Family photos in Salzburg: where, when and what to wear

A family shoot shouldn’t feel like a job interview in front of a camera. The best family photos are the ones where you recognise yourselves: the way your kids climb on you, the way you laugh at each other. Here’s how to plan a shoot in and around Salzburg that feels like that, and not like a school photo day.

At home or outdoors, never in a studio

A studio can feel clinical. At home or out in nature you’re somewhere familiar, and that puts everyone at ease straight away. Newborn shoots in particular work beautifully at home: no travel, no stress, and the baby’s own space.

Outdoors around Salzburg, good options include:

• The park at Schloss Hellbrunn, with space for kids to run
• The paths along the Salzach, close to the old town
• Lakes like Wallersee or Fuschlsee, especially in the evening
• Meadows and alms in summer, for wide views and lots of room

Often the best place is simply one you love: your garden, your favourite walk, the playground you go to every week.

The best time of day

The softest light comes in the hour or two before sunset. But with small children, their routine beats the light. A happy, rested toddler in the midday sun gives you better photos than a tired one at golden hour. Plan around naps and meals first.

A session usually runs around 90 minutes, with breaks built in. Feeding, a nap or a snack isn’t a problem. Forcing a shot or a moment never works.

What to wear

• Coordinate, don’t match: Two or three colours that go together look better than identical outfits.
• Avoid big logos and neon: They pull attention away from faces.
• Comfort first: If the kids can’t move or play in it, they won’t enjoy it, and you’ll see it.
• Layers in autumn and spring: Salzburg evenings get cold quickly.

Toddlers who “won’t cooperate”

“Won’t cooperate” usually means we’re asking something of them they don’t want to do. So I look at what that is and find a different way to get the shot. Games, chasing, a bit of silliness. Most of the time, the moments in between are the ones you’ll love anyway.

Newborns and babies

There’s no perfect age. I’ve photographed babies at five days old and at five months or older. It depends on the kind of photos you want, and on when you feel ready.

Have a look at my family and newborn photography to see more.

If you’d like to plan a shoot for your family, tell me about your family