I first met the Tooze family after their second adoption several years back and was thrilled to hear that they’d be visiting Seoul again. We had avoided the parks during their last visit as they were barren during the winter, opting instead for city streets. However, this time, the family would be here in summer, the perfect time for some family photos in Yeouido Park and on the riverside.
We kicked off our session in the gorgeous greens of early summer in Yeouido Park. This spot can get quite busy as all the offices close and the park fills with commuters. So, we started the shoot about half an hour before that to get a mix of light and clear backgrounds. This time around, the grandparents had joined for the trip so we included them in a couple of photos to commemorate that, as well., before letting them enjoy the park.
Next, we stopped by the pagoda, which was quite special to the family as it’s where they had played together in the moments after their adoption and where they had taken one of their first ever pictures together. In the gorgeous afternoon sunlight, it was a wonderful spot to take in traditional and modern architecture in a single frame.
From there, we took the tunnel down to the banks of the Han River. One of the great things about working with energetic, slightly older, kids is that we can switch locations like this. A ten-minute walk gives us a moment to chat and forget about the photos for a while. It also gave us a moment to chat about history as Yeouido was formerly an airport and the tunnel has photos inside that tell the story of its transformation.
Early summer here usually means clear air and often some nice clouds in the sky. This day was representative of the best we ever get in Seoul and it was a treat to photograph the family in such lovely conditions.
As the sun finally started to go down and the kids were getting hungry, we wrapped up the session with a little dance in the shallow pool together.
If you’re looking to have your own Yeouido family photos, early summer is the perfect time. The crowds aren’t too thick at this time and the mercury hasn’t risen too high yet. Reach out early to save your date! Oh, and check out my Instagram for more potential locations for your family photo shoot!