The Story of You

I’m Leyla — a proud Yorkshire mum and the face behind The Story of You. As a specialist family photographer based in Darton (serving Barnsley and South Yorkshire), I centre my work on capturing real family connections and those small, unforgettable moments that make your story unique. Why choose a family session with me? I treat family photography as my primary focus and passion. Whether you want a relaxed lifestyle newborn shoot at home, a posed studio portrait, or an outdoor session with the kids and the dog, I aim to create images that feel like you: warm, honest and full of personality. I’ve built a fully equipped studio in Barnsley where props, themed sets (cake smashes, sitter sessions, glitter/feather mini-sets) and a calm atmosphere are ready for your visit — or we can head out to a favourite local spot for a location shoot. My approach is gentle, flexible and guided. I’ll help you choose outfits, props or simple colour palettes, and I encourage families to bring treasured items that tell their story. For newborn sessions I offer both studio-wrapped portraits and lifestyle at-home shoots — I’ve trained in newborn safety, hold a full DBS check and have Pediatric First Aid so you can relax while I capture those tiny details. I also love including your pets; dogs are very much part of the family here and I tailor sessions so your fur-babies shine alongside you. Sessions I regularly photograph include family portraits, newborn and baby milestone shoots, children’s portraits, baptisms, communions, birthdays and personalised celebrations. My style leans toward natural, emotive imagery with a joyful, candid feel, balanced with a few classic posed portraits so you get a timeless mix for your wall or albums. Working with me is easy and friendly — from our first chat to the final gallery. I’ll guide you through the session so children and pets feel at ease, keep the mood light and make sure every shoot is relaxed and fun. The result is a collection of images that document your family now — the laughter, the hugs, the little quirks — so you can treasure them forever. If you’re in Darton or nearby and ready to tell your family’s story, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s create photos your family will love, your way.