Southern Maine Family Photography Locations
Family photography in Southern Maine
Southern Maine, with its diverse landscapes and charming coastal towns, offers an abundance of picturesque locations perfect for family sessions. I grew up vacationing near Old Orchard Beach, and was always so captivated by the long sandy beaches and cute downtowns. Whenever I get the chance, I still love to stop over in some of these towns when I am driving through. The diversity of landscapes is truly incredible! With plenty of opportunity for beaches, lighthouses, farms, and forests, I’m happy to chat with you about the best fit for your family. Here’s a short guide to some of my favorites:
Opportunities for adventure
Outdoor locations in Southern Maine offer great opportunities for adventure. Whether you like to bike, hike, swim, or picnic - I am always finding new places to outdoor adventure in the state. I am a documentary photographer, meaning I don’t interfere with the natural flow of your adventure or try to control the posing and smiles of the kids. Rather, I often let the kids set the pace and take the lead during the sessions. This leads to much more fun and chaos, and also represents your unique personalities.
Beautiful beaches for family photos
Ogunquit Beach
Ogunquit Beach really breathtaking - with lots of sand and picturesque cliffs. The beach is perfect for more candid moments of kids playing and you all walking together. During the pandemic, I would often take walks along Marginal Way with my mom and her dog, catching sweeping views of the beach and dramatic cliffs.
Crescent Beach State Park (and nearby, Kettle Cove)
Crescent Beach State Park in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, offers a stunning setting for family photography sessions. While Crescent and Kettle beaches can get a little busy in the warm season, I have found some quiet spots for photographs. I tend to recommend these beaches for off-season sessions when you want to picnic or explore some of the rocks and tidepools.
Old Orchard Beach/Ocean Park
Ok, this is my all-time favorite beach in Maine (mostly for nostalgic reasons)! I feel like this is a bit of an underrated gem for family sessions. From Ferry Beach (around Saco, ME) all the way to Scarborough Beach, this is a sweeping miles long sandy beach. During low-tide you can really walk out & enjoy a good swim. Old Orchard Beach is great for more pier views and is a bit more bustling. North or South of Old Orchard you’ll find quieter, stunning beach gems absolutely ideal for sunset. Ocean Park even has an old-timey soda fountain great for after the session!
Best lighthouses for family photography
Some of my favorite spots in Maine feature lighthouses. They provide a beautiful idyllic backdrop, and offer opportunity for exploration.
Portland Head Light
Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, Maine is definitely very popular. I tend to suggest Portland Head in the slower months or weekdays. The lighthouse itself is beautiful, but the trails and little beaches around the park are also great places for more laid back documentary family photographs.
Cape Neddick Nubble Light
Cape Neddick, home to the famous Nubble Lighthouse, is pretty idyllic Maine. The Nubble Lighthouse, also known as Cape Neddick Light, was built in 1879 and has since become one of Maine's most iconic landmarks. The lighthouse park itself is a bit tight, but I really like Short and Long Sands beaches in York, which are great spots for playing in the sand, and even exploring the tide pools on the beach.
Two Lights State Park
Two Lights State Park is also very close to Kettle Cove and Crescent Beach. Located in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, the lighthouse itself is actually only visible on one small beach of the park, set apart from many of the trails. No matter where we go in Two Lights, the rugged coastline always captivates me.
Bug Light
Bug Light, officially known as the Portland Breakwater Light, is a charming and historic location for family photography sessions in Portland. It’s a small (but mighty!) lighthouse that has a sweet little grassy park great for playing. This lighthouse is more humble and laid back then many of the others. Great for locals who call Maine home and spend time picnicking out here!
Documentary family photography in Southern Maine
Southern Maine offers endless opportunities for fun and memorable family photography sessions. While I am very much an advocate for at-home family sessions, I recognize that natural landscapes can hold a special meaning for many. Ultimately, I want to select a location you feel the most connected and comfortable. If you are based in (or visiting) Southern Maine and trying to find a photography location and is best suited to your family, I’d love to brainstorm ideas with you!
