Twelve whole years… that’s how long it had been since Paula and Steve were last home in South Africa. And this trip from Australia came with something extra special: it would be the first time their little boy met his granddad and his aunties! So Paula emailed me with her plan. A surprise photoshoot during their Drakensberg family reunion at Little Switzerland Resort. Seven people, three generations, and one EPIC afternoon!
A Surprise Drakensberg Family Reunion, 12 Years in the Making
The surprise wasn’t just the photoshoot either. Paula had grey hoodies made for everyone! Complete with “HB” and the date in Roman numerals to commemorate the trip. So freaking cool!
Plus the three aunties had their own green “Cool Aunties Club” tracksuit tops too. Their nephew was officially in very good hands hahaha.
The Spring Weather Was Incredible For Their Drakensberg Family Reunion!
Their family holiday was scheduled for three gorgeous days at Little Switzerland. Because I had flexibility on my side, we’d watch the forecast and pick the best weather day of the lot. Spring in the Berg, a whole family together, and sunshine… yes please!
The light was still bright when we started, so we began in the little forest. The trees softened everything beautifully, and everyone could ease into the photoshoot.
Back at Little Switzerland, Where It All Began
The family used to visit Little Switzerland back in the day. So coming back here, all grown up and with the next generation in tow, made this the coolest family reunion ever!
HB Hoodies and the Cool Aunties Club
Their little boy took a while to decide what he thought of me and my camera. Then he warmed up… and the high fives started flowing!
He loved having his whole family around him. Upside down, carried sideways, squeezed in hugs, he was in his element, and the aunties were too.
Photographs in the Little Switzerland Gardens
We moved around the gorgeous property, and I gave everyone gentle cues on where to look and what to do. There was no rushing, just a family enjoying every minute together. Once everyone felt comfortable and the pre-photoshoot nervous energy was gone, that was when the real magic happened!
Sunset at the Mountain’s Edge for Our Drakensberg Family Reunion
Then we ended at the mountain’s edge for sunset… and that sunset overlooking the Amphitheatre was EPIC!
Geoff danced with his daughters, the sisters hugged it out, and the whole family threw their arms in the air as the sun dropped behind the mountains. It really warmed my heart to see how happy they all were together. Special moments!!!
High Fives and Behind the Scenes
My husband Neil came along for this photoshoot because he had a cycling race in Ladysmith the next day. And lucky for me, he snapped a few behind-the-scenes photos too… including my favourite high five of the day 💛 That’s how I really know that I did my job well hahaha.
Planning Your Own Drakensberg Family Reunion?
Thinking about bringing everyone together for photos? Here are a few things that worked beautifully for the Hilton-Barbers.
When is the best time for a Drakensberg family reunion photoshoot?
Late afternoon is the sweet spot, so you can finish with golden light at sunset. If you can, give yourself a few possible days and choose the best one closer to the time. The same goes whether you’re in the Drakensberg or down on the Wild Coast.
How do we coordinate outfits for a big family?
Matching hoodies or tops are SO much fun, and they make every group photo look instantly connected. Add a little something special, like initials or a date, and they become a keepsake from the trip too!
Paula, Steve, Geoff, and the Cool Aunties Club… Thank You!
Thank you for letting me be part of your reunion. It reminded me that family time together is SO special, and we all need to make time to go away together 💛
IN THEIR WORDS
★★★★★
“The photo gallery is STUNNING 🤩🤩🤩 Thank you for taking such great care of us and for capturing this moment!“
The HB Family
Drakensberg Family Reunion at Little Switzerland Resort | Google Review
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Hi, I’m Niki M, a documentary wedding, family, and lifestyle photographer based in Hillcrest, KZN. My work is all about real emotion, unposed moments, and true-to-life colour. Adventure photoshoots out in nature are my happy place, and the Drakensberg is right at the very top of my list!
Planning a family reunion or family photoshoot in the Drakensberg? Check out my work and reach out to learn more.
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