Family Portrait Photography: From Classic Poses to Candid Joy
While “family portrait” might bring to mind a perfectly posed shot with everyone looking at the camera, the meaning has expanded. At The Story of Us, we love creating galleries that blend natural moments with gently posed portraits. Yes, we’ll sometimes capture that classic everyone-smiling shot, but we also focus on the in-between, where real connection lives. And that’s what makes family portrait photography so meaningful.
These images come from families we’ve photographed here in Perth and beyond. We hope they inspire your next family photoshoot—and help you document your unique family story.
Family Portrait Photography Idea #1: At Home in the Everyday
There’s something incredibly moving about documenting your family in your own space. Think reading books on the bed, pancakes in pyjamas, and snuggles on the lounge. These photos aren’t just about faces—they’re about daily life, comfort, and connection. We’ve photographed babies crawling for the first time, dads giving shoulder rides down the hallway, and quiet moments between siblings on the floor. The best part? Everyone feels relaxed, because you’re already home.
See more of Erna’s family portrait at home, simple but meaningful ways to treasure happy moments
Family Portrait Photography Idea #2: Golden Hour at the Beach
The coast at sunset offers a dreamy, painterly backdrop for family portrait photography. Think golden light, sea spray, and wind-swept hair. Kids can run barefoot in the shallows, dig in the sand, or be scooped up mid-giggle. These sessions are great for families who want movement, emotion, and a little adventure in their gallery. We’ll guide you gently so the moments feel natural, not staged.
Are you considering the beach as your family photo location? Check out our guide on Beach Family Photos in Perth – Tips for Outfits, Spots and Poses!
Explore more Sallyane’s family portrait at the beach during golden hour
Family Portrait Photography Idea #3: Playful Park Sessions
Your local park becomes a wonderland when you see it through your kids’ eyes. Swings, grassy hills, shady trees—everything invites play. These sessions are high-energy and joy-filled, often ending with tickle fights, shoulder rides, or a quiet cuddle under a tree. They’re ideal for younger children who love to explore and for parents who want photos full of laughter and light.
Get inspired with Glenn’s family trip photo pose ideas for your next outdoor family portrait!
Family Portrait Photography Idea #4: Generations Together
Some of our most meaningful sessions include extended family—grandparents, cousins, and grown-up siblings all together. These portraits are a gift across generations. We capture posed group shots and those precious in-between moments: Nan brushing a curl away, a grandchild nestled into Pop’s chest. It’s about honouring legacy while creating new memories.
Celebrate generations with a session like Jannita’s extended family photos that you’ll treasure forever!
Family Portrait Photography Idea #5: Seasonal Storytelling
Every season has its magic. Autumn’s earthy tones, spring wildflowers, summer swims, or winter’s crisp air and layered knits all offer different moods for your family portraits. Embracing the season adds texture and context to your images—it helps you remember not just who you were, but when you were.
Don’t let another year go undocumented like Baby’s C 100 day photo sessions because your family today deserves to be remembered forever!
Family Portrait Photography Idea #6: Baptism and Christening Moments to Remember
Baptisms and christenings are powerful moments of connection—between family, faith, and new beginnings. These sessions often include the ceremony itself, candid moments before and after, and quiet portraits with godparents and grandparents. Whether it’s a traditional church setting or a more modern spiritual gathering, we document the joy, tenderness, and togetherness of the day. The tiny details—blessed water, lace gowns, candlelight—become part of the story.
Here are more Baptism and Christening Photoshoot Moments We Love!
Explore more Luca’s baptism day photo session with the families
Family Portrait Photography Idea #7: Birthday Celebrations Filled with Joy
From messy cake smashes to backyard parties, birthday sessions are full of energy and expression. We’ll capture the laughter, the decorations, the proud candle-blowing moment, and the hugs from grandparents. Whether it’s your baby’s first birthday or a big kid turning double digits, these portraits freeze time on a day that usually flies by. You’ll get a mix of candid action shots and small, sentimental details that show just how loved they are.
Check out our guide on Kids Birthday Party Ideas We’ve Loved Capturing for more inspiration!
Because this chapter won’t last forever—preserve it beautifully with a portrait session.
Family Portrait Photography Idea #8: Family Trip Filled with Adventure
Going on a family adventure? Whether it’s a long weekend down south or a picnic in the hills, documenting your family trip turns it into something lasting. These sessions are filled with movement, discovery, and delight—jumping over waves, roasting marshmallows, exploring trails hand-in-hand. We’ll blend in naturally and photograph the little stories unfolding around you. It’s part portrait, part documentary, and all heart.
See how adventurous Anthea’s family portrait during trip to the National Park! Family portrait doesn’t always formal, let’s create portraits that feel like you!
