Family photo session in St Andrews Botanic Gardens

Late autumn is a tricky period for an outdoor family photo shoot, because - the weather. It's unpredictable, can be warm or chilly, can be rainy or sunny and absolutely opposite to what the weatherman said. This family wanted their photos in an outdoor space, but with an option to have some cover in case it starts to rain (which it did!), so Botanic Gardens seemed an ideal option with its glass houses. Trees also provide shelter from the wind, so it feels warmer too - good thing if your little one is not a friend of wind. St Andrews Botanic Gardens is not big, but very diverse with meadow, little pond, orchard area and forest area, plus lots and lots of very different plants and beautiful spots for playing, looking for treasure and running around.

My first and main suggestion for outdoor family photos is to do things and play games you usually do with your kids when outside. We discuss it while planning the shoot - how does your usual walk/outside time look like, what games you like to play, if you need to bring any toys. There is a plan for the shoot, its flexible and kids always have a leading role. Little Nicholas here set the pace with running and playing ball, jumping on tree logs, collecting sticks and rocks, and his favourite - being chased by daddy with follow up tickles. It was a relaxed and easy walk around the gardens, because he was always excited to run in a new place and see what's interesting to do there. When it started to drizzle, we moved to the glass houses and the play time went on. As result, we got beautiful photos with lots of emotions, fun moments, together moments, and lots of laughter. The only other thing I can suggest when doing family photos outside in fall and winter - bring change, and wear wellies!