Hayling Island family specialist Sophia Benham creates relaxed, authentic family, newborn and children portraits by the sea. Friendly, child-led sessions that capture real moments.
I’m Sophia Benham, the photographer behind Beside The Seaside Photography on Hayling Island, and family photography is where I specialise. I focus on creating relaxed, natural portraits of families, newborns and children that feel personal and true to you. Working by the shoreline or in the comfort of your home, I use gentle, child-led direction and a calm approach to coax out the small, unscripted moments that become the images families cherish. My style favours natural light and candid interaction over stiff poses. Whether it’s grandparents laughing as they chase a toddler along the sand, a sleepy newborn in a quiet corner of your living room, or siblings sharing an unexpected grin, I aim to document the connection and atmosphere you remember—not just staged smiles. I bring patience and a playful touch to every session to ensure children feel safe and included, so we capture those fleeting, honest expressions. Before your session I’ll reach out to learn what matters most to you: favourite locations around Hayling Island, the kinds of photos you love, any little comforts your child needs, and how we can make the shoot easy and enjoyable. On the day I keep things flexible and low-pressure—short, purposeful prompts, plenty of breaks, and time for natural play. For babies and little ones I offer cake-smash and sitter-style sessions tailored to their age and temperament, with a focus on fun and celebration rather than rigid structure. Beyond the shoot, I take care with editing to preserve the colours and tones that suit seaside sessions and family life. My aim is to deliver images that feel authentic and timeless—photos you’ll want on your wall and in your hands. As a local photographer based on Hayling Island I know the best spots for soft light and beautiful backdrops, and I’m happy to suggest locations that suit your family’s style. If you’re looking for a specialist family photographer who prioritises connection, calm sessions and genuine moments, get in touch. I’d love to talk about how we can capture your family’s story beside the sea.