Outdoor Family Photography in Kent | Natural Family Photoshoots in Ashford & Beyond

When it comes to family photography in Kent, nothing quite compares to being outdoors.

There’s something about the fresh air, natural light, and beautiful surroundings that helps everyone loosen up — and that’s when the magic happens.

Gone are the days of stiff studio portraits. These days, families are looking for something more relaxed, more real, and more them. And Kent, with its countryside charm, coastal spots and hidden gems, is the perfect setting for just that.

Here’s why I love (and highly recommend) outdoor family photography in Kent, and why it might just be perfect for your next session too.

1. Kent’s Scenery is Seriously Underrated

We’re lucky to live in a county with so much natural beauty. From wide open fields to quiet woodland walks, quaint villages to coastal paths — Kent has it all. And that variety means no two sessions ever feel the same.

Some of my favourite spots include:

• King's Wood in Challock – especially stunning during bluebell season

• Wye Downs – dramatic views, open skies, and that golden hour glow

• The Deer Park at Mersham le Hatch for vast green space interspersed with ancient oaks

• Greatstone Beach – wide sands, space to play, and beautiful evening light

  
  

  

  
  

2. Children Can Just Be Children

Studio sessions can be a bit tricky with younger children — sitting still, smiling on cue is hard for them! But outdoors there’s room to run, climb, explore and play — and that’s where the real smiles come alive. It’s less about posing and more about just being together, having fun and letting things unfold naturally.

3. Natural Light is a Photographer’s Best Friend

Golden hour — that dreamy hour before sunset — gives us soft, glowy, warm light that’s super flattering. But even overcast days have their charm, with beautiful, even lighting that works really well for skin tones. And the best part? You don’t need to bring anything fancy — just yourselves.

4. Every Season Tells a Different Story

Each season in Kent brings its own unique colours, textures and mood. No two sessions ever look the same.

Spring: blossom trees, bluebells and fresh, green leaves

Summer: golden fields, beachy evenings and long warm days

Autumn: rich reds, crunchy leaves and soft layers

Winter: atmospheric skies, muted tones and cosy coats

5. It’s Not Just a Photoshoot — It’s a Memory

A lot of families say their shoot felt more like a walk in the woods or a trip to the beach than a photoshoot. That’s the aim. You’ll get lovely, frame-worthy images — but you’ll also come away with memories of a fun, relaxed hour or two spent with your favourite people.

6. There’s No Pressure to Be Perfect

I hear comments all the time like — “We’re awkward in front of the camera”, or “The children never sit still”.

The beauty of outdoor family photography is that none of that matters. It’s not about sitting perfectly or smiling on cue — it’s about capturing the love and chaos as it is. And that’s where the magic is.

The wind in your hair, the muddy shoes, the spontaneous laughs — that’s the stuff you’ll want to remember.

Thinking About Booking an Outdoor Family Photoshoot in Kent?

I work with families across Ashford, Wye, Tenterden, Canterbury, and surrounding villages — creating natural, relaxed photos that tell your family’s story.