Top Locations for Family Photos in Philadelphia

In this guide I will showcase 5 popular locations for family photos in Philadelphia. From historic cobblestone streets, to historic mansions, and fields and forest, Philadelphia offers so many diverse and stunning backdrops for family photography.

Bartram’s Garden is the perfect spot in South Philadelphia for Family Photos

For nature enthusiasts, Bartram’s Garden is a hidden oasis within the southside of the Philadelphia. Located along the Schuylkill River, this historic botanical garden provides a mix of wild and cultivated landscapes. Explore meadows, woodlands, and even a picturesque river trail. The diverse settings allow for a variety of family poses, creating a rich backdrop of vibrant flowers and greenery. There is also a historic building that offers a lovely backdrop.

Consider a spring photoshoot to capture the beautiful colors of the garden.

girl in white dress stands in the lilacs at Bartram's Gardens

Pregnant women poses for maternity photos outside of Bartram gardens in South Philly

Family Photos in Old City, Philadelphia

Old City, with its cobblestone streets and historic architecture, is a charming and timeless location in the heart of Philadelphia. It’s one of my favorite areas for family photos, because there is pretty light all times of day! This is a great area to have pictures taken, with the variety of historic buildings, gardens, and greenery.

Family with baby boy poses for family photos in Old City Philadelphia

Photography Opportunities:

Cobblestone Streets: The cobblestone streets add a touch of old-world charm, creating a unique texture in your family photos.
Historic Buildings: Utilize the backdrop of historic buildings, such as Independence Hall or the Second Bank of the United States, to infuse your photos with a sense of Philadelphia’s heritage.

Family photos in Valley Forge National Park

Nestled in the suburbs just outside Philadelphia, Valley Forge National Park offers a beautiful blend of history and natural beauty. The park, known for its significance during the American Revolutionary War, features vast open fields, woodlands, and historic structures.

We are so fortunate to have access to so many beautiful historic areas around the Greater Philadelphia region for family photos. Valley Forge does require a special paid permit fee for family photos, as do many areas. So it is important to plan ahead with your photographer to make sure you have the required permits first.

There are many beautiful areas within Valley Forge- endless fields, fences, log cabins and other buildings make for a stunning backdrop for your Philadelphia family photos.

Family of 5 plays in Valley Forge National Park Sisters pick wildflowers in Valley Forge National Park Family of five play in the shade of trees in Valley Forge National Park

The changing of seasons and different times of day make for such a variety of looks. The river trail within Valley Forge makes for an entirely different backdrop for fall family photos at sunset.

Mother and son walk the river within Valley Forge National Park during the fall A teenage boy stacks river rocks in Valley Forge National Park family of four wearing denim and earth tones poses for family photos in Valley Forge

Stoneleigh Gardens is a beautiful backdrop for family photos

Stoneleigh is a natural garden in Villanova. It is a part of the Natural Lands Trust and has wonderful fields, trees, flowers, and historic architecture. This location provides a serene setting for family photos. This family frequents Stoneleigh and their children love to walk the grounds and play in the fields, so it was only fitting that we photograph their fall photo session in a place that they held meaningful.
little girl in purple sweater stand in a field at sunset in the fall

children play in the gardens at Stoneleigh in Villanova

Children climb trees and play at Stoneleigh Gardens in Villanova

Like Valley Forge, Stoneleigh has a photography permit required. It is a $100 per session fee, paid directly at the entrance of the garden. The beauty of the gardens change with the seasons and even when all the leaves drop, there is still a lot of beauty there for family photos.

family of four walks the gardens at Stoneleigh Natural Garden

Ridley Creek State Park is perfect for family photos

Ridley Creek State Park, located in Media, provides a diverse natural landscape with woodlands, meadows, and the scenic Ridley Creek. The park offers a tranquil escape just a short drive from the city. Like many locations for family photos in Philadelphia, Ridley Creek State Park requires a professional photography permit that must be secured in advance of your session.

Photography Opportunities:

The Mansion- when there aren’t weddings or other events, the historic mansion at Ridley creek is a beautiful setting.
Wooded Trails: Explore the shaded trails, allowing dappled sunlight to filter through the trees, creating a natural and intimate atmosphere.
Meadow Settings: The expansive meadows offer opportunities for playful and candid shots, surrounded by the beauty of open fields.

Pro Tip: Consider a morning photoshoot or early afternoon to take advantage of the soft light and the calm ambiance before the park gets busier. Fall photos at golden hour are especially beautiful in this park!

young couple poses with baby boy in a field in Ridley Creek State park

Ridley Creek Park is a favorite location for family photos near Philadelphia Ridley Creek is a Top location for family photos in Philly Couples pose for family photos in Ridley Creek State park

Family photos in the Ockehocking Preserve

The Ockehocking Preserve is a beautiful property with rolling meadows and a babbling creek in Chester County, PA, not a far drive from Philadelphia.

Family in pink outfits stands amidst the fall leaves in the Ockehocking Preserve Family with two daughters poses for family photos in the Ockehocking Preserve top location for family photos in Philadelphia

These diverse locations showcase the richness and variety of settings available for family photos in the Philadelphia region. Whether you prefer the historical charm of Valley Forge, the timeless beauty of Old City, the natural landscapes of Ridley Creek State Park, or the serene elegance of Stoneleigh, each location offers a unique backdrop for creating lasting family memories.

If you are interested in working together to create carefree, candid and playful family photos in the Philadelphia area, please visit my Philadelphia Family Photographer page to learn more about my work! You can contact me if you are ready to get my client guide with all the details!