The first thing to do when wanting to take photos in the bluebells is to find some (well yea, thanks Becki...)
If you're not sure where your local bluebell woods are, have an ask on local Facebook groups or see what google reccomends.
It's worth noting that professional photography isn't allowed on National Trust land so if you look like you're on a professional shoot you may be asked to leave or to see your permit.

The hotspots for Bluebells around Hertfordshire are Heartwood Forrest and Dockey Woods in Ashridge. For somewhere a little less known you could try to woods down the pathway behind JMI School in Gaddesden Row

little girl sitting on a chair amongst the bluebells

1. Find good light

Early morning or just before sunset is the best time for the best light. The sun is low and a lovely golden colour. It's also softer so you won't get as harsh shadows as at midday.

If you can only go during the day when the sun is high, try and stick to shaded spots and keep the sun behind your child.
Don't be disappointed if you get a cloudy day - it opens up a lot of places you wouldn't have been able to take photos because they would have been in bright sunlight.

This shoot took place in the middle of the day so I made sure the sun was behind Elsie at all times.

little boy, holding onto the back on chair surrounded by bluebells

2. Try lots of angles

Different angles result in completely different photos. Get down low to make the bluebells looks tall and as if your little one is sitting amongst them.
Try a little higher so you can see the bluebells disapear off into the distance.
Shoot from higher still and cut out all of the surrounding distractions

3. Get Posed & Natural Images

Don't worry if they won't sit still - natural photos can look just as lovely as posed. Think of it as having an adventure in the woodland. Playing, spinning, laughing, see what bugs, sticks etc you can find. They could read a book or play with a toy in amoungst the bluebells.
Natural smiles look so much better than those classic 'say cheese' grins so be prepared with what ever makes them giggle, be it peek-a-boo or fart noises.

4. Far away and Close Up

Take 'long shots' to capture the surroundings but also don't forget close ups so you can just see a lovely wash on purple in the backgrounds.

5. Take things to sit on when for when it gets muddy

April brings us showers as well as bluebells so the ground may be a little muddy. Take a blanket or a little stool so you don't end up with cold muddy bums.

6. Dress in complimenting colours

I've written a whole blog about what to wear Here so head over an have a read.

family walking down a down surrounded by bluebells in st albans

7. Respect the Bluebells

Bluebells are very easily damaged and disturb them as little as you can but sticking to clear paths and never picking them.

8. Things to pack for bluebell photo shoot

- Something to sit on (blanket or stool)
- Toy to get childs attention that you wouldn't mind being in the photos
- Wipes
- Snacks
- Layers - cardigans, coats, long sleeve tops
- Phone or camera
- Wellies in case it's muddy

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