A Colourful Summer Memory – A Paint Freely Family Photoshoot

As a family photographer in Aberdeen, I love creating playful and creative outdoor sessions that let children be themselves. One of my favourite ways to do this is through paint freely family photoshoots — full of colour, laughter, and connection. These sessions are all about fun, freedom, and capturing pure, joyful moments between parents and their little ones.

There are some photo sessions that stay with you long after they’re over — and this was definitely one of them.

It was a hot summer day, the kind where the air feels warm and golden, and we found the perfect little meadow tucked in the woods. There was just enough soft shade to keep things cool and gentle, no harsh sunlight — the light was dreamy and filtered, wrapping everything in a soft glow.

The family were absolutely wonderful. Two little blonde girls, full of energy and curiosity, and their sweet and gentle parents — a beautiful, glowing mum and a loving, warm-hearted father. They were the kind of family who laugh easily and love openly, and it was such a joy to spend time with them.

We set up a small painting area on the grass, with a canvas, brushes, and paints in every colour of the rainbow. At first, the girls were focused and serious, carefully dipping their brushes into the colours and making bold, joyful strokes on the canvas. They created something truly beautiful together — full of bright swirls and little handprints, a reflection of their happy little hearts.

And then… they went wonderfully wild.
The moment that first splash of paint landed on someone’s arm, the laughter began. Soon there were streaks of blue and yellow on cheeks, pink handprints on tiny legs, and dots of green in their hair. The girls were giggling uncontrollably, their parents laughing along as they joined in the fun.

By the end, everyone was covered in colour. Their clothes, their hair, their hands — even the grass around us looked like it had been sprinkled with happiness. The air was full of laughter and sunlight and the kind of joy that you can’t pose or plan.

What I loved most about this session is how relaxed and real it was. There was no pressure to sit still or smile at the camera — everyone was just playing together, and that’s when the most beautiful moments happen. These are the kind of memories that matter: unposed, messy, joyful, perfectly imperfect.

When we were finished, we carefully packed everything away and made sure to leave the meadow exactly as we found it. I always make sure we leave no trace behind — nature gives us such a magical backdrop, and it’s so important to respect and protect it.

It wasn’t in Aberdeen this time — it was a little adventure out into the countryside — but it reminded me of why I love what I do. Whether in the city, the woods, or by the sea, sessions like this are what fill my heart. It was one of those days that didn’t feel like “work” at all — just laughter, sunshine, and art made with love.

This family will always have these colourful photographs to look back on, and I’ll always remember the joy of capturing them.

If this colourful, joy-filled session made you smile, imagine having your own! 🎨
Paint freely sessions are all about laughter, creativity, and capturing your family exactly as you are — playful, happy, and full of love.

📸 Let’s create something magical together.
Get in touch to plan your paint freely family session 💛