Best Family Photography Locations in Melbourne

Top Spots for beautiful Outdoor & Beach Photoshoots

Wondering where to have a family photography session in Melbourne?

Whether you're after the best family photo locations in Melbourne or searching for outdoor family photoshoot locations that perfectly capture your vibe, there’s no shortage of stunning spots to explore.

Choosing the right spot for your family photos is just as important as choosing the right photographer (and let’s be honest, both can feel like a big decision!) The backdrop helps tell your story - whether that’s windswept beach cuddles, carefree adventures in nature, or a bit of city charm.

Luckily, Melbourne has no shortage of top spots for family photos to match your vibe. Here are some of my favourite spots for family photography in Melbourne - places that look amazing and also offer wide-open spaces (perfect for letting the kids run free!).

The Best Beach Spots for Family Photography

Melbourne's coastline offers plenty of picturesque beach locations perfect for family photography sessions. Below are some top spots that provide stunning backdrops for capturing memorable family moments.

These locations not only offer beautiful scenery but also provide diverse settings to suit various family photography styles.

01.Williamstown Esplanade

- Dramatic black rock formations along coastline
- Serene, less-crowded beaches with open skies
- Ideal for a family photo shoot with little explorers

If your family loves the salty breeze and ocean views, Williamstown Esplanade is a dream spot for photos. Think dramatic black rocks, open skies, and that perfect mix of rugged and serene. The rocky shoreline adds gorgeous texture, while the calm waters create dreamy reflections, especially at sunrise or sunset when everything is bathed in golden light. This is easily one of the best spots for family photos in Melbourne for those who want relaxed, natural moments with a coastal backdrop.

One of the best things? It’s usually pretty quiet, so you can relax and just enjoy the moment without dodging crowds. And the sea breeze? It adds that beautiful, windswept movement to hair and clothing (which looks amazing in photos—but if you’re not a fan of wind, maybe bring a hair tie or skip this location). The open space is perfect for kids and pets to run free, making for fun, natural shots full of real connection and joy.

02.Chelsea Beach

- Soft, wide-open sands complemented by gentle waves
- Dog-friendly environment during specific times
- Great spot for relaxed family photo shoots at the beach

If you’re after a laid-back, sun-kissed family photoshoot at the beach where the kids can run wild and the photos feel effortless, Chelsea Beach is a total winner. Soft sand, calm waters, and loads of open space make it perfect for little explorers who love splashing, digging, and collecting way too many shells.

This is one of the best family photo spots in Melbourne for playful splashes, sandy cuddles, or those quiet, windswept moments by the water. Whether it’s sunrise or sunset, the soft pastel hues of the sky create a dreamy backdrop that adds a touch of magic to every photo.

03. Half Moon Bay, Black Rock

-Unique red cliffs contrasting with golden sandy beaches
-Calm, deep blue waters suitable for young children
-Best for family photos at the beach with diverse backdrops

If you’re after a beach location that’s a little different (and seriously stunning), Half Moon Bay is an absolute winner. The combo of red cliffs, golden sand, and deep blue water makes for a backdrop that’s just chef’s kiss for family photo shoots at the beach. It’s got a bit of everything - wide-open beachfront, cool rock formations, and gentle waves perfect for little explorers.

This is easily one of the best family photo locations in Melbourne, offering that perfect mix of adventure and tranquillity. The calm water makes it a dream for young kids who love splashing around, while the cliffs add a bit of drama (the good kind!) for more artistic, storytelling-style shots.

And when sunset hits? The whole place glows, with the cliffs lighting up in warm, golden tones that make every photo look like a painting.

Nature & Park Locations for Family Photos

Melbourne’s parks and nature reserves serve as stunning backdrops for family photography sessions. From big open fields to charming bushland settings, these locations provide gorgeous environments to capture your family's unique moments.

Whether you're seeking rustic landscapes or lush greenery, Melbourne's natural venues cater to various photography styles, ensuring your family's essence is beautifully captured.
These locations not only offer beautiful scenery but also provide diverse settings to suit various family photography styles.

01. Royal Park, Parkville

- Expansive long field with native Australian flora
- Countryside feel while close Proximity to Melbourne's CBD
- Perfect for outdoor family photoshoot locations

If you’re after a Melbourne family photoshoot location with wide open spaces and a natural, relaxed vibe, Royal Park in Parkville is a gem - and one of my personal favourites. Just a short drive from the CBD, it feels like you’ve stepped into the countryside, with sprawling grassy fields, golden long grass, and the kind of open skies that make you want to take a deep breath and just be.

