How to Take Your Own Family Photos (Our Alkoomi Adventure)

I have always dreamed of having a sunset session at Alkoomi Farmstay, because if you know me, I'm a sucker for rolling grass hills and mountains. Right on top of their hill which the owners call “Sunset Hill” it feels like the kind of place where time slows down, the kids run free, and the sky puts on a show just for you.

On our last visit we finally made it happen. The kids fed the animals first, because nothing gets done until the goats and chickens are happy. Then we packed a bag with chippies and dip, and wandered up the hill together.

Instead of waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect outfit, I decided to photograph our afternoon as it unfolded. We took turns holding the camera, my husband and me, so everyone could be part of the story. I have trained my husband well, and he even captured a few favourites of me with the kids.

We let the landscape guide us. The mountains stretched in the background, cows grazed nearby, and a beautiful old tree perfectly framed my husband and son playing beneath its branches. Every click of the shutter felt like another little piece of our family’s story, frozen in time.

And you know what? You do not need to be a professional to capture memories like this. Here are a few simple things that made our DIY family photos work, and that you can try too.

5 Tips for Taking Your Own Family Photos

1. Pick a meaningful location

Think about where your kids feel most themselves, whether it is your backyard, the beach, or a favourite park. A place that already holds memories will always feel more special in photos.

2. Do not wait for perfect

Messy hair, grass-stained knees, or kids who will not sit still? That is life, and that is exactly what you will want to remember one day. Go with the flow, because some of the best photos happen in the chaos.

3. Share the camera

If you are always the one taking photos, hand it over. Get your partner, your kids, or even a grandparent involved. The result is a collection that actually shows you in the frame too.

4. Use what is around you

Trees make the perfect frame, fences give kids something to climb on, and animals bring instant joy. Look for natural elements that tell the story of where you are instead of trying to create a studio-perfect setup.

5. Chase the best light

Sunrise and sunset give the softest, most magical light. But do not stress if your kids are not in the mood at the so-called ideal time. Even on a cloudy afternoon you can capture beautiful, real moments.

At the end of the day it is not about getting the perfect shot. It is about remembering how it felt. The laughter, the chaos, the way your child slipped their hand into yours as the sun dipped low.

And if you ever want someone else to take the camera out of your hands so you can simply be there, I would love to help you capture those moments too. Reach out to me here!