You’ve heard it said before: “location, location, location!” This couldn’t ring more true when planning your family photoshoot, because the location of your shoot literally “sets the scene” for your photos.

Right now, you may have a sentimental location in mind for your photoshoot, or you may feel completely clueless about where to go! Whatever the case, I want to make the decision-making process as simple and straightforward as possible by taking you through a few of my favourite locations for family photoshoots in Brisbane and the surrounding areas. 

5 important things you need to consider before choosing your photoshoot location

1. Does the location reflect your family and your unique personalities?

2. Would you feel comfortable and at ease at this location?

3. Is the location accessible for you and your loved ones?

4. Do you like to visit places like this in your spare time? Does this matter to you?

5. What will your family wear for the photoshoot? Will the background of the location complement the outfits you have in mind?

Keep these questions in mind as you browse through the locations, as they will help you decide where you should shoot. 

Brisbane and surrounds family photoshoot locations

Farms and fields

Sunday Farmhouse, Ipswich QLD

Sunday Farmhouse is a gorgeous venue with a little rustic farmhouse and abundant Australian native gardens. The location is private, dog friendly, and has plenty of space for the kids to run around – a must for a family photoshoot! 

Ormeau Field, Ormeau QLD

This open, golden-lit field boasts fields of lush greenery and hilltop views, making it a great location for your next family photoshoot. The fields are easily accessible from the highway, making it a good option for those living on the Gold Coast or South Brisbane. 

Bushland and forests

Glasshouse Mountains Forestry, QLD

This is an iconic Queensland location, listed on the Queensland and National Heritage Register as a place of national significance. This location boasts many great locations for your family shoot with walking tracks that lead through a variety of open forests to lookouts with panoramic views of the mountains. 

Boyce Gardens, Toowoomba, QLD

A skip, hop, and jump from Brisbane lies Toowoomba’s Boyce Gardens. This is the perfect location for your session if you’re a Toowoomba local. Boyce Gardens have an array of beautiful areas to take photos in, making it a great option for your family photoshoot if you live near Toowoomba. There’s a breathtaking rainforest along the northeastern corner. A pine forest runs along the eastern side, complete with an avocado orchard and various Australian flowers. The southern side boasts rose gardens, native orchids, camellias, and well-manicured lawns. 

Parks

Minnippi Parklands, Carina, QLD

Minnippi Parklands are made up of lush hectares of meadowland and feature a rare surviving ancient lagoons from pre-settlement days, making it a unique location for your family photoshoot. This location is also dog friendly, so you can include your furry friend in the fun! 

New Farm Park, New Farm, QLD

New Farm Park is a popular photoshoot location, and it’s easy to see why. With its large open spaces, beautiful rose gardens, and iconic river views, it’s an ideal location for a family photoshoot. The park also borders Brisbane Powerhouse with its exposed brick walls, making for an interesting location for part of your photoshoot. 

Water and ocean 

The Redlands

The Redlands boasts plenty of lovely spots to capture your family. Discover tiny red sand beaches with stunning island views. This is a great place for the kids to run around (and get a little bit wet in the process!), making for joy-filled family photos.  

Gold Creek Reservoir, Brookfield 

Make the most of this beautiful nature reserve without driving hours to get out of the city. Gold Creek Reservoir boasts plenty of options for your family photos with a peaceful creek and nearby forests. 

City and urban

Rooftop Carpark Fortitude Valley 

The McWhirters Carpark in Fortitude Valley is an iconic location, with 365-degree views of the surrounding city. If capturing the city in the background of your photos is important to you, this is the location for you. 

Brisbane Powerhouse

Bordering New Farm Park and the Brisbane River, Brisbane Powerhouse is a unique venue with lots of spots to capture your family photos. If you’re after something a little more “arty” and city-like while still having access to greenery for photos in nature, this is the spot for you.

Your own home

There’s no place like home! If you want to take photos in the environment where you feel the most comfortable, choose your home. This is a great option for parents of newborns, who want to capture special moments of their first few months as a family without having to travel far for a shoot. 

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There you have it, a roundup of some of my favourite places to take family photos across Brisbane and the surrounding areas. Want the full list of locations (including top-secret spots I only reserve for my clients!)? Grab my Photography Location Guide.