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Family Portraits: A Guide to the Best Locations in North Houston

Tara Flannery is a  Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in family portraits.  See more family photos in the gallery.  Contact me to book your family portrait today!

A Guide for Family Portraits

When planning a family portrait session, one of the very first questions I always get is: “Where should we take our photos?”

It’s an important decision! The right setting does more than create a pretty background—it sets the tone, style, and how comfortable your family feels during the shoot. In this guide, I’ll share some of my favorite family portrait locations in the Houston area, along with tips for choosing the one that fits your family best.

family portraits

1. Think About Your Family’s Personality

Your location should feel like you.

  • Love the outdoors? A park with trails and trees may be the perfect match.
  • Prefer sleek and modern? An urban spot like Hughes Landing is a great fit.
  • Want something cozy and woodsy? A state park offers that warm, rustic feel.

The best family portrait locations are the ones where your family feels natural and at ease.

2. My Favorite North Houston-Area Family Portrait Locations

Here are some of my go-to spots that always create timeless images:

🌳 Alden Bridge Park

  • Perfect for: Families who love nature.
  • Features: Trails, bridges, and open green spaces.
  • Vibe: Relaxed, natural, timeless.

🌲 WG Jones State Park

  • Perfect for: Families who want dramatic trees and rustic backdrops.
  • Features: Towering pines, forest trails, textured scenery.
  • Vibe: Cozy and woodsy—especially beautiful in fall.

🍂 Rob Fleming Park

  • Perfect for: Families with young kids.
  • Features: Lake views, wide fields, shaded play areas.
  • Vibe: Warm, versatile, family-friendly.

🏙 Hughes Landing

  • Perfect for: Families with a modern, city vibe.
  • Features: The Waterway, sleek architecture, boardwalks.
  • Vibe: Stylish, urban, polished.

🌿 Mercer Arboretum

  • Perfect for: Families who love gardens and vibrant colors.
  • Features: Botanical gardens, bridges, water features.
  • Vibe: Elegant, colorful, romantic.

Each of these family portrait locations offers something unique, so think about the story you want your images to tell.

family portraits location

3. Consider Time of Day & Lighting

Lighting is everything.

  • Morning and late afternoon are best for soft, flattering light.
  • Midday sun can be harsh, but some shaded areas at parks help balance it out.
  • Remember: the same location can look completely different depending on season and time of day.

Your photographer (hi, that’s me!) can help you choose the best time for your chosen location.

4. Coordinate Outfits With the Setting

Your outfits should complement the environment, not compete with it.

  • Neutral and earthy tones are beautiful in natural settings like Alden Bridge or WG Jones.
  • Slightly dressier attire works well in modern or garden-style spots like Hughes Landing or Mercer Arboretum.

The right coordination between clothing and setting ensures your family photos feel cohesive and timeless.

where to take family photos

5. Keep Comfort in Mind

While choosing from the many great family portrait locations in Houston, don’t forget about practicality.

  • Parks are wonderful if kids need space to move and play.
  • Urban areas may be better if you prefer quick, simple sessions with easy access to parking and amenities.
  • Think about accessibility and how much walking your family is comfortable with.

The more relaxed you feel, the more authentic and joyful your portraits will look.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, there’s no single “perfect” location. The best family portrait location is the one that feels authentic to your family—whether that’s a nature trail, a garden, or a modern urban backdrop.

Ready to plan your fall family session? Let’s choose the location that feels just right for you. Click HERE to schedule a consultation with me today!

the woodlands tx family portraits

Tara Flannery is a  Certified Professional Photographer (CPP), Photographic Craftsman, and Master of Photography based in Houston, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in family portraits.  See more family photos in the gallery.  Contact me to book your family portrait today!

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@taraflanneryphotography

Let’s talk about it 👇🏻

So many people wait to book their headshot because they feel like they need to “fix” something first.

Lose a little weight. Clear their skin. Feel more confident. Look more put-together.

But here’s the truth:

The version of you that exists right now is already worthy of being seen.

The best headshots don’t come from perfection — they come from authenticity.

Real expression. Real connection. Real confidence… even if you don’t quite feel it walking in.

During every session, I guide you through posing, lighting, and expression so you feel relaxed, supported, and comfortable — because that’s when the magic happens. You don’t have to know what to do. You don’t have to feel “ready.” You just have to show up.

✨ If you want a headshot that feels like you, I’d love to help.

Click the link in my bio to schedule your consultation OR to grab my FREE headshot session guide for more information!

