Summer in Alexandria, Virginia, is a magical time to gather your loved ones and create timeless Alexandria family portraits. With vibrant greenery, warm sunlight, and iconic backdrops like Old Town’s cobblestone streets or the Potomac waterfront, June offers the perfect setting for joyful family photos. At VSD Photography, I specialize in capturing authentic moments that families cherish for years. In this guide, I share expert tips on choosing the best Alexandria locations, mastering candid poses, and selecting wall art to display your memories. Whether it’s a multigenerational shoot or a fun session with kids and pets, my advice will ensure your family photography session is stress-free and memorable. Let’s explore how to make your summer family portraits shine!
Best Alexandria Parks for Family Shoots
Alexandria’s parks provide stunning backdrops for summer family portraits. Founders Park, with its lush lawns and river views, is ideal for playful, candid shots of kids and pets. Fort Ward Park offers a mix of open fields and historic charm, perfect for relaxed family poses. For a more urban feel, Waterfront Park near Old Town’s bustling marina adds a vibrant, summery vibe. One last suggestion, which happens to lie just outside of Alexandria, is Gravelly Point. Located at the north end of Reagan National Airport, it’s an amazing location to watch planes take off and land right above your head (and capture one in the background of your family)!Choose a location that reflects your family’s personality—green spaces for a natural look or historic settings for a timeless feel. Visit your chosen spot beforehand to get a sense of the light and space, or explore our portfolio for inspiration. During your consultation I’ll recommend the best park for your vision and summer aesthetic.


Tips for Natural, Candid Poses
Candid poses capture the heart of your family’s dynamic, creating authentic Alexandria family portraits. Here’s how to achieve natural shots:
• Encourage Movement: Ask kids to run, jump, or play to capture genuine smiles.
• Interact Naturally: Hold hands, share a laugh, or hug to show connection. Avoid stiff, staged poses.
• Involve Pets or Props: Bring a favorite toy or include your dog for lively, candid energy. Pets thrive in Alexandria’s open spaces.
• Follow My Lead: I’ll guide you with gentle prompts to keep the session fun and relaxed. Practice a few interactions at home to feel comfortable.

Choosing Wall Art for Your Home
Your summer family portraits deserve to be displayed proudly. After your session, I offer a range of wall art options to showcase your memories in your Alexandria home. Canvas prints add a modern, vibrant touch, perfect for living rooms. Framed prints in classic styles suit traditional homes, while acrylic prints offer a sleek, contemporary look. Consider a gallery wall with a mix of sizes to tell your family’s story. Choose images that capture your favorite moments—perhaps a candid laugh or a quiet embrace. I’ll guide you through selecting and sizing during your post-session consultation.


Making Your Family Session Unforgettable
To ensure a memorable family photography session, plan ahead and embrace the moment. Schedule your shoot for early morning or late afternoon to capture Alexandria’s golden summer light. Coordinate outfits using my wardrobe stylist (she’ll schedule up to three sessions with you!) to choose complementary colors that pop against park backdrops—think soft blues or earthy tones. Bring snacks, water, and toys to keep kids and pets happy in Alexandria’s summer heat. Stay open to spontaneous moments, like a child chasing a butterfly or a family group hug. Ready to create lasting summer memories? Book your Alexandria family portrait session today and let VSD Photography capture your family’s joy!