Now is the time of year when everyone’s getting family photos taken. You need one shot to make your holiday card. The leaves are beautiful, the air is crisp. We all know that it’s important to get family photos taken occasionally to capture these fleeting moments of childhood. It can be stressful and overwhelming. Never fear – we’re here with the very best tips and advice directly from professional family photographers to ensure that you nail those outdoor family photos this year. These outdoor family photo ideas can inspire you to take your camera out with less stress and confidence. The post contains tips and images from our incredible Instagram community. We are grateful for their support, wisdom and help.
TipsFor outdoor family photos
Getting family photos taken doesn’t have to be stressful. We’re here to help make this fun! We’ve put together a huge list of tips and advice for parents on how to make sure your outdoor family photos turn out amazing! These steps will help you navigate the entire process: from finding the perfect photographer for your family, to choosing the right outfits, and creating the perfect holiday cards shot. FamilyPhotos will be treasured forever. We want you to get your photos taken. This post includes outdoor family photo ideas as well as creative family poses and inspiring family photo ideas. We hope you find this inspiring and motivating. It’s not hard to get family photos done in the Fall. OutdoorAdventure bucket list
Pro tip:
“Time moves so FAST – we blink and our kids grow up. Don’t let these sweet memories go by without documentation. When our babies are young, we can play with them, tickle them, or give them butterflies kisses. These moments are fleeting, and we won’t be able to retain every detail. This is how photography can have an impact on your life and the value of what it holds. A picture can help you recall a time in your past. That is the power of a photograph…it can transport you to another time and hold dear memories in check for life.” @christiallencurtis
Photo credit: @rachelstarmerphoto
Photo credit: @christiebauerphotography
Pick a kid-friendly photographer
It is important to choose a photographer who has experience working with families and children. This will make the experience much more enjoyable and less stressful. Not all photographers are created equally and you want someone who is fun, charming and can bring out your child’s natural smile. FamilyPhotography is a speciality. A good family photographer will have patience, understanding, and (hopefully!) speed.
A person who is able to communicate with children, laugh with them and be open to interacting with them will make your child feel more at ease and comfortable. Ask your friends to refer you (word of mouth is best way to find family-friendly photographers) and ensure that their portfolio includes lots of children.
Photo credit: @kristenvincentphotography
Pro tip:
“(1) Choosing a photographer for your family is about more than price and portfolio. Personality matters when it comes to children. Hire someone who is experienced in working with children. (2) Don’t let your children sleep in the car on their way to your session. They’ll be groggy and cranky from being woken up, and that’s hard to recover from. (3) Don’t put yourself above bribes – and let your photographer in on the treats being offered for good behavior. Make sure your children are dressed for the weather. Children who aren’t happy in cold conditions will not be happy. (5) Get to know your photographer so that your children show genuine emotion. Instead of “C’mon! You can have a great smile, Gimme a Good Smile! Cheese!” try singing their favorite song, tickling, bouncing, etc. The things that normally make them smile are what’s going to yield the best expression!” @nicolecaradonnaphoto
Photo credit: @karinajzamora
I love the way the images look
You should also enjoy the work of the photographer. Photographers usually have a specific “look” that makes them different than others. Images can look super saturated and warm, bright, colorful, muted and dark, moody, or even moody. If you like bright, airy and colorful photos, don’t select a photographer that’s portfolio is most dark black and white images.
Photo credit: @lynseystraderphotography
Location, location and location
Choose a location that best suits your style and purpose for outdoor family photos. Choose a park or farm if you prefer to be surrounded in nature. You are looking for something fun and colorful? Perhaps a local amusement park or carnival. Do you want to see amazing images? Find a remote lake or climb a mountain. Do you want to feel urban? Get some family photos in the heart of the action by heading into the city. And don’t underestimate the option of taking family photos in/around your home! In your backyard, you can capture the golden hour glow or the fall leaves. Ask your photographer for suggestions on their favorite spots to capture fall family photos.
Pro tip:
“Work with your photographer to find a place outside that not only is beautiful aesthetically, but also has elements of nature to encourage natural interactions (logs, rocks, water). Things to get your kids moving, exploring and playing!” @christiebauerphotography
Photo credit: @christiebauerphotography
OutdoorFamily photo ideas
Outdoor family photos don’t have to be all posed or frolicking through a field. Try a family activity instead if this feels awkward. Does your family have a favorite location or destination that’s meaningful to them? Perhaps your first date, the zoo, or the family farm? Have your family portraits taken there. Is there somewhere that really reflects the personality of your children? You might consider a rock climbing or amusement parks.
