Outdoor Family Photography Orpington | Ashleigh Shea Photography

Summer Won't Wait — And Neither Should Your Family Photos

There's a particular kind of light that happens in summer — that warm, golden, late-evening glow that makes everything look like a memory even while you're still in it. It's my favourite light to shoot in, and it's one of the main reasons I love outdoor family photography so much.

If you've been thinking about getting some family photos taken, summer is genuinely the best time to do it. And I'd love for that to be with Ashleigh Shea Photography, out in the open air somewhere beautiful in Orpington or across the Bromley borough.

Why outdoor sessions work so well for families

Children are different outside. Any parent reading this already knows it — they run, they breathe, they exist more freely. The stiffness that sometimes comes with "right, we're having our photo taken" tends to dissolve the moment there's a bit of grass underfoot and some open space to move in.

That's where the real photos happen. Not the posed ones (though we'll get some of those too), but the running and the chasing and the giggling and the looking-the-wrong-way ones. Those are the photos that end up on walls.

Where do we shoot?

There are some genuinely beautiful spots for outdoor family photography in and around Orpington — from open parkland to woodland walks, spots with lovely natural backdrops that photograph beautifully whatever the summer weather brings.

When you book, we'll chat about locations that work for your family — whether you have toddlers who need flat ground, dogs who are coming along for the session, or teenagers who need somewhere they actually think looks cool. I've got options for all of the above.

What about the kids not cooperating?

Oh, they won't — at least not all of the time. And that's completely fine. In fifteen years of photographing families, I have never once had a session ruined by a grumpy toddler or a baby who wouldn't stop wriggling. What I have had is some brilliant, characterful photographs that show exactly who that child is at this age.

Don't stress about it. Bring snacks, wear comfortable shoes, and let me worry about the rest.

What to wear

You don't need matching outfits — in fact, I'd gently steer you away from anything too matchy-matchy. Co-ordinated tones work beautifully outdoors: think soft neutrals, denim, earthy greens, warm creams. Clothes that feel like you, in colours that work together without being identical. I'm always happy to advise before your session if you'd like a second opinion.

Summer sessions are booking now

The golden hour slots go first — late afternoon and early evening sessions in June, July and August fill up quickly. If summer outdoor family photography in Orpington is on your list this year, now is the time to get in touch.

Let's make something beautiful while the light is good.

Book your summer family session here