One of the questions I’m asked most often is, “Where should we take our family photos?” The truth is, there isn’t one perfect location. The best setting is the one that feels most like you.
Whether your family loves sandy toes at sunset, quiet walks beneath the trees, or the simplicity of a cozy studio session, Tampa Bay has so many beautiful places to tell your story. My hope is always to choose a location that complements your family without taking away from what matters most: your connection with one another.
Here are a few of my favorite places to photograph families throughout the Tampa Bay area.
Davis Islands
If you’re dreaming of a timeless location with plenty of variety, Davis Islands is one of my favorite recommendations. The palm lined streets, charming homes, waterfront views, and soft evening light create a beautiful backdrop that feels both elegant and relaxed. It’s especially lovely for families with little ones since there are so many places to wander, play, and simply enjoy being together.
Picnic Island
Picnic Island offers a little bit of everything. Open grassy areas, mature trees, waterfront views, and beautiful sunsets make it an incredibly versatile location for family sessions. It has a peaceful, natural feel that gives children plenty of room to explore while creating photographs that feel warm, joyful, and full of movement.
Cypress Point Park
Cypress Point is perfect for families who love the beach without wanting to travel too far. With soft sand, sea oats, driftwood, and beautiful views of the water, it creates a relaxed coastal backdrop while still feeling quiet and intimate. Golden hour here is especially beautiful, filling your images with soft light and warm tones.
Swann Circle
For families who love lush greenery and a neighborhood filled with character, Swann Circle is such a beautiful choice. The oak trees, winding sidewalks, and timeless architecture create an effortlessly classic setting that feels calm, welcoming, and full of charm. It’s one of those places where every season photographs beautifully.
MacDill 48 Park
MacDill 48 Park is one of my favorite hidden gems. With its lush greenery, towering trees, and peaceful lakefront, it has a more woodsy, tucked away feel that is so different from the typical Florida landscape. It feels quiet, natural, and full of beautiful light, making it a wonderful location for families looking for something relaxed and serene. It’s especially beautiful at sunset when everything is bathed in a soft golden glow.
St. Pete Beach
If you’re drawn to beautiful waterfront views, St. Pete Beach is such a fun and unique spot for a family session. With its open walkways, palm trees, sparkling water, and modern architecture, it offers a fresh, vibrant backdrop that feels distinctly St. Pete. It’s a wonderful choice for families who love an energetic atmosphere, scenic views, and a session that feels a little different from the traditional beach experience.
My Studio
Sometimes the most meaningful setting is the simplest one. Studio sessions remove distractions and allow the focus to remain completely on your family. They’re perfect for newborn sessions, milestone sessions, first birthdays, and families who love a clean, timeless aesthetic. The soft natural light and calm environment create space for genuine connection while offering the comfort of an indoor setting year round.
Choosing the Right Location
At the end of the day, the location is only one small part of your session. What truly brings your photographs to life is the way your family interacts with one another. The laughter, the quiet hugs, the little hands reaching for yours, and the moments in between are what you’ll treasure most years from now.
If you’re unsure which location feels like the best fit, don’t worry. I’ll help guide you through every step of the planning process. Together we’ll choose a setting that reflects your family, complements your style, and creates space for meaningful moments to unfold naturally.
No matter where your session takes place, my hope is always the same: to preserve this season of your life in a way that feels honest, heartfelt, and timeless.
