ULTIMATE GUIDE: THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Where golden light, wagging tails, and barefoot giggles come together.

There’s something pure and powerful about taking your family shoot into the great outdoors. Whether it’s a windswept field, a forest trail, or a tucked-away beach, nature has a magical way of reflecting the love and chaos of family life.

Outdoor sessions give your little ones space to explore, your dogs room to roam, and your hearts a chance to breathe. This guide will walk you through how to prepare for a dreamy, joy-filled, and beautifully relaxed family shoot in nature.

1. Colour Schemes: Flow with Nature’s Palette

Outfits can make or break the aesthetic of an outdoor shoot—and the trick is to blend in just enough while still standing out in the best way.

✨ Earthy, Neutral, and Soft Tones

Think sage green, dusty blue, muted rust, oat, blush, terracotta, ivory, soft mustard, and deep navy. These tones complement natural backdrops beautifully—whether it’s sun-drenched grass or a misty forest path.

✨ Dress in Layers & Texture

Flowy dresses, knit cardigans, linen shirts, and denim jackets all add texture without stealing the show. Layers also give you flexibility if the weather changes.

✨ Shoes: Go Barefoot or Keep it Simple

If you’re in a safe, grassy area, ditching the shoes can look adorable and carefree. Otherwise, neutral-toned footwear (tan sandals, classic boots) is perfect.

✨ Avoid neon, busy prints, and logos

Bright, artificial colors can clash with nature’s soft palette. Stick to timeless, simple styles that let your family shine.

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2. Time of Day: Chase the Golden Light

Lighting is everything—and outdoor shoots are all about finding that soft, glowing magic.

Golden hour happens during the first hour after sunrise or the last hour before sunset. It’s warm, dreamy, and incredibly flattering on skin tones.

If you’re up for an early start, sunrise shoots are calm, quiet, and perfect for shy little ones (and shy pups!). For others, sunset sessions have a romantic, glowy vibe that feels like a movie.

☁️ Cloudy days? Still gorgeous.

Don’t stress if the sun hides—overcast skies create a beautiful, soft light that works wonders for portraits.

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3. Picnic Setup: A Little Extra Magic (on Us!)

Want to add a sprinkle of lifestyle charm to your shoot? A styled picnic setup can bring texture, storytelling, and cozy family vibes to your outdoor session.

🧺 What’s Included in a Picnic Setup (by your photographer):

• A soft rug/blanket spread

• Neutral-toned cushions and throws for extra comfort

• Rustic crate or a picnic basket

• A bunch of your doggos favourite stuffed toys

• Optional props like a flower bouquet, books, or a letter board

  
  

📸 Why we love it:

It gives you something to do—which helps everyone relax. Share snacks, play peekaboo, or snuggle in close while your photographer captures the little in-between moments.

Bonus: Kids love it. Dogs love it. And it photographs like a dream.

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4. Capturing the Dog’s True Free Spirit

Let’s be real—our dogs are part of the family, and in outdoor shoots, they get to be exactly who they are: joyful, curious, goofy, and full of heart.

🐾 Let them run free (when it’s safe)

If we’re in a secure location, allowing your dog off-leash to explore can result in spontaneous, energetic shots that reflect their real personality.

🐾 Bring their favorite toy or treat

This helps keep their attention when needed—and gives us some great action shots when they leap to catch it!

🐾 Don’t stress if they’re a bit wild

We want that! The goal is to capture them in their element. Whether they’re zooming around the field, lounging under the picnic setup, or photobombing family hugs—it’s all part of the story.

🐾 Match their vibe

If your dog is active, we’ll embrace movement. If they’re more of a cuddle bug, they can curl up on your lap during the quieter moments. Either way, they’ll shine in their own way.

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A Few Bonus Tips for an Effortless Outdoor Shoot:

• Pack snacks + water for everyone (especially kids and pups).

• Bring bug spray or sunscreen depending on the season.

• Have a small bag for wipes, tissues, and any outfit touch-ups.

• Embrace the wind, dirt, and unpredictability. Some of the best shots come when things don’t go perfectly.

Outdoor family sessions are more than just a photo shoot—they’re an experience. A mini adventure. A chance to unplug, unwind, and reconnect in the simplest and most natural way.

So breathe deep, let the kids run wild, let your dog be ridiculous, and let the golden light wrap around you like a hug.

You’re about to create memories that feel just as beautiful as they look 🌿