South Jersey is full of beautiful places to take family portraits. From flower gardens to sandy beaches, the sky’s the limit when it comes to the look you’re after. I’ve managed to narrow the list down based on the variety of backdrops, amenities offered, and privacy offered. Keep reading to find out some of the best outdoor photoshoot locations in South Jersey.
What Makes a Great South Jersey Photoshoot Location?
Variety of Backdrops
While it’s certainly possible to stand in one place for an entire session and end up with a beautiful gallery, I prefer to move around to capture more variety in your shots. Not only does it keep the final product interesting, but it’s more engaging for your family as well.
Amenities
Amenities like easily-accessible bathrooms, playgrounds, and space for dogs make a difference in how enjoyable your family session experience is. It’s less than ideal for your child to have to use the restroom in the middle of the shoot with a bathroom nowhere in sight, and many photo locations don’t allow dogs. Plus, having a playground nearby is a nice treat for your kids once they’ve made it through the session.
Privacy
There are certain photoshoot locations that are so popular, it’s almost impossible to get a good shot. Whether it’s packed with other families trying to get the perfect backdrop, or it’s a highly trafficked tourist area, it’s better to have room to spread out when taking family portraits.
Best Outdoor Photoshoot Locations in South Jersey
Swedes Run Dog Park (Moorestown, NJ)
Best for: Bringing your dog
Swedes Run is a great option if you’re hoping to bring a pet along. There is a fenced park for dogs to run around in after the session and a short walking trail loop. My favorite photo spots at this location are the rustic stone barn near the parking lot or back in the tree-lined path.
Address: 735 Westfield Road, Moorestown, NJ 08057
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Restrooms: Port-o-potty
Permit Required: No
Historic Smithville Park (Eastampton, NJ)
Best for: Historical buildings, brick walls
Smithville Park is a great option if you’re hoping to get a lot of variety in your shots. There are several brick buildings and walls around the property and the Smithville mansion is gorgeous. At the north end of the park, you’ll find a field of tall grasses that make for a nice backdrop, especially in the fall.
Address: 803 Smithville Road, Eastampton, NJ 08060
Hours: 8:00 am to dusk
Restrooms: Yes
Permit Required: No
Alcyon Park (Pitman, NJ)
Best for: Water backdrop
If you’re looking for a photoshoot location with a lake in South Jersey, Alcyon Park is a great spot. There are several tree-lined field spaces around the park, as well as some paths along the lake that have beautiful foliage in the fall. Plus there’s a playground for your kids to play on after the session!
Address: W Holly Ave, Pitman, NJ 08071
Hours: 8:00 am to dusk
Restrooms: Yes
Permit Required: No
Knight Park (Collingswood, NJ)
Best for: Seasonal foliage
Knight Park is a large, manicured park conveniently located near the main street in Collingswood. There is a small lake with a fountain in the center, a white gazebo, and several open grassy areas with partial tree shade. Knight Park is a great family photoshoot location in the spring or fall, when the blossoms are sprouting or leaves are changing.
Address: Park Ave & W Browning Rd, Collingswood, NJ 08107
Hours: 9:30 am to 8:30 pm
Restrooms: Yes
Permit Required: No
Croft Farm (Cherry Hill, NJ)
Best for: Covered areas
Croft Farm is a historical site with several unique buildings around the property. I love the large covered porch on the front of the main house for when the unexpected rain shower occurs. There are several fields and playgrounds within walking distance if your kids want to play after the session.
Address: 100 Bortons Mill Rd, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Restrooms: No
Permit Required: No
Ocean City, NJ beaches
Best for: Sunrise/sunset
The shore is one of the best places to take family photos in NJ. The light on the beach is always magical, and kids love playing in the sand or splashing through the surf. The boardwalk is also a great place to take photos with your family. Head to Gillian’s Wonderland Pier for those classic boardwalk shots with a bit of extra room.
Address: Ocean City, NJ 08226
Hours: 5:00 am to 8:00 pm
Restrooms: Yes, along boardwalk
Permit Required: No
Family Photography in South Jersey
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