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Outdoor Family Photoshoot Tips for Perth Families

Outdoor family photoshoots are one of the most relaxed and enjoyable ways to capture genuine connection. With the soft sunset light we get around Rockingham, Baldivis and Mandurah, your images will feel warm, natural and filled with movement. To help you get the most out of your session, here are my best tips for preparing your family, choosing outfits and keeping the experience calm and enjoyable for everyone.

Family sessions are meant to feel easy. There is no pressure for perfect behaviour, perfect smiles or perfectly still children. My approach is gentle, child-led and designed to take the stress off you completely. You just show up, take a breath and enjoy some time together.

Choosing the Right Time

Most outdoor sessions in Perth take place during golden hour, which is the hour before sunset. This light is soft, flattering and ideal for creating the warm, glowing images families love.

Choosing a time close to bedtime can feel tricky with young children, but in most cases they cope beautifully outdoors. To help them enjoy the experience, keep the day as calm and low stimulation as possible. Avoid activities that will tire them out or overstimulate them and bring simple snacks for the drive.

Arriving on time is important, as sunset light disappears quickly. Aim to arrive about five minutes early so we can settle in and begin while the light is perfect.

What to Wear for Your Outdoor Family Photos

Your outfits help set the tone of your photos. Choosing pieces that complement each other makes a big difference while still looking natural and comfortable. Here are a few simple ideas.

Choosing a Colour Palette

Soft neutrals and earthy tones photograph beautifully outdoors. Think creams, beige, oatmeal, blush, muted greens and warm browns. These tones work well against the beaches, nature reserves and open landscapes around Rockingham and Baldivis and blend nicely with sunset light. If you are unsure which colours will work best together, choose a simple palette of two or three tones so the overall look stays cohesive without feeling too matched.

What to Avoid

Avoid strong patterns, bold logos or neon colours. These can draw attention away from your connection and often photograph harsher than expected. Large text, busy prints and heavy stripes can also date your images over time.
When in doubt, choose simpler fabrics and soft textures. These keep your photos timeless and allow the focus to stay on your family, movement and emotion rather than the clothing itself.

Dressing Kids

For children, choose comfortable clothing that allows natural movement. Natural fibres, simple textures and soft colours tend to work best and help kids stay cool and relaxed.
Avoid outfits that feel scratchy or restrictive. Bring a backup layer for cooler weather and consider dressing little ones on location to avoid spills or creases. If your child loves a particular hat, toy or accessory, feel free to bring it along so they feel settled from the start.

If you are a photography client of Mother Mother, you have complimentary access to my Client Wardrobe for Mums.

use code WARDROBEBLOG10 for 10% off wardrobe hire fees!

Keeping Children Comfortable and Happy

Children lead the energy of a session, so the more relaxed they feel, the more natural your photos will look. My approach is always child-led, playful and respectful of their personalities. Here are a few things that help:

Let them observe first

Children often warm up slowly. They may want to explore, watch me from a distance or stay close to you at the start. This is completely normal.

Avoid telling them to smile or look at the camera.

This can put a lot of pressure on them, especially when meeting someone new. I will gently guide their attention when needed. It is easier for me to take several shots and capture a natural expression than to edit pointing hands or talking faces out of a frame.

Bring simple items for engagement & play.

Bubbles, a small toy, flowers or beach toys (if we are shooting on the sand) can help break the ice and keep things light.

Pack independent snacks and water.

Choose snacks that are easy, quick and not messy. Crackers or fruit pieces work well.

Keep expectations flexible.

Kids do not need to perform. Sessions go best when parents stay relaxed and trust the process. If you can, avoid pressure or frustration. Children respond to your energy, and a calm, patient approach always supports better outcomes.

If you have concerns about behaviour, mood or sensory needs, feel free to let me know beforehand. I have an early childhood teaching background and am very comfortable supporting children with different needs or comfort levels.

What to Bring

You do not need a lot for an outdoor family session, but a few small items help the experience run smoothly:

Water
Wet wipes or a small cloth
A change of clothes for kids
A towel for beach sessions
Hair ties or clips
Quiet snacks
A small bag for personal items

Please remove phones, keys and smartwatches from pockets before we begin. These stand out in photos more than people expect.

Photoshoot Location in Perth, Rockingham & Baldivis

Beach

Beautiful for movement, play and open, airy images. Expect a little breeze and soft sand. Sunset at the beach is often the warmest and most flattering light of the day.

Nature reserves

Neutral colours, tall grasses, soft foliage and plenty of space. These areas create earthy, timeless photos with a relaxed feel.

Coastal scrub

Minimal, clean and perfect for families who prefer simplicity. Locations around Rockingham and Baldivis often have scrubland that turns golden in the afternoon light.

If you are still choosing a setting, you can explore my favourite locations for inspo.

Including Pets

Dogs are welcome at many of my outdoor locations. If your pet is joining us, please let me know beforehand so I can recommend suitable spots.

Bring a lead, poo bags and a few treats. Pets often make beautiful, playful additions to family sessions.

During the Session

My goal is to help your family feel relaxed and supported from the moment we begin. I will guide you gently, suggest natural positions, and read the energy of your children as we move through the session.

If kids need breaks, we take breaks. If they want to run, we embrace it. If they want cuddles, we slow down. Authentic family photos come from connection, not perfection.

Preparing Your Kids for the Session

Small steps make a big difference to how children feel on the day.

Set simple expectations.
You can explain: “We are going to meet Sarah and she will take some photos while we play together outside.” Keeping it low pressure helps children feel safe.

Avoid performance-based instructions.
Instead of “smile nicely” or “look at the camera”, focus on staying close, cuddly or playful. The more natural the interaction, the better the photos.

Plan a calm day beforehand.
Avoid big outings, overstimulation or dropped naps if your children are sensitive to changes.

Bring a small treat for after the session if it suits your family.
A playground visit or ice cream can help little ones finish on a positive note.