Why Choosing the Right Location for Your Family Photoshoot Is Crucial!

As your photographer, I want to make sure we capture the best version of your family—natural, beautiful, and full of love. One of the most important elements in achieving that is the location of your family photoshoot. While outfits, lighting, and poses are all key factors, the location is truly the backdrop that pulls everything together. It’s the setting that brings your vision to life and helps tell your family’s unique story.

So, why is location such a big deal, and how can you choose the best spot for your session? Let me walk you through the reasons why location matters and how we can work together to find the perfect place for your photoshoot.

Do you want a family session that is uniquely different? How about choosing a location that speaks to the mood and story of your family? Locations are one of the most important characters in your images. Believe it or not, location is just as important as you showing up for the session. Locations set the tone and scene for how your story will unfold.

A family sitting on a bench in downtown Calgary.

It Sets the Tone for Your Photos

Every family has a different vibe, and your location should reflect that. Are you a family that loves the outdoors and adventure? Maybe the mountains or East Village will bring that free-spirited energy into your photos. Or perhaps your family enjoys more intimate, quiet moments—your own home or a cozy, local coffee shop might be the perfect backdrop for those kinds of moments.

The right location will communicate a lot about your family’s personality. Whether you want a relaxed, laid-back look or a more formal, elegant vibe, we can choose a spot that aligns with your style.

For example:

Nature settings (mountains, parks, forests) often convey a peaceful, adventurous tone.
Urban settings (city streets, cool architecture, cafes) bring a modern, energetic vibe to your photos.
Home sessions create warmth, intimacy, and a sense of “real life” – a lovely way to document how your family interacts in a space you cherish.

Two children standing in the grass in Calgary

Location Adds Context and Meaning

Choosing a meaningful location can transform your photos into more than just beautiful images—it can turn them into a reflection of your life and memories. Think about places where your family spends time together: a favorite park, the place where you got married, or even your own home, where the kids have grown up.

If you have a favorite spot that’s special to your family, we can incorporate that into the session. It could be a local ice cream shop where you go on weekends, a hiking trail where you’ve had memorable adventures, or a family cabin you love to escape to. These locations will make your photos feel even more personal and authentic.

A family standing in front of a building in Inglewood, Calgary.

Enhances the Aesthetic of the Photos

Sometimes, the most beautiful family photos come from the natural beauty of the environment itself. Whether you choose a location with breathtaking scenery or simple surroundings, the backdrop plays a significant role in how your photos will look.

When selecting a location, we’ll consider factors like:

Lighting: Natural light is a photographer’s best friend! The location will determine how much natural light we have to work with. Outdoor locations usually offer soft, flattering light, especially during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon). Indoor locations may require more planning to ensure the light is just right.
Seasonality: What time of year is it? Seasons bring out different elements in your photos—spring flowers, summer sunshine, fall leaves, or winter’s crisp white beauty. Each season offers something unique to work with!
The background: We’ll aim to choose a location that provides a clean, uncluttered background that complements your family without overwhelming the image. Sometimes, simplicity is key.

A little girl playing with her sisters toes in Calgary.

Comfort and Practicality Matter Too

I want you to be comfortable during your photoshoot. Choosing a location that works for your family’s needs can make the difference between an enjoyable experience and a stressful one. If you have young children or elderly relatives, we’ll need a spot that’s easy to navigate—somewhere accessible, with amenities like bathrooms, places to sit, and ample shade if it’s hot.

We’ll also consider how your family will interact with the space. Is the location family-friendly? Are there spots for the kids to play or relax during breaks? I want everyone to feel relaxed and at ease so we can capture those natural moments of connection.

A family sitting in front of a coffee shop in Inglewood Calgary.

Variety and Flexibility

Sometimes, I recommend multiple locations if you’re open to it. A session with a variety of backdrops can give you more options and a broader range of images. For example, we could start at a park for some playful, candid shots, then move to a nearby cafe for a more urban, intimate vibe. Or, we could begin at home for cozy, indoor moments and then head outdoors to an open field for more wide-open shots.

Having a mix of locations can add visual interest and make your photo collection even more dynamic. It also lets you tell a story with the session—capturing your family in different settings, each one highlighting a different aspect of your personality.

Two parents holding their newborn in Calgary.

It Helps With Wardrobe Choices

One of the tricky parts of planning a photoshoot is figuring out what to wear. The good news is that the location can help guide your wardrobe choices. If we’re shooting in a natural setting with lots of greenery, soft, neutral tones (like whites, creams, or pastels) will look great. If we’re going for a more formal, urban look, darker or richer colors may work better against cityscapes or buildings.

We’ll make sure your outfits complement the location, not just in terms of style, but also with colors and textures. The goal is for everything to feel cohesive and balanced, so you’re the focal point in the photos, not your clothing or surroundings. Wardrobe consultation is included with all my family sessions so we can choose what colors work best for your chosen location.

A family of four standing on the beach in Tofino.

I’m Here to Help!

Don’t worry if you’re feeling unsure about where to have your photoshoot. I’m here to guide you through the process! After learning a little about your family, your style, and your vision for the session, I can suggest locations that will fit your needs perfectly. From local parks to urban streets, I’ve worked in many different settings and know how to make the most of each one.

Whether you already have a spot in mind or need some ideas, I’m happy to work with you to pick the perfect place. And, of course, if we need to scout out the location ahead of time, I’m always happy to do that too!

A family going for a walk in Drumheller.

Choosing the right location for your family photoshoot is key to creating photos that feel authentic, beautiful, and reflective of your unique family dynamic. It’s about finding a place where you’ll feel comfortable, where the light is right, and where the surroundings match your style.

Let’s work together to pick a location that will help bring out the best in your family photos. After all, these images are something you’ll cherish for years to come, and the right setting can make all the difference.

I can’t wait to capture your family in a place that truly reflects who you are! Feel free to reach out, and let’s start planning your session today!