Your Family Photoshoot - Creating Fun Memories

If you’re looking for a Family photoshoot I would love to share a few of my favourite sessions with you. I’d also love for you to check out my FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY page for all the info on scheduling your own family session with me, whether it’s in the Durham Region or GTA!

I have been photographing families for well over a decade now, and I’ve had the honour of photographing many families since they first came to me for their maternity or newborn session. It’s always so fun to see how much your kids grow and change over the years.

Of course I love meeting new families too! I photograph families with kids of all ages, from baby to grown-ups. It gets a little bit harder to coordinate schedules and get everyone on board as they get older, but it’s important to have family photos at all ages and stages of life!

Family photoshoot with a family of four snuggling in a field amongst some large rocks.

Brother and sister are playing on the rocks holding hands during a family photo session with the stunning fall backdrop of Heber Down conservation area in Whitby.

Choosing a Location for Your Family Photoshoot

There are so many beautiful locations in Durham and the GTA to photograph families. We are lucky to have access to the water and beaches of Lake Ontario, plus the many conservation areas and green spaces.

When I’m looking at potential locations, I’m paying attention to the position of the sun in relation to the area I want to photograph, the terrain for pregnant mamas or babies in strollers, and the ability to create a bit of variety in the background without having to walk for miles.

Family of four enjoying time together as Dad lifts the baby into the air, in a birch tree forest for fall family photos.

In a fall setting in Whitby, Dad holds one year old in his lap and looks at him lovingly as the baby looks directly at the camera and smiles.

My Approach to Family Photo Sessions

My approach to family photo sessions is simple: it’s all about fun and connection. Your kids are not allowed to get in trouble during this session! When parents are stressed, the kids feel that energy too, so I encourage to embrace the chaos! A child who’s being disciplined is not a happy child, so for this one evening we let them get away with being extra silly, as long as no one is getting hurt.

Instead of stiff poses, we play games, engage with the kids, and create an environment where everyone can relax and be themselves. Snuggles and tickles are always encouraged! This allows me to document those genuine smiles and heartfelt moments that truly tell your family’s story.

Young girl in a floral dress is acting silly and puts a large leaf on her head and looks to her parents for their approval.

Family splashing and playing at the Whitby waterfront during their family session.

That Golden Hour Sunlight

Scheduling the session during golden hour ensures the best light. This is the hour before sunset (or after sunrise, but let’s be honest, I am NOT a morning person!) The soft light means no harsh shadows, no squinting in the bright sunlight, and no desperate search for shade.

In the peak of summer this can mean a fairly late start for little ones, however, most of my family photo clients are surprised to find that the fresh air, the ability to be silly, and maybe a bribery snack or two, allow them to push bedtime a bit later, just this once! If you know your little one really won’t make it, consider scheduling your session in the spring or fall when sunset is a little bit earlier.

3 siblings holding hands and walking through a golden field in a north Whitby conversation area.

Family snuggles and tickles in the beautiful backlit sun in a field.photographed by a professional Whitby family photographer.

What to Wear for Your Family Photoshoot

Wondering what to wear for your family session? My favourites wardrobe choices include rich jewel tones paired with neutrals. Think emerald or forest green, dark teal blue, burgundy or maroon, burnt orange, mustard yellow and ruby red. Pick one or two focus on, or put everyone in a different colour! These work best when paired with warm neutrals like ivory, beige, and brown. Layering provides interest with cozy textures, and denim works with everything too! Here’s a Pinterest Board with lots of great examples of the type of clothing that photographs well.

When you’re ready to schedule your own family session, head over to my contact page and tell me about your family!