The Best Summer Locations for Family Photos Near Livingston Manor and the Catskills

One of the questions I get asked most often is, Where should we do our family photos?

And my honest answer is this: the best location is not always the most dramatic one.

Yes, I know there are beautiful mountain views, rivers, fields, and postcard-worthy backdrops all over the Catskills. We’re lucky like that. But the location that often means the most years later is the one that feels connected to your actual life.

The place where your kids run wild. The porch where you drink coffee. The lake you visit every July. The town where you always get ice cream after dinner.

That said, if you’d like ideas, let me give you some.

1. Your Own Backyard

I will defend backyard sessions forever.

No packing everyone into the car. No arriving sweaty and annoyed. No hauling snacks, backup outfits, and emotional support water bottles across a field.

Kids are usually more relaxed at home. Dogs can join easily. We can use the garden, the hose, the porch, the driveway chalk, the swing set, the hammock, the chicken coop, the old picnic table, whatever makes your family your family.

These sessions tend to feel the most natural because nobody is trying to behave somewhere unfamiliar.

2. A Favorite Lake or Swimming Spot

Summer in the Catskills means water.

If your family spends time at a lake, pond, creek, or swimming hole, that can make an incredible setting. Barefoot kids skipping rocks, towels over shoulders, wet hair, sandy feet, dock jumps, snack breaks.

These sessions feel alive.

And if your family’s summer memories are built around water, this kind of location tells the truth about this season of life.

3. Main Streets and Small Town Spots

Livingston Manor, Callicoon, Narrowsburg, Roscoe, Andes, and other Catskills towns have charm without trying too hard.

Coffee shops, sidewalks, murals, storefronts, flower boxes, side streets, bridges, old buildings, ice cream cones in hand. If your family likes movement and a little personality in your photos, town sessions can be such a fun option.

They also work really well for families with older kids who may prefer “doing something” over standing in a field looking at me.

4. Open Fields and Meadow Spaces

Yes, the classic summer field can still absolutely work.

Golden grass, wildflowers, tree lines, open skies, warm evening light. There’s a reason people love this look.

The key is choosing a field with good light, privacy, and enough space for kids to move freely without me yelling “watch for ticks” every thirty seconds.

5. The Woods

Catskills woods can be beautiful in summer, especially in early morning or later evening when the light softens.

Ferns, trails, tall trees, filtered light, mossy textures. Great for families who love hiking, nature, or want something moodier and more grounded than a bright open field.

Bonus points if it’s a trail your family actually uses.

6. Vacation Rentals and Summer Houses

One thing I love about this area is how many families make summer memories here.

If you’re renting a house in the Catskills for a week or spending the season at a second home, let’s use it. Morning pancakes, deck hangs, lawn games, reading on the porch, grilling dinner, cousins visiting.

These photos can become a time capsule of a summer your kids will talk about later.

My Real Advice: Pick Meaning Over Impressiveness

A mountain overlook might be stunning, but if it takes a 25 minute hike with a toddler who skipped their nap, maybe it’s not the move.

A simple backyard where everyone feels relaxed may win every time.

The most successful family photo locations usually have three things:

• Your family can move comfortably

• Kids can be kids

• The place means something or feels like you

That’s where the good stuff happens.

Need Help Choosing?

You do not need to know the perfect spot before booking.

I help clients choose locations all the time based on personalities, kids’ ages, comfort levels, dog involvement, accessibility needs, and the overall feel they want.

Sometimes the answer is scenic. Sometimes it’s practical. Sometimes it’s your backyard and a popsicle.

Honestly, all are valid.

Booking Summer Family Photos in Livingston Manor and the Catskills

If you're looking for summer family photos near Livingston Manor, the Catskills, or surrounding areas, I’d love to help you choose a location that actually fits your family instead of just looking good online. Reach out here and we’ll figure it out together.