Summer is one of my absolute favorite seasons for capturing families and children through the lens. The light is warm, the colors are vibrant, and there's a unique energy in the air—one that only long summer days can bring. After nearly 30 years of photographing families across New England, I’ve learned that the best photo sessions are those that are thoughtful, personal, and most of all—fun. If you're planning a professional summer photo session, here are some tried-and-true ideas to help inspire the perfect shoot.

1. Golden Hour Magic

There’s nothing quite like the golden hour—the time just before sunset when the light is soft, golden, and incredibly flattering. Whether you’re on the beach, in a grassy field, or strolling through the Boston Public Garden, that golden glow adds a dreamy, timeless quality to your portraits. I always encourage families to consider evening sessions during summer. Kids are often more relaxed after a full day of play, and the lighting does most of the magic for us.

2. Beach Vibes and Barefoot Moments

Cape Cod, Crane Beach, or even a hidden gem along the South Shore—the Massachusetts coast offers some incredible backdrops. Beach sessions are perfect for barefoot play, candid giggles, and those priceless moments of splashing in the surf. For a more natural look, I recommend soft, neutral colors like whites, pastels, and khakis that complement the sea and sand without competing with them.

3. Nature Trails and Wildflower Fields

There’s something so sweet about a summer walk through a wildflower field or wooded trail. Locations like the Arnold Arboretum or the Middlesex Fells offer natural beauty and endless spots for storytelling through photos. I often bring a small picnic blanket or a wooden crate for little ones to sit on—it adds dimension and comfort to your images and helps little kids feel at ease.

4. Classic Americana

Summer is full of nostalgic moments. Think Fourth of July inspiration: kids holding sparklers at dusk, watermelon slices, red wagons, and American flags waving in the breeze. These sessions are whimsical, fun, and capture the heart of summertime childhood. Props like pinwheels, lemonade stands, or even vintage bicycles can bring out genuine smiles and timeless imagery.

5. Urban Summer Adventures

For families who love a city vibe, a summer session in the heart of Boston can be just as magical. Cobblestone streets in Beacon Hill, the Esplanade, or even the colorful murals of the South End make incredible backdrops. The key is to keep it playful and relaxed—strolling, window shopping, or enjoying ice cream cones together create the best candid shots.’

6. At-Home Garden Sessions

Not every session needs to be on the go. Your own backyard can be the most personal and meaningful place of all. Whether it’s capturing your child running through a sprinkler, tending to a backyard garden, or lying in a hammock with the family dog, home sessions offer the comfort and authenticity that can't be replicated anywhere else.

Final Thoughts

The most memorable images come from authentic moments. Don’t worry too much about everyone looking at the camera or matching outfits perfectly. Let your kids be themselves. Laugh together. Chase bubbles. Hug tightly. As a photographer who’s spent nearly three decades documenting families, I can promise you: the magic is in the connection, not the perfection.

If you’re ready to plan your summer session, let’s chat! I’d love to help you create a relaxed, beautiful experience that captures this fleeting, joyful season in your family’s story.

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Laura Pineda is the founder of Alternate Angles Photography in Boston, MA, specializing in child and family photography since 1996.