When you imagine family photos, you might picture a toddler sitting perfectly still, smiling sweetly at the camera.
But if you have a toddler, or even teenagers, you know that's not how it usually goes.
And honestly? That’s not the story I want to tell.
Real family moments happen when children are free to move, play, and just be themselves, especially outdoors.
Why Outdoor Family Sessions Work So Well
Toddlers were never meant to sit still. They were made to run, climb, explore, and throw their arms around you in excitement.
When I photograph families across Westmeath, Meath, Longford, Kildare, Offaly and Cavan, I choose outdoor locations where your little ones can be free. Lakes, open fields, Abbeys—places where there’s room for them to show their real personalities, and places teenagers can chill a little.
Outdoors, we can capture the moments that really matter: a burst of laughter, muddy hands reaching for you, bare feet running through the grass.
It’s not about getting them to behave. It’s about seeing them as they are, wild, joyful, and completely themselves.
As a natural family photographer in Westmeath, Meath, and beyond, I make sure every family session lets your child's true personality shine through.
A Stress-Free, Natural Experience
You don’t have to worry about making your toddler "cooperate."
During family sessions, we follow their lead. We let them run, explore, and interact with you naturally.
I’ll guide you gently when needed. Where to stand for the best light, when to scoop them up for a cuddle, but most of the magic happens when you’re just together, living the moment.
Whether you're booking a family session in Mullingar, Navan, Kells, Oldcastle, Tullamore, or anywhere across the Midlands, every outdoor session is relaxed, playful, and centred around real connection.
What to Pack for Your Outdoor Family Session
A little preparation can help make your outdoor family session even more relaxed and enjoyable.
Here are a few things I always recommend bringing along:
- Snacks and water — something easy and mess-free to keep little ones happy.
- A spare outfit — just in case there’s a muddy puddle, or a big adventure.
- Comfortable shoes — for everyone (especially for mums and toddlers who like to explore).
- A favourite toy or comfort item — something small that helps your child feel safe if needed.
- Baby wipes and tissues — always handy for quick clean-ups.
- Light layers — outdoor weather can change quickly, even on sunny days.
You don’t need to pack a lot, just a few simple things to help everyone feel comfortable and free to enjoy the session.
When you arrive relaxed, your child will feel it too and that’s when the best, most natural moments happen. The ones that capture real love, real emotion and deeper memories.
The Value of Capturing This Season
This stage doesn’t last long.
The way they slip their hand into yours. The way they collapse into your lap after running wild. The way they call out "Mammy!" across a field, just to make sure you’re still watching.
These are the things that fade without us even realising.
Photographs of these everyday moments aren't just pictures, they become part of your family's history. Something you and your child will look back on and remember, long after the years have passed.
Ready to Capture Your Family’s Story?
If you’ve been thinking about a family session but worrying your toddler won’t sit still, or that your teenager will hate you! I promise you it is something you will not regret doing.
We’re not trying to control the chaos. We’re embracing it.
Because this is real family life. And it deserves to be remembered.
If you’re ready to create honest, joyful family memories, I’d love to hear from you.
Click here to contact me today to find out more about a natural family photo shoot in Westmeath, Meath, Kildare, Dublin, Longford, Cavan, and Offaly.
I'd love to be your memory collector.
Laura x