#headshottips #corporateheadshots #headshotphotographerhoustontx #professionalheadshots

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Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18090456517928756
Let’s talk about it 👇🏻 So many people wait to book their headshot because they feel like they need to “fix” something first. Lose a little weight. Clear their skin. Feel more confident. Look more put-together. But here’s the truth: The version of you that exists right now is already worthy of being seen. The best headshots don’t come from perfection — they come from authenticity. Real expression. Real connection. Real confidence… even if you don’t quite feel it walking in. During every session, I guide you through posing, lighting, and expression so you feel relaxed, supported, and comfortable — because that’s when the magic happens. You don’t have to know what to do. You don’t have to feel “ready.” You just have to show up. ✨ If you want a headshot that feels like you, I’d love to help. Click the link in my bio to schedule your consultation OR to grab my FREE headshot session guide for more information! #headshottips #corporateheadshots #headshotphotographerhoustontx #professionalheadshots

If you’re hosting a holiday party this year… there’s something you don’t want to overlook 👇🏻

Your team is already together, dressed up, and in great spirits — which makes it the perfect moment to update everyone’s headshots. No juggling schedules, no tracking people down, no pulling anyone out of meetings. Just quick, polished photos your team can pop in for, and then head right back to the party.

It’s an easy way to add value to your celebration and give your employees something they’ll actually use heading into the new year. And with my streamlined event setup (and zero admin work for you), the process is effortless from start to finish.

✨ If you’re planning a holiday party, let’s talk about adding on-site headshots.
Click the link in my bio to schedule your consultation.

#corporateevents #corporateeventphotographer #headshotphotographer #corporateheadshots

7 4
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 17891918994362795
If you’re hosting a holiday party this year… there’s something you don’t want to overlook 👇🏻 Your team is already together, dressed up, and in great spirits — which makes it the perfect moment to update everyone’s headshots. No juggling schedules, no tracking people down, no pulling anyone out of meetings. Just quick, polished photos your team can pop in for, and then head right back to the party. It’s an easy way to add value to your celebration and give your employees something they’ll actually use heading into the new year. And with my streamlined event setup (and zero admin work for you), the process is effortless from start to finish. ✨ If you’re planning a holiday party, let’s talk about adding on-site headshots. Click the link in my bio to schedule your consultation. #corporateevents #corporateeventphotographer #headshotphotographer #corporateheadshots

- Do this instead 👇🏻

Most people focus on their outfit or expression — but your background plays a huge role in how others perceive you. It sets the tone for your personal brand before you even introduce yourself.

Your space tells clients what working with you feels like.

Here’s how different backdrops communicate different messages:

🏢 Corporate office → traditional, established, and formal.

🌿 Natural outdoor setting → approachable, creative, and warm.

🏙️ Urban or architectural environment → modern, edgy, and innovative.

🎨 Solid color or studio backdrop → clean, versatile, and timeless.

Even subtle shifts in tone, texture, or color can completely change the mood of your headshot — which is why the location is just as important as the lighting or pose.

And here’s the exciting part: with the help of professional AI editing, you don’t have to choose just one. We can create on-brand variations that fit different platforms — like LinkedIn, your website, or your marketing materials — while keeping your headshot cohesive and authentic.

Because when every detail works together — from your expression to your background — your headshot becomes more than a picture. It becomes your first impression.

📩 Ready to plan your next session? Message me and let’s find the backdrop that tells your brand story best.

#headshotlocations #headshottips #corporateheadshots #photolocationshoustontx

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Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18078263909156290
- Do this instead 👇🏻 Most people focus on their outfit or expression — but your background plays a huge role in how others perceive you. It sets the tone for your personal brand before you even introduce yourself. Your space tells clients what working with you feels like. Here’s how different backdrops communicate different messages: 🏢 Corporate office → traditional, established, and formal. 🌿 Natural outdoor setting → approachable, creative, and warm. 🏙️ Urban or architectural environment → modern, edgy, and innovative. 🎨 Solid color or studio backdrop → clean, versatile, and timeless. Even subtle shifts in tone, texture, or color can completely change the mood of your headshot — which is why the location is just as important as the lighting or pose. And here’s the exciting part: with the help of professional AI editing, you don’t have to choose just one. We can create on-brand variations that fit different platforms — like LinkedIn, your website, or your marketing materials — while keeping your headshot cohesive and authentic. Because when every detail works together — from your expression to your background — your headshot becomes more than a picture. It becomes your first impression. 📩 Ready to plan your next session? Message me and let’s find the backdrop that tells your brand story best. #headshotlocations #headshottips #corporateheadshots #photolocationshoustontx

Here’s how to fix that 👇🏻

If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable in front of the camera — especially when someone else is taking your picture — you’re not alone. It’s completely normal.

