Finding the Perfect Location for Your Family Photos in Southern NH
One of the most exciting parts of planning your family photo session is choosing the location. The right backdrop helps tell your family’s story and sets the tone for your images—whether you’re looking for something classic, natural, modern, or playful. Southern New Hampshire is filled with beautiful spots that create timeless portraits. I’ve pulled together some of my favorite local locations where I love photographing families. Each one has its own personality, so you can find the perfect fit for your family. This is JUST a guide, and if you have a specific spot in mind for your family's photographs I am all ears!
BEDFORD FIELD
One of my favorite spots is a quiet field in Bedford, NH with tall grasses, mowed paths, and a gorgeous pine tree backdrop. It’s secluded, serene and never crowded—perfect for families who want a quiet, natural space where kids can run free while we capture genuine moments.
St. Anselms College
Located in Goffstown, NH this campus setting offers a classic and timeless feel. With historic stone buildings, arches, and beautifully kept grounds, it feels elegant without being stuffy. Families who want a polished look with plenty of variety will love this location. Because it’s a college campus, we do need to be mindful of events or students around, but there are plenty of quiet corners for gorgeous family photos.
SNHU CAMPUS
The Southern New Hampshire University campus in Manchester, NH offers a mix of modern and natural backdrops. You’ll find contemporary buildings with clean lines, open green spaces, and tree-lined walkways. It’s a great option if you want a balance of fresh, modern architecture and nature in your family photos, though it can feel a little bit busier when school is in session.
Sunnycrest Farms
In Londonderry, NH, Sunnycrest is ideal for families who love a farm feel—orchards, rustic fences, and seasonal charm, especially in apple-picking season. It’s cozy and colorful in fall, but more limited outside of harvest season when the orchards aren’t as full.
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woodmont orchard
Located in Hollis, NH, Woodmont Orchards offers rolling orchard rows, open fields, and the charm of a big red barn that makes for a striking backdrop. It’s especially gorgeous in spring when the trees bloom and in fall with the vibrant apple harvest. Just keep in mind that during peak fall weekends, the orchard can get busy with other photographers and families so scheduling on the weekday might be a better option at this location.
your own backyard!
Sometimes the best location is right at home. Backyard sessions feel personal and relaxed—kids are comfortable, and the setting carries extra meaning. While options may be simpler than a park or beach, the sentimental value and ease of staying home make backyard portraits truly special.
market and main shops
A bit out of the box, but for a modern, trendy vibe, the Market and Main Shops in Bedford bring something fresh to family portraits. The black window frames, clean lines, and stylish window aesthetic create a sleek, contemporary backdrop. It’s a great choice if you want your photos to feel polished and modern while still being close to home. Keep in mind, this area CAN get busy, so if you are not comfortable having your photos taken in front of other people, this may not be the location for you!
benedictine park
Rolling fields, tree-lined paths and lots of greenery make it feel peaceful and relaxed. It’s especially magical in late summer and fall. While the park is beautiful, it’s a little more limited in variety—most backdrops are open fields or trees—so it works best if you love the simplicity of a natural, outdoor look.
bedford village common
Bedford Village Common is a quiet, charming spot with a gazebo, walking paths, and benches to sit upon. It has a small-town New England feel that works beautifully for families who want something classic and simple. The space itself is fairly compact, so variety is a little limited, but it’s easy, convenient, and photographs wonderfully in every season.
wason pond
Located in Chester, NH, Wason Pond is a hidden gem with a mix of natural and rustic charm. It offers wooded trails, open grassy areas, a peaceful pond, and its signature covered bridge that makes for a classic New England backdrop. The variety here is wonderful—you can go from water views to forest paths to the bridge in one session. The only drawback is that it’s a popular spot on nice weekends, so quieter weekdays work best here.
hampton beach
If your family loves the coast, nothing beats Hampton Beach. Sandy shorelines, the ocean waves, and that golden-hour glow make for breathtaking portraits. The one thing to keep in mind is that beach sessions depend on the weather, tides, and crowds—so flexibility is key for the best results.
Stark Park
Steeped in history, Stark Park in Manchester, NH combines wide-open grassy areas with shaded walking paths, mature trees, and a beautiful white gazebo that adds a classic touch to family portraits. Benches throughout the park create charming little spots for more relaxed, seated photos. While the scenery leans heavily on trees and green space, the gazebo offers a distinctive focal point that makes this location stand out.
how do i decide?
when thinking about your location, ask yourself:
- Do you prefer nature, classic architecture or a modern feel?
- Do you prefer to have your photographs taken in a place that is meaningful to you or one of your family members?
- Are you and your family members comfortable being photographed if other people are nearby or do you want as much privacy as possible during your session?
THE GOOD NEWS? THERE'S NO WRONG CHOICE! EACH OF LOCATIONS HAS ITS OWN CHARM, AND I'LL HELP GUIDE YOU TOWARD THE SPOT THAT BEST FITS YOUR FAMILY'S PERSONALITY AND STYLE.