DUNEDIN FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER
Family photography isn't about perfect smiles or getting children to sit still. It's about documenting connection, personality and the beautiful chaos that makes your family uniquely yours.
As a Dunedin family photographer, I create relaxed outdoor sessions where children are free to explore, play and simply be themselves.
These sessions are all about connection - no stiff posing, just natural moments captured in a relaxed and enjoyable way
Natural Outdoor Family Photography in Dunedin
There’s something special about photographing families outdoors — where children can move freely, explore, and simply be themselves. No stiff posing, no forced smiles, just real connection in beautiful natural light.
As a Dunedin family photographer, I specialise in relaxed outdoor family photography across Dunedin and Otago, creating space for genuine moments to unfold naturally. Whether it’s the way your little one reaches for your hand, the chaos of laughter as they run wild, or the quiet in-between moments you didn’t even realise were happening — these are the memories worth holding onto.
Outdoor sessions allow your family to feel comfortable and at ease, which is where the magic happens. We choose locations that suit your family’s energy and personality — from beaches and coastal landscapes to open fields and native bush settings around Dunedin.
How outdoor family photography works
Every session is relaxed and gently guided so nothing feels forced or overly posed.
Typically, your session will include:
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Simple prompts to encourage movement and natural interaction
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Time for children to explore and play freely
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A mix of candid moments and guided portraits
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Space for connection, movement, and real emotion
You don’t need to worry about your children “behaving” or sitting still. In fact, the best images often happen in the movement — the running, laughing, cuddling, and in-between moments that feel the most real.
My Approach to Family Photography
I believe the most meaningful family photographs aren't created by asking children to sit still and smile at the camera. They're found in the laughter, the cuddles, the curiosity, and the beautifully imperfect moments that make your family uniquely yours.
My approach to family photography is relaxed, child-led, and focused on genuine connection. Rather than placing your family in stiff poses, I gently guide you with simple prompts and activities that encourage natural interaction. This allows your children to play, explore, and be themselves while I document the moments unfolding around you.
Whether it's a toddler collecting shells on the beach, a child wrapped tightly in Mum's arms, or the way your family naturally gravitates together when nobody is paying attention to the camera, these are the memories that deserve to be preserved.
I know that many parents worry their children won't cooperate during a family photo session. The truth is, they don't need to. Some of the most treasured images come from the unexpected moments — the giggles, the movement, the little personalities shining through. My role is to create a relaxed environment where everyone feels comfortable, allowing authentic moments to take centre stage.
Every family is different, which is why no two sessions are ever the same. I take the time to get to know you, your children, and the connections that matter most, creating photographs that feel personal, meaningful, and true to this season of your life.
Above all, I want your session to feel less like a photoshoot and more like quality time spent together. The result is a collection of natural family photographs that capture not just what your family looked like, but what it felt like to be together in that moment.
What Happens During a Family Photo Session?
If you're worried about needing perfectly behaved children, knowing how to pose, or what to expect from your session, you're not alone. Most families tell me they feel a little nervous beforehand, but my goal is to make the experience as relaxed and enjoyable as possible.
From the moment we arrive, there's no pressure for anyone to perform. Instead, we'll take a walk, explore our location, chat, play, and create opportunities for natural moments to unfold. I'll gently guide you with prompts and activities while documenting the connection, laughter, and little details that make your family unique.
How long does a family photography session take?
Most family sessions last between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on the package you choose. This gives us plenty of time for children to warm up, explore their surroundings, and settle into the experience without feeling rushed.
Sessions move at your family's pace, allowing for snack breaks, cuddles, and those spontaneous moments that often become favourite photographs.
What if my children don't cooperate?
Honestly? That's completely normal, and it's something I expect.
Children don't need to sit still or smile at the camera for beautiful photographs to happen. Some of the most meaningful images come from children running, exploring, cuddling with Mum and Dad, or simply being themselves.
My sessions are designed around movement and connection rather than perfect behaviour. I follow your children's lead and use playful prompts that encourage genuine interaction, resulting in photographs that feel natural and authentic.
What happens if it rains?
Living in Dunedin means we need to be flexible with the weather.
If conditions aren't suitable for your session, we'll simply reschedule to another date at no additional cost. I always keep a close eye on the forecast leading up to your session and will be in touch if a change is needed.
Your comfort and the quality of your photographs are always more important than trying to push through challenging weather conditions.
What should we wear for family photos?
I recommend choosing outfits that feel comfortable, timeless, and reflect your family's style.
Neutral and earthy tones tend to photograph beautifully outdoors and help keep the focus on your connection rather than your clothing. Soft textures, layers, and coordinated colours work well, while large logos, bright neon colours, and busy patterns can be distracting in photographs.
Once your session is booked, you'll receive a detailed style guide with plenty of tips and inspiration to help you feel confident when choosing what to wear.
The most important thing is that everyone feels comfortable, relaxed, and able to move freely so we can capture genuine moments together.
Family Photography Investment
Family photographs become more valuable with every passing year. My sessions are designed to capture not only how your family looks right now, but the connection, personality, and moments you'll want to remember long after this season has passed.
To give you complete flexibility, session fees and image collections are purchased separately. This allows you to choose the session length that best suits your family and only purchase the images you truly love.
Session Fee
Choose the session length that best suits your family:
30 Minute Session — $100
Perfect for smaller families, milestone sessions, or those wanting a shorter experience.
1 Hour Session — $150
My most popular option, allowing plenty of time for children to settle in and for genuine moments to unfold naturally.
1.5 Hour Session — $250
Ideal for larger families, multiple generations, or those wanting a more relaxed pace and greater variety in their gallery.
