When it comes to Southern Maine family photography, location makes a bigger difference than most people realize. Over the years, I’ve photographed families across Kennebunkport, Biddeford, Cape Elizabeth, Scarborough, and Old Orchard Beach. Through experience with light, tides, seasonal changes, and crowd flow, I’ve found the spots that consistently deliver beautiful, timeless images.

To make sure every family receives a high-quality, cohesive gallery, I recommend choosing from these locations. These are the spots I know intimately, from sunrise to sunset, and where families can truly feel relaxed while we capture natural moments.

Beaches

Private Beach in Saco

A peaceful, tucked-away beach perfect for sunset sessions.

Highlights:

• Quiet, private atmosphere
• Gorgeous coastal sunsets
• Dogs allowed
• Sandy shoreline with marsh views
• Excellent parking, no restrooms

Higgins Beach, Scarborough

My absolute favorite for sunrise or sunset sessions with incredible light.

Highlights:

• Expansive shoreline and soft sand
• Magical sunrise and sunset light
• Relaxed, intimate atmosphere
• Dogs allowed at certain times
• Convenient parking

Pine Point Beach, Scarborough

A serene spot for sunrise or sunset sessions that feels like a hidden gem.

Highlights:

• Stunning sunrise and evening light
• Clean, open shoreline
• Quiet, peaceful setting
• Dogs restricted at certain times
• Parking with nearby public restrooms

Drakes Island Beach, Wells

Family-friendly beach with wide sandy shores and classic Atlantic views.

Highlights:

• Wide, open beach perfect for playful moments
• Gorgeous sunset light
• Relaxed, welcoming atmosphere
• Dogs restricted at certain times
• Parking with public restrooms

Footbridge Beach, Wells

A quiet, charming beach with amazing light for candid family portraits.

Highlights:

• Soft, golden light for sunrise or sunset
• Peaceful, relaxed vibe
• Open shoreline for kids to move freely
• Dogs allowed at certain times
• Parking nearby

Goose Rocks Beach, Kennebunkport

Classic Maine coastline with soft sand and wide-open space.

Highlights:

• Incredible natural light for sunrise and sunset
• Expansive beach for movement and candid shots
• Peaceful and private-feeling
• Dogs allowed at certain times
• Parking nearby

Preserves & Farms

Private Field, Southern Maine

One of my most special and personal locations, this private field was a thoughtful gift from my husband a few years ago. It’s a hidden gem that’s especially magical in the fall, with wide-open space, beautiful sunsets, and a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere.

Highlights:

• Gorgeous fall colors and soft light
• Wide-open field perfect for movement and candid moments
• Dogs are welcome, so pets can be included
• Convenient parking

Pleasant Hill Preserve, Scarborough

Peaceful trails with meadows, woods, and boardwalks for variety in one session.

Highlights:

• Open fields with sunset light
• Wooded areas for filtered light
• Quiet, natural setting
• Dogs allowed on leash
• Parking at trailhead

Fels-Grove Farm Preserve, Yarmouth

A 55-acre preserve ideal in summer and fall for meadows and woods.

Highlights:

• Expansive fields and rolling terrain
• Mature woods for soft light
• Seasonal textures: wildflowers and fall foliage
• Dogs allowed on leash
• Parking nearby

Wells Reserve at Laudholm

Coastal charm with meadows, salt marshes, and historic buildings.

Highlights:

• Multiple backdrops in one location
• Sunset-friendly meadows
• Tree-lined paths for soft light
• Family-friendly and scenic
• Parking accessible

Gilsland Farm Audubon Center, Falmouth

Open fields, wooded trails, and river views create a dynamic gallery.

Highlights:

• Sunset over unmowed fields is magical
• Variety of textures: meadows, trails, river views
• Quiet, peaceful environment
• Dogs not permitted
• Parking nearby

East Point Audubon Society, Biddeford

Coastal preserve with salt marshes, open fields, and wooded areas.

Highlights:

• Beautiful natural light for golden hour
• Versatile backdrops: marsh, fields, woods
• Quiet and serene environment
• Dogs not permitted
• Parking nearby

Lighthouses

Two Lights, Cape Elizabeth

My favorite for sunset sessions with dramatic ocean views and iconic lighthouses.

Highlights:

• Stunning sunset light
• Open shoreline and rocky areas
• Iconic lighthouses without crowds
• Great for candid and posed portraits
• Parking nearby

I prefer Two Lights over Portland Headlight and Nubble Light, which often have harsh light, smaller shooting areas, and crowds.

Planning Tips

I love sunny days, but many of these locations also work beautifully on overcast days. Soft, diffused light can be incredibly flattering and creates a timeless feel in your family photos.

Wind is something to keep in mind at many coastal spots—it can be tricky for hair and clothing—but it’s something we can plan around as your session approaches.

No matter the season or weather, my goal is always to capture relaxed, joyful, and natural moments that showcase your family’s connection. We can discuss timing, lighting, and location details as we get closer to your session to ensure everything feels perfect.

Please check out my post on factors to consider when choosing a location for you outdoor family session.

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