Embarking on a family outdoor adventure photoshoot in Seattle with multiple kids can be a joyful yet challenging experience. The key to creating candid family photos lies in capturing the authentic moments that showcase your family’s unique personality. In this blog post, I’ll provide parents with valuable advice on how to achieve candid family photos while navigating the beautiful outdoor landscapes of Seattle. Discover tips that will not only make the photoshoot enjoyable for everyone but also result in timeless images that truly reflect your family’s spirit, with insights from me, an experienced Seattle family photographer.
Choose the Right Location:
Opt for a Seattle outdoor location that offers a mix of scenic beauty and plenty of space for kids to explore. Gold Creek Pond, Seward Park, and Discovery Park are easy choices for smaller kids, providing a variety of backdrops for candid family photos.
Timing is Everything:
Plan your photoshoot during the golden hour, just before sunset or after sunrise, when the lighting is soft and warm. This magical time not only enhances the beauty of the surroundings but also creates a relaxed atmosphere for natural interactions. If you think your kids won’t make it to golden hour, I’m happy to photograph your family earlier in the day so you can achieve a proper bedtime. Here’s a peek at a sunnier family photoshoot.
Be Interactive With Your Kids:
Allow your kids to be themselves by incorporating playful interactions into the photoshoot. Whether it’s a game of tag, exploring nature, or a simple walk around the lake like this family did, these genuine moments translate into authentic and heartwarming images. This Seattle family was simply attentive with their kids the entire time. I paused them in certain spots throughout the park when I wanted to capture slower moments with them. Easy quick prompts such as: “notice the light, watch the birds, look at the alpenglow on the mountain” quickly captures the attention of younger children and gives parents something to do. When you focus on your kids and not the camera, magic can happen.
Capture Individual Personalities:
A skilled Seattle family photographer will focus on capturing the individual personalities of each family member. Encourage your kids to express themselves, and let the photographer capture those unique quirks and expressions that make your family special. Prepping your kids before your photoshoot can sound as simple as: “we are going to walk and play together as a family”.
Bring Snacks and Take Breaks:
Keep the energy levels up by bringing snacks and allowing for short breaks when necessary. A well-fed and rested family is more likely to engage naturally, resulting in authentic smiles and interactions.
Reserve Your Session in Advance:
Achieving candid family photos with multiple kids during a Seattle outdoor adventure photoshoot requires thoughtful planning and a willingness to embrace the spontaneity of family life. By choosing the right location, timing, and encouraging playful interactions, we can easily set the stage for a photoshoot filled with genuine moments. Fall is my busiest time of year, so it’s never too early to plan early and reserve your spot for a beautiful outdoor family photoshoot.
Location: Gold Creek Pond / Season: Late Fall
