Outdoor family portraits have a different feel to them when hung up on your wall. There are more aspects to look at, and family members look more relaxed, usually. The outdoors can be very distracting for children of all ages.
Before you get your portrait done, there are many things to think about, like the background, lighting, time of year, color coordinating clothes, how distracting it will be, and ways to keep everyone in a good mood.
Keep it quick and know that not everyone needs to be looking directly at the camera.
Outdoor family portrait ideas
Portraits in a public park give great backgrounds to any photo. Everyone does not need to be squished together to have a great-looking portrait. Check the surrounding area to make sure it is clear of debris. Having everyone in the same few colors add to a nicely pulled-together look.
Walking or standing on a path any time of year will work. The movement will help the younger ones focus forward, and a pleasant look on their faces will give an overall softer feel. Keep clothing color hues consistent with the time of year. This outdoor family portrait would be just as great in spring as it is in fall.
Railroad tracks add a great environmental element. Pair that with more coordinated outfits, and you have a great portrait.
If your kids are small enough and are fine getting close, a stacked portrait will look great. If the background has nice elements in it, you can open up the shot more.
If you live by the beach, definitely use it for beautiful outdoor family portraits. You don’t need the water or a completely clear sky for an amazing background. A slightly cloudy sky also keeps the glare from the sun down to make sure everyone’s eyes are open, and their face is relaxed.
Who says you all have to be little angles for a great family portrait. A neutral outdoor background with a little change at the bottom adds small but great elements to this photo.
You will not have to worry about smiling faces if no one can see their face. The addition of colorful footwear can really show off everyone’s spirit.
Check out public parks near you for different backgrounds to use. Even if they had sat together on this bridge, the photo would still be amazing.
With or without the graffiti, this is a beautiful portrait. Everyone is color-coordinated, and even their foot positions look unplanned.
A path and trees in the background add warmth to this photo. The family is color-coordinated, and your eyes drift pleasantly all over the portrait.
This is such a warm portrait. Not every family photo needs to have everyone looking forward. This one conveys so much feeling.
Even though the bridge is amazing, the family is what sticks out here. The fall leaves in front bring it all together.
Jill Davis, author for Life So Ever
Jill Davis grew up on army bases in the USA and Germany and has spent her adult life on the East Coast. She resides in Virginia where she gets to enjoy lots of hiking trails, kayaking, and other outdoor adventures. No recipe intimidates her and she is always up to try most foods. Her second language is sarcasm and she always looks for the good in life.
