Family photoshoot at Trelissick Gardens | Cornwall

Family session at Trelissick Gardens, Cornwall

Trelissick Gardens is a National Trust location near Truro in Cornwall. The gardens themselves are definitely worth going into if you’re visiting, but there are also the surrounding grounds which is free to explore. You can take the walk from the car park all the way down to the little beach on the Fal, and around through the woods to near the King Harry Ferry dock and back up again. It’s a popular spot for dog walkers and the Park Run.

I like doing photo shoots here because it’s central, accessible, and really beautiful! I particularly love the big trees near the entrance, and views of the soft rolling hills and Fal estuary.

I recently met the King family here for an afternoon family session. Harrison had just turned two and Evelina was 10 weeks old. The family had ties to Mylor and were staying there for a few weeks (down from London). They wanted photos while they were all together for their family holiday in Cornwall, and Trelissick was the perfect halfway place to meet.

Harrison did absolutely and resolutely NOT want to have his photo taken or be any part of the session. He’d brought a bird feeder with him (random, I know!) which his parents had to pry away, causing huge upset and resentment. So I tried everything. Silly voices, songs, animal impressions, ridiculous conversation starters, bubbles, aping around, and after a while, ignoring and pretending I didn’t want him in any photos. Nothing worked. He was onto me the entire time and would not get involved in any silliness. Hands down, the toughest kid to crack I’ve ever met.

In the end we had to settle for a few distracted shots and his dad took him on such a long walk we started to wonder if they’d gotten lost. A little tickle session right at the end saved the day, when I got a few playful ‘smiley’ shots but the second the tickling stop, the scowl came back.

I guess there’s a first time for everything! Harrison, I forgive you and I salute you for your commitment! Maybe if we meet again, I’ll manage to get a little smile :)

Find out more about my family sessions and please contact me if you’re interested!