Ideas for Summertime Family Documentary Sessions
20 Creative Ideas for Your Raleigh Family Photography Session
Family documentary photography is a unique and wonderful way to capture the essence of your family’s everyday life. Unlike traditional posed photography, documentary sessions focus on the genuine moments and interactions that make your family unique. These sessions are about telling a story—your story—through candid, unposed images that reflect the love, laughter, and sometimes chaos of family life.
Summer brings a mix of experiences—some families want to avoid the heat and prefer indoor activities, while others become even more adventurous. It's worth remembering that we only have truly 17 [maybe 18] summers to celebrate with our kids until they are too big to really enjoy it in the same way. Capturing these summer memories can be incredibly special for both you and them, preserving moments they will treasure forever.
Here are some ideas for family documentary sessions this summer that could work for any family and how they celebrate the warm season!
IDEAS FOR INDOOR FUN
1. Watermelon Cutting or Carving: Transform a summer favorite into a creative family activity. Capture the kids’ excitement as they scoop out the juicy flesh, and watch as their faces light up when they see the final carved creation. This activity is not only fun but also provides colorful and dynamic photo opportunities.
2. Fancy Mocktail Making: Set up a mini bar with a variety of juices, sparkling water, and fun garnishes. Let the kids mix their own fancy drinks, complete with umbrellas and fruit slices. The process of making and tasting their creations will be filled with laughter and delightful expressions, perfect for candid photography.
3. Nerf Wars: Turn your living room into a battlefield for an epic Nerf war. The action shots of kids dodging and laughing, combined with the strategic planning, will result in a lively and energetic photo series.
5. Dance Party: Put on your favorite tunes and have a dance-off. The spontaneous moves and joyful expressions will create a fun and dynamic series of photos that showcase your family’s personality.
6. Costume Contest: Encourage the kids to dress up in their favorite costumes and put on a show. Capture their imaginative play and the pride they feel in their costumes. This is a great way to document their creativity and the characters they love at this stage of their lives.
7. Living Room Fort Making: Build a cozy fort with blankets and pillows, then share some favorite snacks inside. The process of building the fort and enjoying snacks in their creation will offer a mix of playful and intimate moments.
8. Baking Together: Capture the process of baking cookies or a favorite family recipe. From measuring ingredients to the final taste test, these moments are filled with love and cooperation.
9. Reading Time: Capture the quiet, intimate moments of reading a favorite book together. These serene moments are a beautiful contrast to the more energetic activities.
10. Breakfast in Bed: Celebrate your family’s sweet morning routine. Cuddles and breakfast in bed can be some of the most special memories for you and your little ones.
IDEAS FOR BACKYARD FUN
11. Sprinklers: On a hot summer day, nothing beats the joy of running through sprinklers. Capture the pure delight on your children’s faces as they play in the water, creating refreshing and vibrant summer memories.
12. Paint Fight: Equip everyone with paint and white shirts for a colorful battle. The resulting mess and fun will make for incredibly vivid and joyful photos, showcasing the family’s playful side.
13. Planting a Garden: Document the process of planting and tending to a garden. From digging in the soil to watering the plants, these moments capture the care and patience of nurturing something together.
14. Sparklers: As the evening sets in, bring out the sparklers for some magical shots. The glowing lights and children’s amazed expressions create a warm and enchanting atmosphere.
IDEAS FOR FAMILY ADVENTURES
15. Beach Day: Spend a day at the beach, building sandcastles, splashing in the waves, and collecting shells. The beach offers a picturesque backdrop and a variety of activities to document. [This adventure requires an additional travel fee but could be 100% worth it if this is a special activity for your family!]
16. Hiking: Explore a local trail together. Capture the moments of discovery and wonder as your family encounters nature up close.
17. Farmers Market: Visit a local farmers market and capture the vibrant colors and bustling atmosphere. Document the kids’ excitement as they choose fresh produce or a special treat.
18. Picnic in the Park: Pack a picnic and head to your favorite park. Capture the relaxation and joy of spending time outdoors, enjoying good food and each other’s company.
19. Exploring Downtown: Take a stroll through your favorite main street, exploring new places and familiar favorites. Capture the candid moments of discovery and the interactions with your community.
20. Local Camping: Enjoy a camping trip featuring bonfires, fishing, or making s'mores by the fire. Capture the warmth and togetherness as your family shares stories, roasts marshmallows, and enjoys the great outdoors.
Whether indoors or outdoors, at home or on an adventure, these activities provide countless opportunities for creating lasting memories. By blending everyday routines with special summer activities, you’ll have a beautiful collection of images that truly reflect the love, joy, and connection within your family. This summer, embrace the spontaneity and fun of documentary sessions, and let your family’s story unfold naturally in front of the camera.
Hey I’m Amanda
Birth photographer and mama of 3 amazing kiddos! I am passionate about birth and documenting the powerful stories of new life and growing families. I would love to connect with you!.