Do an activity instead of posing and getting photos that are tense and posed. Take family photos on your favorite hiking trail if you and your family love to hike. Do you love canoeing or kayaking? Family photos taken on the lake in a kayak. You love the beach? You should go to the beach and enjoy the water. Recent snow…build a snowman together or go sledding. You can spend lots of time in the pool. You might consider an underwater family photo session. Other outdoor family photo session location ideas are: golf course, botanical gardens, pick-your-own orchard, sunflower fields, Christmas tree farm, outdoor ice skating rink, farmer’s market or playground.
You can do whatever you like with your family photos. Your family photo session can be turned into an adventure FamilyPhotos should reflect the personalities and passions of the whole family.
Photo credit: @christiallencurtis
Photo credit: @steshabellaphotography
Timing is important
I’m sure you’ve all heard that there’s a magical “golden hour” just before sunset that’s the most coveted time of day for photos. If you have children who can work normally at all hours of the day, this may be true. However, if your kids are very young, it may not be the best time to photograph them. Children are most cooperative when they start the day. Book a morning session to get fresh faces and positive moods. Older children are more comfortable with later hours, particularly in summer months when the days are longer. You know your kids best so choose a time and place that is convenient for you.
Talk to your photographer when booking a session about the best time for your children and the light. Think about your children’s daily routine and schedule. Think about your children’s daily routines and how they feel at different times of the day. You should choose the best time to take family photos, regardless of how much light is available. A good photographer will be able to choose a location that works at the time that fits your needs and know how to work with the light that’s available at your family’s best time.
Photo credit: @chelsea_kaufman_photography
Check the weather
Photography is all about light. So make sure that you are not affected by the weather. While shade and clouds are fine (and even welcome), intense heat and pouring rain will not work. Your photographer will keep you informed about the weather forecast, and you can rely on him/her to inform you if the weather will pose a problem during your shoot.
Photo credit: @melissawisemanphotography
PhotoCredit: @tirrophotography
Coordinated clothing
To make it easier to coordinate the outfits and see how they look together, arrange all of your pieces together. Stick to a color scheme that includes 2-3 main colors with a few neutrals. Avoid any logos or other bold graphics. Photographers will often recommend that you avoid solid blacks or whites as they can blend into backgrounds and/or reveal dirt/hair. Layers and accessories add depth and interest to an outfit (think vests or jewelry, tights, cardigans/jackets, and tights). Mix and match different textures, prints, and colors.
First, decide what mom will wear. Mom sets the mood/tone for the entire shoot, so it’s important for mom to choose something she loves and feels comfortable and confident in. Style the other women around her. Keep true to the style and the setting. A ballgown in the mountains may look amazing on some moms if that’s what makes them feel confident. But it could totally flop if you’re more of a jeans and t-shirt kind of mom and are super uncomfortable in it. Wear what makes you feel comfortable and reflects your style.
Photo credit: @clairepiercephotography
Pro tip:
“Utilize your photographer’s creativity and knowledge when selecting your wardrobe. Your choice can be your greatest asset in photos. It will bring the family and the location together. My clients look through my Pinterest wardrobe palette inspiration boards and choose a color scheme they like. Personally, I prefer bold colors and drama so I recommend a palette that includes 2-3 neutrals with 2-3 colors. We then find a place where we can add in some patterns to make it more cohesive, but not matchy. It works well with my style of photography. If you’re having trouble with outfits, don’t be afraid to ask your photographer for advice on what looks good together and photographs well!” @clairepiercephotography
PhotoCredit: @mama_and_little
Comfortable clothes for children should be available
Make sure everyone’s clothing fits well and is comfortable. There’s nothing worse than a toddler or child wearing an itchy dress or clothes that are too tight. You may be able to make it through an hour-long session with shoes that hurt your feet, but your kids won’t last. Consider the weather when you choose an outfit for your child. On a cold winter day, dressing your children in cute sleeveless dresses will cause a lot of tears. You can set them up for success by dressing appropriately for the climate, activity, and place.
