As a mom of three, I know the feeling well. You love having photos that document each year of your kids’ lives—but the days leading up to family photos can feel… stressful. Because kids are kids. They don’t love sitting still, smiling on command, or being told to “just hold hands for one more photo.”

And as a mom of three who also happens to be an Atlanta lifestyle photographer, I can confidently say this: family portraits don’t have to look the same.

We see so much creativity in couples sessions, weddings, and elopements—movement, emotion, real moments unfolding naturally. Yet family photos often fall into the same patterns: the same five poses, the same props, the same setups. Beautiful? Yes. Personal and reflective of your family? Not always.

I’ve heard through the grapevine that 2026 is the year of analog, and honestly? That feels right. So here are 10 creative family photoshoot ideas that embrace nostalgia, movement, and the beautiful chaos of real life—the kind of moments you’d expect to find flipping through an old family photo album.

10 Creative Family Photoshoot Ideas 

1. Making Pancakes on the Weekend

Or waffles. Or baking muffins. Any slow, familiar kitchen moment where everyone naturally gathers and does their thing.

2. Summer Evenings in Your Backyard

Catching lightning bugs, roasting marshmallows, running through the sprinklers, jumping on the playset—this is childhood as it actually happens. These moments feel especially meaningful because they’re fleeting—and exactly the kind of memories families wish they had more photos of later.

3. A Local Spot Your Family Loves

Maybe it’s the pizzeria on Main Street. The mom-and-pop shop with the best soft serve. Or your weekly McDonald’s outing. These familiar locations tell a deeper story than a random “pretty” backdrop, and the same mindset applies whether you’re at home or traveling. (If you love the idea of documenting everyday moments away from home, this guide on hiring a photographer for your vacation is a great read.)

4. Chalk on the Sidewalk

Messy hands, colorful drawings, kids completely absorbed. Sidewalk chalk sessions are low-pressure and perfect for younger kids who don’t want to sit still.

5. Putt-Putt Golf

Built-in movement, laughter, and interaction. Activities like this naturally keep kids engaged and you relaxed.

6. Bike Rides or Electric Scooters

Document your family in motion, doing something you already love together. This activity creates images that feel energetic and candid as real life is happening. 

7. Family Game Night

Board games, card games, snacks on the floor, competitive energy. These sessions feel cozy and personal and they photograph beautifully.

8. Arts & Crafts in the Playroom

Paint splatters, scissors, concentration faces, and kids proudly showing off what they made. It’s creative chaos in the best way.

9. Backyard Water Play

Sprinklers, kiddie pools, water balloons. Yes, it’s chaotic. That’s the whole point. 

10. A “Do Nothing” Afternoon at Home

Couch cuddles, reading books, playing with toys, wandering in and out of rooms. Sometimes the best moments are in the in-between.

Why Activity-Based Family Photos Work So Well

One of the biggest concerns parents share is stress. Worrying about kids cooperating, outfits staying clean, or things going “wrong.” Ironically, activity-based sessions solve most of that without trying.

• You’re in your natural element doing something you already enjoy
• Storytelling happens organically instead of through forced posing
• Kids stay engaged because they’re genuinely having fun
• The photos feel lived-in, emotional, and timeless
  

If stress-free photos are a priority for you, you might also find this guide on tips for stress-free family photos especially helpful—it walks through how to mentally prepare without overthinking the day.

How to Choose the Right Location or Activity

If you’re not sure where to start, here’s a simple framework:

• Think about what your family already loves doing together
• If your session is outside the home, double-check that professional photography is allowed
• Lean on your photographer. I’m always happy to brainstorm ideas that feel true to your family

And if you’re considering a shorter, more casual session format, this breakdown of mini photography sessions and when they make sense can help you decide what fits your season of life best.

The best images usually come from letting go of expectations and letting real life unfold. Want to book your documentary-style family photoshoot? Get in touch here — I’d love to hear all about what you’re dreaming!