Choosing the right location for your family photo session.
As my client, I know you are thinking about SO MANY THINGS when booking your family session. What to wear? What time of day? And… Where should you have your family photos taken? I realize that the options might seem overwhelming at first, but I have a tried and true method that I walk each client through to help them find a location that is a good fit for their “style” and the age of the kids.
The location will set the overall mood and feel for your family shoot. When choosing the perfect place for your family session there are several things that you want to consider. In order to help you, I have broken the locations down into five general categories to help you narrow down your selection. Once we have a category in mind I can help you determine the exact location.
Five types of photo locations you should consider for your family photo session.
1. Nature– Nature locations tend to offer wide-open spaces, tall grass, nature trails and beautiful Texas sunsets. This is a versatile backdrop that compliments most clothing styles. In addition, nature locations are ideal for families with babies, toddlers and smaller kids as they offer a few distractions. The best part is the little ones can roam freely without stress or the dangers or a more urban location.
2. Parks – Local city parks, walking trails and golf courses are filled with photography session options. These locations tend to be more manicured than nature locations with green grass, park benches, and landscaping. Many local parks have water features such as a pond, creek or waterfall. This is a perfect choice if you want a more polished look for your session. My one word of caution is to pick a location far away from a playscape as it will be a huge distraction for the younger kids.
3. Collective– Buildings and trees, alleyways and streets, nature and architecture. Collective locations offer a bit of everything for your family session. These locations allow us to incorporate a nature + urban feel into the same shoot giving you lots of variety.
4. Rustic – Weathered shabby buildings, historic downtown areas with exposed brick and chipped paint, and gravel country roads. You might feel as if you have stepped back in town when you are in a rustic location. The textures and colors add a lot of visual interest to your photos. This is a great option for families with school age and older children.
5. Urban – Brick buildings, alleys, colorful graffiti, parking garages, and busy streets + sidewalks. This is a perfect location for the family that loves the hustle and bustle that the city has to offer. The variety of elements and backgrounds are exciting and the bright colors make your images come alive. As with the rustic locations this type of environment is best for families with school age or older children who will stay close by and be able to follow instructions easily.
I hope that these suggestions have helped you narrow down the type of location that you would like to have. One we have a type in mind I can help you choose from 2-3 options within that category that would best meet the needs of your individual family.
As always, feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions! I love connecting with you beyond the blog + social media.
SENIOR | FAMILY | NEWBORN | SCHOOLS
Shelly Niehaus Photography is a Prosper, TX-based senior and family photographer. I specialize in newborns, seniors, family, and school portrait photography in the Dallas Fort Worth area. I also offer adoption photography for local families through the Red Thread Organization and volunteer for The Gold Hope Project. For more information please contact me so we can start discussing your session.
