3 Reasons Why Playgrounds are Great for Family Pictures

Playground Family Pictures in Penfield NY

During the summer, we always host one of our Candid Family Mini Sessions at a local playground. We held this particular playground party at Jack’s Place in Penfield NY.

Playgrounds are more than just a space for children to run, climb, and swing—they’re also an ideal backdrop for capturing memorable family moments. As a photographer, I’ve found that playgrounds offer unique advantages for family photos. Here’s 3 reasons why we think they’re great for family portraits:

1. Natural Interaction and Happiness

Playgrounds are designed to encourage play and interaction, so they’re the perfect setting for capturing genuine moments of joy and connection within families. Unlike posed studio shots, playgrounds provide an atmosphere where families can just play. Whether it's a child sliding down a slide, parents pushing swings, or siblings playing tag, these candid moments reflect family dynamics and create authentic, heartfelt family pictures.

2. Colorful and Vibrant Backgrounds

Playgrounds offer vibrant, colorful equipment and interesting textures that can enhance your family photos. The bright primary colors of slides and swings contrast with natural elements like trees and grass, creating a an engaging setting that highlights the fun of the moment.

3. Variety of Settings for Family Pictures

Playgrounds provide diverse settings for creative and candid family portraits. From wide-angle shots of the whole family playing together to close-ups of individual moments, the variety of equipment and spaces allows for creative composition. You can capture everything from energetic action shots to moments of quiet reflection on a park bench. This versatility ensures a rich collection of images showcasing different aspects of family life.

Going to a playground for your family pictures can create a collection of images that are fun, beautiful also full of life and emotion. So next time you’re planning a family portrait session, consider heading to the nearest playground for family pictures that are sure to be enjoyable and memorable.

More Candid Family Pictures in Rochester on the Blog!

Senior Pictures at Cobbs Hill: Victor NY High School

When it comes to senior pictures, there's no one-size-fits-all. For Emma, a senior at Victor High School, the goal was clear: to capture her unique urban style and vibrant personality. Emma's sense of humor, intelligence, and laid-back demeanor made her the perfect candidate for a senior portrait session with a twist.

From the outset, Emma had her heart set on an urban backdrop for her senior pictures. We blended her confidence and casual style with the eclectic energy of Cobbs Hill, where it’s dynamic cityscape proved to be the ideal setting.

As the camera clicked, Emma's personality shone through each frame. Her smart, witty nature and relaxed attitude blended seamlessly with the urban vibes, creating a series of senior portraits that were both striking and authentic. The fusion of Emma’s casual confidence with the gritty urban setting brought out the best in both, resulting in senior photos that truly reflect her one-of-a-kind character.

Congratulations Emma, Class of 2025 graduate!

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Senior Portraits in Rochester NY: On the Blog

Family Portraits with Candid Photography in Pittsford NY

The family planned to come together for a 4th of July picnic and update their family portraits at the same time. Why not combine the two for some fun and candid family pictures?

We spent a beautiful afternoon at their charming Pittsford home, setting up a few posed family pictures and capturing the fun. The sun was shining, and the yard provided a perfect backdrop with its summer greenery. In between these formal shots, the real magic happened.

The kids decorated cookies with frosting and sprinkles, their silliness on display as they gobbled up their freshly finished cookies, adding a sweet, candid touch to the family photos.

There was also some fun dancing on the grass, everyone let loose, twirling and spinning. These joyful moments captured their unique personalities and the bond they shared.

Later, a friendly game of corn hole brought out the competitive spirit in both young and old, creating even more opportunities for candid shots.

The day was filled with a whole lot of silliness, from funny faces to spontaneous group photobombing. These moments of unfiltered joy and togetherness always bring a special charm to family portraits, making them not just pictures but treasured memories.

Capturing the essence of their time together was a delight, and the blend of posed and candid photos created a great visual story of their 4th of July celebration.

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Tips for Making the Most of Your Spring Family Pictures

Spring Family Pictures in Webster NY

Springtime in the Rochester area brings a burst of color and life, making it the perfect season for capturing memorable family portraits. If you’re planning family pictures this spring, here are some practical tips to help you make the most of it.

Timing is Everything

To take advantage of the beautiful spring light, consider scheduling your family portrait session during the golden hours of the day. Early morning and early evening (around dusk) provide the soft, warm light that enhances your family pictures. During these times, the sunlight is more flattering, and you'll avoid the harsh midday glare. Additionally, the spring light adds a fresh and natural glow to your photos, making them truly special. 

However, you should always be prepared for unpredictable weather, as we had with the session below at Webster Arboretum. Before the session, the forecast called for a 5% chance of rain - which turned into a 99% chance of rain, and caused a slight delay, but ultimately did not stop the fun!

Choosing the Right Outfit for Spring Family Pictures

Spring in Rochester is all about vibrant colors and blooming flowers, so your outfits should reflect the season's lively spirit. Here are some outfit suggestions to complement the spring scenery:

• Pastels and Brights: Soft pastels and bright colors work beautifully against the backdrop of blooming flowers and lush greenery. Think light pinks, soft blues, and fresh greens.

