Over the past 10 years, I’ve had the pleasure of photographing hundreds of families, each session unique in its own way. My goal is always to capture the essence and individuality of each family member, as well as the dynamic between them. With children and pets often part of the equation, I’ve learned that a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a stress-free, seamless experience. From picking the perfect date to planning outfits, packing snacks, and choosing the ideal location, there are some key steps to ensure your session goes smoothly.
One of the most common questions I receive when someone books a family session is, “Where should we have our photos taken?” The answer to that question is simple. Your location should be a place that speaks to you as a family. It should capture the vibe you want and reflect the season in which your photos will be taken. The landscape and energy of a location change dramatically throughout the year, so it’s important to choose a spot that aligns with your vision.
Since this question comes up so often, I thought I’d share some of my go-to locations for family photos. Having had the privilege of shooting all over the world, I’ve decided to offer a broad list of locations that you can consider, rather than focusing on specific cities.
Home Sweet Home
There’s no place like home. As the saying goes, "Home is where the heart is," and while it might sound cliché, it rings true. Your family home is where you feel the most comfortable and safe, and it’s often the perfect location for a photoshoot. When children, especially those under 10, are involved, this familiarity allows them to be themselves right away. The true essence of your family comes through in an environment they know and love.
Even beyond the house itself, there are endless opportunities. Take a walk down the street, play with sidewalk chalk, ride bikes, or run around in the backyard. And because you're in a familiar place, distractions are minimal, something that can be challenging when shooting in new locations.
My Local Favourites:
Wherever you live!
Advantages:
Children feel most comfortable here
Fewer distractions
A true representation of who you are as a family
Dog and pet-friendly
Disadvantages:
Some tidying up might be needed beforehand
Kids can sometimes get too comfortable and act silly (but a quick break and a little bribery often help!)
Historic Sites
If you’re a fan of architecture, historic sites are the perfect backdrop for your family photoshoot. I have a deep passion for all styles of architecture, from the refined elegance of Neoclassical design to the striking boldness of Art Deco. These timeless locations can transport you to another era, adding a cinematic and distinctive flair to your photos. Depending on the site, you’ll encounter a variety of architectural wonders that can elevate the overall mood of your session. Just keep in mind that many of these locations require advance bookings, and they may not always be right around the corner. So, a little road trip might be in order, one that’s definitely worth it. And, of course, make sure to bring a change of clothes for the kids once you arrive!
My Local Favourites:
Dundurn Castle, The Hermitage, Paletta Mansion, City Hall
Advantages:
Transforms your photos with stunning backdrops
Adds a unique element to your images
Disadvantages:
Can be crowded during peak seasons
Some locations may not allow pets
Permits may be required
Travelling to the location
The Beach
The beach offers an enchanting backdrop for family photos, especially during golden hour or on those beautiful overcast days. I’ve yet to have a beach session that I didn’t absolutely love. Whether your shoot is relaxed, spending quality time as a family by the water, or more formal with coordinated outfits and minimal play, the beach provides a stunning environment. After capturing those “must-have” shots, the real magic unfolds when the family starts running through the water or playing in the sand. That’s when the true fun begins. Just a little tip: be sure to plan ahead by avoiding holiday weekends and peak hours. And, if you’re bringing your fur baby along, double-check that the beach is dog-friendly!
My Local Favourites:
Long Point, Van Wagner’s Beach, The hundreds of beaches along our Great Lakes
Advantages:
A stunning, natural backdrop
Playful, carefree atmosphere for children
Bright, airy photos
Perfect for family “adventures”
Disadvantages:
Many beaches do not allow dogs or require them to be leashed
Young children can get easily distracted
Beaches can be crowded depending on the time of day and season
Parks
Parks are often the go-to choice for family photos, and for good reason. They offer convenience, ample green space, and a relaxed atmosphere. If your children love a particular park and it’s dog-friendly, it can be the perfect spot. However, parks can also bring a bit of chaos. Children are often more captivated by the playground or other kids than being with their family. When choosing a park, try to pick one that offers plenty of space and variety. This way, you can let the kids play after the formal shots or easily switch locations if a certain area is too crowded. Parks are a dream for capturing candid, playful moments, but if you're aiming for more formal portraits, it can be a bit trickier.
