I work with a lot of families in and around Teddington, and Bushy Park is one of my favourite locations for a family photoshoot. I have photographed many families here over the years — at sunrise, mid-morning, early afternoon, and sunset — and it never disappoints.

Why Bushy Park works so well

What I love about Bushy Park is the variety. Within one session, we can move between completely different settings — and that means every family gets something unique, even if we are shooting in the same park.

Open grassland

The wide, open grassland is one of the things that makes Bushy Park so special for family photography. At sunset or sunrise, the light across these open spaces is stunning — warm, low, and golden. But it is equally beautiful at other times of day. Mid-morning and early afternoon sessions work really well here too, especially when we find areas where the trees provide some natural shade and softer light.

The Pheasantry gardens

The Pheasantry gardens offer a completely different feel — enclosed, leafy, and full of texture. The woodland canopy provides beautiful dappled light and natural shade, which is lovely for more intimate, close-up moments. It is also a great option on brighter days when the open grassland feels a bit too exposed.

The deer

Bushy Park is home to herds of red and fallow deer, and they often appear in the background of sessions. For children, spotting the deer is a genuine highlight — those moments of curiosity and wonder are some of my favourite things to photograph.

Flexibility for families with young children

Not every family can shoot at sunset — and that is completely fine. One of the reasons I recommend Bushy Park so often is that it gives us wonderful flexibility. The mix of open space and woodland means we can find beautiful light at almost any time of day, so we can work around your children's routine rather than asking you to work around the light.

Whether your little one naps at midday and we shoot in the late morning, or bedtime is early and a sunrise session feels more realistic — Bushy Park has something to offer at every hour.

A quieter alternative to Richmond Park

I love Richmond Park too, and I photograph many sessions there. But Bushy Park tends to be quieter, especially on weekday mornings. There is more space to spread out, fewer passers-by, and a more relaxed atmosphere — which makes a real difference when you are trying to help young children feel comfortable and at ease.

Convenient location

Bushy Park is easily accessible from Teddington, Hampton, Twickenham, St Margarets, and the wider Richmond upon Thames area. There is free parking within the park, and it is a short walk from Teddington station. For families in West London and South West London, it is a genuinely local option — no long drives, no complicated logistics.

What to expect from a session here

My approach is always the same, wherever we shoot: relaxed, gently guided, and led by your children. I do not ask families to stand still and smile. Instead, I encourage movement, play, and connection — and I photograph the honest, in-between moments that happen when you stop trying to perform and simply enjoy being together.

Sessions last between 60 and 90 minutes, which gives us plenty of unhurried time to explore and capture a genuine range of moments. If you would like more detail on how to prepare, I have written a full guide to preparing for your outdoor family photoshoot.

Get in touch

If you are thinking about a family photoshoot in Bushy Park, Teddington, or anywhere in the local area, I would love to hear from you. You can find out more about my family sessions or get in touch to start planning.

With warmth,

Alina

Apple Grove Studio – Family Photography London

check availability and book

Any questions, please email hello@applegrovestudio.com.

Can’t wait to see you in the studio.

Browse the portfolio

If you’d like to explore the different types of sessions before booking:

👉 Family photography
https://applegrovestudio.com/portfolio/family

👉 Motherhood (mum + baby)
https://applegrovestudio.com/portfolio/motherhood

👉 Maternity
https://applegrovestudio.com/portfolio/maternity

👉 Newborn
https://applegrovestudio.com/portfolio/newborn

If you have any questions at all — about timing, session types, or what might suit your family best — feel free to get in touch. I’m always happy to help.