When it comes to family photography, capturing those precious summer memories in a beautiful and meaningful way requires more than just a great camera. As a professional photographer, I believe that the location plays a crucial role in achieving style and consistency in my work. That’s why I meticulously scout and choose each location that I use based on factors like lighting, scenery, and ease of access for families with children. In this blog post, I’ll take you on a journey through my favorite summer family photo locations, where I find the perfect balance of aesthetics and practicality to create consistent and beautiful images.

Here are some of the things I look for when choosing a location for my clients:

1. Lighting ― All of my sessions take place early in the morning or in the late afternoon to embrace the soft, gorgeous lighting available at this time of day. Lighting, Styling, and Location are the three main ingredients to achieving the soft, dreamy, nostalgic look of my photos!
   
   
2. Greenery + Blooms ― I love locations that are flowering and scattered with blooms, but if the lighting in a flowering location isn’t good, I will skip it entirely! Greens are also important – I look for locations with lush, full grass and leaves. Some types of trees and plants naturally have warmer toned greens than others, or cast too much green back onto the client’s skin.
   
   
3. Safety ― Are there venomous plants or critters? Is the location in an area that is safe, without high crime or risk of a vehicle being broken into? I avoid locations that are right next to freshwater rivers and creeks when photographing small children. These areas are the perfect hiding places for snakes, and the rocks are often slippery!
   
   
4. Accessibility ― Is the location easy to access, especially for families with small children? Does it require a permit or entry fee? Is their safe + ample available parking for myself and my client? Can my clients move around comfortably? Is the location accessible to clients who may need assistance walking or use a powered chair? Is the stroller friendly? Is the location easy to find? These are all things I ask myself when scouting a new location!

Pear Trees in the Park ― Newton, Alabama

This is my absolute favorite location from Spring to Summer. The pear trees begin to develop small white flowers as early as late February and into March. By the end of April the branches are beautiful and full with lush green leaves that filter the sunlight throughout the afternoon, making this location perfect for families with young toddlers who need to stick to a bedtime. Whether it’s capturing playful moments among the fallen petals or picking the ripe pears from the branches with your children, having your family photos taken under the pear trees ensures a captivating and memorable experience that beautifully showcases your loved ones in a setting of natural grace and charm.

The Oaks at Eastgate Park ― Dothan, Alabama

Oak trees are a southern staple, and these historic oaks paired with the small pond are a great choice for your family session. The park’s peaceful ambiance and tranquil surroundings offer a perfect backdrop for capturing genuine moments of love and connection. Whether it’s capturing a playful family interaction or a tender embrace, the oak trees at Eastgate Park provide a timeless and picturesque setting for creating stunning family portraits that will be cherished for years to come. The sprawling canopies of the oak trees filter the afternoon sunlight and shade make this another great option for families with young children who prefer an earlier session time.

The Clearing in the Forest ― Newton, Alabama

The best part of this location? You don’t even have to hike through the forest to get here! The trail to this location is very short and easily accessible for families and little ones. The trees that surround this clearing and the path make a stunning backdrop for your images without being too distracting or cluttered. The quiet solitude and natural serenity of this location creates a tranquil atmosphere that allows for genuine moments and a sense of intimacy to shine through in the images.

Dothan Area Botanical Gardens ― Dothan, Alabama

This enchanting garden is filled with vibrant roses and charming pathways. With its meticulously manicured grounds, the botanical gardens create a whimsical and romantic atmosphere, perfect for creating stunning summer family portraits. The rose garden is just one of many gems nestled into the garden landscape to choose from – the shrub garden, tropical greenhouse, and daylily garden also make great backdrops for your session.

Coleman Tropical House at Dothan Area Botanical Gardens ― Dothan, Alabama

The Coleman Tropical House is an oasis of lush greenery and vibrant tropical flora. The abundant natural light streaming through the transparent roof casts a soft, dreamlike glow, creating a magical atmosphere. The diversity of plant life provides a multitude of unique backdrops for family portraits. If you’re looking for an enchanting location that’s different from the norm, this might just be it!

Sunflowers ― Ozark, Alabama

Vibrant yellow blooms create a stunning and cheerful backdrop that instantly adds warmth and joy to any image. The tall, towering sunflowers provide a sense of awe and wonder, making this a great choice for milestone sessions or families with young children. The traditional charm and radiance make it a great location for family photos that you will cherish for decades.

Which location is your favorite? Let me know in the comments! If you’re searching for a family photographer to capture your precious moments in these stunning locations, I would be honored to be part of your journey. Don’t hesitate to reach out and reserve your session with me. Let’s create timeless memories that you and your loved ones will cherish for a lifetime!