-minute gift that isn’t flowers from the petrol station. If you’re looking for something meaningful, personal, and guaranteed to make Mum cry happy tears, a Mother’s Day mini photography session might just be the perfect gift.
takenbyjessphotogr
Feb 73 min read


Why Spring Is the Best Time for Family Photos in Kent
Spring is one of the most popular times of year for outdoor family photography in Kent – and for good reason. As the days grow longer and the countryside comes back to life, spring offers the perfect combination of beautiful light, fresh colours, and comfortable weather for relaxed family photos.
takenbyjessphotogr
Jan 313 min read


Why Your Family Photos Don’t Need Everyone Smiling (And Often Look Better Without It)
Many parents booking family photography in Kent believe there’s one rule they must follow: everyone needs to smile at the camera.
This idea comes from traditional studio portraits, school photos, and years of being told to “say cheese.” But real family life doesn’t look like that – and your photos don’t need to either.
takenbyjessphotogr
Jan 102 min read


Outdoor Family Photos in Kent: The Ultimate Guide to Natural, Relaxed Family Photography
Thinking about outdoor family photography in Kent? Discover the best locations, times of year, what to expect, and how to get relaxed, natural family photos in Ashford and beyond.
takenbyjessphotogr
Dec 27, 20253 min read


Newborn Photography at Home or Outdoors: Natural, Relaxed Sessions for Beautiful Baby Photos
Welcoming a new baby into the world is one of life’s most emotional and memorable moments. Newborn photography allows you to capture those first tiny details—the curled toes, soft skin, sleepy yawns, and the overwhelming love you feel as a new parent.
Today, many families in Ashford and across Kent are choosing natural newborn sessions, either in the comfort of their home or at peaceful outdoor locations, to create meaningful images that feel authentic and timeless.
takenbyjessphotogr
Dec 20, 20254 min read


Why Maternity Photography Matters: Capturing the Beauty of Pregnancy
Pregnancy is one of the most meaningful journeys you’ll ever take. Whether it’s your first baby or you’re adding to your growing family, a maternity photoshoot offers a beautiful way to celebrate this chapter. Many expectant parents across Ashford and the wider Kent countryside choose maternity photography to capture these fleeting moments in a natural and heartfelt way.
takenbyjessphotogr
Dec 13, 20253 min read


Give the Gift of Memories: New Photography Gift Vouchers Now Available
If you're searching for a meaningful, personalised gift that goes far beyond the usual presents, my new photography gift vouchers are the perfect choice. Designed for families who want to capture genuine, joy-filled moments outdoors here in Ashford, Kent, these vouchers offer the gift of memories—something that lasts far longer than anything wrapped in a box.
takenbyjessphotogr
Dec 3, 20252 min read
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