Taking professional photos can feel surprisingly vulnerable. You’re being seen, literally, and that can stir up a lot of nerves.

But here’s the thing: feeling awkward shouldn’t stop you from getting photos you love. My job as your photographer is to help ease that discomfort so you can show up as your best, most authentic self.

Here’s how I help clients do just that:

1️⃣ The Consultation

Before your session, we’ll chat about your goals, style, and how you want to be seen. I also connect clients with trusted stylists who can help you choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable (if needed).

2️⃣ A Calm, Supportive Environment

Whether we’re in my studio, your office, or an outdoor location, my priority is to create a space where you can relax, laugh, and genuinely enjoy the process. When you’re at ease, it always shows in your photos.

3️⃣ A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

Get plenty of rest, hydrate, and plan your wardrobe ahead of time. When you feel prepared, you walk into your session with a completely different kind of confidence.

Because the truth is — professional photos can feel vulnerable, but with the right guidance, they can also be empowering. 💛

📩 Ready to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera? Message me to schedule your session today.

#professionalheadshots #corporateheadshots #headshotphotographer #headshottips

11 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 17961749040003344
Here’s how to fix that 👇🏻 If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable in front of the camera — especially when someone else is taking your picture — you’re not alone. It’s completely normal. Taking professional photos can feel surprisingly vulnerable. You’re being seen, literally, and that can stir up a lot of nerves. But here’s the thing: feeling awkward shouldn’t stop you from getting photos you love. My job as your photographer is to help ease that discomfort so you can show up as your best, most authentic self. Here’s how I help clients do just that: 1️⃣ The Consultation Before your session, we’ll chat about your goals, style, and how you want to be seen. I also connect clients with trusted stylists who can help you choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable (if needed). 2️⃣ A Calm, Supportive Environment Whether we’re in my studio, your office, or an outdoor location, my priority is to create a space where you can relax, laugh, and genuinely enjoy the process. When you’re at ease, it always shows in your photos. 3️⃣ A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way Get plenty of rest, hydrate, and plan your wardrobe ahead of time. When you feel prepared, you walk into your session with a completely different kind of confidence. Because the truth is — professional photos can feel vulnerable, but with the right guidance, they can also be empowering. 💛 📩 Ready to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera? Message me to schedule your session today. #professionalheadshots #corporateheadshots #headshotphotographer #headshottips

Here`s what you can expect at a headshot session with me 👇🏻

✨ Pre-session consultation to understand your brand and team dynamics
📋 Wardrobe guidance that aligns with your company culture
🎯 Multiple looks and expressions to give everyone options
⏰ Efficient workflow that respects everyone`s busy schedules
💼 Professional retouching that maintains authenticity
📱 Digital gallery delivery within 48 hours

Be honest—when was the last time your team photos actually represented who you are today? Most companies wait 3-5 years between updates, but your people (and your business) evolve much faster than that.

Your team`s headshots aren`t just photos—they`re the first impression potential clients, partners, and talent get of your company culture. When they`re outdated or inconsistent, what message does that send?

Ready to show the world the dynamic team you`ve built? Let`s create imagery that matches your company`s growth. 🚀

#headshots #corporatephotography #teamheadshots #professionalphotography #houstonphotographer

10 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18097105072802709
Here's what you can expect at a headshot session with me 👇🏻 ✨ Pre-session consultation to understand your brand and team dynamics 📋 Wardrobe guidance that aligns with your company culture 🎯 Multiple looks and expressions to give everyone options ⏰ Efficient workflow that respects everyone's busy schedules 💼 Professional retouching that maintains authenticity 📱 Digital gallery delivery within 48 hours Be honest—when was the last time your team photos actually represented who you are today? Most companies wait 3-5 years between updates, but your people (and your business) evolve much faster than that. Your team's headshots aren't just photos—they're the first impression potential clients, partners, and talent get of your company culture. When they're outdated or inconsistent, what message does that send? Ready to show the world the dynamic team you've built? Let's create imagery that matches your company's growth. 🚀 #headshots #corporatephotography #teamheadshots #professionalphotography #houstonphotographer

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Serving the Greater Houston, Texas Area

tara@taraflannery.com

713-412-5437

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Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers of America PPA.
Tara is a Certified Professional Photographer.
Tara is a member of TPPA Texas Professional Photographer's Association.
Tara has earned her Master of Photography degree.
Tara has earned her Photographic Craftsman certification.
Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers Guild of Houston PPGH.