My Favourite Outdoor Family Photography Locations in South Devon
One of the things I love most about living and working in South Devon is that we're surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. From golden beaches and hidden coves to peaceful woodland walks and the wild beauty of Dartmoor, we're truly spoilt for choice when it comes to creating timeless family photographs.
When families ask me where I'd recommend for their outdoor session, my answer is always the same—choose somewhere that feels like you.
Whether your family loves sandy toes by the sea, exploring woodland trails or watching the sunset over rolling countryside, the perfect location helps create photographs that feel natural, joyful and full of genuine connection.
Here are some of my favourite places for outdoor family photography in South Devon.
Shaldon Beach
It's impossible not to start with the place I proudly call home.
Just a stone's throw from my studio, Shaldon Beach offers everything I love in a family photography location. Soft sand, beautiful sea views, colourful fishing boats and the gentle pace of village life create the perfect backdrop for relaxed family portraits.
Young children can explore safely, collect shells, paddle along the shoreline and simply enjoy being together, while parents can focus on making memories rather than worrying about posing.
The soft evening light here is especially magical, creating warm, golden images that feel timeless.
Perfect for:
Young families
Sunset sessions
Barefoot beach adventures
Relaxed storytelling photography
After your session, you can then enjoy the local cafes like The Clipper, visit Shaldon Bakery for some yummy treats, visit The Zoo and many lovely independent businesses!
Ness Cove, Shaldon
Hidden away beneath the famous Smugglers Tunnel, Ness Cove feels like one of South Devon's best-kept secrets.
Its sheltered beach, dramatic red cliffs and peaceful atmosphere make it an incredibly beautiful setting for family photography.
Children love discovering the tunnel, exploring the rocks and searching for shells, while the surrounding landscape creates stunning natural textures that never distract from your family.
For families looking for something a little quieter than the larger beaches, Ness Cove is always one of my favourites.
Perfect for:
Adventurous families
Coastal portraits
Natural, intimate moments
Dawlish Warren
If your family loves wide open spaces, Dawlish Warren is a wonderful choice.
The sweeping sand dunes, grassy paths and expansive beach offer endless opportunities for natural movement and play.
This location is particularly lovely for toddlers and energetic children because there's plenty of room to run, laugh and explore.
Rather than asking little ones to sit still, we embrace the adventure, capturing authentic smiles and real family connection along the way.
Perfect for:
Larger families
Toddlers
Sunset beach sessions
Dogs (where permitted)
Elberry Cove
Tucked away on the South Devon coast between Broadsands and Brixham, **Elberry Cove** is one of those hidden gems that feels wonderfully peaceful, even during the warmer months.
The gentle woodland path leading down to the cove sets the tone for a relaxed family adventure, while the crystal-clear water, rocky shoreline and sweeping coastal views provide a stunning backdrop for natural family photographs.
I especially love Elberry Cove for families with slightly older children who enjoy exploring. Skimming stones across the water, searching for shells, climbing over the rocks or simply walking hand in hand along the shoreline all create beautiful opportunities for genuine, unposed moments.
The soft evening light here is simply magical. As the sun begins to set across the bay, it bathes the coastline in warm golden tones, creating timeless images filled with warmth, connection and joy.
Whether you're celebrating a new chapter as a family or simply want to capture your children as they are right now, Elberry Cove offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and quiet charm.
**Perfect for:**
* Families with adventurous children
* Sunset photography sessions
* Coastal storytelling portraits
* Relaxed, natural family photography
* Beautiful golden-hour light
Haldon Forest/Mamhead Woods
Not every family dreams of a beach photoshoot—and that's exactly why I love Haldon Forest & Mamhead Woods.
The woodland paths, towering trees and pockets of beautiful natural light create a peaceful setting that's perfect throughout the year.
In spring, fresh green leaves bring softness and colour.
In autumn, rich golden tones create a warm, cosy atmosphere that's perfect for family portraits.
Children naturally enjoy woodland sessions because they can explore, search for leaves, balance on fallen logs and simply enjoy being outdoors.
It's a wonderful choice for families who love nature.
Dartmoor
Few places capture the beauty of Devon quite like Dartmoor National Park.
Whether we're wandering gentle woodland trails, discovering open moorland or finding quiet family-friendly spots away from the busier areas, Dartmoor offers an incredible sense of space and freedom.
Its ever-changing landscapes mean every season brings something different.
Spring wildflowers.
Summer sunshine.
Autumn colours.
Winter skies.
Every visit creates completely unique photographs.
For families who love adventure and spending time outdoors together, Dartmoor provides an unforgettable backdrop.
Choosing the Right Location for Your Family
The "best" location isn't necessarily the most dramatic one.
It's the place where your family feels comfortable.
Some children love the beach.
Others enjoy woodland adventures.
Some simply feel happiest cuddled together on a picnic blanket.
During the planning process, I'll help you choose a location that suits your family's personalities, your children's ages and the atmosphere you'd love your photographs to have.
Every session is designed around you.
It's About the Moments, Not Just the Location
While South Devon provides incredible scenery, the most important part of every photograph will always be the people in it.
The laughter.
The cuddles.
The hand-holding.
The windswept hair.
The sandy feet.
The way your children instinctively reach for you.
Those are the memories that become priceless over time.
The location simply provides a beautiful backdrop for your family's story.
Let's Explore South Devon Together
At Pengelly Portraits, I specialise in relaxed, natural family photography in South Devon, creating timeless images that celebrate genuine connection.
Based in Shaldon, near Teignmouth, I photograph families throughout the local area, including Newton Abbot, Exeter, Dawlish, Torquay and beyond.
If you're dreaming of an outdoor family photography session surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of South Devon, I'd love to help you choose the perfect location and create photographs you'll treasure for generations.
Together, we'll turn an ordinary afternoon into memories that last a lifetime.
