Family photography session at the Arboretum - Canberra Family Photographer

I met the Gebremariam family at the Himalayan Cedars Outlook at Canberra’s Arboretum on an overcast Easter Monday.  While I was praying for the sun to peak through the clouds and provide the glorious golden hour light for this session it was just not going to be.  

Mulu Gebremariam booked the session with AJ Nitz Images as their eldest sun was back in Canberra for Easter after moving to Melbourne.  I selected the Himalayan Cedars as there are just so many options available to showcase Canberra and the family.  

With the Himalayan cedars is not specifically grown for photographing in, there are many locations all in the one place that can create entirely different lighting and feel in your gallery. The rich velvety tones are where we usually start, its nice and easy to access right at the Canberra’s door.  

Seeing the different family personalities all come together in one place is just awesome.  It is wonderful seeing the family dynamics at play.  

Then the adventure begins as we head for a gentle wander through the cedars.  We go deep into the forest to captures the family in different and varying light.  

As I mentioned at the start, capturing all the family units is a highlight at every family photoshoot.  Everyone gets a turn to be in front of the camera while the rest of the family joke on the sidelines.  

We all know how challenging it is to take photos of older families.  However, on this occasion, the whole family were just rock stars during the photo shoot.  Lidia had a gorgeous little giggle and the sweetest smile ever while Caleb and Josh were both confident and charismatic. 

Part of my job as a professional family photographer is to draw out the real personality and capture the real smiles.  While sometimes thats easy, some times I have to work a little harder for it but the results are just so heart warming and so engaging, its one of my favourite parts of the job! 

I could not help but to end the photo shoot with the family overlooking the beautiful arboretum located on Canberra’s door step.  

So with this many amazing images in their gallery (and even more that I cant fit all into one blog post!) what did they create?

Not one, not two but three families – Family Photographer Canberra

I recently had the opportunity to photograph three different family units.  The common relationship for the three families is they were all sisters.  I was quite nervous as I had never completed a family photoshoot with three different families before.  But I was up to the challenge!

Well in this case, it could not have gone better….

It was a crisp winter’s afternoon and we all met at the Arboretum at the Himalayan Cedars.  It was the perfect afternoon for the kids that had a lot of energy to burn.  Even though there were three families I knew it was going to be a fun afternoon because all the kids had an amazing personality. 

The golden winter’s glowing through the trees and the amazing colour palette.

It had to be quite an orderly process and an almost cookie cutter approach to the session to make sure that I got all the shots in.  The kids were all cousins and had a great relationship. 

Single portraits of the kids are always part of a family photoshoot and just look at how gorgeous these kids came up!  They looked absolutely amazing. 

A great thing about the arboretum is that I have all these different places that on hand to include in the session.

This must be one of my favourite photos from the day - how much joy is radiating out of all the kids at the wide brown land sculpture.  It was enough to give me a warm fuzzy moment. 

And here's the thing, each of the families was just so naturally relaxed in front of the camera.  The kids were playing little games together when they were not having photographs taken.  This was definitely not that totally structured portrait style at all, it was all-natural, organic family moments. 

If you would love to create family images for your home like the Lalor family, get in touch with Alistair here.

FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER CANBERRA | MATERNITY PHOTOGRAPHER CANBERRA

Cruz and Noah - Canberra Family photographer

I do love photographing brothers and their families. On Friday, I was joined by Michala and her two children Cruz and Noah.

Cruz and Noah arrived at their photo session at the Himalayan Cedars at the Arboretum full of beans and raring to go. I knew it was going to be a fantastic photo session the moment that they piled out of the car. All that I need to do was get my camera out and start snapping and capture special moments between the boys and with Mum.

I love to incorporate both formal photos and candid shots as part of my photo sessions. It is one way to guarantee a range of beautiful images that capture the wonderful personalities of the children.

It was such a gorgeous afternoon at the Arboretum with a gorgeous family. We ran around expelling at the energy, chasing dinosaurs and playing hide and seek amongst the cedars. It did not take long for each of the kids to run back to Mum for a huge hugs.

The Arboretum offers lots of photography options for families, whether it is the lake in the background, you are amongst the trees or at the Wide Brown Land sculpture.

After spending some time around the large cedars we walked up to the Wide Brown Land Sculpture which was starting to look fantastic in fading light. It was an absolute fantastic and fun photo shoot with the kids. They were very adaptable.

If you would like to book a session with AJ Nitz Images, please click here or call me on 0403 959 459. For more information on AJ Nitz Images please visit my family photography link in the menu.

The Nel Family - Canberra Family Photographer

I love autumn time in Canberra. The wonderful colours that you experience with the leaves changing colour and the beautiful afternoon light. When you combine that with an awesome family you know that you are going to have an EPIC photo session.

I loved so much about this family, there was Ninke, a six year old with so much energy and get up and go. She was equally matched by her sweet little sister Ariane, who was only three years old almost turning four. Both went along with any of my crazy suggestions and ideas to make it a memorable photo session.

