family

Tips for Family Photos in Boston

June 24, 2025

As a Boston photographer and mom of three myself, I LOVE when I get to shoot family sessions! Getting to know you and your sweet family is so much fun for me. And since taking pictures isn’t something you get to do every day, I wanted to share my best tips for family photos in Boston and throughout New England. 

Tips for Family Photos in Boston

When planning a photoshoot in the Boston area, there are some specific regional things to take into consideration, in addition to the general family photo tips I’ll share below. 

Understand the Elements 

Most notably, understand how the weather will play into your session! We’re fortunate to have lots of scenic locations around Boston, but the weather can definitely be a factor. 

Spring in particular can be really hard to predict in Boston – which tends to be a popular time for family pictures. 

I always suggest embracing the elements, though, because it can add more emotion to your session. 

For this family’s session, we wanted to wait for there to be some greenery and tree flowering, which isn’t until mid or late April in Boston. Even late April can be a toss-up weather-wise, but we happened to get a beautiful sunny day for their shoot. 

Choose a Location Significant to You 

This can apply no matter where you live, but I often find that my families who are based in or around Boston have a particular neighborhood that is significant to them in some way. So planning the shoot around a location with meaning makes it even more special! 

This family is moving, so they opted to take photos with their new little one around their neighborhood before they leave. We were able to get some great shots along the streets that they’ve walked for years, and the classic Boston brownstones made the perfect backdrop! 

[Related: Family Photos in Beacon Hill]

General Family Photo Shoot Tips

Here are some helpful things to know for your family session: 

Choosing Outfits 

Everyone always wonders what to wear for photoshoots, and my answer is, choose outfits that make you feel like yourselves! For instance, if you’re a super casual family, don’t feel pressured to dress up formally. 

I also always suggest choosing outfits that fit the setting. A stroll through Boston’s Back Bay warrants some cute, dressy-casual outfits like this family chose, whereas a session on the beach would go better with more relaxed outfits. 

Lastly, don’t feel like you need to match completely, but it does elevate the overall look and feel of your images if your outfits are cohesive and complement each other!  

It’s Okay if Babies and Kids Don’t Always Cooperate! 

Your kids will ultimately be running the show. Remember, that’s why we’re capturing family photos in the first place – to document your family! We will embrace their energy throughout the shoot, which leads to authentic photos that you’ll always treasure. 

I’m also able to guide your family through any challenging moments, so don’t stress about this aspect! 

[Looking for more family photo advice? Check out this post]

Family Photos in Boston 

I loved taking these family photos – we had so much fun wandering their neighborhood in Boston. You can get an idea for the authentic and heartfelt feel of my sessions through this gallery: 

Boston Family Photographer 

Ready to schedule your own photo session for your family? I’d love to hear from you! Get in touch through my inquiry form, and we’ll start planning!

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BEHIND THE LENS

ABOUT kelly

At home near the sea. Ever-focused on finding beauty in intimate or grand moments; found in the love stories that leave me breathless and in awe. 

Kelly  deeply values connection by being intentional in knowing her couples and their love stories. Through her organic and natural photography style, she creates timeless images that allow you to relive your moments and remember how you felt. Kelly began her professional career in 2015 and has since been delivering skillfully crafted images and an elevated experience for every couple she works with. She will help you feel natural and relaxed in front of the camera by knowing when to give guidance and when to let the moments naturally evolve, focusing on your unique and unforgettable celebration from start to finish. Based in Boston, she would love to document your authentic love throughout New England and beyond.

©Kelly Stevens Photography 2025