My Local Favourites:
Princess Point, Bayfront Park, Bronte Park, Gage Park
Advantages:
Candid, playful, and real moments
Convenient and easy to access
Dog-friendly in many cases
Disadvantages:
Can get crowded during peak times
Some parks don’t allow pets
Permits may be required at certain locations
Forests and Trails
For a more moody and natural vibe, forested areas and trails are the perfect choice. Whether it’s a hike to your favourite family spot or a visit to grandma’s property, these locations provide an intimate and magical atmosphere. The best photos here often take on a documentary style, capturing the genuine moments of your family enjoying time together. However, it’s important to note that forested areas can be quite dark, especially during golden hour. In the summer, the lush greenery can cast a “green glow” over your photos, giving them a unique, moody effect. While this can be beautiful and evocative, it won’t deliver the fresh, airy feel that a beach or open field might offer.
My Local Favourites:
Apps Mill, The Hermitage Trails, Tiffany Falls
Advantages:
Playful, candid moments
A fun family adventure
Dog-friendly in most cases
Disadvantages:
Trails can get busy depending on the time of day and season
Greenery can cast a green hue on your photos
Bugs, lots of bugs in warmer months!
Parking Garages
It may sound unconventional, but parking garages can actually make for an incredibly unique and striking photo location. I had the pleasure of shooting in a stunning parking garage in Austin, Texas, which had clean lines, vibrant walls, and panoramic views of the city. The architectural simplicity of a parking garage, combined with the modern design elements, provided an unexpectedly bold and creative backdrop. The controlled environment of the garage allowed me to experiment with light and angles, offering a lot of flexibility and artistic freedom. Whether using the geometric shapes of the structure or capturing the cityscape views from the top, the space offered a fresh perspective on what a photoshoot can be. Of course, it’s crucial to research your location beforehand, ensuring that it’s the right fit for your vision. But when done right, a parking garage can add an unexpected, edgy artistic flair to your photos, turning an ordinary space into something truly special and memorable.
My Local Favourites:
Hamilton Farmer’s Market Parking Garage (MacNab St. N & York Blvd.), Brantford Municipal Parking Office (Icomm Dr. & Water St.)
Advantages:
Unique, artistic photos with clean lines
Interesting backdrops with modern city vibes
Great lighting and different perspectives
Disadvantages:
Can be busy depending on the time of day
Some garages require paid parking
No green space or natural elements
Studio Sessions
For a completely controlled environment, a studio photoshoot offers both predictability and versatility. As an artist, I truly appreciate the creative freedom a studio setting provides, allowing me to experiment with lighting, backdrops, and compositions in ways that outdoor locations simply can't offer. Studios often come equipped with a variety of props and different settings that can be used to enhance the mood or theme of your shoot. However, sometimes the simplest settings, a plain white or black wall, can be the most powerful. The understated backdrop allows your family to shine as the main focus, creating a sense of timelessness. This simplicity results in classic, refined images that, when done right, won't go out of style. Studio portraiture is all about highlighting the beauty and connection of your family, and the result is artwork that will stand the test of time and be cherished for generations.
My Local Favourites:
Aviva Studio (The Cotton Factory), Millworks Creative, Mintroom Studios + Preto Loft
Advantages:
Controlled lighting for perfect photos
Variety of settings and backdrops
Timeless, artistic portraits
Disadvantages:
Limited interaction with the environment
There are so many incredible places for family photos, each offering its own unique charm and atmosphere. Whether it's the comfort and familiarity of your home, the breathtaking backdrop of a scenic beach, or a vibrant park full of life, every location has its own story to tell. And if you have a spot that holds special meaning for you, whether it’s a hidden gem you’ve discovered or a place filled with memories, I would love nothing more than to explore it with you! I’m always up for an adventure, especially when my camera is in hand.
After all, the best photos often come from those moments that are spontaneous, authentic, and personal. No matter where we choose to capture your family’s memories, rest assured that I will put my heart into making sure your photos reflect the unique beauty, love, and connection that make your family truly special. From the carefully considered location to the genuine moments we capture together, I promise to create timeless images that will be cherished for years to come.