Pro tip:
“What you wear matters. Don’t match. Beautiful wardrobe pieces can express each family member’s personality. The day before your session, get everyone’s wardrobe looks and bags packed. This will make your session stress-free. If you have littles, don’t forget to pack tissues, wipes, extra diapers. You can give the kids a sweet treat at the end. You can remind them during the session about their prize. Smile, smile, and laugh during your session! Even if the kiddos are being uncooperative, keep smiling, your photographer will thank you for it.” @tirrophotography
PhotoCredit: @holly.b.rose
Photo credit: @ashtonreynoldsphotography
Prep your kids
Before your photo session, it’s a great idea to talk to your kids about what they can expect ahead of time to get them prepared. Children can get anxious around strangers or in unfamiliar environments. This will make it easier for them to be comfortable. If they’re nervous or scared, let them bring their favorite lovie or toy to get a special photo with. Make sure you sound excited about the photo session and not stressed or anxious (they’ll pick up on that).
Photo credit: @velvetheartphotography
Photo credit: @chelsea_kaufman_photography
Candid shots rule!
You may not get the perfect shot if you have very small children. Children are often very attentive and difficult to get to know. Family photographers are great at engaging children and getting them to laugh, play, and be happy. That’s ok! Sometimes, photos with everyone looking in a different way are my favorite! Let everyone’s personality shine through and the photos will show the connection in a way that no standard front-facing smiling photo ever can.
Pro tip:
“Candid moments between families are my favorite! Let your children be children – real life is beautiful. I love asking my children to tell their parents their favorite thing about them. It is one of my favorite prompts. The reaction on mom or dad’s face is always honest, real and beaming with love.” @velvetheartphotography
Photo credit: @paletteoflight
Photo credit: @nicolecaradonnaphoto
Parent photos
It’s ok to take a few small breaks during family pictures to let the kids run around, get their wiggles out and burn some energy. While they’re running wild, have your photographer take a few parent only pictures. Don’t forget that the parents are part of the family, too! You’ll be happy you have them and your kiddos will get a short break from all the orders, directions and smiling.
Photo credit: @kmariellephotography
Pro tip:
“I’m a mom so I’m guilty of doing this myself, but my biggest tip is for parents not to set the bar so high! Kids will be kids, and hubby’s will most likely be grumpy. But you can decide the mood! It’s up to you to decide what the mood is. The natural candid shots end up being the most treasured anyways!” @kmariellephotography
Photo credit: @jessiingram_
Ask for direction
Professional photographers will usually be able to spot if a pose or shot is not right. Let your photographer direct you in your interactions and poses. Even though it may seem strange or unnatural on the screen, it could look fantastic. Photographers are able to draw inspiration from nature and create outdoor family photos. They are experts in directing and managing the camera. Ask your photographer for advice on how to pose or tilt your head.
Photo credit: @kailaspanglerphotography
Pro tip:
“My best advice would be to live in the moment! Your photographer should capture the love, the hugs and the giggles, as well as the kisses. They will eventually grow up, and these moments will soon be forgotten. But capturing those memories in a photograph will allow them to cherish them for the rest of their lives. Don’t worry about the poses, but focus on the interaction. Mamas and daddy should be there for their babies every chance they get. Those will be the memories they will want to keep forever!” @kailaspanglerphotography
Photo credit: @alohazophoto
Pro tip:
“The main thing for me is just let kids be kids without the pressure of a perfect photo. If they’re in a not-smiling-for-the-camera phase, let them be in that phase. Odds are if you stress and yell at them to “SMILE!” they’re more likely to freeze up. My experience is that letting them be helps them relax and become more comfortable. It allows me to take candid photos and to work one-on one with them to get smiles. Often times, they end up cracking a smile after they’ve gotten to do some jumps or silly faces.” @alohazophoto
Photo credit: @natsnyder.photo
Be a good photographer
It’s fine to have a few suggestions and ideas for shots or poses to give to your photographer. Your photographer should be notified if there is a special use or you have a request for a specific shot. Maybe you want a shot with a Christmas tree for a particular picture frame…tell your photographer. Let her know if you require a pose for grandparents. She wants to make you happy and will do everything she can to get you the shots that you want. However, it’s best to let her do her job and select the best shots, angles and poses for your family and the location. Trust that she can see things you might not and that she’s only got your best interest in mind. Let her do what she does best.
Photo credit: @katielanephoto
Pro tip:
“Just relax! Don’t expect perfection from your kids. Some of the best images come from complete chaos!” @katielanephoto
PhotoCredit: @whitepinepics
Bribery
You can resort to bribery if you need insurance to make sure everything goes according to plan. I’m definitely not above bribing my kids to behave with a toy, candy or a trip to the ice cream shop after photos are finished. Your photographer should also know the nature of the bribe in order to benefit.
