The Best Outdoor Family Photo Locations in New England
Family photography is about preserving the laughter, joy, and connections that make each stage of life meaningful. While indoor sessions can be cozy, there’s something truly special about taking portraits outdoors. Natural light adds warmth, wide-open spaces help children feel free, and seasonal backdrops give every image its own personality.
As someone who has photographed families across Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York, I’ve learned that choosing the right location makes all the difference. The best spots not only provide a beautiful backdrop but also create an environment where families can relax and simply enjoy being together.
Here are some of my favorite outdoor family photo locations across New England.
Massachusetts Family Sessions
Massachusetts is full of variety — from the urban energy of Boston to the calm of Cape Cod and the natural beauty of the Berkshires. Families here have access to iconic New England scenery that works beautifully in portraits.
- Boston Common & Public Garden – These classic city parks are full of color in spring and summer, with iconic swan boats, willow trees, and pathways that give photos a timeless feel.
- Cape Cod beaches – The shoreline is perfect for playful family sessions. Barefoot walks, sandy dunes, and sunset skies create relaxed, natural portraits.
- The Berkshires – With rolling hills and vibrant foliage in the fall, this region provides an incredible backdrop for families who love the outdoors.
Each location offers something unique. Families in Boston often love the charm of city parks, while Cape Cod provides a more relaxed coastal vibe. For inspiration, you can view my family photography in Boston or family photography on Cape Cod.
Connecticut Family Sessions
Connecticut combines coastal beauty with historic charm. The shoreline, gardens, and city parks here create versatile backdrops for outdoor family photography.
- New Haven Lighthouse Point Park – With its beach, carousel, and lighthouse, this location is both playful and scenic, making it ideal for families with young children.
- Elizabeth Park in Hartford – Known for its rose gardens, this park provides vibrant color and romantic settings that work beautifully for family portraits.
- Stamford shoreline – Coastal piers and modern cityscapes blend together, offering a fresh, contemporary feel to family sessions.
Families often choose Connecticut locations for their convenience and variety — one session can move from the shoreline to downtown or from a garden to a field, giving them a gallery full of different looks. See more examples in my family photography in Hartford or family photography in New Haven.
New York Family Sessions
New York’s landscapes range from historic cities to waterfronts and mountain regions, making it a dream for outdoor family sessions.
- Washington Park in Albany – This park offers beautiful seasonal blooms, tree-lined paths, and plenty of space for kids to run and play while I capture candid smiles.
- Buffalo waterfront – With wide skies and lakeside views, this area provides a mix of urban and natural charm that makes every photo unique.
- Saratoga Springs State Park – Quiet trails, open fields, and classic New England beauty make this a wonderful choice for relaxed family portraits.
Each location allows families to feel at ease, turning the session into an adventure rather than a posed appointment. To see examples, explore my family photography in Albany or family photography in Buffalo.
Why Outdoor Sessions Work So Well
Outdoor sessions bring a natural energy that’s hard to replicate indoors. Children can move freely, parents can enjoy candid moments, and every season offers its own personality.
- Spring brings blossoms and fresh colors.
- Summer offers golden light and playful beach settings.
- Fall adds vibrant foliage that feels quintessentially New England.
- Winter creates cozy, magical scenes when families bundle up outdoors.
The result is a collection of photographs that feel authentic, joyful, and timeless.
Planning Your Family Photoshoot
When scheduling an outdoor session, I always recommend considering both location and time of day. Golden hour — the hour after sunrise or before sunset — provides soft, flattering light that makes images glow. Choosing a place where your family feels comfortable is just as important as the backdrop itself, because the best photos come when everyone is relaxed.
If you’re ready to plan your outdoor family session, you can explore my family photography services or contact me to choose the perfect location. Whether it’s a beach, a park, or a city street, I’ll help create timeless portraits that reflect your family’s story.