Best Locations for Family Photos in the Hawkesbury

The Hawkesbury is one of the most beautiful places in Western Sydney for family photography. With wide open spaces, rivers, rolling countryside and historic towns, there are endless locations that create stunning backdrops for natural family photos.

Choosing the right location can completely change the feel of your images. Some families love open fields and sunset light, while others prefer leafy parks or riverside scenery.

Here are some of my favourite locations around the Hawkesbury for family photo sessions.


Macquarie Park, Windsor

Macquarie Park is one of my favourite locations for family sessions. It has beautiful open grass areas, large trees and soft light that works perfectly during golden hour.

It’s also a great location for families with young children because there’s plenty of space for them to run around and play, which helps create natural and candid photos.

The relaxed environment makes it easy to capture genuine moments between parents and children.


Pughs Lagoon, Richmond

Pughs Lagoon is a stunning natural location with tall trees, long grass and beautiful reflections on the water.

It’s perfect if you want photos that feel calm, earthy and connected to nature. The light here at sunset is absolutely beautiful and creates that warm golden glow that families love.

This location works especially well for candid family sessions where kids can explore and interact with the environment.


Kurrajong Hills My Own Property

If you love wide open landscapes and countryside views, Kurrajong Hills is a dream location for family photography.

The rolling hills, paddocks and quiet rural roads create a timeless backdrop that feels peaceful and natural.

These locations are perfect for sunset sessions where the light wraps beautifully around families and creates soft, glowing images.


Riverside Locations Along the Hawkesbury River

The Hawkesbury River offers some incredible scenery for family photos. The calm water, trees and open sky create a beautiful natural backdrop that feels very relaxed and timeless.

Riverside locations are perfect for families who want photos that feel adventurous, playful and full of connection.


Choosing the Right Location for Your Family

Every family is different, which is why choosing the right location is an important part of planning your session.

When selecting a location I always consider:

• The age of your children

• The style of photos you love

• Safety and space for kids to move freely

• The best lighting for beautiful images

Family photo sessions work best when everyone feels relaxed and comfortable, and the right location helps make that happen. Photographers often choose outdoor locations that allow children to explore and interact naturally, which helps create genuine smiles and relaxed moments.


The Best Time for Outdoor Family Photos

Outdoor sessions usually take place during golden hour, the hour before sunset.

This is when the light is soft, warm and flattering, creating the dreamy glow that makes family photos feel timeless.

It’s also the time when kids tend to relax and enjoy the session the most.


Planning Your Hawkesbury Family Photo Session

One of the things I love most about photographing families in the Hawkesbury is the variety of beautiful locations available. Whether it’s open fields, riverside views or peaceful countryside, there’s always a setting that perfectly suits each family.

My goal is always the same, to capture real connection and genuine moments that tell your family’s story.

If you’re thinking about booking a family session in the Hawkesbury, I’d love to help you plan the perfect location.

You can learn more about my family photography sessions here:

UnscriptedPhotographyBySarah.pixieset.com/booking/