Your Backyard Might be the Perfect Location for Your Family Photo Session | Bethel Park Family Photographer

I know one of the biggest decisions about planning a family photo session is deciding on a location. If you know me and my work, then you know that I always think your home is the best location for a photo session! And when I say your home, this includes your backyard! We do not have to be inside for all of the photos!

Your backyard is an extension of your home, filled with familiar sights and memories. This familiarity can help everyone, especially children, feel more relaxed and natural during the photo session. When your surroundings feel familiar and comfortable, it’s easier to capture genuine smiles and interactions.

Your backyard is filled with elements that are unique to your family. From the little garden and flowers you planted to the treehouse the kids play in, these personal touches add meaning to your photos. Including them in your family photos not only makes the images more special but also tells a story about your family.

Now I know not everyone is lucky enough to have a nice big backyard, let alone a creek that runs through their property like this Bethel Park family is fortunate enough to have! But believe me when I tell you I have done plenty of photo sessions in little backyards! I have even photographed families in their tiny backyards in the city!

One of the biggest advantages of a backyard photo session is the convenience. There’s no need to worry about traveling to a location and if you need to change outfits or the kids need to take a break for a drink or a snack, your home is right there.

Another perk is not having to share the space with anyone! When using a public location, especially one that is popular for photo sessions, you most likely will run into other park visitors and other photographers and the families they are photographing.

Having a photo session in your yard is also especially convenient when you want to include your dog in a photo session like this family. Some dogs get anxious or a bit overactive when in new surroundings and many public spaces do not allow pets. When you stay home, there is no need to worry about how the dog will behave or what to do with the dog when we do not want to include them in all of the photos.

I photographed this sweet little girl when she was a newborn so I loved seeing her all grown up as a toddler! She loved throwing rocks into the creek with Mom and Dad and had no problem stepping in the water in her sneakers. And I loved that her old but protective doggie stayed close by.

Your backyard is a place full of your family’s stories and memories. So, when deciding on a location for your next family photo session, consider your backyard—it might just be the perfect and unique spot for capturing moments of your family together.

Send me a message if you want more details about having an at-home family photo session where we can take photos inside and outside.

If you’re looking for a family photographer in Pittsburgh,  please get in touch to inquire about a session! I’d love to plan a photo a unique photo session for your family!

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All images by Mary Beth Miller Photography 

Mary Beth Miller Photography specializes in family and newborn photography in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and many of the surrounding areas. Mary Beth has over thirteen years of experience photographing families, newborns and babies in Pittsburgh including Valencia, Mars, Wexford, Seven Fields, Warrendale, Bradford Woods and Adams Township  Her style is very relaxed and natural and your family session will feel like a stress-free Sunday afternoon with your family!