Family Portrait Photography Idea #9: Family Portraits with Pets
Pets are family too. Whether it’s your loyal dog joining a beach walk or your cat curled up on the bed during an in-home shoot, including your furry (or feathery) companions adds an extra layer of heart. We work with whatever energy your pet brings—playful, calm, or somewhere in between—and always capture their bond with your family.
Check out some of our favourite photos that we’ve taken of family and their fur babies in our Pet Photography Perth Guide – Outdoor and In-home Ideas!
Family Portrait Photography Idea #10: Maternity Session with Your Growing Family
Maternity photography isn’t just about the bump—it’s about the family that’s growing around it. Whether it’s your first baby or you’re adding to your crew, these sessions document the anticipation and love that already exists. Partners, siblings, pets—everyone’s part of the story. We’ll guide you with ease and gentleness, capturing quiet moments of connection, movement, and wonder.
Here are more Family Maternity Photoshoot Ideas to Celebrate Your Next Chapter!
Real moments. Real memories. Book your relaxed family portrait today, even in maternity days, like Marianna’s maternity photos!
What to Wear for Family Portrait Photo Session
Choosing outfits doesn’t have to be stressful. Keep it simple, comfortable, and true to your family’s style:
Comfort is key – wear clothes that allow for movement and feel good to be in
Go for soft neutrals and earthy tones – they photograph beautifully in natural light
Coordinate, don’t match – mix textures and complementary tones for a cohesive look
Avoid bold logos and clashing patterns – they can distract from connection and faces
Skip brand-new shoes – stick to footwear that’s worn-in and comfortable
Add layers or accessories – things like hats, scarves, or cardigans add variety and depth
The goal isn’t to look perfect—it’s to feel like you in this season of life.
For more inspiration, head over to 10 Family Photo Outfit Ideas That Keep It Real (and Stylish!)
Preparing Kids (and Adults) for the Session
You don’t need to prepare your kids to “perform”—you just need to show up as you are. Talk to them in the days before about what to expect: we’ll be playing, maybe dancing, maybe running, definitely cuddling. No forced smiles needed.
The same goes for adults. It’s completely normal to feel awkward at first—we’ll guide you through gently, helping you relax into the moment. If there are favourite toys, snacks, or comfort items that help, bring them along. The goal is not perfection—it’s presence.
Let’s Create Your Family Portraits Together
From beach adventures and backyard birthdays to quiet cuddles on the couch, family portrait photography is about capturing what matters most—your people, your rhythm, your story. Whether it’s a milestone moment or just a regular afternoon that turns out to be unforgettable, we’re here to help you see the beauty in it all.
We’d love to create something lasting for your family!
Explore our portfolio to see the magic we create: Family, In-home, Newborn, Maternity, Family Trips, Celebrations, and Extended Family.
FAQs About Family Portrait Photography
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Traditionally, family portraits referred to posed images—everyone looking at the camera, standing or sitting in a formal arrangement. Think classic studio setups or school photo-style groupings. These are still valued for their clarity and composure, especially in milestone or extended family settings.
But today, the definition has broadened significantly. In modern family photography, especially the kind we celebrate at The Story of Us, family portraits include lifestyle images too. That means:
Natural, candid moments (laughing, cuddling, playing)
Real expressions and genuine connection
At-home or outdoor settings with natural light
Gentle direction rather than rigid posing
We often say the best portraits are the ones that feel like you—not just how you looked, but how it felt to be together in that season of life.
So yes—lifestyle images absolutely count as family portraits, and they're a beautiful, honest way to tell your family's story.
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For our outdoor family photo sessions, you can choose between a 45-minute or 75-minute session, depending on the experience you’d like. You can explore more details by visiting our family photography portfolio.
For indoor at-home sessions, we recommend allowing around 90 minutes. This gives plenty of time for relaxed, unhurried moments and helps little ones settle in comfortably. You can find out more about what the experience entails in our in-home photo session portfolio.
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Absolutely! At The Story of Us, our extended family sessions typically last 75 minutes. This allows ample time for full group portraits, smaller family combinations, and candid storytelling moments. The relaxed pace ensures everyone feels comfortable, resulting in authentic and heartfelt images.
Explore our extended family photography portfolio for more details and inspiration!
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Start with places that feel meaningful or comfortable for your family. That could be your home, a favourite park, the beach, or even somewhere you love to visit together. Think about the mood you want—relaxed and cosy, light and playful, or adventurous and wild. The best locations are the ones where your family can simply be yourselves.
We’re always happy to suggest locations that suit your style, kids’ ages, or the kind of story you want to tell. Get in touch to have a chat—we’d love to help you find the perfect spot.
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We recommend booking 1–2 months in advance, especially for weekend spots or seasonal sessions like spring and summer.