Session fees cover your session time, planning, location guidance, professional editing, and the preparation of your online gallery. Images are purchased separately.
Image Collections
After your session, you'll receive a beautifully curated online gallery where you can select your favourite images.
Single Image — $20
5 Images — $80
10 Images — $150
20 Images — $250
Full Gallery Collections
For families who don't want to choose favourites, full gallery upgrades are available:
Full Gallery (30 Minute Session) — $300
Full Gallery (1 Hour & 1.5 Hour Sessions) — $450
What's Included
Every family session includes:
✓ Pre-session planning and support
✓ Location recommendations tailored to your family
✓ Access to my family session guide
✓ A relaxed, child-led photography experience
✓ Professional editing of your images
✓ A private online gallery for viewing and ordering
If you're unsure which option is right for you, I'd be happy to help you choose the session that best suits your family and the memories you'd like to preserve.
Best Family Photo Locations in Dunedin
One of the questions I'm asked most often is, "Where should we have our family photos taken?" The good news is that Dunedin is full of beautiful locations, each offering something a little different depending on your family's style and the kind of images you love.
When helping families choose a location, I consider more than just the scenery. Things like the age of your children, accessibility, weather conditions, and the overall feel you want from your photographs all play an important role.
Ocean View Beach
Ocean View Beach is one of my favourite locations for family photography. The wide open beach, rolling dunes, and soft evening light create a beautiful backdrop while giving children plenty of space to run, explore, and play.
This location is perfect for families wanting natural, relaxed photographs with a timeless coastal feel.
Tomahawk Beach
Tomahawk offers a wonderful combination of beach, dunes, and grassy areas, making it one of the most versatile family photography locations in Dunedin.
It's particularly beautiful at sunset, with plenty of space for children to move freely and families to enjoy the experience together.
Doctors Point
For families looking for something a little different, Doctors Point provides a stunning mix of coastal scenery, rock formations, and sheltered areas. The unique landscape creates beautiful variety within a single session and works especially well for adventurous families who love the outdoors.
Lovers Leap
Lovers Leap offers breathtaking coastal views and dramatic Otago Peninsula scenery. It's ideal for families wanting something a little more rugged and scenic, with sweeping ocean backdrops and a sense of adventure woven into every image.
Tunnel Beach
One of Dunedin's most iconic locations, Tunnel Beach is known for its spectacular cliffs, rock formations, and incredible coastal views. The dramatic landscape creates striking photographs while still allowing for genuine family connection to remain the focus.
Because of the walking involved, this location is often best suited to families with older children who are comfortable exploring.
Sandfly Bay
For families who love wild coastal landscapes, Sandfly Bay is hard to beat. The expansive beach, rolling dunes, and natural beauty create a stunning setting for relaxed family photographs. The ever-changing light and scenery make every session here unique.
Choosing the Right Location
If you're unsure which location is right for your family, don't worry. I'll help you choose a setting that suits your children, your style, and the overall look you want for your photographs.
Whether you envision barefoot beach adventures, windswept coastal views, or a relaxed evening exploring together, Dunedin offers no shortage of beautiful places to tell your family's story.
Family Photography FAQs
Can we include pets in our family photos?
Yes — absolutely! Pets are part of the family, and I love including them in sessions whenever possible. Whether it’s a dog running along the beach or quiet cuddles together, we’ll naturally incorporate them into your family story.
Do you offer sunrise or sunset family sessions?
Yes. Most sessions are scheduled around the best natural light, with sunset being the most popular option. Sunrise sessions are also available and can be a beautiful choice, especially in the warmer months or for families with early-rising children.
Do you help us with posing during the session?
Yes — but in a very natural, relaxed way. Instead of stiff posing, I guide you with simple prompts and interaction-based direction so you can focus on each other. The goal is always to create genuine connection, movement, and emotion rather than forced smiles.
Can we choose the location for our family session?
Yes, you can absolutely choose a location that feels meaningful to your family. Many families already have a favourite beach, park, or special place they love returning to, and I genuinely enjoy photographing families in locations that hold personal significance.
If you’re unsure, I’ll also suggest locations based on light, accessibility, the ages of your children, and the overall feel you’re drawn to. I love helping families choose spaces that feel relaxed, beautiful, and right for their story.
Do you travel outside of Dunedin for family sessions?
Yes — I regularly photograph families throughout Otago. Travel may be included or a small fee may apply depending on the location. This will always be confirmed clearly when you request to book.
How do image purchases work?
All images are purchased after you’ve viewed your full online gallery. This allows you to choose only the photographs you genuinely love once you’ve seen the complete story of your session. There’s no pressure to decide upfront, and many families take their time selecting favourites or upgrading to a full gallery once they’ve viewed everything.
Can we include extended family in our session?
Yes — extended family sessions are very welcome. Grandparents, cousins, and other important family members can absolutely be included.
When booking, I’ll help you choose the right session length and location so everyone feels comfortable and there’s enough time to capture natural groupings as well as individual family connections.
Christl
Thanks so much for these amazing photos you captured of us and the prompt delivery of them! We are stoked with them especially as it was only a 15 minute session with our energetic kids, you did so great capturing them and keeping them engaged!
Ready to Book?
The days may feel long at times, but the years pass quickly. The way your child reaches for your hand, the gap-toothed smiles, the endless curiosity, and the little routines that make up everyday life won't stay the same forever.
Family photography is about preserving this season exactly as it is — not perfectly posed, but beautifully real.
If you're ready to create meaningful photographs that capture your family's connection and personality, I'd love to hear from you.
Whether you already have a date in mind or simply have a few questions, get in touch and let's start planning a session that's uniquely yours.