Capturing Memories: A Guide to Summer Family Portraits in Edmonton, Sherwood Park, and St. Albert

Summer is a great time for family portraits. With blooming plants, lush green spaces, and longer days filled with sunlight, summer is an ideal time for capturing memories with your loved ones. Below, we'll explore some advantages of taking family photos in the summer and provide practical tips to help you have a successful session.

Family of 4 sitting on the steps in fron of the Government House in Edmonton.

A nicely dressed couple embraces with a kiss on a park pathway.

A smiling family of four standing in the park for a photo.

Benefits of Family Portraits in Summer

Flowers in Bloom

Summer offers a spectacular array of flowers. Well-kept gardens bloom with a vibrant palette of colours. For example, places like the St. Albert Botanic Park feature countless flowers that can brighten your portraits.

Full and Vibrant Foliage

The full and rich green foliage of summer makes a stunning backdrop for family photos. The variety in shades of green adds depth to your images. A place like Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park offers diverse greenery that makes for an engaging scene.

Beautiful Nature

The stunning natural landscapes of summer provide unique backdrops for family portraits. Parks, gardens, and waterfront locations offer a variety of scenic views. Whether you choose a setting by Edmonton's North Saskatchewan River, like Terwillegar Park, or a lush garden area like the University of Alberta Botanic Garden, you can create beautiful family photos in a natural setting.

Long Warm Summer Evenings

Summer evenings are the perfect time to capture a family portrait. The golden hour, when the sun sets and casts a warm glow, is the ideal time for lighting and makes for a relaxed and casual evening photo session.

Family Gatherings

Summer often brings families together for reunions, wedding anniversaries and other family celebrations. These events offer a prime opportunity to capture extended family portraits. Scheduling a photo session during family events ensures that everyone can join in, creating a family memory that can be enjoyed for years to come.

Considerations for a Family Portrait in the Summer

Weather

While summer is generally warm, prepare for unexpected weather changes. High temperatures can be intense, so consider packing water and light refreshments. Encouraging family members to wear comfortable, breathable fabrics can enhance everyone’s experience during the session.

Time

To capture the best lighting, plan your photo session in the evening when the sun is lower in the sky. Scheduling your photos during this time can help you make the most of the natural light, however if you have small children you may want to consider a morning session when the sun is still a bit lower and you children are rested.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes can become a nuisance in the summer months. To ensure a comfortable session, bring insect repellent to keep pesky bugs at bay. This small step can significantly improve everyone’s experience, allowing the photographer to focus on capturing your family’s beautiful moments.

Coordinating Family Members

Summer schedules can be busy since many families travel. Plan ahead for when all family members involved will be in town. On the other hand, with various family events occurring over the summer, such as anniversaries or reunions, and with people taking time off work, it may be easier to align schedules for a group portrait.

Summer Photo Locations in Sherwood Park, St. Albert, and Edmonton

If you're looking for the perfect spot for your family portrait session in the Edmonton area, consider these popular summer locations:

Sherwood Park Locations

• Centennial Park: This park offers beautiful greenery and wide-open spaces for both posed and candid shots.

• Festival Place: The surrounding gardens provide a stunning choice for colorful family photographs.

St. Albert Locations

• St. Albert Botanic Park: A breathtaking venue that provides a colorful backdrop for portraits.

• Lion’s Park: Known for family-friendly spaces and neat landscapes, it’s perfect for family photo sessions.

Edmonton Locations

• Edmonton River Valley: Famous for its spectacular views, this area features various landscapes perfect for stunning portraits.

• University of Alberta Botanic Garden: Home to lush greenery throughout the summer, it’s an excellent choice for photos.

• Hawrelak Park: With a calm lake and lovely trees, this spot allows for a range of picturesque family moments.

A smiling family of four with two granparents pose by a fence in the park.

A smiling family of four poses in the long grass in the summertime.

Final Thoughts

Summer is a season that brings families together, creating cherished memories worth capturing by a professional photographer. Well-planned family portraits celebrate these moments against a backdrop of natural beauty. By understanding the benefits and planning ahead, you can create stunning images that reflect your family’s unique bond.

So take advantage of the warm weather; gather your loved ones, and start your journey to create beautiful family portraits that will be treasured for years!