12 Creative Summer Family Photoshoot Ideas to Inspire Your Next Session
Summer is the perfect season to capture your family in all their vibrant, sun-kissed glory. From fun summer activities to spontaneous splashes in the river, summer lends itself to authentic, vibrant memories. Whether you're planning your next client session or your dreaming up ideas for a future shoot, here are 12 creative summer family photoshoot ideas that are full of personality, color, and heart.
Visit the County Fair
Ferris wheels, cotton candy, and neon lights—it’s summer nostalgia at its finest. Relive your childhood memories and make memories with your kids by capturing your family in the heart of the fun: riding the carousel, playing games, or sharing a funnel cake. These sessions are full of movement, laughter, and personality.
Cool Off in the River
There’s nothing more refreshing on a hot summer day than sticking your toes in the cool current of the river. Keep cool and plan your next family shoot by the river. Toss in a few river rocks, splash around in the shallows, and you’ve got the makings of a relaxed, joy-filled session. Dress light and barefoot for that timeless summer feel.
Hit Up your Favorite Burger Joint
For families who love a good diner or drive-in, a burger joint is a fun and quirky spot. Think milkshakes with extra straws, ketchup smiles, and retro charm. It’s a great way to mix food and fun with your photos.
Take in the Beauty of a Flower Farm
Bursting with color and texture, flower farms are a dreamy spot for a summer session. From toddlers running down the rows of zinnias, dahlias and cosmos, to parents wrapped in rows of blooms, there’s beauty in every direction. Bonus: it makes a great day trip for the whole family!
Have a Family Campout
If camping is one of your favorite summer activities, then what better way to capture your family than to have a family campout. Bring the tent or trailer, build a fire and roast some s’mores. This session is sure to capture the nostalgia of summer and the wonder of untethered childhood.
Share A Picnic in a Grassy Field
Picnic blankets, baskets, and the whole family (including the pup)—need we say more? A styled picnic setup makes for a fun and visually appealing session. Add popsicles, watermelon, or a bottle of sparkling for playful, summery vibes.
Get a Sweet Treat at an Ice Cream Shop
Photos by Aspen and Sage Photography
Few things say “summer” like an ice cream cone on a hot day. Ice cream shops—especially the bright, colorful kind—are perfect for candid, joyful photos. Capture sticky fingers, silly smiles, and the sweet chaos of melting scoops. An ice cream session is sure to make your kids smile.
Capture Life in your own Backyard
Photo by Aspen and Sage Photography.
Don’t underestimate the beauty of home. A backyard session is comfortable, familiar, and full of little memories: blowing bubbles, watering the garden, playing with the chickens, or swinging on a hammock. It’s perfect for capturing your family just as they are and might just be my favorite type of shoot to capture.
Snuggle up in a Classic Car
Summer is the season for taking trips, so imagine piling the whole family into a classic car, laughter filling the air as the warm breeze tousles your hair — that's the magic of a summer photography session with vintage charm. Whether you're snuggled up in the front seat, kids playing in the back, or leaning against the car with golden hour light all around, a car sessions is the perfect blend of nostalgia and fun. A classic car adds a timeless, storybook feel to your images, turning your everyday moments into heirloom memories you’ll treasure for years to come.
Head to a Mountain lake
Photo by Aspen and Sage Photogrpahy
For a serene, picturesque backdrop, a mountain lake is hard to beat. Skipping stones, wading at the shoreline, or cozying up on a dock—all make for gorgeous moments frozen in time. Pack blankets and neutral tones for a calming, cohesive look.
Have a Family Paint Party
Have a little fun and get a little messy with a paint party. This shoot could be done anywhere. Throw up a tarp or old sheet, grab a few gallons of paint, some paint brushes and canvases and let the family fun begin!
Take in the Beauty of a Field of Wildflowers
Wildflowers in bloom are a dreamy backdrop for any session. Sit down in the middle of them while you soak in the golden hour light. Wear soft colors or flowey outfits for an extra whimsical touch. Keep in mind that certain flowers are only in bloom at certain times of the year, so check with your photographer for the best time to book for specific flowers.
How do you choose the best location?
At the end of the day, the best location is one that feels personal. Whether it’s your favorite local ice cream shop or the trail you hike every weekend, choose a spot that speaks to your story—because those are the memories you’ll treasure most.
Ready to book your own summer family session?
Let’s make it magical. I’m now booking limited spots for summer photoshoots in Boise and the surrounding areas—don’t miss this opportunity to capture summer moments with your family!
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