The Best Places for Family Photos in Hampton Roads
Written by Sarah McCall Portraits- Virginia Beach Family Photographer
Looking for the perfect spot to take your family photos in Hampton Roads? Whether you're dreaming of soft sand, golden fields, charming parks, or cozy wooded paths, this area is packed with beautiful locations that are perfect for light and airy photography. As a local family photographer, Ive gathered my favorite go-to spots to help you find the perfect backdrop for your next session.
First Landing State Park (Virginia Beach)
This park offers a gorgeous mix of sandy trails, tall pines, and access to the Chesapeake Bay. The light here is golden and dreamy, and theres a variety of natural settings all in one location.
Best for: Nature lovers, earthy tones, and golden hour glow
Bonus: Pet-friendly and has restrooms!
Pleasure House Point (Virginia Beach)
Grassy dunes, wooden walkways, and stunning sunsets make this spot a quiet favorite for families. It has an airy, coastal feel without the busyness of the Oceanfront.
Best for: Natural, light and airy beach sessions
Pro Tip: Neutral outfits look amazing here!
Fort Monroe (Hampton)
A mix of historical charm, open lawns, and scenic views of the water, Fort Monroe offers lots of variety in one location.
Best for: Timeless family photos with character
Why I love it: Gorgeous golden hour lighting and minimal crowds.
Windsor Castle Park (Smithfield)
Rustic charm meets open fields, wooden fences, a barn, and a beautiful bridge all in one space. Its especially pretty in fall but gorgeous year-round.
Best for: Warm, golden tones and classic country vibes Perfect for: Families with young kids who need space to run
East Beach (Norfolk)
Quieter than Virginia Beach, East Beach is perfect for sunset sessions with wide sandy stretches and gentle waves.
Best for: Coastal, classic beach portraits
Tip: Plan your session about an hour before sunset for the best light.
Colonial Williamsburg (Williamsburg)
Brick paths, gardens, white fences, and historic charm Williamsburg is a dream for timeless, elegant family photos.
Best for: Formal or vintage-inspired sessions
Bonus: Seasonal decor during the holidays makes it extra special!
Oak Grove Lake Park (Chesapeake)
This quiet loop trail around a peaceful lake is full of natural beauty think tall grasses, woods, and open skies. A hidden gem for laid-back, earthy sessions.
Best for: Relaxed, woodsy family photos
Why I love it: Kid-friendly, dog-friendly, and rarely crowded
Pro Tip: The light here at golden hour is magical.
Red Wing Park (Virginia Beach)
In spring, this park is bursting with cherry blossoms and blooms. It also features Japanese gardens, wide-open green spaces, and charming bridges.
Best for: Spring sessions and floral backdrops
Great for: Families wanting a soft, romantic setting
The Hermitage Museum & Gardens (Norfolk)
With stunning architecture, peaceful gardens, and views of the water, this spot feels like a fairytale.
Its one of the most elegant photo locations in Hampton Roads. Best for: Romantic, styled, or dressy family sessions
Note: There may be a photography fee, so plan ahead.
Munden Point Park (Virginia Beach)
A spacious, quiet park with wide fields, waterfront views, and a peaceful pier. Its perfect for simple, natural family sessions.
Best for: Clean, open backgrounds and playful family moments
Perfect for: Families with toddlers or pets
Downtown Norfolk & The Pagoda Garden
Looking for something more modern or urban? Downtown Norfolk has colorful murals and cool textures, while the Pagoda Garden adds a peaceful touch of nature.
Best for: Trendy, artsy family photos
Great for: Older kids or families wanting a unique twist
Final Thoughts
Hampton Roads has no shortage of beautiful backdrops for your family session. When choosing your location, think about what fits your family's personality best cozy and woodsy, classy and timeless, or breezy and coastal.
If you need help styling your session, check out my What to Wear Guide for light and airy family photos!
Ready to Book Your Session?
Lets make magic together! Click here to contact me or email me at sarahmccallportraits@gmail.com. I would love to help you choose the perfect spot and plan a session your family will treasure forever.
