Adventure Photography: A New Frontier in Family Photography

About few years ago, I started asking my client-families if they'd be willing to try something different. What if we went to a beautiful outdoor location and just let your kids be kids instead trying to force them to pose for an hour? What if, instead of begging them to "cheese" at the camera, we captured genuine bursts of laughter, wonder, curiosity, and joy between members of your family?

How do we plan an adventure session?

After you reach out to book your adventure session, I will work with you to choose a scenic location with opportunities to explore; I have locations featuring desertscape, creeks, red rocks, forests, valleys, and more. I'll provide you with a Session Guide with details on how to prepare for your session, including what to bring (snacks! water!) and what to wear (comfortable clothes that move easily in neutral and natural colors). I will answer all of your questions so that you feel prepared and excited for our time together.

What will we do at an adventure session?

When we meet at your location, I will gently direct your family so that you can enjoy each other and the space while I work to capture beautiful, flattering, well-composed images. Kiddos tend to make these sessions so easy and enjoyable: it is their nature to explore nature, and it is rarely long before they've found stones to pile, berries to pick, and water to splash in. While I will continually "set the stage" during your sessions, some of the most special stories that will emerge are the spontaneous ones!

Are all of your outdoor sessions adventure sessions?

Pretty much! All of my family sessions are based on capturing lifestyle and spontaneous/documentary imagery. I always capture a few posed (including smile-at-the-camera) portraits, but creating photos that are authentic AND flattering is always my primary goal.

That said, some "adventures" may be less challenging that others. We can meet in a park or field and still create an element of spontaneity. Some locations will require more walking/physical exertion than others, but I will go over those expectations by location in the process of choosing a space that works best for your family.

How to I book a Family Adventure Session?

Reach out! I can be contacted via the Contact page on my website or by DM on my Instagram page. I am more than happy to answer your questions and let you know my upcoming availability.

There is also more information about outdoor sessions on the Services page of my website.

Laura Waugh is a lifestyle and documentary family photographer based in Phoenix. She works with families throughout Arizona and is available for travel.