Once Upon a Time Photography

Once Upon a Time Photography is a family photography specialist based near Alloa in Menstrie, Clackmannanshire. Claire’s work is rooted in a love of family life — she began photographing babies and families after the birth of her own children and has built a practice around creating warm, honest portraits that families will treasure for years. Why choose Claire? Her approach is calm, personal and child-centred. She knows how to put even the most camera-shy child at ease with gentle humour and playful prompts, and she tailors every session to the personalities in front of her lens. Whether you prefer the cosy comfort of her little studio or the natural backdrops of the local countryside, Claire prioritises relaxed interactions and genuine expressions over forced poses, resulting in images that feel authentic and timeless. What makes her special is a combination of technical skill, ongoing training and a soft, reassuring manner. Claire has trained with leading newborn photographers and places particular importance on safety when babies are involved. Her studio is stocked with carefully selected props and accessories, and she creates a welcoming atmosphere — complete with a hot cuppa — so parents can relax while she captures those fleeting family moments. How she works: sessions are conversational and flexible. Claire takes time to get to know your children — learning what makes them laugh, whether they love to review their photos on camera, or if they need a parent close-by. For older children and larger families she often recommends an outdoor shoot in the nearby woods or open fields, where she can capture natural movement, connection and the landscape that many local families love. Above all, Claire cares about producing beautiful portraits that reflect your family’s story. From tender moments with newborns to playful sibling interactions and multi-generation portraits, her images are designed to be enjoyed on the wall at home and passed down through the years. If you’re looking for a family photographer in the Alloa area who combines warmth, experience and a relaxed, bespoke approach, Once Upon a Time Photography offers a thoughtful, professional experience focused on your family.