You’re in Gran Canaria, a place where memories are just waiting to be made. The sun is warming your skin, the sound of the Atlantic waves provides a soothing soundtrack, and your family is together, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. These are the moments you want to hold onto forever.

An outdoor family photo shoot is the perfect way to capture the magic of your holiday. But how do you ensure the photos turn out as beautiful and joyful as the moments themselves? As local photographers, we’ve guided countless families through this experience. Here are our essential outdoor family photo shoot tips to guarantee a relaxed, fun session and stunning results.

1. What to wear: Coordinate, don’t match

This is the number one question we get, and for good reason! Your clothing choices play a huge role in the final look of your photos.

• Think in palettes: Instead of putting everyone in identical white shirts and jeans, choose a complementary color palette. For Gran Canaria, think of soft, earthy tones (beige, khaki, soft brown), gentle blues, teals, or warm pastels (like terracotta or dusty rose). These colors harmonize beautifully with the golden dunes, volcanic rock, and blue sea.
• Avoid loud logos and busy patterns: Large logos, characters, or very busy patterns can be distracting and quickly date your photos. The focus should be on your family’s faces and connections, not on a brand name.
• Comfort is key: This is especially true for an outdoor shoot and for children. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics. Make sure shoes are comfortable enough to walk on sand or uneven paths. If your kids are comfortable, they’ll be happy, and happy kids make for great photos!
• Flow and texture: For a beautiful, dynamic look, consider outfits with some texture or flow, like a long, breezy dress or a linen shirt.

2. Timing is everything: The magic of the golden hour

The soft, warm, dreamy light you see in professional photos isn’t an accident—it’s all about timing. We always recommend scheduling your shoot during the “Golden Hour.”

This is the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset. During this time, the sun is low in the sky, creating a soft, flattering, golden light that eliminates harsh shadows and makes everyone glow. As a bonus, the temperatures are cooler and more comfortable, which is a huge plus for keeping everyone in high spirits.

But don’t worry if a shoot during these hours isn’t possible! With our use of professional flash lighting, we can recreate the same stunning effect at any time of the day. This means you’re not reliant on natural light, and we can capture equally magical photos whenever it suits you.

3. Location, location, location: A backdrop that tells your story

Gran Canaria is a continent in miniature, offering an incredible variety of backdrops. The key is to choose a location that fits your family’s personality and story. As local photographers, we have a portfolio of breathtaking locations, from famous landmarks to hidden gems that you won’t find in a travel guide.

We can help you choose the perfect setting:

• The Classic Beach Vibe: Imagine your family against the backdrop of the iconic Maspalomas dunes at sunset or playing on the tranquil, golden shores of a secluded beach. We know the best access points to capture the magic of the dunes safely, as the core area is a protected nature reserve where walking is not permitted.
• A Sense of Raw Adventure: For the more adventurous family, we can head to the island’s rugged coastlines, with their dramatic volcanic rock formations and wild, untouched beaches that provide a powerful and natural setting.
• Charming Village Life: The vibrant, flower-draped streets of Puerto de Mogán or the historic, colonial alleys of Vegueta in Las Palmas add a colourful, cultural feel to your family portraits.
• The Comfort of Your Hotel: Sometimes the most relaxing and meaningful location is the one you’ve made your temporary home. We can absolutely come to your hotel or resort, especially if it has beautiful gardens, unique architecture, or direct beach access. This is a fantastic, stress-free option for families with very young children.

Don’t worry about finding the perfect spot on your own. This is where our local expertise shines. We will work with you to select a location that is not only beautiful but also safe, accessible, and perfectly suited to your family’s energy.

4. Prepare the family (especially the little ones)

A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable shoot.

• Everyone Fed and Rested: This might be the most important tip of all! Ensure everyone has had a snack and is well-rested before the shoot. A hungry or tired child (or adult!) can find it hard to be patient and have fun.
• Bring Snacks & Water: Even if you’ve eaten beforehand, having some non-messy snacks (like crackers, small cookies or fruit gummies) and water on hand is a lifesaver. It’s a great way to reset a child’s mood.
• Talk it Up!: Frame the photo shoot as a fun adventure. Tell your kids, “We’re going to go to a beautiful beach to play, and a friendly photographer will be there to capture our fun!” Avoid putting pressure on them to “behave” or “smile for the camera.”

5. Trust your photographer and embrace the imperfect

You’ve hired a professional for a reason. Relax, and let us guide you. We will give you gentle prompts and create scenarios that encourage natural interaction.

The most cherished family photos are rarely the ones where everyone is sitting stiffly and looking at the camera. They are the candid moments in between: the laughter as you chase your toddler, the quiet hug, the way you look at your partner while your kids play by the shore. Let your kids be kids. Let them run, giggle, and explore. These are the moments that truly define your family.

Ready to create your timeless family portraits?

Your family’s story is beautiful and unique. An outdoor photo shoot in Gran Canaria is more than just taking pictures; it’s about creating a joyful experience that results in artful, authentic memories. By following these outdoor family photo shoot tips, you’re already on your way to a successful and memorable session.

Contact Gran Canaria Photoshoot today, and let’s plan the perfect session to capture your family’s adventure on the island!