Nikki specialises in relaxed, child-friendly family photoshoots in Canterbury. With years working with children, she creates natural, timeless family portraits you’ll treasure.
Nicola Ellen Photography is a family photography specialist based in Canterbury, dedicated to "capturing memories & treasured moments" for families across Kent. Nikki’s background as a primary school teacher and a mum of two means she brings patience, gentle guidance and an instinctive understanding of children to every session. That experience makes even the busiest, most camera-shy families feel calm and comfortable in front of the lens. Why choose Nikki for your family photoshoot? Her approach is relaxed, personal and focused on authentic connection. Rather than forcing stiff poses, Nikki looks for the little interactions—the laughter, the tiny hands, the reassuring embraces—that make each family unique. She tailors each session to your family’s personality, whether you prefer a cosy in-studio portrait, natural outdoor shots around Canterbury and nearby towns, or simple candid moments between parents and children. How she works with you: Nikki begins with a friendly conversation to understand the images you want to create, using phone, email or a virtual chat. On the day she creates a calm atmosphere where children can be themselves—playing, exploring or being cosy with parents—so she can capture the genuine expressions that become treasured keepsakes. Props and outfits are available to help style a session, and Nikki offers an in-person viewing experience so you can choose the images that mean the most to you. Her photography philosophy is about freezing moments in time so they last forever. She believes strongly in getting parents in the picture—often encouraging mums to join family shots so those memories exist for generations. Nikki’s editing is professional and subtle, enhancing the emotion and timeless quality of each photograph rather than distracting from it. Serving Canterbury and surrounding areas including Ashford, Folkestone and Faversham, Nicola Ellen Photography specialises in family, maternity and newborn work with a warm, steady, and child-focused approach. If you want family portraits that feel natural, full of heart and true to who you are, Nikki will help you create beautiful images to display at home and to pass down as treasured family memories.