How to Take Great Family Photos This Summer

Let’s be honest—family photos in the summer sound dreamy… until someone’s sweaty, someone’s grumpy, and someone’s already over it before the first photo is taken. However, with these great tips, you’ll be getting all the best shots without the stress!

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I’ve heard it many times before, “How can you take summertime photos with kids, they never want to sit still or they are too hot” But with a little planning (and a lot of grace), summertime can be the perfect time to capture those memory-making moments.

Let’s make the most of that golden sunshine, sandy toes, and real-life giggles.

Here’s everything you need to know to capture beautiful, candid, and chaos-free family photos this summer.

Top Tips for Choosing a Great Summer Photo Location

When it comes to picking the perfect spot for your next family photo location, summer gives you so many options—it just depends on the feel you are going for.

Beach: Always a classic. If you’re planning a summer trip to the beach pack some soft colors like blues, greens, tans, and whites! Barefoot photos in the sand and subtle movement from wind or waves look absolutely gorgeous. Just go early in the morning or late to avoid harsh sun and crowds. Also, the colors in the morning and evening are just gorgeoous.
Parks or Open Fields: Look for spots with tall grasses, wildflowers, or big trees for shade. These tend to be low-traffic and easy for kids to roam. Plus the candid photos are chef’s kiss!
Urban spots: Think downtown areas with murals, brick walls, or colorful doors. They make for fun, modern photos and often have nearby shaded spots. Keep in mind that traffic will be much busier here so try to come earlier in the morning when less people are out and about.
Home Sweet Home: Don’t overlook your own backyard or front porch! Sometimes the best memories are made right where you live. Especially because you can grab snacks when the kids get hungry without too much fuss!

Pro tip: Check the background—look for clutter, trash cans, or big crowds that might be distracting in the photos. Morning and evening time might be best for most outdoor locations due to less traffic and heat.

Best Time for Lighting

Lighting can make or break your photos—and summer sun is no joke. Below are some tips on finding the best lighting for great family photos.

Golden Hour (just after sunrise or an hour before sunset) is always the way to go. The light is soft, glowy, and super flattering for everyone. This is when those dreamy, Pinterest-worthy photos happen.
Avoid Midday It’s hot, the sun is strong and everyone is squinting. and the shadows are super harsh. If you have to shoot mid-day, stick to full-shade locations to avoid that overhead sun, or think about going indoors.
Cloudy Days are Great Days Don’t stress if it’s overcast— actually, be glad! Overcast softens the light and cools things down a bit.

If you're planning a session with a photographer, ask them about their recommended timing. I bet they will say they prefer around golden hour. However, if you are doing the photoshoot yourself, check to see your golden hour times and plan accordingly. Remember, the softer the light, the more “professional” the photoshoot will look.

Best Time to Shoot Indoors vs Outdoors

Indoor vs outdoor depends a lot on the weather, your space, and what type of look you are going for.

Outdoor shoot TIPS

Best in the early morning or late afternoon. Think golden hour and less harsh shadows.
Great for movement, natural light, and more space for kids to explore and run around.
Keep in mind that bugs, heat, and sun exposure can all be factors so plan for these types of situations.

Indoor shoot TIPS

Perfect for newborns or little ones who do better in a controlled environment. Places like a sunroom, bedroom, or living room are all great options.
Indoor shoots are often photographed best in rooms with big windows and soft, natural light.
Avoid using overhead lights or lamps if you can because it makes the photo look more sharp and harsh. Think about windows and natural daylight.

If you want that cozy, lifestyle look (playing in the kitchen, snuggling on the couch), indoor is beautiful and much easier to manage mid-day.

How to Plan Outfits for the Whole Family

This part can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! It’s actually my favorite part of the whole thing.

Here’s the rule: be coordinated, not matching.

Pick a color palette of 2–3 tones (think soft neutrals, pastels, or earthy colors for summer).
Avoid super bright neons, big logos, or tiny busy patterns. Just focus on colors and patterns that complement each other.
Mom, start with your outfit. Once you pick something you feel great in, build everyone else around it.
Don’t forget about shoes and other accessories! They show up in more photos than you think.
Add texture: linen, denim, or cotton add visual interest without loud patterns.

For summer shoots, flowy dresses, rolled sleeves, and bare feet (especially at the beach) always look timeless and fun!

What Extras to Bring

Let’s be real—no matter how much you prep, kids are still kids. Here are the must-haves I always recommend packing in a bag:

Snacks: Think mess-free (nothing sticky or melty). Granola bars, fruit snacks, puffs, grapes, that kind of thing.
Water: Staying hydrated is so incredibly important… especially in summer heat!
Change of clothes: Just in case of spills, diaper leaks, or surprise mud/water puddles.
Baby wipes: Necessary for any sticky mess that can happen. sandy feet, runny noses, or makeup smudges.
Comfort item: If your child has a favorite stuffed animal or lovey, bring it. Sometimes a familiar friend is all they need to bring out their big smile!
Distractions: A toy, bubbles, or even a little music can help loosen everyone up. Thrown in a dance party, those could end up being the best photos!
Bug spray & sunscreen: You don’t want red, itchy kiddos in your shots. Apply and spray before hand and keep with you for reapplication.

And if you're working with a photographer—don't stress if you need to pause for a snack break. A little reset can make a big difference!

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your Summer Family Photos

At the end of the day, the best family photos aren’t the ones where everyone is perfectly posed—they’re the ones where you’re laughing, snuggling, or chasing each other barefoot through the grass.

Let go of perfection and embrace the chaos. And remember: these moments, just as they are, are already beautiful and will be ones you cherish forever!