What I love most about Royal Park is the freedom it gives families-there’s no need to stay in one spot. Kids can run, explore, and just be themselves while I capture all the fun, cuddles, and chaos (my favourite). And when golden hour hits? Absolute magic. The light here is soft and dreamy, giving everything that warm, golden glow that makes your photos feel straight out of a storybook.

For families looking for the best location for family photos with natural beauty, this park has it all. Bonus: it’s also a fantastic spot for dog-friendly sessions! So if your four-legged family member is part of the crew, there’s plenty of space for them to run, sniff, and join in the fun (best suited for friendly pups, as it’s a popular spot for off-leash dogs living their best life!)

02.Under the Trees, Warrandyte

- Bushland setting with towering gum trees and riverside views
- Seasonal golden grasses providing a rustic charm
- Ideal for nature-inspired family photography locations

If you love outdoor family photoshoot locations with a bit of magic thrown in, Warrandyte’s riverside and bushland are pretty hard to beat. The Yarra River winds through the area, surrounded by towering gum trees, rustic walking trails, and golden grasses that change with the seasons (because let’s be honest, Melbourne weather keeps us all on our toes!).

This spot is perfect for family photo shoots that feel warm, organic, and authentic. It gives you plenty of space to just be together - no forced smiles, just real moments. Plus, there’s always the chance of a friendly kookaburra photobombing your session, which is just an added bonus in my books!

City Locations for Family Photo Sessions

Melbourne's iconic urban landscape has everything - modern architecture, historic landmarks, and artistic laneways. Not only do these city locations capture the essence of Melbourne's unique charm, they provide dynamic backdrops for family photo sessions. Perfect for families who just love Melbourne!

Melbourne CBD

- Urban landscapes featuring iconic street art and architecture
- Diverse backdrops from laneways to historic landmarks
- Suitable for urban family photography sessions with a modern flair

If your family loves a bit of colour, energy, and that cool urban vibe, a Melbourne city photoshoot is an epic choice. The laneways, street art, and bold architecture give your photos a modern, artistic edge-think bright murals, funky textures, and reflections from towering glass buildings.

For those looking for something different, the city is one of the best spots for family photos that showcase Melbourne’s personality. Whether it’s the iconic Hosier Lane or the charm of Flinders Street Station, the city offers endless backdrops with a storytelling edge.

- Timing: The golden hours—just after sunrise and before sunset—are when the light is chef’s kiss perfect. Think dreamy, glowy, and way more flattering than midday squinting and harsh shadows.

- Clothing: Coordinating outfits = yes. Matching like a ‘90s boy band = not necessary (but a welcome outfit change). Stick to soft, neutral tones that vibe with the location, and most importantly—wear something you feel good in (because if you’re uncomfortable, it shows!).

-Preparation: Bring the essentials—snacks (hanger is real), water, and maybe a favourite toy to keep the little ones happy. And if you have a toddler? Bribes highly encouraged.

Tips for Your Family Photography Session

As a Melbourne family photographer, I’m always up for an adventure—whether that means sandy toes at the beach, golden fields at sunset, or chasing the kids (and possibly the dog) through the park. My sessions are all about keeping things relaxed, fun, and true to who you are as a family—no awkward posing, just real moments you’ll actually want to frame.

If you’re after someone who knows all the best spots and can capture the love, laughter, and beautiful chaos of your crew… well, I think we’d get along just fine!

Let’s Make Some Memories!
Whether it’s a breezy afternoon at Williamstown Esplanade, exploring the hidden gems of Warrandyte, or catching that dreamy golden-hour glow at Royal Park, I’d love to create something special for you.

Let’s chat! Send me a message, and we’ll plan a session that feels just right for your family. Can’t wait to capture these moments with you!

As a Melbourne family photographer, I’m always up for an adventure -whether that means sandy toes at the beach, golden fields at sunset, or chasing the kids (and possibly the dog) through the park. My sessions are all about keeping things relaxed, fun, and true to who you are as a family- no awkward posing, just real moments you’ll actually want to frame.

If you’re looking for someone who knows all the best spots and can capture the love, laughter, and perfectly imperfect moments of your crew… then I think we’ll get along just fine! Ready to make some memories? You can book instantly here

Love a chat first? send me a message, and we’ll plan a session that feels just right for your family. Can’t wait to capture these moments with you!