NYC Family Photography: At Home and in the Places You Love
One of my favorite ways to do NYC family photography is by splitting a session between a family’s apartment and the places they actually spend time, like a park, playground, café, or even a favorite street corner. Photographing families in the spots they love makes the photos feel personal, relaxed, and full of real life.
When families are captured in familiar spaces, the photos feel authentic, emotional, and just like them.
The Comfort of Home
Starting a session at home is always my go-to for NYC family photography. NYC apartments are full of personality—cozy corners, windows with great light, bookshelves, toys, or even that couch everyone loves.
At-home family photos are great because:
- Kids feel comfortable and relaxed
- Real moments happen naturally like reading, cooking, and playing
- Photos feel timeless and personal
These images capture the little details and everyday life that families often forget but will cherish for years.
Capturing the Places Families Actually Go
After photographing at home, I love heading to the places the family really frequents. This could be:
- A park they love
- A neighborhood playground
- A café or bakery they visit
- The local library
- Even a favorite street or corner
These locations give NYC family photography photos a sense of place and movement. Kids are relaxed and playful in spaces they know, and those candid moments create a gallery that’s uniquely theirs. Here are some of my favorite spots.
- Carl Schurz Park: https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/carl-schurz-park
- Two Little Red Hens: https://www.twolittleredhens.com/
- Yorkville Library (NYPL): https://www.nypl.org/locations/yorkville
- Café Mogador: https://cafemogador.com/locations/east-village/
Why This Approach Works
Combining at-home photos with shots in meaningful locations creates a full story. It captures both quiet, cozy moments and energetic, playful interactions.
How I Make Sessions Easy and Fun
I keep sessions low-stress and relaxed. I don’t over-pose—most of the best moments happen naturally.
Here’s how I usually work:
- Start at home so everyone feels comfortable
- Use natural light whenever possible
- Focus on connection over perfection
- Move to the places the family actually goes for playful, candid moments
- Let kids lead—they always create the best memories
Why Families Love This Approach
Photographing families at home and in the places they love means your photos will feel unique and personal. Years from now, these images won’t just show what you looked like—they’ll remind you what life felt like, the spots you loved, and the little routines that made your days special. They also have a variety of photographs to cherish forever.
Book your session here.
Check out my NYC family photography portfolio. here
Read my guide to preparing kids for a family photography session. here
