If you’ve ever tried to get your kids to sit still for a photo, you’ll know…it’s not always easy.

Whether you’ve got a toddler, a school-aged child, or older kids with big personalities, most parents are searching for ways to get natural family photos without the stress, the forced smiles, or the constant “just sit still for one second”.

This is exactly why I love outdoor family photoshoots.

As a mum of two myself, I know that kids don’t want to sit, pose, and smile on command. They want to move, explore, and just be themselves. And honestly, that’s where the magic is.

🤍 More movement means more natural family photos

One of the biggest benefits of outdoor family photography is that your kids don’t have to sit still.
Busy kids do best when they can walk, run, twirl, or just wander a little. Instead of asking them to hold stiff poses, we keep things flowing.
This is how we capture those genuine smiles, real laughter, and the little in-between moments that actually mean the most.
If you’re wondering how to get natural family photos with active kids, this is it. Let them move.

🤍 Outdoor light is soft, flattering, and timeless

Natural light makes such a difference in family portraits.
It gives your images that soft, warm, timeless feel that never goes out of style. It is also far more forgiving, which means everyone looks their best without needing heavy editing.
More importantly, it creates a relaxed environment. Kids feel less pressure, parents feel more at ease, and the whole experience becomes enjoyable instead of stressful.

🤍 There’s less pressure on everyone

A lot of parents worry about how their kids will behave during a photoshoot.
“What if they don’t listen?”
“What if they don’t smile?”
“What if it all feels too hard?”
The truth is, outdoor sessions feel more like a family outing than a formal photo session.
There’s space to move, space to reset, and space for kids to be themselves. That usually means fewer power struggles and more genuine connection.
As a Melbourne family photographer, I can honestly say this is often the difference between photos that feel forced and photos that families truly love.

🤍 Sessions are short, relaxed, and manageable

Another thing parents love is that sessions don’t drag on.
At Allure Photography in Vermont Melbourne, most outdoor family sessions are completed in under an hour.
That’s a big win for busy families and energetic kids. It keeps everyone engaged, avoids overwhelm, and still gives us plenty of time to capture a beautiful variety of images.

🤍 Morning sessions work best for families

This is something I’m really passionate about.
The best time for outdoor family photos with kids is always in the morning.
Kids are fresher, more relaxed, and much more willing to engage. The weather is usually cooler, and the light is soft and even, which makes a huge difference in your final images.
I offer sessions on both weekdays and weekends, but weekends are especially popular and often book out 8 weeks or more in advance.
If you’re hoping for a weekend session, it’s always best to plan ahead.

🤍 A location I know and love

All of my outdoor family sessions take place at one beautiful nature reserve in Mitcham, just a few minutes from my Vermont studio.
I absolutely love this location. It has the most gorgeous natural backdrops, open space for kids to move, and so many little pockets that photograph beautifully.
Because I know this spot so well, I can guide you through the session with ease. I know where the light works best, where to go for variety, and how to keep things flowing so your kids stay engaged.
It means your session feels relaxed, but still really well thought out.

🤍 A full experience from start to finish

One of the things my clients love most is what happens after the session.
We head back to my studio, you can sit down with a barista made coffee, and the kids can relax with toys or colouring in.
While you unwind, I edit your images on the spot. This usually takes around half an hour.
Then you’ll view your photos in a beautiful slideshow presentation and choose your favourites that same day.
It’s such a calm, easy way to finish the experience, and you don’t have to wait weeks to see your images.

🤍 How to prepare for an outdoor family photoshoot

A little preparation really does help things run smoothly.
Choose comfortable outfits that feel like you. Bring a small snack if needed. Try to book a time when your kids are usually at their best.
And most importantly, keep expectations simple.
You don’t need perfect behaviour. You don’t need perfect smiles.
Just show up, be present, and let your kids be themselves.
I’ll guide you through everything else.

If you’re looking for relaxed, natural family photos that actually feel like your family, outdoor sessions are such a beautiful option.

If you’re also preparing for your session, and have any additional questions, check out my faq's HERE
And if you're second guessing if the parents need to be in the photos then you need to read THIS! 

These moments don’t stay the same for long, and neither do your kids.
And one day, you’ll be so glad you captured them- that I'm certain of

Stace x