So, you're thinking about booking an outdoor family photo session but have no idea where to get them done? Canberra is an incredible city with so many beautiful locations that it's almost too hard to try and narrow it down to just one, right? You want somewhere that's beautiful but still easy enough when you've got the little ones to keep in check. I get it! So, to make things a little easier for you, here are some of what I think are the best locations to consider for your next family photo-shoot with children.

Pialligo Redwood Forest


Walk underneath the shade of the old redwood trees and take a stroll out to the grass fields as the sun sets. A great place for the kids to explore and just be kids! There always seems to be plenty of butterflies fluttering about and the occasional bunny rabbit. Right next door to the airport, you might even be lucky enough to watch a plane taking off or landing.

If you require a session earlier than sunset, this is a great option, as you have plenty of tree cover and protection from any direct sunlight. Then you can get the kiddies back home and tucked into bed at a reasonable hour.


Near the airport, just 10 minutes from Canberra CBD.

Check out a video of the Forest here;

www.gardenhistorysociety.org.au/pialligo-redwood-forest

Mother holding young daughters hand as they walk outside through the forest
Mother holding young daughter whilst standing outside in pine forest

Dairy Farmers Hill


Expansive views over the National Arboretum, plenty of trees and long golden grass, as well as a stunning sunset. What more could you want?

Although the lookout is a popular location for people to visit, there is still plenty of space, so you can always find a quiet little corner of your own and stroll around the beautiful setting. Each side of the hill provides a completely different backdrop so you can get a variety of photos in one location. Did I mention the incredible sunset?


Just 10 minutes from Canberra CBD, in Molonglo Valley.


Check it out further here;

www.nationalarboretum.act.gov.au/visit/lookouts-and-picnic-spots

Mother sitting in forest feeding her newborn baby
Mother and Father standing in forest field at sunset with their newborn baby
Family walking together on a hilltop at Dairy Farmers Hill Canberra

Himalayan Cedars


Also tucked away in the Canberra National Arboretum, lies this beautiful and quiet corner of giant cedar trees. Walk amongst the towering trunks, then take a seat on the edge of the hill to watch the sun go down over the other side of the Arboretum.


Just 10 minutes from Canberra CBD, in Molonglo Valley.


Check it out further here;

www.roamthegnome.com/canberra-arboretum


Dad carrying young daughter on his shoulders as they all through the green forest
Family standing together and laughing whilst outside in the green forest trees

Googong Dam


Beautiful views overlooking the water, as well as grassy areas with native trees. There are various locations around the dam that you could stop and take photos, including up on the hills near the foreshore lookout, or down at water level near the boat ramps. The sun sets behind the trees making for a lovely golden hour photo session. Although this one is a little drive out of town, it certainly is a serene location and worth the drive.


Just 5 minutes from Googong, 30 minutes from Canberra CBD.


Check it out further here;

https://www.googong.net

Mother holding baby girl whilst outside at sunset near golden grass and water
Man and pregnant woman standing together beside water reeds and dam

Mount Majura Nature Reserve


There are plenty of walking tracks to explore within the reserve, including Clancy's Walking Track, accessed from within the suburb of Watson. You'll mostly find natural walking trails meandering through the array of native trees. The kids can collect rocks, listen to the birds and spot the kangaroo!


Just 10 minutes from Canberra CBD.


Check out the different walking tracks here;

https://www.alltrails.com

Little boy running through the nature walking track with his parents following
Dad holding his sons hands as he helps with climb a tree outside

Your Home


Sometimes, the best location for your photo session is in the comfort of your own home. Not only will this give you some more flexibility with your session start time, but your photos will hold another layer of nostalgia being wrapped within the walls of your home; your memories.


We can capture the places that are meaningful to you; the nursery where you spent countless nights rocking them as they cried in your arms; the living room where they learnt to walk; the kitchen where you held your child in one arm whilst cooking dinner with the other; or the backyard where you spent those warm summer evenings kicking the ball around or running through the sprinkler.


Lifestyle sessions allow your children to feel relaxed and safe in their environment and allow your photographer to document your story in a more natural and authentic way.

Mother with two children sitting next to their window looking outside
little girl sitting on the bed at home with her mum and dad

If you have any questions about these locations or just want to chat about booking your next photo session, send me a message! I would love to hear from you!