Family Portraits in Nature: Beach, Parks & Wooded Sessions on the New Hampshire & Maine Seacoast

Authentic, Joyful, and Beautifully You

There’s nothing quite like capturing your family surrounded by the natural beauty of the Seacoast. Whether you’re drawn to soft beach sunsets, golden fields, or the peaceful calm of the woods, these outdoor spaces offer the perfect backdrop for timeless family portraits.

At Eye Sugar Photography, based in Portsmouth, NH, I specialize in relaxed, heartfelt family sessions that are as fun as they are beautiful. Let’s chase the light, let the kids run barefoot, and capture your family just as you are—together.

Why Outdoor Family Sessions Are So Special

Outdoor family sessions are more than just pretty settings. They give your family the space to move, play, laugh, and connect naturally. These locations aren’t just backdrops—they become part of the story.

Whether your little ones love splashing in the waves or collecting pinecones in the woods, I’ll follow your family’s rhythm to create images full of life and love.

Favorite Local Spots for Family Sessions

As a Seacoast-based photographer, I’ve spent years exploring the most photogenic and family-friendly locations across New Hampshire and Southern Maine. Some of my favorite places for portraits include:

The Beach

  • Odiorne Point State Park (Rye, NH) – With rocky shores, wooded trails, and a little bit of everything, this is one of my top locations.
  • Wallis Sands Beach (Rye, NH) – Clean, classic beach views with a soft, golden glow at sunset.
  • York Beach (Maine) – A family favorite with sandy stretches and nearby charming spots.
  • Fort Foster (Kittery, ME) – With forts, a long pier and rocky coasts.

Parks & Fields

  • Great Island Common (New Castle, NH) – Water views, open grass, and a coastal New England feel.
  • Stratham Hill Park (Stratham, NH) – Perfect for fall foliage, grassy trails, and woodsy backdrops.
  • Fuller Gardens (North Hampton, NH) – A lovely seasonal option with manicured blooms and romantic garden paths.

The Woods

  • Urban Forestry Center (Portsmouth, NH) – Peaceful wooded trails, bridges, and quiet spots perfect for intimate family moments.
  • Local conservation lands and hidden gems – I’m always happy to recommend off-the-beaten-path options tailored to your family's vibe and energy level.

What to Expect

My sessions are laid-back, playful, and designed to bring out the best in your family. I’ll guide you with gentle direction while letting natural moments unfold. Whether your kids are shy or wild, I create space for everyone to feel comfortable and be themselves.

All sessions include:

  • Pre-session planning and location guidance
  • Style tips and outfit coordination advice
  • A fun, relaxed session (typically 30–60 minutes)
  • An online gallery of hand-edited, high-resolution images
  • Print options including albums, wall art, and gifts for the grandparents

The Best Time for Outdoor Sessions

I typically schedule beach and outdoor sessions in the early evening, when the light is soft and flattering or first thing for beautiful sunrise photos. Spring, summer, and fall are all beautiful seasons for portraits—each bringing its own unique colors and textures to your images.

Ready to Make Some Memories?

If you're looking to capture your family in the wild beauty of the Seacoast—on the beach, in a field, or under the trees—I’d love to help you plan the perfect session.

Reach out to book your family session in Portsmouth, NH, or anywhere along the New Hampshire and Southern Maine coast. These are the moments you’ll look back on with full hearts—and the photos you’ll be proud to hang on your walls for years to come.