Looking for the perfect location for your family photoshoot? Gloucestershire is full of beautiful places to explore, from woodland walks and open countryside to charming Cotswold villages. Whether you're dreaming of golden autumn leaves, sun-filled summer evenings or a relaxed countryside backdrop, here are 10 beautiful locations to inspire your next family photoshoot.
Finding the perfect location for your family photoshoot
One of the things I love most about outdoor family photography is that no two sessions are ever the same. Children can explore, little ones can run around, and parents can simply enjoy spending time together while I capture all those natural, in-between moments.
Choosing the right location can make a huge difference to the overall feel of your photographs. I always look for places that offer a little variety, somewhere children can explore freely, with beautiful natural backdrops and plenty of opportunities for those candid moments.
If you're looking for a family photographer in Gloucestershire, here are some of my favourite location ideas to consider.
Westonbirt Arboretum – Tetbury
If you're dreaming of beautiful woodland photographs, Westonbirt Arboretum is a wonderful choice. With its towering trees, winding pathways and changing seasonal colours, it's particularly magical during autumn.
The variety of trees and foliage makes it a lovely setting for relaxed family photographs, whether that's little ones collecting leaves, walking hand in hand or enjoying a little woodland adventure.
Newark Park – Wotton-under-Edge
For those who love beautiful countryside views, Newark Park offers a wonderful backdrop. Surrounded by rolling Gloucestershire countryside, it's a lovely option for families who prefer open spaces and a more traditional countryside feel.
Woodchester Park – Near Stroud
Woodchester Park is ideal for families who love a woodland adventure. With its lakes, woodland trails and peaceful surroundings, there's plenty to explore during a family photoshoot.
It's particularly lovely for capturing those natural interactions between siblings, little ones exploring and families enjoying time together.
The Cotswold Villages
You really can't go wrong with the charm of a traditional Cotswold village. Think honey-coloured stone cottages, pretty pathways and beautiful countryside surroundings.
Villages such as Painswick, Bibury and Castle Combe offer a timeless feel that works beautifully for family portraits.
These locations are particularly lovely if you're looking for something a little different from a traditional woodland or field photoshoot.
Leaf & Ground – Cam, Dursley
Sometimes the most beautiful locations are right on your doorstep! Leaf & Ground in Cam, Dursley is a lovely option for a relaxed family photoshoot, particularly if you want your session to feel more like a little family adventure than a traditional portrait session.
Set on the side of Stinchcombe Hill, Leaf & Ground has woodland, fields, pathways and beautiful countryside views, giving you plenty of variety within one location.
It’s particularly well suited to families with little ones, as there’s plenty to explore and lots of opportunities to capture those natural moments — walking together, running through the grass, exploring the woodland or simply enjoying time together.
For me, this is one of the benefits of being a family photographer based in Cam and Dursley. You don't always need to travel miles to find a beautiful backdrop. Sometimes a location that your family already knows and loves can create the most meaningful photographs.
Leaf & Ground is also a great starting point if you'd like to make a day of it, with its café, garden shop, outdoor areas and children's play space alongside the surrounding walks.
Berkeley Castle and Surrounding Countryside
For something with a little history and character, the area surrounding Berkeley offers some lovely scenery.
The traditional architecture and surrounding countryside can create a beautiful backdrop for family photographs. It's worth checking access and photography permissions before planning a session at any particular site.
Painswick Rococo Garden – Painswick
If you're looking for something a little more colourful and unique, Painswick Rococo Garden is full of character.
With its beautiful gardens, winding paths and seasonal flowers, it offers a different feel from traditional outdoor family photography.
It's a lovely option for families wanting something a little more styled and colourful. Check seasonal opening times and photography permissions before booking.
Selsley Common – Stroud
For beautiful open views and a little more space to explore, Selsley Common is a fantastic countryside setting.
The rolling landscape and natural grasses create a lovely backdrop, particularly during golden hour when the light is softer and warmer.
It's a great choice for families with energetic little ones who love having room to run, play and explore.
The Forest of Dean
If your family loves being outdoors, the Forest of Dean offers endless opportunities for a woodland-inspired photoshoot.
From towering trees to winding forest paths, it's a beautiful location for capturing adventurous and playful family photographs.
It's particularly suited to families who want their session to feel like a little adventure rather than a formal photoshoot.
Your Own Favourite Place
And finally, don't overlook somewhere that already means something to your family.
It could be your favourite weekend walking spot, a local park you visit every Sunday or somewhere your children love to explore.
Sometimes the most meaningful photographs come from places that already hold memories. Your family photoshoot doesn't have to take place somewhere spectacular; it just needs to be somewhere you can relax and enjoy being together.
What should you consider when choosing a family photoshoot location?
Before deciding on your location, there are a few things worth thinking about:
Your children's ages: If you have younger children or toddlers, somewhere with room to explore and play can help them feel more comfortable.
The time of year: Different locations look completely different throughout the seasons. Woodland settings are particularly beautiful in autumn, while open fields and gardens can be lovely during spring and summer.
Accessibility: Think about walking distances, parking and whether the location is suitable for pushchairs or little legs.
Lighting: I often recommend late afternoon or early evening sessions, particularly during the warmer months. The softer light can create beautiful, warm and natural photographs.
Permissions: Some public gardens, estates and attractions have restrictions or fees for professional photography, so it's always worth checking beforehand.
What should you wear for an outdoor family photoshoot?
Once you've chosen your location, the next thing to think about is what everyone will wear!
I always recommend keeping things simple and choosing colours that complement the surroundings. Warm neutrals, creams, soft greens, earthy tones and muted colours work beautifully against natural backdrops.
Try coordinating rather than matching. You want everyone's outfits to work together without looking identical.
Most importantly, choose something you feel comfortable and confident in. When you feel good, it shows in your photographs!
Looking for a family photographer in Gloucestershire?
Whether you're based in Dursley, Stroud, Gloucester, Bristol or somewhere in the beautiful Cotswolds, I'd love to help you create photographs that you'll treasure for years to come.
My approach to family photography is all about keeping things relaxed, natural and fun. There's no pressure for everyone to smile at the camera or get every pose perfect. I want you to enjoy spending time together while I capture the genuine moments, little personalities and connections that make your family yours.
If you're thinking about booking a family photoshoot, get in touch and let's find the perfect location for you.
Because these are the moments you'll want to remember.
