Tips for a Fun & Beautiful Family Session
Top Outdoor Locations in Timaru for Family Photos
Timaru and its surrounding areas offer a variety of stunning backdrops perfect for family photography. Here are a few local favourites:
Caroline Bay – A classic choice with beach views, grassy areas, and beautiful light at golden hour.
Botanic Gardens – Lush greenery, seasonal flowers, and winding paths make this a dreamy spot for natural, candid shots.
Centennial Park – Ideal for adventurous families, with open fields, trees, and rustic textures.
Saltwater Creek Walkway – A peaceful setting with bridges, water reflections, and native bush.
Jack’s Point – A breathtaking location with dramatic landscapes, mountain views, and wide open spaces—perfect for timeless, scenic family portraits.
Each location offers something unique, and I’m happy to help you choose the perfect one based on your family’s style and vibe.
If you are requesting me to travel outside of Timaru – then an agreed upon location of your choice will need to be discussed. It would be helpful if you had a location in mind!
Coordinating Outfits Made Easy
Choosing outfits doesn’t have to be stressful! Here are a few simple tips to help your family look and feel great:
Coordinate, Don’t Match: Choose a colour palette of 2–3 complementary tones (e.g., soft blues, neutrals, and earthy greens). Avoid everyone wearing the exact same outfit.
Keep It Comfortable: Make sure everyone feels good in what they’re wearing—especially the kids!
Avoid Distracting Patterns: Stick to solids or subtle prints. Logos and bold graphics can take attention away from your faces.
Skip Harsh Colours & Black: Bright neon’s, stark whites, and solid black can be too harsh in natural light and may distract from the warmth of your family’s connection. Softer, muted tones photograph beautifully.
Add Texture & Layers: Think denim, knits, scarves, or cardigans to add depth and interest to your photos.
Need help picking a palette? I’m happy to offer styling advice or inspiration boards!
Making Family Photos Fun
Family sessions should be joyful—not stressful! Here’s how to keep things light and enjoyable:
Let Kids Be Kids: Don’t worry if they’re wiggly or silly. Some of the best photos come from natural, unposed moments.
Bring Snacks & Breaks: A quick snack or cuddle break can work wonders for little ones.
Keep Expectations Flexible: We’ll go with the flow and capture your family just as you are—beautifully imperfect and full of love.
Trust the Process: I’ll guide you through the session with gentle prompts and plenty of patience.
All about connection
Family photography is about connection, laughter, and capturing the love you share. With a little preparation and the right mindset, your session will be a relaxed and meaningful experience you’ll treasure for years to come.
Ready to book your family session or have questions?
Let’s chat—I’d love to help you plan the perfect shoot for your family!
