Tips for Outdoor Family Portrait Photography

Why Choose Outdoor Family Portraits?

Outdoor family portrait sessions offer something studio photography simply can't match: natural light, beautiful scenery, and space for children to move and be themselves. As an Edinburgh family photographer, I've found that outdoor sessions consistently produce the most natural, joyful family photos.

Edinburgh's parks, gardens, and scenic locations provide stunning backdrops year-round. Whether it's spring blooms, summer greenery, autumn colors, or winter frost, each season offers unique beauty for your family portraits.

Best Times for Outdoor Family Photography

Golden Hour is Golden for a Reason

The hour before sunset (and hour after sunrise) provides the most flattering, warm light for portraits. In Edinburgh, this varies significantly by season:

• Summer (June-August): 8-9 PM for evening sessions
• Spring/Autumn: 6-7 PM
• Winter: 3-4 PM (bonus: kids aren't tired yet!)

Overcast Days Are Your Friend

Don't fear cloudy weather! Overcast skies act as a natural softbox, providing even, flattering light without harsh shadows. Some of my favorite family portraits have been taken on cloudy Edinburgh days.

Avoid Midday Sun

Harsh midday sun creates unflattering shadows under eyes and noses. If midday is your only option, we'll find shaded areas or use the sun creatively.

What to Wear for Outdoor Family Portraits

Coordinate, Don't Match

Gone are the days of everyone wearing identical white shirts! Instead, choose a color palette and let each family member wear something within that scheme.

Color Palette Ideas:

• Neutrals: Creams, tans, soft grays - timeless and elegant
• Earth tones: Greens, browns, rust - perfect for autumn
• Blues and whites: Fresh and classic
• Jewel tones: Deep blues, burgundy, emerald - rich and sophisticated

What to Avoid:

• Bright neon colors (they distract from faces)
• Large logos or text on clothing
• Overly busy patterns (small patterns are fine)
• All black (can look too formal or harsh)
• Clashing patterns between family members

Practical Considerations:

• Comfort is key: Choose clothes that fit well and feel comfortable
• Weather appropriate: Check the forecast and dress accordingly
• Footwear: Comfortable shoes, especially if we'll be walking
• Layers: Bring a cardigan or jacket in case it gets chilly
• Backup outfits: For young children, bring a spare in case of accidents

Preparing Children for the Photo Session

Set Expectations

Talk to your children about the photo session beforehand. Frame it as fun family time rather than something they "have to do." Let them know we'll play games and have fun while taking photos.

Timing is Everything

• Schedule around nap times (not during!)
• Avoid sessions when children are typically hungry
• Consider your child's best time of day
• Don't schedule immediately after school when they're tired

Bring Essentials:

• Snacks (non-messy ones!)
• Water bottles
• Favorite toy or comfort item
• Wet wipes for sticky fingers
• Hair brush and hair ties

The Secret Weapon: Bribery

I'm not above using small treats or promising a fun activity afterward to encourage cooperation. Whatever works! A promise of ice cream after the session can work wonders.

Best Edinburgh Locations for Family Portraits

The Meadows

Large open spaces, beautiful trees, and plenty of room for children to run. Spring cherry blossoms are particularly stunning here.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Gorgeous year-round with varied backdrops. The Rock Garden and Chinese Hillside offer particularly beautiful settings.

Inverleith Park

Open fields with views of Edinburgh's skyline. Great for active families who want space to play.

Blackford Hill

Stunning views and natural landscapes. The pond area is particularly photogenic.

Holyrood Park

Dramatic landscapes with Arthur's Seat as a backdrop. Multiple locations within the park offer variety.

During the Photo Session: What to Expect

We'll Start with Formal, End with Fun

I typically begin with more traditional family groupings while everyone is fresh and cooperative, then move to playful, candid shots as we all relax.

Movement Creates Natural Moments

Rather than everyone standing still and saying "cheese," I'll have you:

• Walk toward me as a family
• Play games together
• Cuddle and interact naturally
• Tell jokes or share memories
• Let children run and play while parents watch

Don't Worry About Perfection

If someone blinks, a child looks away, or hair gets messy - that's okay! We'll take multiple shots, and I'll capture plenty of beautiful moments. Some of the best photos come from imperfect, genuine moments.

Posing Tips for Families

Create Connections

• Hold hands
• Hug and cuddle
• Touch foreheads
• Parents kiss children's heads
• Sit close together

Vary Heights and Positions

Not everyone needs to stand in a line! Try:

• Some sitting, some standing
• Parents kneeling with children
• Using natural elements (logs, rocks) for varied heights
• Children in front, parents behind

Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera

While we'll get some photos with everyone looking at the camera, the most natural, emotional photos often come from family members interacting with each other rather than posing for the lens.

Weather Considerations in Edinburgh

Embrace the Scottish Weather

Edinburgh weather is famously unpredictable, but that doesn't mean we can't create beautiful photos!

Light Rain

I bring clear umbrellas that look great in photos. Light rain can add atmosphere and create unique, memorable images.

Wind

Windy days create movement and energy in photos. Hair blowing in the wind can look beautiful and natural.

Cold Weather

Dress warmly in layers. We can remove coats for some shots and add them back for others. Cold weather often brings beautiful light and clear skies.

Backup Plan

For severe weather, we can reschedule or move to covered locations like the Botanic Garden glasshouses or covered walkways.

Making the Most of Your Session

Arrive Early

Give yourself extra time to arrive, park, and get everyone settled. Rushing creates stress that shows in photos.

Trust the Process

As your photographer, I'll guide you through poses and activities. Trust that I'm capturing beautiful moments even when it might feel awkward or silly.

Be Present

Put phones away and focus on enjoying time with your family. The best photos come when everyone is genuinely engaged with each other.

Have Fun!

This is time with your family in a beautiful location. Enjoy it! Laugh, play, and create memories. The photos will reflect the joy you're experiencing.

After the Session

Delivery Timeline

You'll receive your edited photos within 2-3 weeks. I carefully edit each image to ensure beautiful, natural results.

What You'll Receive

• 30+ professionally edited high-resolution images
• Online gallery for easy viewing and sharing
• Download access for all images
• Print rights included
• USB with all images

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a session last?

Typically 1-2 hours, depending on the number of family members and desired variety of shots.

What if my child won't cooperate?

I'm experienced with children of all ages and temperaments. We'll work at their pace, take breaks as needed, and use games and activities to encourage participation. Sometimes the most authentic photos come from letting children be themselves!

Can we include extended family?

Absolutely! I love photographing multiple generations together. Just let me know in advance so I can plan accordingly.

What about pets?

Pets are family too! Bring them along. Just be aware that including pets may extend the session time.

Do you provide outfits or props?

You provide your own outfits, but I'm happy to offer styling advice. I bring a few simple props (blankets, flowers) but focus on natural, timeless photos.

Ready to Book Your Family Portrait Session?

Outdoor family portraits in Edinburgh are a wonderful way to capture your family at this moment in time. Whether you have a newborn, toddlers, teenagers, or multiple generations, I'd love to create beautiful, natural photos you'll treasure forever.

Contact me today to schedule your outdoor family portrait session. I serve Edinburgh and the Central Belt, and I can't wait to photograph your family!