With summer in full swing and the holidays just around the corner, now is the perfect time to capture some beautiful photos of your child - whether you’re playing in the garden, enjoying your local park, or heading off on a family adventure.


Kids grow so fast, and by next summer, they’ll already be a whole year older. That’s why it’s worth taking the time to document these precious moments now - so you can look back on the joy of summer 2025 with a full heart and a camera roll full of memories.


But if you’ve ever looked back at your photos and felt they didn’t quite capture the magic you saw in the moment - or if they all seem to look the same - you’re not alone. As a professional family photographer (and a mum!), I’ve photographed children of all ages in every kind of summer setting, and I’d love to share some simple, practical tips to help you take more meaningful, natural photos - whether you're using a phone or a camera.


Look for shade


Bright midday sun can create harsh shadows and make your child squint - not ideal for portraits. Instead, head into the shade of a tree, a building, or under a parasol. Soft, even light makes for far more flattering photos and helps capture the little details, like their expression or the twinkle in their eye.


Go out in the evening


Golden hour - around one to two hours before sunset - is hands down my favourite time to take outdoor photos. The light is soft, warm, and magical. It adds a dreamy glow you just can’t get during the day. It’s also the perfect time for creative silhouette shots if you're in an open space with the sun setting behind.


Now, I know what you’re thinking: that’s bedtime! And it’s true - but don’t rule it out just yet. With a well-timed afternoon nap, an early dinner, and some snacks in your bag, your little one might just surprise you. Letting them stay up a little later for one evening of golden light, laughter, and play can result in photos you’ll treasure forever. And chances are, they’ll fall asleep on the way home - bonus!


P.S. If this sounds like your kind of thing, I’m offering special golden hour family sessions in South London this summer. They're relaxed, fun, and incredible value. [Click here for details.]

A toddler in white sits among tall dried grass during golden hour backlit by natural sunlight.
Silhouettes of children sitting on a rocky beach at sunset with mountains visible in the distance.
Two children in white shirts stand together posing outdoors in a grassy field with trees in the background.
Two silhouetted children stand on rocky beach at sunset with mountains in background and moody pink sky.

Make it fun


Forget asking them to “say cheese.” The best photos happen in between the poses - when they’re playing, laughing, or deep in concentration. Run around with them, play a silly game, or let them take the lead. The more fun they’re having, the more natural and joyful your photos will be.


Play with angles


If most of your photos are taken from the same height with your child facing the camera, it’s time to mix it up. Try getting down to their eye level for more intimate shots, shooting from above to show scale, or even crouching low or underneath them. A little variety goes a long way in creating more dynamic, interesting images and it will make your holiday photo albums look fantastic.

A child gazing upward against dark background with dramatic lighting effect.
A boy looks down through a circular opening shows a blue sky with white puffy clouds beyond a wooden frame.
A small child in a blue shirt stands on sandy beach holding a yellow spade on a bright sunny day.
Three children sit together on an orange blanket in tall grass while reading and writing in journals outdoors.

Get close


Don’t be afraid to zoom in - physically, not digitally! Focus on the little things: tiny fingers clutching a toy, sandy toes, messy ice cream faces. Those close-up details tell a story and add depth to your summer photo collection.


Pick your moments


There’s no point trying to take lovely photos when your child is hungry, tired, or having a meltdown (we’ve all been there!). If the vibe’s off, just wait. A happier moment will come - and when it does, you’ll get much better results with far less stress.


Let them splash!


Water play is always a winner in summer. Whether it’s a paddling pool in the garden, a splash pad at the park, or a day at the beach, water adds movement and excitement to your images. Try shooting with the sun behind the water for extra sparkle - it really brings those droplets to life.


Don't forget the bubbles


Bubbles are a simple trick that never fails. They bring instant smiles, and they’re easy to carry wherever you go. Bonus: bubbles also look beautiful in photos, especially when they catch the light.

A joyful young child plays with a water hose on a hot summer day, spraying water in the backyard.

See how the water really becomes visible when you take photos against the sun?

a father and his children splash and play in a swimming pool on a sunny day, creating dramatic water sprays and ripples.

Want the whole family in the frame?


As much as I hope these tips help you capture some lovely photos of your child, one thing that’s hard to DIY is a great photo of the whole family. Self-timers can be tricky with little ones, and selfies only go so far (and usually include at least one blurry arm!).


This is where hiring a professional family photographer can really make a difference. I'm a London-based family photographer and my sessions are relaxed, child-led, and designed to capture the love, laughter, and connection within your family. No stiff posing - just real moments and beautiful memories.


Whether you'd like a golden hour session outdoors or a cosy shoot at home, I’d love to help you create some timeless photos of your family this summer. I'm currently running a special offer for my sunset sessions in South London, click here to find out all the details and to book - or get in touch to enquire about a different type of session.


Have a wonderful summer - full of sunshine, laughter, and sweet moments with your little ones. And if you'd like me to help capture them, just get in touch.


Pauliina is a London-based lifestyle family & newborn photographer and a mum to two boys. Find out more at https://www.prootsphotography.co.uk/ or follow @prootsphotography on Instagram.