I reckon there’s something incredibly special about the bond between sibling - and there’s no better way to capture these awesome relationships than a sibling photoshoot!
Document the unique relationships that grow and evolve between you over the years. Whether you’re keen to book in a shoot for your newborn and their older silbing - or you’re big kids now and want some photos with your brother or sister - here’s why booking a sibling photoshoot, no matter the age, is a fantastic idea (plus some tips and suggestions to make it truly special!)
First up - why it’s a great idea!
Sibling relationships are often the longest-lasting bonds we have in life! A photoshoot allows you to capture the love, friendship, and (let’s be honest) the rivalry that makes these relationships so unique.
As siblings grow and change, so does their relationship. Whether it’s the playful energy of young children, the sassiness of teenagers, or the deep connection of adults, each stage offers something worth capturing.
Create lasting keepsakes (and make some awesome gifts for the family)
Sibling photos make awesome gifts for parents, grandparents, or even for the siblings themselves. These images become cherished keepsakes that can be passed down through generations.
Celebrate milestones and special occasions
Whether it’s a new addition to the family, a graduation, a birthday, or just a special time in your lives, a sibling photoshoot is a great way to commemorate these milestones. From newborns to adults, every stage of life brings new dynamics to sibling relationships. A photoshoot is a way to celebrate each of these stages and the memories that come with them.
Location Ideas for Different Ages
Trying to decide where would be best for your sibling photoshoot? Here are a few ideas to mix it up!
Newborn and young siblings: For newborns and young siblings, a cosy at-home session can be ideal! It allows your little ones to feel comfortable and relaxed, and you’ll have everything you need on-hand (like toys, snacks and comforts). Another great option is to pop into my studio - it’s super cosy and I have plenty of props and fun bits and pieces to play around with!
Young kids: Outdoor locations like parks or gardens provide plenty of space for toddlers and younger kids to explore and play - which also makes for lovely candid photos. The natural light and greenery create a beautiful backdrop for family photos too.
School-aged kids: Playgrounds, beaches, rivers and gardens are all great spots! These locations offer a fun, playful atmosphere where kids can be themselves and run around. The vibrant energy of a playground or the calming setting of a beach allows for a mix of posed and candid photos.
Teenagers: We’re so lucky to have so many beautiful nature spots around Wellington - beaches and hills with epic views make for great photos. Or go for something different and opt for a city location, making the most of Wellington’s architecture. If the siblings share a common interest, like a sport or a hobby, consider a location that reflects that. Skate parks or sports fields might offer something a bit different that resonates with your teens.
Adult siblings: Consider scenic locations like lakes, mountains, or vineyards! These places offer a serene and timeless backdrop (plus, surely a glass of wine at the vineyard?). Revisiting a family home or a place where you all grew up can add a layer of nostalgia and meaning to the photos, or opt for a location that means something to you and your sibling - maybe it’s the family bach or a favourite river spot from when you were kids.
Tips for Choosing Cohesive Outfits
I have a few blog posts about choosing outfits here - but essentially, if you’re popping outfits together for your sibling shoot, you want to go for coordinated, not matching.
Choose a colour palette that works well together but doesn’t necessarily match. For example, soft pastels, earth tones, or coordinated shades of blue can create a harmonious look without being too uniform. Add in different textures and layers to add depth and interest to the photos (think knit sweaters, denim jackets, or scarves that can be easily mixed and matched).
Also - consider the weather and location when choosing outfits. Layers can be a great way to adapt to changing conditions. Wellington’s wind might have something to say about your hairstyles - I recommend tying long hair up on a windy day, or bringing along hair clips / hair ties just in case!
A sibling photoshoot is a beautiful way to celebrate the bonds that hold your family together - and with a wee bit of planning, creative ideas, and a little guidance, you can create lasting memories (plus get that Christmas gift for mum and dad sorted - a framed photo of you and your siblings!)
Need a little inspiration? Here are a few photos from recent sibling shoots!