For an autumn day at the Arboretum, it certainly felt more like an early winter’s day as the wind was so fresh and cool. But we did not let that get in the way of an awesome photo shoot. The Arboretum was full of people making use of the sunny yet cool weather, There was even a bride and groom getting their photos taken at the same time. We kept away from them and headed for the location that overlooks the lake and Woden. With the cloudy blue sky, it simply looked stunning.

The girls looked absolutely stunning with their red sparkly dressed that shimmed and shined in the sunlight. We had lots of fun as we struggled with the sun passing behind the clouds. But the kids wanted Mum and Dad to join in with the fun and games that we were playing.

After a little while we moved into the forest of cedars from some more photographs. We were wishing hard for the sun to come out capture the girls and the family in the beautiful golden sunlight. We had a beautiful wander through the sunlits trees before heading up to the Wide Brown Land Sculpture.

When we got up to the sculpture, it gave us a chance to reflect on the EPIC photo session that we had. We captured some stunning photos from the sessions. We did not let the cool wind that was blowing the girls had everywhere to interfere with our fun.

What is the best time of Day for an outdoor photography session in Canberra

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF DAY FOR AN OUTDOOR PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION IN CANBERRA

Canberra is a fabulous place to live.  We are at the foothills of the Brindabellas giving us sensational views (especially in winter!).  There are breathtaking views of the city from Mount Stromlo and the Arboretum. 

There are however times of the day that are better than others in order to guarantee sensational family photographs.  So what is this time of the day?

Golden hour Golden hour – it is the magical time of day

Photography is all about light and the two best times of the day is golden hour. 

Golden hour is the period of daytime shortly after sunrise or before sunset, during which daylight is redder and softer than when the Sun is higher in the sky. 

The best way to think about it is the last hour of the day where there is that silky sunlight which makes you look gorgeous and stunning.  I did not refer to sunrise as I understand no one wants to get up that early in the morning!!

During this period of time there are no sharp shadows falling across you or your family.

My preference is to schedule my outdoor family sessions during golden hour.  During the winter months, golden hour falls quite early in the afternoon.  However, during summer golden hour is not until it is quite late in the day.  If you have a small family, you might want to schedule a little nap and a snack before the family session.    

Morning is second best

It is not possible to always schedule your family photo session during golden hour due to planning conflicts or the little ones cannot stay up until late.  

I understand light and how to master light.  As such, I am able to serve your family and deliver beautiful photos no matter the time of day.

In that case, AJ Nitz Images will schedule your family photo sessions in the morning around 9am and 10am before the sun gets too high in the sky and harsh shadows start to form.  This is also a time when kids are the most energetic and radiant.    

Check out a recent morning family session that I had in Canberra

Family photography session at the Arboretum on a wintery morning

I have been lucky to document Maya and her family on three separate occasions now, but today has been one of the most satisfying experiences. Even though it was a cold wintery morning at the top of the Arboretum, Maya was bustling with energy and kept Ary and Antonio busy while I had the most important job - documenting their last day in Canberra. Maya was so photogenic that it made my job a breeze. Best of all we were able to spend some time warming our hands over our hot drinks after the photo session. We will miss seeing you guys in your old stamping ground of Gungahlin.

Morning fun

At the Arboretum

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The things to remember to bring to a family photo session

The lead up to a family portrait can be very stressful for the parents with a million things potentially getting in the way of a successful portrait session – a sudden change in the weather, screaming children or dad staining his clothes before the car has left the driveway!!

They have many things that they need to remember and inattentively something always gets left behind.  Here is my list of things that it is always important to bring to the portrait session to ensure a fun, enjoyable and successful day.

1.      Water – While the family photo session is likely to go for an hour to an hour and a half, it is important to bring a couple of bottles of water for the children.  While they are a great tool for keeping the kids quiet.

2.      Snacks - Don’t show up to a photo shoot on an empty stomach. Regardless of the time of the photo shoot, it is important to arrive with some snacks, especially for the children.  Be sure to give everyone a healthy snack before the photo shoot. There are no food options at the Yarralumla Woolshed. But if you forget snack there are cafes close by at Weston Park and the Arboretum.

3.      A change of clothes for the kids – accidents do happen to young children especially when on location environments.  A set of back up clothes are just perfect for these unexpected accidents.  And if you do not need them for these accidents, they are perfect for a second look.  

4.      Baby wipes – These are just perfect for an unexpected accident.  Wipes are always great for on-the-go touch-ups and help if you suddenly notice a runny nose. 

5.      A blanket - This is brilliant, especially on-location shoots.  Keeping wardrobes clean and adding an extra layer or colour or texture are always bonuses. This is especially important at the Arboretum as there are few places to seat there.

