We’re spoiled for choices in South East Queensland for photos.

Want a beach? No problem, family photography session on the beach at sunset or sunrise make the dreamiest photos. Head up to the Sunshine Coast and you have waves and tide pools for exploring. Closer to the city the calmer waters of Moreton Bay around Brighton and Redcliffe make a stunning backdrop.

Prefer a greener locale? Where to even start: local parks, Glasshouse Mountains, bush or open fields; greater Brisbane has it all. There is honestly no shortage of gorgeous backdrops to capture your family for your next family photo shoot.

So, you may be asking yourself, why pick an urban spot? After spending the afternoon with this fun family in South Brisbane, the city photo shoot has stolen my heart. Let’s look at a few reasons why this may just be where you want to head for your next session.

#1 Variety is the Spice of Life

Honestly just walk down a street and you are presented with a variety of backdrops and architecture details to make your photos pop. Depending on what you like there is street art, texture, colour and movement that add a new dimension to your photos. When you get a gallery of images from an urban photo shoot you’ll be presented with a range of scenes that tell your family story.

family of four sitting on sidewalk one daughter in mother’s lap

family photo standing below huge street art mural in city

mother and father sitting back to back against a brick wall with a daughter in each lap

#2 It’s Always Go Time

With the added height of buildings and nooks between doorways to explore you’re not restricted to golden hour for your shoot. So if finding time before sunset is hard for your family, a city shoot can provide more flexibility.

family sitting against painted wall in city laneway young girl looking at camera

#3 It Feels Like an Adventure

Maybe your kids are at the age when “family photos” sounds like a form of torture; so suggesting an afternoon in the city can be a lot easier to get everyone on board. There are so many fun places in Brisbane. We can explore a new spot or a family favourite.

#4 Limitless Wardrobe Choices

The diverse atmosphere of the city opens up the wardrobe choices to be a little (or a lot) more creative. While I do still recommend that you coordinate the family so it feels cohesive, the bright colours of the city allow for more choice. A bright dress could feel busy in an open field, but an urban shoot is asking for some personality to shine through your attire. Ultimately, family photos are about reflecting your family story and your clothes are another facet.

Mother, three daughters and father jumping off sidewalk with painted street art behind

#5 It’s Basically a Playground for the Active Kids

So this could apply to lots of locations, but the beauty of the urban scene is there are things to climb, people to watch and places to go. When the kids started to get restless (and all kids do at some point) we just continued our walk down the laneway. The new sights and space kept the kids entertained and a happy kid is one more willing to take the pictures.

girl jumping with laneway art in background

girl walking in city reflection in window of buildings

young girl holding onto red and white bar looking off in distance

mother and daughter sitting on ground father holding younger daughter upside down with mother and daughter touching hands to heads

#6 Time for the Adults

Leading on from the urban playground point, when the kids are happy and engaged, there’s time for the adults to take a moment together. Family Photos are all about the family and preserving memories. Don’t forget that you two started this family, that deserves some love and frame-able images too.

Couple laughing on city bench man looking at camera

#7 Public Transport

#8 Or Street Parking

Your choice, Brisbane is a really accesible city for getting around via trains and buses. Or if you plan your shoot in the city for an off peak time like a Sunday afternoon, street parking should be easy to find.

#9 Did Somebody Say Dinner?

When it’s all said and done we still need to feed those kiddos. Luckily the city is not short for food options and depending on your family vibe, you can plan to end the session at your favourite restaurant or play it by ear and find a hidden gem in the city. Make your family photo shoot a whole day out with lunch or dinner after, you’re already dressed for it after all.

black and white image of four children at dinner in restaurant

#10 It’s as Awesome as You

Ok, if I haven’t sold you on an urban family photo shoot yet…well here’s some more images that speak to how fabulous it can be. Ultimately, the location you choose should be about your family. I’m here to tell your story in whatever setting speaks to you.