How to Create the Perfect Family Photo Spot in Orlando!
Hey there, Orlando moms! 🌞 As a fellow mom who loves capturing memories, I know how important it is to have beautiful family photos. Whether it’s for holiday cards, birthday parties, or just because, finding the right spot can make all the difference. So, I’m here to share some tips on how to create the perfect family photo spot right here in our vibrant city, with a few personal stories about my kids—Lily, Emma, and Jimmy!
1. Choose a Beautiful Background
Orlando is full of stunning locations for photos. Think about your family’s style and what kind of vibe you want. For us, parks like Lake Eola have always been a favorite. The beautiful swan boats and the city skyline make for a perfect backdrop! I remember the time we took a family photo there with the kids chasing ducks in the background. The candid moments turned out to be some of our favorites!
2. Consider the Time of Day
Lighting is everything when it comes to photography. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best natural light. Last spring, we went to Harry P. Leu Gardens in the early evening. The golden hour created such a magical glow in our pictures. Emma twirled in her dress, and those soft rays made it look like we were in a fairy tale!
3. Add Personal Touches
Incorporate elements that represent your family. It could be something simple like a favorite blanket or a fun prop. One time, we took a picnic basket to Dr. Phillips Park for our family photo shoot. The kids loved it! We spread out the blanket, and as they started munching on snacks, I got some adorable candid shots of them laughing and enjoying the moment.
4. Utilize Local Murals
Orlando is bursting with colorful murals that make fantastic backdrops! I took the kids to the Milk District, and we found a giant mural of a vibrant butterfly. The kids had a blast posing in front of it, and it added a fun and artistic touch to our photos. Just keep an eye out for the local art scene; you might discover hidden gems around town!
5. Plan for Comfort
When you’re out taking pictures, make sure everyone is comfortable. Dress your kids in outfits they can move around in, and choose a spot where they can be themselves. For our last family photo session, I let Lily wear her favorite twirly dress, while Jimmy wore his superhero t-shirt. His excitement to show off his outfit led to some of the most genuine smiles!
6. Involve the Kids
Get your kids involved in the process! Let them pick a spot or suggest a pose. When we were at The Orlando Science Center, I asked the kids to strike a pose in front of their favorite exhibit. Their enthusiasm led to some fun, goofy pictures that truly captured their personalities!
7. Take Candid Shots
While posed photos are lovely, some of the best moments come from candid shots. I always have my camera ready to catch the kids being themselves. One afternoon at Cocoa Beach, I watched as Emma splashed in the waves while Lily built a sandcastle. Those unplanned moments often turn out to be my favorite photos!
8. Don’t Forget to Have Fun!
The most important tip is to have fun! If the kids are enjoying themselves, it’ll show in the photos. One day, we went to ICON Park for some rides and ended up taking spontaneous photos with the Ferris wheel in the background. The laughter and excitement made every picture magical!
9. Edit with Love
After you’ve captured those perfect moments, take some time to edit your photos. There are great apps like Lightroom and Snapseed that can help enhance your images without making them look overly processed. I love adding a warm filter to our photos to give them a cozy feel, especially when I’m printing them for our family album!
10. Print and Display
Once you have those gorgeous family photos, don’t forget to print them! Whether it’s a simple frame or a collage, displaying your family’s memories is a beautiful way to celebrate your time together. We created a photo wall in our living room, and every time I walk by, I’m reminded of all the adventures we’ve shared.
Creating the perfect family photo spot in Orlando is all about finding beautiful backdrops, capturing genuine moments, and enjoying the process together. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making cherished memories that will last a lifetime. So grab your camera and get out there—your next family adventure awaits!