Family Photography Dublin: Everything You Need to Know Before Booking
If you've been thinking, "We really should book family photos," but haven't quite gotten around to it yet, you're definitely not alone.
For most families, it's not about not wanting the photos—it's finding the time, choosing the right photographer, worrying about the kids behaving, and wondering if it's actually worth the investment.
As an award winning family photographer in Dublin, I've photographed hundreds of families, and I can promise you one thing: the families who are most nervous beforehand are often the ones who end up loving their session the most.
Here's everything you need to know before booking a family photography session in Dublin.
Why Book a Family Photography Session?
Children change so quickly.
One day they're asking to be carried, and the next they're too cool to hold your hand.
Professional family photographs become more valuable every year. They're not just pictures—they're a record of your family's story.
Years from now, your children won't care if everyone's hair was perfect.
They'll remember how it felt to laugh together.
What Makes a Great Family Photographer?
When choosing a family photographer in Dublin, don't just look at beautiful images.
Ask yourself:
Do the children look relaxed?
Is everyone smiling naturally?
Can you imagine your own family feeling comfortable there?
Does the photographer's style suit your family?
My approach is completely relaxed.
There's very little standing and smiling at the camera.
Instead we play games, go for little walks, cuddle, race, explore and chat.
That's when genuine smiles happen.
The Best Locations for Family Photos in Dublin
One of the questions I'm asked most is:
"Where should we have our family photos?"
Luckily Dublin has some incredible locations.
Some of my favourites include:
Bull Island for beautiful beaches and dunes
Phoenix Park for open spaces and woodland
Malahide Beach for relaxed coastal sessions
St Anne's Park for greenery all year round
Howth for dramatic scenery
Newbridge House for a mixture of gardens and parkland
The best location is usually somewhere your family can simply enjoy being together.
What Should We Wear?
This is probably the biggest worry after the children!
My advice is always simple:
Choose clothes that feel like you.
Neutral colours, earthy tones and soft textures photograph beautifully.
Try to avoid:
Large logos
Neon colours
Matching outfits
Busy patterns
You don't need to dress formally.
Comfort almost always photographs better.
What If My Child Won't Cooperate?
Honestly?
This is probably the number one question parents ask me.
The answer is…
They don't need to.
Children don't have to sit still.
They don't have to smile on command.
In fact, I don't expect them to.
Some of my favourite photographs happen when children are running, exploring, cuddling Mum, climbing on Dad or simply being themselves.
The less pressure everyone feels, the better the photographs become.
What Happens During the Session?
Most family sessions last around an hour.
We take our time.
We'll capture:
The whole family together
Mum with the children
Dad with the children
Siblings together
Individual portraits
Lots of natural moments in between
There's no rush.
The session flows naturally around your family.
When Is the Best Time of Day?
Light makes an enormous difference.
For outdoor family photography in Dublin, the best times are usually:
Early morning
The hour before sunset (golden hour)
The softer light is flattering, comfortable for children and gives your photographs that warm, timeless feel.
What Happens If It Rains?
This is Ireland!
Weather changes constantly.
I keep a close eye on the forecast and only make a decision close to the session.
Many forecasts improve dramatically on the day, so I never cancel too early.
If the weather genuinely isn't suitable, we'll simply rearrange.
How Far in Advance Should We Book?
Summer evenings and autumn weekends tend to book several months ahead.
If you're hoping for photos:
before Christmas
during school holidays
for a special birthday
before children start school
it's worth getting in touch as early as possible.
What Will We Receive?
Every photographer is different.
For my family sessions you'll receive:
A relaxed one-hour outdoor session
Guidance before your shoot
A fully edited online gallery
A minimum of 40 high-resolution digital images
Full personal printing rights
There are no hidden image upgrades or extra download fees.
Why Families Choose Laura Conlon Photography
Parents often tell me afterwards that the session felt much easier than they expected.
That's exactly how I want it to feel.
No pressure.
No awkward posing.
Just genuine family connection.
If you're looking for natural family photography in Dublin that captures your family exactly as you are, I'd love to help create photographs you'll treasure for years to come.
Ready to Book Your Family Photography Session?
If you've been waiting for the "perfect" time, this is your reminder that there probably isn't one.
Your children are already growing.
The best time to capture this chapter is now.
I'd love to photograph your family in one of Dublin's beautiful outdoor locations and create images that feel authentic, relaxed and full of connection.
Get in touch today to check availability and let's plan a session that's all about your family.
