If you’re thinking about family photos in Philadelphia, you’ll almost definitely be pondering where exactly to do your portraits. The city has such a great variety of locations to choose from, all unique and with their own special characteristics. I’ve been a family photographer in Philadelphia for many years and have compiled a list of my favorite location for family photos in Philadelphia.
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Here’s what I want you to think about first: what is important to your family? Is there a spot that you enjoy going for ice cream? What about a park that you spend weekends at? Do you have a kitchen that is perfect for a sink bath? I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again; you don’t need a grand, sweeping landscape for your portraits if that’s not something that’s important to you. I’d much rather my families choose a location that is special to them if that’s their preference!
What to consider when choosing a spot for family photos in Philadelphia
There’s a few things I encourage my families to think about as they are deciding on their location for family photos in Philadelphia. If you’re a parent with a newly potty trained toddler, you’ll feel me when I say this: have a location lined up with a bathroom nearby. If you’re doing your session towards the middle of the day, you’ll want a spot with lots of trees for nice open shade, or even an indoor location. If you’re not flexible on dates for your family photos in Philadelphia, choose a backup location.
Your Home
I said it – your home is a great option for your family portraits! Bathrooms nearby, snacks on standby, and no need to worry about the weather or the light outside. It’s really sweet to have the family curled up on the bed or couch, and is a great visual memory if you’re moving in the near future. I encourage my families to have an activity planned for in-home family sessions, from a sink bath to bubbles to playing a favorite game.
Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square is a great option if you’re looking for a spot with lots of open shade; those big trees that surround the park make it the perfect spot for a mid morning family session. There are lots of interesting visual elements, like the fountain in the middle of the park and the stone railings and steps. Some of my families bring chalk or a ball as an activity to play with their children during the session.
Fishtown
Looking for something a little more colorful and urban? Fishtown is a great option. From neat murals to the El, and a variety of textures in the buildings, it provides a lot of visual interest in your portraits. I suggest that families that choose Fishtown as a location for their family portraits plan for an early morning start time when traffic is minimal and there aren’t so many cars out and about. Pro tip: schedule your portraits for a day that’s not trash day!
Fitler Square
Rittenhouse Square’s little sister? Maybe! But Fitler Square is just as beautiful as the park right up the street. If you’re looking for a location for family photos in Philadelphia that isn’t super busy, Fitler Square is a great option. I also love it because it allows for portraits on the cobblestone lined streets right off of the park; and if you time it right, several of them have blooming trees!
Philadelphia Museum of Art
Another one of my favorites for family photos in Philadelphia! There have been lots of changes to this area over the years so do a drive by before your session to ensure there aren’t any tents up or events going on. Not only do you have a great view of a Philadelphia landmark, but you can get a great view of the city, and maybe catch some blooming trees during the right time of year. The gazebo can provide shade on a sunny day, and I love the steps for snuggling up as a family.
The 5 Best Locations for Family Photos in Philadelphia
If you’re looking for family photos in Philadelphia, I’d love to chat with you about your vision!
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Awarded “Best Main Line Maternity Photographer” & “Best Main Line Newborn Photographer” by Main Line Parent
Veronika Paluch is an award-winning and highly sought after maternity, newborn, baby, and family photographer offering luxury, organic fine art portraits and an impeccable client experience. She specializes in documenting authentic connections and simple moments of children & families and the quiet beauty of motherhood. Stripping away all of the extras – the costumes, the props, the rigid posing – leaves room for her to capture classic, timeless images that showcase love & family connection.
Veronika serves clients in her beautiful natural light studio, as well as on location throughout the Greater Philadelphia area including the Main Line, Wayne, Plymouth Meeting, King of Prussia, Devon, Malvern, Paoli, Exton, West Chester, Swarthmore, Media, South Jersey, and Northern Delaware.
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