Take a minute and think about your most favourite things to do as a family. What makes you tick and gets your kids smiling from ear to ear?? Can you think of it?

Now, why not incorporate that into your next family photo session to be remembered for years to come?! In our family photography session, I want to tell the story of your family, as it is today. Families change with time- kids grow up and their hobbies and interests change. That’s what makes capturing your family journey at each stage along the way so special. Imagine always being able to look back on seasons of your family journey and passing those memories on to your kids and grandkids.

So, what does your family love to do? If you need some ideas or inspiration, I’ve listed 15 great family activities that could be easily incorporated into your next family photo session. Side bonus: including a fun activity in your photo session helps everyone feel at ease, lowers the stress level and doubles as a super fun and memorable day out. :)

Getting ice-cream

Nothing says family outing like a trip to the local ice creamery. Not only is ice cream colourful and delicious, it’s a chance to get some fun family photos and will be VERY easy to get even the fussiest teenager or busiest dad on board.

Going to the beach

Are your kids water babies? Do you run to the beach every chance you get? Let’s capture that love of all things sandy and salty with a photo session by the beach. Sandcastles, swimming or hunting for shells, the beach is the ultimate backdrop for a family day out.

Toasting marshmallows

There’s little more quintessential than the Aussie backyard and I always find that a good ol’ campfire is sure to foster some great family time. Whether we incorporate a family game of backyard cricket, or just snuggle up with a hot milo, toasting marshmallows is a simple and fun family favourite.

Hanging out in the pool

If your kids are part fish, then this could be the one for you. Slip, slop, slap and let’s splash our way to some great family memories.

Playing with the pets

When doing a family photo session, why should the furriest members miss out? Let’s head out to the local dog park or river and capture memories of that special bond between a family and their beloved pets.

Family games

This one can be done outdoors or even in your own living room. I love shooting families at home as it’s a great reminder of exactly how daily life was in that stage. It could be a card game, charades or a family monopoly battle, whatever suits your family and gets everyone involved.

Family Picnic

A picnic is great for families of all ages and sizes. It can be as simple as sandwiches at the park, or maybe something sweeter (any excuse for a donut, right?!) The kids will be able to run and stretch their legs as well as getting some great family time snuggled in on a picnic blanket.

On wheels

Do your kids love to ride their bikes or scoot around? Maybe you love heading out on a family bike ride on the weekend? Let’s bring the wheel and capture the family getting outdoors and active.

Bake up a storm

This one has a great side bonus: cookies! Gather in the kitchen and let’s make some mess… I mean magic! Keep it simple with toddler stirring and rolling, or let your older kids get creative. Baking is a fun way to get everyone involved. Add some music in the background and it usually results in a little boogie in the kitchen.

Day out at the River

The local river or creek is such a versatile place. The perfect backdrop for a picnic, a playdate with your four-legged family members, a swim or even a kayak. However your family like to enjoy the water, let’s make it a day that everyone will remember and capture the childhood fun that happens down at the local waterhole.

Favourite café

Does your family love to brunch? Or does somewhere near you make the absolute BEST babycino’s? If a wholesome, laid-back weekend vibe is what you’re after let’s go and have breakfast with a twist- preserving those Saturday morning tradition for the kids to look back on when they’re passing that special treat on to their own kids!

Gone Fishing

Are you a fishing family? Could you spend hours out on the water waiting for a bite? Why not capture that relaxing family bonding time with a photo session by the water.

Get back to nature

Set your kids free in the great outdoors and let’s head out on a family hike. Seasonal beauty awaits us year-round in Australia, so why not head out to your favourite bushwalk or parklands and get back to nature

Cake smash

Why should babies have all the fun?! A whole family cake smash is guaranteed to be a sweet, sticky mess of fun and laughter. So leave the forks at home and have a day out that will leave the family needing to literally wipe the smile of their faces!

Painting

This one isn’t for the fainthearted, but it is guaranteed to be lots of fun and look fantastic. Leave your Sunday best at home, grab a rainbow of coloured paints and let’s get creative. You may choose to paint a giant canvas outside, a wall in the house or even each other!

Whatever your family loves to do is the perfect activity to do on photo day. After all, this is your family. This is your legacy. Let’s not make family photos about total perfection. Let’s make them about happiness, togetherness, silliness and fun.

Fun activities to do at your next family photo session