6.      Insect spray – When shooting on location there may be some unwelcome visitors, such as bugs and mosquitoes. A can of Rid or Aeroguard will keep those unwelcome visitors at bay and kids safe from mozzie bites. Any photo experiences around the lake, like Weston Park or Lennex Gardens, it is strongly advised to bring insect spray.

7.      Props – Do not forget any props that you might wish to use during the photo session.  The purpose of bringing props along is to personalize your images, to add some visual interest, and to create activity-based photography.

Props enable the family to show off their personality or identify your hobbies or talents. 

8.      Bribe - oops did I really say offer the kids a bribe, sorry I meant reward for being patient and willing to do everything asked of them. Photo shoots are the rare case where it is okay to offer children a small bribe! These small rewards will help to overcome meltdowns when the pressure just gets too much. A good place to go to after a photo session at the Arboretum is the Visitor Centre.

9.      Beer – Did I mention beer?  Sometimes the husband needs a little encouragement and what better way is there to loosen up. 

Most of all, do not forget the kids who will be bouncing around with excitement on the day of the photo sessions!!

Plan a surprise or a special treat like ice cream or mini-golf after the shoot, so that they look forward to the entire day. You don’t want your kids to think of the photo shoot as something scary, or worse, a chore.

Top five locations for family photos around Canberra

Canberrans are spoilt for choice when it comes to selecting a location for their precious family photographs.  It does not matter if you live on the south or northside, everyone is 20 minutes away from a fantastic spot. 

As a father and photographer, I am acutely aware of how much we treasure photos of our family.  I have a bunch of locations that I have used or want to use. 

I am regularly asked where the best place is to hold family photographs around Canberra. I have therefore compiled a list of locations that future clients might wish to use as inspiration for their family photo shoot.

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These are my top 5 places to locations.  

1.       Arboretum

This is my all-time favourite location in Canberra for photographs as there are numerous locations that you can select.  The Arboretum is found just off the Tuggeranong Parkway on Forest Drive.  My two favourite locations are the Himalayan Cedar forest and Cork Oak Plantation.  Your kids can run amongst the Himalayan Cedars which comes alive during sunset.  When they are exhausted it is time to head up the Wide Brown Land sculpture for the last of the photos.  The Himalayan Cedars are located at the end of the Himalayan Cedar Road. 

Sensational view from the Himalayan Cedar forest

A short drive down the dirt Cork Oak Road is the Cork Oak Plantation.  The forest has stood almost as long as Canberra itself, planted in 1917 on the northern end of the arboretum.  Once you enter the Arboretum, just follow the sign to the Cork Oak Forest. It is a popular spot for families and it is a great place to explore.  A perfect spot for walks, picnics, or to sit under the trees and breathe in the forest air. 

2.      Yarralumla Woolshed

This is an oldie, but a goodie is the Yarralumla Woolshed, which is a unique piece of Canberra’s history and a fantastic place for photographs.  It is located on the south side of the lake with the property located at 208 Cotter Road, Yarralumla.

The external area of the woolsheds is just perfect for rustic style photographs.  It boasts wide-open areas where children can run around and sit on the stairs or the old sheep run when exhausted.  Big shade trees have helped produce some of my most stunning images, but there are also plenty of open spaces to serve as blank canvases.

The side of the Yarralumla Woolshed

3.        Weston Park

Weston Park, like the Arboretum, has numerous sub-locations that are just perfect for photographs. Located in Yarralumla, off Weston Park Road, park your car in the car park off Pescott Lane and it is a short walk to the beautiful pond area that is surrounded by luscious trees where you can capture beautiful reflections. 

The Pond within Weston Park is a favourite for families and couples

There is a beautiful grassed area that is perfect for kids to run around.  Then it is a short walk down to Lake Burley Griffin for some photos by the lake and stroll amongst the pine trees. 

4.      Old Parliament House

The rose gardens in the Senate and House of Representative’s courtyards of Old Parliament House represents another idyllic location for family photos.  There is ample space for kids to run around and have fun in the open lawns while the parent access the seating pavilions or pergolas.  The rose gardens have plenty of wisteria arbours, cross paths and trellises.  The location comes alive from October to March when the roses and wisteria are in full bloom. 

Old Parliament House rose gardens are located either side of Old Parliament House on King George Terrace, Parks

House of Senate Garden of Old Parliament House

5.      Kingston Foreshore. 

The final location in my top 5 spots to have your family portraits taken around Canberra is Kingston Foreshore.  Kingston Foreshore is a bustling cultural, social, and residential hub located on the southeastern edge of Lake Burley Griffin.  Located in Kingston off Wentworth Avenue the foreshore offers families a variety of options different environments.  If the photo shoot allows for two locations, it is possible to have some photos around the old brickworks buildings of the old bus depot and gigantic old building of the Powerhouse before crossing the road to have some photos amongst nature and the lake. 

The added advantage of the location is that right after the photo shoot it is a short walk down to some of the best restaurants in Canberra or post photoshoot coffee.