Best Locations for Family Mini Sessions in Dublin (2026 Guide)
If you’re thinking about booking a mini session, one of the biggest questions is:
“Where will it actually take place?”
And honestly, the location makes a huge difference.
With mini sessions, everything is shorter and more focused. Less time, less wandering, so the location needs to work straight away.
As a family photographer in Dublin, I’ve tested a lot of spots over the years, and some just work better than others, especially when you’ve got kids in the mix.
Here are my go-to locations for family mini sessions in Dublin and why they work so well.
Phoenix Park
This is probably my most used location for mini sessions, and for good reason.
Easy parking (Upper Glen car park is ideal)
Loads of open space for kids to move
Beautiful trees and soft light
Works all year round
It’s one of those places where everything just flows. No pressure, no rushing, and plenty of variety within a short distance.
Bull Island / Dollymount Beach
For that relaxed, barefoot, natural feel.
Soft light, especially in the evening
Space for kids to run
Beautiful neutral tones
This works really well for mini sessions because kids instantly relax here and my favourite place to photography Families.
Malahide Castle
A great mix of structure and nature.
Gorgeous tree avenues
Open green spaces
Easy for families to get to
This is especially popular for occasions like communions, but works beautifully for mini sessions too.
St Enda's Park
A bit more of a hidden gem.
Quiet and less busy
Natural, slightly wild feel
Beautiful soft greenery
If you want something a little less obvious than the big parks, this is a lovely option.
How I Choose the Location for Mini Sessions
With mini sessions, I always choose:
Somewhere easy to access
Close parking
Good light at a specific time
Enough variety within a small area
Because the whole point is to keep things quick, relaxed, and easy, especially for busy families.
Can You Choose Your Own Location?
For mini sessions, I usually set:
One location
One date
Back-to-back time slots
That’s what keeps them efficient and more affordable.
If you’d prefer more flexibility with location and timing, a full family session might be a better fit. Get in touch to hear more.
My Honest Advice
The best location isn’t always the most “Instagrammable” one.
It’s the one where:
Your kids can relax
You don’t feel rushed
The light works properly
That’s when you get the photos you actually love.
Booking Family Mini Sessions in Dublin
I run mini sessions (and Family Pic Days) a few times a year in carefully chosen locations around Dublin.
They’re short, simple, and perfect if you just want a handful of beautiful, natural photos without committing to a full session.
If you’d like to hear when the next ones are happening, you can join the list or get in touch.
