Capturing Memories: The Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Family Photoshoots
Family photos are timeless treasures, and outdoor settings offer a vibrant backdrop that enhances the beauty of these moments. If you’re considering an outdoor family photoshoot, this guide will help you plan the perfect session, ensuring you capture memories to cherish for years.
Choosing the Right Location
The location of your photoshoot sets the tone for the entire session. Here are some popular options to consider:
Parks and Gardens: These spaces often provide lush greenery and colourful flowers, perfect for creating a natural feel.
Beaches: The soft sand and water offer a relaxed vibe and beautiful sunset opportunities.
Forests or Wooded Areas: These settings create a whimsical atmosphere, especially in Autumn when the leaves change colours.
Urban Settings: Cityscapes can add an edgy feel, with interesting architecture and vibrant street life.
Luckily where I live in Buckinghamshire, I have so many beautiful locations right on my doorstep.
I always ask my families if they have a favourite place before I suggest a location! Or even just a place that means something to you.
Do you have a favourite spot that you go to on the weekends? Maybe there’s even a place you’ve always wanted to go but just haven’t made the time yet! Whatever it may be, if it’s something that sticks in your mind as a favourite, that may be the perfect location for your photos!
Timing is Everything
The best time for outdoor photoshoots is during the “golden hour”—the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset. The soft, diffused light during these times creates a warm glow and minimizes harsh shadows. However, I know that sometimes this is not always the most convenient time for you and your family (especially if you have little ones).
Whilst I tend to advise not booking a photoshoot mid-day, on really sunny days as it’s less flattering and creates harsh shadows, photographing at any time can be magical.
What to Wear
Coordinating outfits can elevate your photos while ensuring everyone feels comfortable. Here are some tips:
Choose a Color Palette: Select 2-3 complementary colours for a cohesive look without being too matchy.
Dress for the Weather: Layering can be stylish and practical. Ensure everyone is comfortable based on the season.
Comfort is Key: Encourage family members to wear clothes that make them feel good and allow for movement, especially for children.
I have a ‘What to Wear’ guide which I will send you once you’ve booked your session to help you pick the most perfect outfits.
Engaging Activities
As a lifestyle photographer, I tend to keep the session lively and authentic, I will suggest fun and simple prompts to help you all feel more relaxed and to help keep your little ones engaged. But here are some other things to consider.
Have a Picnic: Bring along a picnic blanket and some snacks. This can create a relaxed atmosphere and yield candid moments. I can provide the blanket and some props if required.
Games: Bring a ball or frisbee to capture action shots of the family playing together or I might suggest little fun games during the photoshoot (like tag, tickle monster etc)
Nature Exploration: Encourage kids to explore their surroundings, leading to genuine interactions and playful moments. Don’t be afraid to let little ones get muddy or to go paddling in a stream.
Posing Tips
While posed photos are great, candid shots often capture the essence of family life. In a lifestyle session, you can expect some gentle guidance on posing, but also lots of opportunities to simply interact so candid moments can be captured, which can be encouraged with some prompts. In many images, you will be looking at and engaging with each other and not the camera. Here are some posing tips to consider:
Natural Interactions: Encourage family members to interact naturally—holding hands, hugging, or playing together.
Variety of Shots: Mix close-ups, wide shots, and different angles to create a dynamic gallery.
Involve the Kids: Let children lead the way for a while. This will help them feel more relaxed and result in authentic smiles.
Preparation is Key
Before your shoot, take some time to prepare:
Check the Weather: In the run-up to your shoot I’ll keep a close eye on the weather forecast, and I expect you might too! Regardless of what the forecast says, I always recommend that we don’t make any decisions until the evening before your shoot as the weather can change so quickly here in England.
Bring Essentials: Don’t forget items like water, snacks (to keep little ones happy), and any props you may want to include in your photos (sentimental objects, a well-loved teddy etc)
Make Time: Make sure you’re not rushing around before your photoshoot. Plan accordingly. The worst thing you could do is turn up to a family photoshoot stressed and flustered.
Working with a Photographer
If you’re hiring a professional, communicate your vision clearly. Share examples of styles you like and discuss any specific poses or moments you want to capture. A good photographer will appreciate your input and guide you throughout the session.
Once you’ve booked your session with me, I will send over a questionnaire so I can get to know you and your family better as every family is unique! I will also send over my family guide and my what to wear guide.
Conclusion
An outdoor family photoshoot is a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories in a beautiful setting. With thoughtful planning and a relaxed approach, you’ll capture genuine moments that reflect your family’s unique story. So grab your or your photographer, head outdoors, and enjoy the magic of capturing your family’s love!