What Is In the Box Family Photography?
- Katie Forshaw
- 1 hour ago
- 4 min read
If you’ve come across the phrase In the Box family photography and found yourself wondering what it actually means, you’re not alone. It’s something a little different, and that’s exactly why families love it.
In the simplest terms, In the Box family photography involves photographing families, children or groups inside a large white box. But the magic isn’t the box itself, it’s what happens inside it.

A simple setup with a big focus on personality
The box creates a clean, uncluttered space where all the distractions fall away. There’s no busy background, no props fighting for attention, and no pressure to pose perfectly.
What’s left is personality.
Children can sit, lean, pull faces, cuddle in, climb about a little and just be themselves. Parents can relax too, knowing there’s no need for stiff smiles or perfect behaviour. The box naturally brings everyone closer together, which often leads to genuine reactions, laughter and lovely moments of connection.
Why families love In the Box sessions
One of the biggest reasons families choose In the Box photography is because it feels fun rather than formal.
These sessions are:
Relaxed and child led
Ideal for children who don’t enjoy traditional posing
Great for siblings and families of different ages
Perfect for capturing expressions and interaction
Because everyone is close together, the images feel intimate and full of energy. Even quieter or more reserved children often warm up quickly once they realise there’s no pressure.

It’s not just for children
Although In the Box photography is centred mainly around children, it works beautifully for all sorts of sessions.
Families use In the Box sessions for:
Children and siblings
Family portraits
Birthday and milestone sessions
Baby’s first year
Creative ideas and themed shoots
Some families come with a clear idea in mind, while others turn up and see what unfolds. Both approaches work just as well.

What happens during an In the Box session?
Sessions take place in my studio in Lowestoft, Suffolk, and usually last up to an hour.
There’s no rush. We take things at your family’s pace, starting in a way that feels comfortable for everyone. Sometimes older children or adults go first while younger ones watch and get curious. Sometimes little ones are ready to jump straight in.
I guide gently throughout, suggesting small prompts or ideas, but the best moments always come from what happens naturally.
Why the finished images feel so special
After your session, I carefully design your box collages myself. This part is really important to me.
I look at how the images work together, how expressions interact and how the story of your session comes through. Each collage is designed individually, rather than following a fixed template, so the finished artwork feels personal and meaningful to your family.
The result is something a little bit different from traditional family portraits. Clean, modern images that focus on connection, expression and togetherness.

Is In the Box family photography right for everyone?
In the Box sessions work best for families who are happy to relax, have fun and get involved. They’re not designed for very formal, perfectly posed portraits, and they may not suit families where mobility or space inside the box would be uncomfortable.
If you’re unsure whether an In the Box session is right for you, it’s always worth having a chat. I’m very happy to talk things through and help you decide what will work best for your family.
In the Box family photography in Lowestoft, Suffolk
I’m based in Lowestoft, Suffolk, and families travel from across the local area to book In the Box sessions for something a little different.
If you’re looking for creative, relaxed family photography that focuses on personality and connection rather than perfect posing, In the Box family photography could be exactly what you’re looking for.
You can find out more about In the Box family photography sessions here, or feel free to get in touch if you have any questions.

FAQ
What is In the Box family photography?
In the Box family photography is a creative portrait style where families are photographed together inside a large white box. The simple setup removes distractions and focuses on personality, expressions and connection.
Is In the Box photography suitable for young children?
Yes. In the Box sessions work really well for children, especially those who don’t enjoy being told to pose. Sessions are relaxed and child led, with plenty of time for children to warm up and be themselves.
How long does an In the Box session last?
In the Box sessions usually last up to an hour. This allows time for everyone to settle in and for the session to flow naturally without any rushing.
Is In the Box photography only for families?
While these sessions are centred mainly around children and families, In the Box photography can also work for siblings, milestone sessions and creative ideas.
Where do In the Box sessions take place?
All In the Box family photography sessions take place at my studio in Lowestoft, Suffolk.




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