5 Family-Friendly Philadelphia Photo Shoot Locations
We’ve all seen those jaw-dropping photos of someone’s cousin doing a yoga headstand on top of a cliff overlooking a waterfall. While those pictures are cool and edgy, let’s be real—headstands are hard, cliffs aren’t easy to find, and safety comes first! So, what’s the solution for families and individuals looking for interesting backdrops that are both creative and easy on the back?
While the main subject of a photo is you and your family, the setting plays a key role in enhancing what makes you unique. Whether indoors or outdoors, with grey skies or blue, the right scenery sets the mood and adds that extra touch of personality to your photos.
Whether you’re in Bucks County, Montgomery County or Philadelphia, PA you’re in luck! We’ve gathered a list of the best Philadelphia photo shoot locations to help you find the perfect backdrop for your next session. Philadelphia offers beautiful spots year-round, so no matter when you plan your shoot, nature will be ready to complement your portraits.
Before You Choose a Location, Ask Yourself:
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What best represents your family’s personality? Do you prefer bright, colorful settings or earthy, neutral tones?
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Where will these photos be displayed in your home? What is their purpose?
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What will excite your kids about the session? Would they enjoy being near water, exploring trails, or playing in open fields?
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Where will your family feel the most comfortable and natural in front of the camera?
Now, let’s explore six fantastic locations near Philadelphia, that are perfect for your next family portrait session.
1. Tyler State Park – Newtown, PA
Tyler State Park looks like something out of a storybook with its stunning year-round foliage, stone bridges, and scenic water views. For photos featuring water, park near the boathouse and let your family play along the shore or run through golden fields. The park also offers charming wooded paths, ideal for adventurous kids who love to explore. Don’t miss the iconic tree-lined paths on the other side of the park—perfect for a timeless family portrait.
Over on the other side of Tyler State Park in Newtown, PA is the Tyler Arts center. Park here for the classic tree lined street backdrop that creates beauty around your family at your family photo shoot. This location has a bit of everything and it will not disappoint!
2. Core Creek Park – Langhorne, PA
Core Creek Park offers a peaceful setting with towering trees, open spaces, and even glimpses of local wildlife. This location is great for families with young children who won’t be tempted to splash in the water. Plan your session around sunset to take advantage of the golden glow that perfectly illuminates your portraits.
Core creek is another Philadelphia Photo Shoot Location that offer a range of backdrop options. Ask Heather ahead of time about the best spots in Core Creek Park so you have options when it comes to what type of portrait backdrop that will work well with your family’s vision.
**Core Creek is another location that requires a $50 permit to utilize it’s property for family photos.
4. Tyler Gardens at Bucks County Community College – Newtown, PA
Similar to a scene from Alice in Wonderland, this is a fun location for a family looking for a more controlled environment for their photo shoot. The garden is full of neat brick buildings and some beautiful stone windows that capture the glow of the moment. This photo shoot location is playful, allowing toddlers to roam around and explore their environment. There are several points in the garden with beautiful views and open spaces.
The gardens are regularly groomed, and blooms are always in season. Please be aware that for this special location, your photographer will require a $100 permit for a 1-hour portrait session prior to your arrival.
**Tyler Garden require a $100 permit
3. Indoor/Outdoor Farmhouse Studio – Newtown, PA
As its name suggests, this restored farmhouse features both indoor and outdoor options, making it a year-round photo shoot location. If you’re looking for a setting with vintage charm and natural beauty, this is the place to be. The gardens provide a lovely outdoor backdrop, while the rustic interior features warm wooden floors and large windows that fill the space with natural light. Plus, with on-site parking and indoor bathrooms, it’s a convenient choice for families with little ones. The pine trees stay green all year, making this an excellent choice for winter portraits as well. Added benefit – your session can take place any time of day due to the open shade. Perfect for our young families.
5. Your Own Home
We’ve spent so much time talking about making your family comfortable—and there’s nowhere they feel more at home than your actual home! Let the kids snuggle on the couch just like they do while watching Sunday morning cartoons, or play dress-up in the playroom as a family. Dance around the kitchen, play with Rover in the backyard, or make faces through the screened door. It’s so fun seeing your everyday life through the lens of a professional photographer—it helps you realize how precious and beautiful these moments really are.
Do you wish you had photos of your family when you were little inside and outside your family home?
6. Sayen Gardens – Hamilton, NJ
Sayen Gardens is a hidden gem for family photography. This stunning botanical garden offers a variety of seasonal blooms, picturesque gazebos, and charming walking paths. Whether you’re visiting in spring when the flowers are in full bloom or during the fall for a backdrop of warm, earthy tones, this location provides an enchanting and serene setting for your portraits. The well-maintained gardens and peaceful atmosphere make it a fantastic choice for families looking for a vibrant and nature-filled photo shoot location.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect setting for your family portraits doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you choose a scenic park, a charming farmhouse studio, a picturesque garden, or the comfort of your own home, there are countless Philadelphia photo shoot locations to match your family’s personality and style. Now that you have the perfect location in mind, it’s time to plan your session! Reach out to your photographer, book your favorite spot, and get ready to create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. Stay tuned for our next piece, where we’ll discuss what to wear for your session!
Heather Thomas is an award-winning family and newborn photographer serving Philadelphia and Ocean City, NJ. She holds a Master Photographer Certification from NAPCP in newborn, children and family photography. Known for her organic and simple style, Heather’s work has been featured in magazines and online publications around the country.