Pro tip:
“Let your photographer control the bribe. Avoid giving treats at the start of your session. Keep them for later. They might be useful, especially if the photographer has control. We enjoy using games throughout our sessions, and letting parents reward points to their children for each one. Then, if things get a little too crazy we can say “whoever has the most points get a special treat from Daddy!” But the key is to let the photographer control how the treats are rewarded. This method has been a great success and allows for more variety and interaction throughout the session. Also, parents’ energy transfers to their children. Parents, relax, let the photographer do all the magic and have fun with your children. We get those “everyone look here and smile” photos in the middle of fun games.” @paletteoflight
Photo credit: @kellijohansenphotography
Pro tip:
“Make sure everyone eats before a session. Outdoor sessions are especially important. This session will involve a lot of running, hiking, and running around. A small meal or good snack beforehand usually eliminates grumpy kids and hangry adults.” @kellijohansenphotography
PhotoCredit: @jrshiromafoto
Pro tip:
“Relax and try to have fun! Don’t worry about what the kids are doing. Let them play, explore and interact with the natural world. Don’t worry, I’ll get good shots of them! And if the kids are having fun, then everyone has fun!” @jrshiromafoto
PhotoCredit: @_sandyphoto_
Photo credit: @juliahausphoto
Relax and (trying to) have some fun
This tip is the most difficult for parents to remember, but it’s the most important. Go into your shoot with low expectations for your children, knowing that they’re not going to be perfectly behaved or cooperate. You can let your children be kids. If their parents don’t tell them what to do, kids are more likely to follow their lead. Follow the lead of your photographer and if she needs help, she’ll ask for it. Photographers are used and comfortable with chaos. They will help you to manage your children so that you can relax a little.
Photo credit: @chasinggalileephoto
Pro tip:
“I truly believe that we put too much on ourselves and our families to portray “happy” or to just be something extra special for social media. Yes, sharing photos from our sessions on social media can be so exciting. Happiness is more than just smiling or laughing. Your children are not happy if they stare at the photographer with their biggest smiles (although I hope they get one for me). Happy can simply be contentment. Contentment is in being who you are, and your family with all their wild + free selfs. A family photo is more than an Instagram post or a profile pic. It’s more than perfect. LET GO OF PERFECTION and be wild + free.” @chasinggalileephoto
PhotoCredit: @stephhedbergphotos
Pro tip:
“If families can show up ready to connect and have those imitate moments, it makes the photographer’s job so much easier. Don’t stress so much on everyone having perfect smiles, as much as just being playful and connecting with your kids/spouse. Your photographer will help guide and pose you…but those genuine moments are your money shots. You should choose outfits that make it easy for you to accomplish this. Something that your constantly pulling, or tugging on the whole time because your uncomfortable, makes it hard to capture those raw moments.” @stephhedbergphotos
Photo credit: @organicgracephotographco
Just keep smiling
When everything feels like it’s going crazy, just keep smiling! If you’re angry or confused, your photos will show it. Find the humor in the situation, and smile through it all! Smile through the pain, and those embarrassing moments. Don’t worry, your photographer is not judging your parenting skills by your family photo session. Photographers know that this is a stressful situation and (trust me), they’ve seen it all.
Photo credit: @angelfaithphotography
Pro tip:
“As a mom of 4 myself, I know and understand the difficulty and stress that comes along with planning family photos. We as moms put so much stress on ourselves, in hopes that everything will go smoothly for our session and are then bummed out when it doesn’t. The kids are cranky, not listening, and you’re worrying about your appearance.
Mom to mom: Take in the moment. Take in the chaos. 20 years from now, you won’t remember all of the meltdowns. You’ll remember their little fingers grasping your hand and how their curly hair bounced as they were running. Mama, get in the shot! Take a shot! One day, you won’t care that your tummy sagged, or you weren’t 20 lbs lighter in the pictures. The photos will let you relive all the moments that went by so fast, and you’ll be able to cherish all of their small details you thought you had forgotten.” @angelfaithphotography
Photo credit: @shailynnphotoandfilm
Pro tip:
“Try to focus on your appreciation for each other during your session. Focus less on getting everyone perfect or forcing smiles in front of the camera, and more on the love and support you have for each other. That is what you really want to show through in the images!” @shailynnphotoandfilm
Ask for the Outtakes
Funny/silly photos are some of my favourite photos. My kids are my favorite photos. They can be themselves, laughing out loud or simply being silly. Ask your photographer for some outtakes, along with all the incredible and perfect shots she took. The ones that go wrong are the real ones! They might not make it to the front of your Christmas card, but you may love them!
Photo credit: @amandacoleyphotography
