My favourite locations for family photography
There are lots of beautiful spots around Suffolk that lend themselves perfectly to the backdrop of your family photographs.
There are a few things to take in to consideration when planning the perfect location for your session depending on the kind of photos you are looking for.
The look and feel of different locations tend to change through the seasons and different times of day too, which is always good to bear in mind.
It’s worth thinking about, as a family, where you love to go, and what do you love to do. If you are outdoorsy and always out exploring, building dens in your local woodland or building sandcastles on the beach, then these are pretty good starting points. If however you are happier at home in your own space, then this might be better for you, snuggled on the sofa reading books, playing games or even some baking.
Maybe you walk the dog through the local fields, or you live near some winding country lanes, these places are great, and tend to be much quieter than big parks and popular locations.
I always want you to feel as comfortable as possible during your session and find its always helpful if we use a location you and your family are familiar with, especially if you have little ones.
We will always have a chat about the best location for your session during the booking process, and make sure its right for you, your family, and the images you’re looking for.
Below are my five favourite Suffolk locations to use at any time of year, in no particular order (apart from the first one!):
1. Southwold:
It will probably come as no surprise to those of you who know me, that this place is one of my favourite spots! I think it is just so versatile, with sandy dunes, colourful beach huts, quiet lanes, and open meadows there are plenty of options even on those busy summer days.
2. Nowton Park:
A beautiful park on the edge of Bury St Edmunds. With plenty of space for little ones to run and be free, and lots of shade from the tall trees on those bright sunny days too. This one is a popular spot for many families who visit regularly. Plenty of parking, and there is a cafe and park too, which *might* occasionally be used a leverage during some sessions, the promise of a play on the swings or an ice cream tends to focus the mind of a toddler!
3. Walberswick:
Although Walberswick is right next to Southwold, it has quite a different feel to it. It’s black wooden huts, wonky old fences, and grassy dunes lend themselves to wild and stormy weather just as much as a bright sunny day. The long beach leads right along to Dunwich and beyond, and always makes for a beautiful simple background to your image.
4. Landgard Point Nature Reserve:
I tend to find the main prom along Felixstowe’s seafront can get quite busy, and I personally prefer a much quieter location. This nature reserve is tucked away near the docks, with a vast shoreline, and some interesting areas to explore. A wooden board walk, an old pier, some paths over higher ground, and the old fort too.
5. Gallowsfield wood:
A small quiet woodland on the outskirts of Stowmarket, with some lovely paths to explore, trees to climb and a small hill to run up and down if you fancy. There are some lovely open spaces, and the odd wooden fence to sit on too.
These are just a few of my favourite go-to locations that I regularly use for family sessions throughout the year. I do however have many more suggestions depending on the kind of photos you are looking for.
Feel free to drop me a message if you’d like us to start planing your session.