One of the first decisions when planning a family photo session is choosing where to have it! Should you have a cosy session at home, or head to a stunning outdoor location? Both options have their benefits and the right choice for you will depend on your family’s personality and the kind of memories you want to capture and display.

Family Photos at Home


There’s something special about having your photos taken in your own space. Your home is bursting with your family’s personality! There are memories attached to your couch, the drawings on the fridge, your kids bedrooms and their favourite toys - it’s the backdrop for all your routines and family moments that take place everyday.

Small child sitting at white desk with play make up in brightly lit bedroom with dollhouse.
Parent and child play together while jumping on a white bed at home with soft linens and pillows in a bright bedroom.

Why you'll love it:

  • Comfortable & relaxed – There’s no need to bundle up the kids and rush out the door. Being in a familiar environment helps everyone feel at ease right from the start.
  • Personal & meaningful – Your home is part of your family’s story. Photos taken here will always hold extra sentimental value as the years pass.
  • Perfect for newborns & little ones – No car rides, no nap disruptions—just a relaxed familiar environment for cuddles and quiet moments.
  • Captures life as it is right now – Your child’s room, favorite toys, and daily routines can be part of the session, preserving a snapshot of their current stage in life.
  • Weather proof – There is no need to stress about the temperature, rain or wind during the session, in home family photos can go ahead regardless of what the weather is doing.
Parent and toddler play together with a red toy tricycle on grass in a backyard garden setting.
A young child in a pink shirt offers a play cupcake while standing in a cubby house.
Child playing pretend in a home corner setup with a toy kitchen and household items in a bright room.

Things to consider:

  • Tidy up required – You might feel pressure to tidy up before the session, which can be stressful, especially with kids! There’s no need for a completely spotless house, but a little decluttering  of distracting items like cords, paperwork and dishes is helpful to keep the focus on your family.
  • Lighting can be tricky – Not every home is bathed in natural light – we may be limited in the rooms we can work in depending on where the best light is. If your home is a bit darker, we will need to plan carefully for the best spots.
  • Limited Space – Small or cluttered spaces may make it harder to capture wide, open shots or give kids space to move freely.
  • Leans toward a documentary style – With toys and bedrooms easily available, at home sessions often capture a greater amount of candid, documentary style images rather than more classic posed images. I personally love these 'fly on the wall' family images, so this is not a drawback but just something to consider based on the style of photos you’d like in your gallery.
A tender black and white portrait of a parent and child lying together and sharing a joyful moment in bed.
Child in floral dress stands on pink rainbow bedding reaching towards boho wall decor in cozy bedroom setting.
A family stands together at the entrance of their home with steps and potted plants by the doorway.

Family Photos Outdoors


If you love the idea of open spaces, natural light, and a little adventure, an outdoor session might be perfect for you! Whether it’s a park, forest, or even an urban setting, outdoor photos capture the beauty of nature alongside your family’s connection.

Children play on boulders during golden hour with sun and rolling hills in the background.

Why you’ll love it:

  • Beautiful backdrops – Nature, golden sunshine, soft greenery and scenic views add a touch of magic and help create stunning, frame-worthy images.
  • Room to move – Kids can run, play, and explore, leading to fun, natural moments. There is space to back up and zoom in to capture more candid interactions without feeling the camera is right there.
  • Greater variety – there are more opportunities to creatively use natural light and capture stunning wide-angle shots that showcase the beauty of the location.
  • Perfect for larger groups - Ideal for extended family sessions since there’s more space to fit everyone comfortably.
Silhouettes of family playing on a hilltop path during golden sunset with contrail in the sky.
A family gathers on a grassy hill beside a tranquil pond at sunset with eucalyptus trees in the background.
A tranquil autumn scene with a young family gathered by a lake at sunset under a golden weeping willow tree.

Things to consider:

  • Weather dependent – If it’s pouring rain or extremely windy, we may need to reschedule.
  • More logistics – Getting everyone dressed, out the door, and to the location on time with everything you need can feel challenging, especially with little ones!
  • Shy or reserved kids – Some children take longer to warm up in a new place, whereas at home they might feel more relaxed.
  • Wardrobe considerations – Outdoor sessions require a little more thought when it comes to what to wear, especially in cooler weather. Layering up for warmth in winter while still looking coordinated can take extra planning.
Couple enjoying romantic autumn moment on wooden bridge near pond as sunlight filters through trees at park.
A family group enjoys a sunny afternoon outdoors with their dog on a grassy hillside.
Three brothers on a woodland trail at sunset with their black dog surrounded by tall gum trees and native grasses.

So, How Do You Choose?


There’s no right or wrong answer—it really depends on what feels best for your family! Here are a few things to consider:

  • Do you love cosy, everyday moments or exploring outdoors? If your heart is set on capturing real life memories in the space you love most, in home sessions are a great fit. If you love the magic of golden hour or your kids are happiest outside an outdoor session might be the way to go.
  • What’s easiest for your family? If packing up the kids and heading out sounds stressful, staying home might be the best choice. On the other hand, if your kids love to run and explore, they’ll probably love exploring an outdoor setting.
  • What kind of story do you want to tell? Your home holds so many meaningful details, while outdoor sessions give a sense of adventure and space. Think about the feeling you want your photos to have, how you want to display them and what you would like to see on your wall.


No matter which option you choose, the most important thing is that your session reflects your family’s love and connection. If you’re still unsure, I’m always happy to chat and help guide you toward the best choice for you!


Thanks for reading!

Laurinda