Capturing Holiday Memories: Easy Travel Photography Tips for Parents
Travelling abroad with children is a whirlwind of excitement, which toys to take, and the occasional meltdown-but somewhere between the chaos and cuddles are moments you’ll want to remember forever. Real moments matter. A Surrey family photographer shares easy tips for capturing beautiful holiday memories while travelling with kids.
As a Surrey family photographer, I know how precious these memories are. But I also know how tricky it can be to actually capture them when you’re juggling passports, sun-cream, and the 482th request for ice cream.
So here are some easy, stress-free travel photography tips for parents, so you can preserve the holiday magic-without missing out on it.
1. Ditch the Pressure for Perfect
Let’s start here: your photos don’t have to be perfect.
Focus on real moments-the sandy toes, messy ice cream faces, sleepy airport cuddles. These are the memories that matter most. Don’t worry about poses or matching outfits.
Tip: Candid is king. Snap them while they’re exploring & laughing – it’s all part of the story.
2. Use Natural Light (and Avoid Midday!)
Light is everything in photography.
Early morning or late afternoon (aka golden hour) gives you that warm, dreamy glow. If you’re out in strong midday sun, look for shade to avoid harsh shadows.
Pro hack: Facing your child towards the light (like a window or open sky) softens features and brightens eyes. Or evening light is beautiful.
Beautiful skies and candlelight in the evenings
3. Phone Photography? You’re Already Equipped
Good news: your phone camera is more powerful than ever.
- Tap the screen to focus on your subject.
- Hold down the shutter to take a burst of photos – perfect for wiggly kids.
- Try portrait mode for that nice blurry background.
Bonus: Clean your lens before you shoot. Sunscreen fingers = blurry holiday memories.
Mia & Rosie captured on Portrait Mode….great BOKEH!
4. What to Pack for Better Holiday Photos (Without Weighing Yourself Down)
Here are some lightweight essentials for taking great photos on the go:
- Mini Tripod – Great for self-timer shots or family group pics.
- Clip-On Phone Lens – A wide-angle lens captures more background (hello beach sunsets).
- Portable Charger – Because your phone will work overtime.
- Spare SD Card (if using a camera) – You will run out of space.
- Ziplock Bags – Cheap and perfect for keeping gear safe from sand or splashes.
5. Don’t Forget to Get In the Photos
Mums are often the ones behind the camera—but your children will want to remember that you were there too.
Ask a waiter in a restaurant, use a self-timer, or prop your phone on a rock. Whatever it takes-just make sure you show up in your holiday story.
Phone in selfie mode…Corfu, Greece 2024
Bonus Tip: Back Up Your Photos Every Few Days
Use cloud storage or transfer your images to a device if you can. Losing precious memories to a lost phone or full storage is the quickest way to holiday heartbreak!
Want Help Capturing the Magic?
If you’re planning a big family holiday or want to book a stress-free, fun & natural session before or after your trip, I’d love to help.
As a family photographer in Surrey, I offer relaxed sessions that celebrate your family just as you are. Whether you’re looking for family photography in Guildford Surrey, outdoor photo shoots in the Surrey Hills, or a whole family session in Farnham before your summer trip, I’ve got you covered.
Get in touch here or drop me a DM on Instagram to chat.
Let’s make those holiday memories last a lifetime—with beautiful fun photos to treasure forever.
Me and my family on holiday-my phone on self timer in a shoe on the beach at sunset.
Lots of love
Zoe xxx
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