Inverleigh At-Home Family Photography Session | Ainsley, Eli, Ari & Leni
I met Ainsley and Eli again at their beautiful property in Inverleigh to photograph this next chapter of their family life with three-year-old Ari, and little Leni.
This was actually the fourth time I’ve photographed them. Over the years, I’ve spent quite a few hours with these guys — from their engagement session, to their wedding, to meeting Ari as a little baby, and now again with Leni. It’s such a special thing to be invited back into people’s lives like this and to see how much changes between each season.
Every time I visit their property, I notice something new they’ve created or built. You can really see how much heart and work they’ve poured into making it their home. It felt lovely to photograph them there, surrounded by the things they've slowly shaped over the years — the veggie gardens, the chickens, the dogs, the cats, the beautiful outdoor spaces, and all the thoughtful details throughout the property. One of my favourite additions was a stunning bench Eli built for Ainsley as a Mother’s Day gift.
Ari was so much fun to photograph as a three-year-old. A good portion of the session involved trying to convince her to hop off the swing for at least a few minutes, which honestly felt very appropriate for that stage of life. Every time we thought she might be finished, she'd race straight back for another turn. Some of my favourite images from the afternoon came from simply letting her enjoy being exactly where she wanted to be. Meanwhile, little Leni was incredibly relaxed through the whole morning as we wandered around the property and spent time together at home.
Ainsley told me beforehand that she was hoping for the photos to feel candid, natural, and lifestyle-focused, so I arrived without any real preconceived ideas or strict plan. That's one of the things I love most about an at-home family photography session — the day doesn't need to revolve around photographs. It simply becomes part of family life. I guided everyone here and there when needed, but mostly I just followed their lead and photographed what unfolded naturally in front of me.
Sessions like this are always a reminder that you really don’t need to force much. Kids play. Parents settle into each other. Dogs wander in and out. People show you the spaces and routines they love, and slowly the session becomes about documenting that.
Also, if anyone local to Inverleigh, Geelong or surrounding areas is looking for someone skilled in construction or tiny homes, Eli runs Elu Tiny Built and Kemerer Constructions — both very reflective of the care and craftsmanship you can see throughout their home.
If you’re looking for a family photographer in Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula or surrounding regional areas, and you're drawn to relaxed lifestyle family photography with candid moments and gentle guidance, I'd love to hear from you.
Enjoy looking through the photos,
Hanna x
Thinking about your own family session?
Every family session looks a little different, but the goal is always the same — creating photographs that feel genuine, relaxed and true to your family.
Relaxed, child-led sessions
In-home or outdoor locations
Geelong & Bellarine Peninsula
60–90 minute sessions