My favorite place to photograph is in the studio because the story we tell will be all about your expressions and relationships with no distractions. But sometimes you just want that outdoor portrait. Outdoor portraits work especially well for extended families. So where is a good location for an outdoor portrait?
The most important thing in choosing a location is beautiful light. It doesn’t matter how lovely the location seems, if the light is harsh, it will not be flattering on your face. If there is a location that is meaningful to your family, that will make for a more meaningful image. Another thing to consider are distractions. You want to make sure there are not a lot of distractions that might show up in the background or that will distract you from enjoying one another, paying attention to the photographer, and enjoying the experience. You also want to be aware of any restrictions the location may have or permits required.
Bucks County is so beautifully, and there are several places I have found that are great places for family or senior portraits.
Churchville Nature Center
This image is one of my favorites. It was taken in the Wildlife Garden at Churchville Nature Center. I love this garden. There are so many interesting plants and pathways. The kids love the little pond. And the light is beautiful in the early morning. On this day the recent rain made the foliage a deep, rich shade of green, and the sun was starting to peak through the trees.
Pennypack Ecological Preserve
Another favorite location for family or senior portraits is Pennypack Ecological Preserve. This spot has multiple opportunities for great images. Their patio provides different levels and spots to sit, plus I love the texture of the stone walls. There are fences and gates, trails, and tons of greenery.
Tyler Gardens at Bucks County Community College
The light here is beautiful in the evening, filtered by the surrounding trees. There is so much architectural interest and so many opportunities for different images. I love all the nooks and crannies, the stone texture, and the backlight through the trees. You do need a permit to photograph at Tyler Gardens.
Covered Bridges
Do you love covered bridges? They are SO Bucks County! This one worked very well for a family photograph. We had an overcast day, so the lighting was soft. It can be tricky because most of these bridges are still in use. Luckily this was not a very heavily traveled road. And dogs are allowed! There was just a small amount of land that wasn’t posted, but it worked.
Tyler State Park
was a great place for this extended family portrait. This was a very cold day after Thanksgiving, so the park wasn’t crowded. Tyler gets quite a few visitors, so that is something to consider when choosing the time and location. This image was taken not too far from the main parking lot, which was nice because the family didn’t have too far to walk. Tyler allows dogs.
Graeme Park
Another spot with many interesting areas. There is not much shade, so you have to choose your time of day wisely. This park requires a permit to shoot. It hosts weddings, so you have to plan ahead.
Your Own Backyard
Sometimes the best place for your family photograph might be in your own back yard. It has meaning for your family, you are comfortable there. How do you know if your backyard will work? Do you have nice landscaping for a backdrop of greenery? Is there shade in your yard? When does the sun hit your yard; is there a spot where you can be backlit by sun peaking through the trees? The best way to know is to have your photographer come to your home at the time of day you would be shooting. He or she will be able to find the perfect location.
I’ve photographed in many meaningful locations, including a high school track, baseball field, library, school. Remember, the portrait is about you and your family, not the location. Trust your photographer. You may find that a location that doesn’t seem so great actually does a wonderful job of highlighting the loving relationship of your family.