• Layered Looks: Spring weather can be unpredictable, so layering is key. Opt for light sweaters, jackets, and scarves that you can easily add or remove.

• Coordinated but Not Matching: Choose outfits that coordinate well but don’t match exactly. This approach creates a harmonious look while allowing each family member’s personality to shine through.

• Don’t be afraid to rock an umbrella if the weather changes mid family portrait session!

Ideas for Spring Family Portraits in Rochester NY

To truly capture the spirit of spring and your family’s dynamic, here are some photo ideas:

• Blooming Backdrops: Pose against the vibrant spring blooms at locations like this one at Webster Arboretum or Highland Park. The colorful flowers will add a lively touch to your photos.

• Family Fun: Capture moments of your family enjoying the season with a touch of candid family photography. Whether it’s playing in the park, having a picnic, or simply walking together, these genuine interactions can create cherished memories.

• Seasonal Props: Incorporate seasonal props such as flower bouquets, colorful kites or even a colorful umbrella if it’s needed! These props can enhance the spring theme and add a playful element to your photos. (Think “Singing in the Rain” vibes!)

By taking advantage of the beautiful spring light, choosing outfits that reflect the season’s vibrant colors, and selecting the perfect Rochester photo locations, you can create stunning family pictures that capture the essence of spring. Enjoy your photoshoot and make the most of this vibrant season!

Find more candid family pictures in Rochester NY on the blog

Candid Family Mini Sessions at Creative Gardens

Last summer, we had the joy of capturing a series of family mini sessions at Creative Gardens, and the results were heartwarming! These family portrait sessions, filled with laughter and genuine connections, showcased the beautiful bonds and unique personalities within each family.

The love and connection between family members was beautifully evident. We photographed parents playing with their kids, sharing warm embraces, and simply enjoying each other’s company. One image that particularly stands out was of a father with his two daughters as the sunlight creates a glow behind them. The tenderness and affection in these family pictures is gorgeous.

Here's a glimpse into the moments we captured at these family mini sessions.

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Memorial Art Gallery Family Pictures: Rochester NY photographers

Family pictures are a timeless way to capture moments that last a lifetime. When looking for the perfect backdrop for these cherished memories, consider incorporating outdoor art into your photo session. The outdoor art at the Memorial Art Gallery provided a unique and visually appealing setting for your family pictures, adding an artistic element to your portraits.

Whether it's a vibrant mural, a whimsical sculpture, or a stunning landscape design, the outdoor art at Memorial Art Gallery added depth and interest to these golden hour family pictures. Some of the art reflected their personality and style, creating a one-of-a-kind backdrop that reflected shared interests and values.

Portraits at the Memorial Art Gallery also offered the opportunity to play with colors, textures, and shapes, adding creative flair to these family photos, creating dynamic and engaging images that stand out.

So next time you're planning a family photo session, consider exploring the Memorial Art Gallery as a unique and meaningful portrait location in Rochester. Not only will it elevate your pictures aesthetically, but it will also add a personal touch that captures the essence of your family's story.

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Love and Valentine's Day Wishes: Fairport NY Photographers

Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re all in on the romance or rolling your eyes and calling it “amateur hour,” it’s a holiday we, as photographers, never ignore.

Because love isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s for everyone.

We celebrate love in all its forms. Yes, the traditional holiday is full of grand romantic gestures, but love is so much more than that.

Love is a first kiss—and a 60th wedding anniversary dance.
Love is cuddling your kids and cherishing time with grandparents.
Love is doing the dishes because your partnership is built on equality.
Love is an adorable pet who greets you like you’re their whole world.
Love is planting a tree for future generations to enjoy it’s beauty.
Love is a friend who drops everything and says, “How can I help?”
Love is holding hands through the hard stuff and laughing at the silly things.
Love is caring about people, even when they don’t look like you or believe like you.

Love is all of these things, and so much more, because love is a feeling, a moment, and an action.

This Valentine’s Day, let’s celebrate it all and use love to improve the world around us—because love is everything. ❤️

Why Winter Family Photos Are Worth It

Winter family photos offer something unique that can’t be replicated in any other season. Here's why you should consider a winter session for your next family portrait:

1. A Serene Winter Backdrop for Family Pictures
Winter landscapes, from fresh snowfall to frosty trees, create a serene, magical setting. Even without snow, the soft, cool tones of the season add timeless beauty to your photos, with a quiet atmosphere that makes the moment feel extra special.

2. Cozy, Stylish Outfits
Coordinating outfits for winter fashion can include adorable, layered looks—knit sweaters, scarves, cozy hats, and boots—that add texture and warmth to your family pictures.

3. Fewer Crowds
Winter means fewer people at popular photography spots, giving you a more intimate, relaxed family portrait experience without distractions.

4. Celebrate Every Season
Winter offers its own beauty, and including it in your yearly photo tradition ensures you’re capturing all the special moments throughout the year. Plus there are so many fun activities you can include in winter family pictures!

Final Thoughts
Cold weather doesn’t mean we stop having fun outdoors—let’s get creative with your winter family portraits in Rochester! We’re ready if you are. Reach out today to schedule your family portrait session and let’s create something magical together!

Find more Fairport family portraits on the blog!