Summer Family Photo Ideas in Queens, Nassau and Suffolk NY: Beaches, Lakes, Sunflowers & Wildflowers

Even though fall tends to be the most popular time of year for family photos, summer will always be my personal favorite. There are so many beautiful options for seasonal scenery across Long Island. From some of the most stunning beaches to parks filled with tall, lush green grass swaying in the warm summer breeze, summer sessions feel effortless, playful and full of life.

Another beautiful part of summer sessions is the slower pace that comes with them. There’s no school schedule to rush through or long days of homework and activities. Fall tends to get full fast with the start of a new school year, adjusting to new teachers, sports practices, dance classes, karate and constantly moving from one thing to the next. Summer gives children the space to simply be themselves. That little afternoon nap that powers them through a sunset session feels like such a special part of childhood, and it’s part of the magic that makes summer evenings feel so carefree and memorable.

Now that you know why summer is my favorite time of year for family photos, keep reading to explore some of my favorite settings throughout Queens and Long Island for capturing these moments naturally and beautifully.

Beach

Family beach sessions are synonymous with summer. And when you live on Long Island, it only feels fitting to fill your walls and albums with beach memories. With beautiful locations across both the North and South Shore, we can find the setting that feels just right for your family, whether you’re drawn to soft dunes, gentle waves, rocky coastlines or wide open stretches of sand glowing at sunset.

Ready to plan your own beach session? Head to my booking page to explore location options, view available dates and reserve your session online.

Sunflower Field

Offered at Waterdrinker Family Farm & Garden in Manorville, their sunflower festival runs annually from July through September. They’re open daily until 6pm, so anticipate more full sun during your session. Mid-August through September tends to be best as the sun starts setting earlier. But there is SO much to do at Waterdrinker that it’s a wonderful way to spend the day with your family. Learn more here.
*Note there is a separate entrance fee per person paid directly to Waterdrinker

Lakeside

I love walking along the lake in the summer. The sun reflecting off the water, ducks swimming nearby, and lush tall grass lining the shore create such a peaceful setting for slow, connected moments together, making it perfect for family and maternity sessions alike.

Wildflowers

In bloom from late August through mid-September, wildflower sessions are filled with color between the vibrant blooms and those dreamy late summer sunsets. My favorite location is in Bayside Queens, easily accessible from Long Island or Westchester County. Check out more details and available session dates.

Family photos are never just pictures hanging on a wall. They’re reminders of a season of life. So why not make that season summer? The time of year that feels endless and magical when you’re a child. Let the photos fall naturally into those memories, without pressure, without rushing and without needing everything to be perfect. Get in touch today to start planning your family or maternity summer session.

Erica Ruvio Photography LLC is a Queens NYC based lifestyle newborn, family and maternity photographer serving Queens, Brooklyn, Nassau, Suffolk and up through lower Westchester counties. Learn more about Erica here.