Tanya De Villiers Photography

I’m Tanya — an award‑winning family photographer based in Edinburgh who loves capturing the fleeting moments that become a family’s lasting story. My work centres on relaxed, natural-light sessions that feel like you: unposed, playful and full of the small details — the crinkled noses, muddied hands and bedtime giggles that pass too quickly. Why choose me? I know how precious these years are. I’m a recovering overthinker who feels things deeply, and that empathy shows in the way I work with families. My background — from life in South Africa to a career in law and then a wholehearted leap into photography — means I bring calm, professionalism and real sensitivity to every shoot. My images have been published and awarded, but what I’m most proud of is helping families turn images into tangible keepsakes: archival wall prints and heirloom photobooks designed to be handled, shared and treasured. My approach is gentle and storytelling-led. Sessions are relaxed and often giggle-filled; I prefer to document real interactions rather than force posed smiles. We can shoot in your home — where routines and details make the best stories — or somewhere meaningful to you around Edinburgh, Midlothian and Glasgow. I spend time before the session getting to know you, so you can relax and be yourselves in front of the camera. Families often tell me they were surprised by how natural it felt and how much fun it became. How we work together: a friendly pre-session chat, a relaxed 1–2 hour session tailored to your family, and a private gallery where you choose the images that speak to you. I’ll advise on how images will look on your walls and help design elegant framed prints or an heirloom photobook that complements your home. My focus is on producing beautiful, museum-quality keepsakes rather than letting photos collect dust on a phone. If you’re looking for a specialist family photographer in Edinburgh who values real moments, storytelling and heirloom-quality products, I’d love to hear your story and help you preserve this chapter of family life.