Coleraine Family Photographer

Coleraine sits at the heart of one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the world. The River Bann winds through the town, Portstewart Strand is ten minutes down the road, and Mussenden Temple watches over the cliffs at Downhill just a little further west. If you're looking for a family photographer in Coleraine, you've landed in exactly the right place — because that backdrop is one I know and love well.

My name is Eddy Calvin, and I'm based in Ballymoney — just a short drive from Coleraine — covering the entire North Coast and beyond. Over the past 15+ years I've photographed hundreds of families across this area, and the one thing I hear from almost every parent at the end of a session is the same: "That was so much easier than I expected."

In this post I'll walk you through why outdoor sessions work so well around Coleraine, the best locations nearby, what a session with me actually looks like, and how to get booked in.

Why Families in Coleraine Choose Eddy Calvin Photography

There's no shortage of photographers in Northern Ireland, so why do so many Coleraine families choose to work with me? A few reasons come up time and again.

I know this area inside out. Being based in Ballymoney means I'm on the North Coast every week. I know which beach catches the best light in autumn, which stretch of forest glows at golden hour, and which locations work best for families with very young children versus those with energetic older kids. That local knowledge makes a real difference to the quality and feel of your images.

My approach is completely relaxed. There are no rigid poses, no awkward instructions, and no pressure. Sessions are led by your family's energy — the kids run, play, and do what kids do, while I follow and capture the moments as they naturally unfold. Parents often tell me they forgot I was there. That's exactly the goal.

The results speak for themselves. Twice now — in 2024 and 2025 — I've been recognised as the best family photographer in Northern Ireland. I take that seriously, and I bring that same level of care and attention to every session I shoot, regardless of size or budget.

The Best Locations for a Family Photoshoot Near Coleraine

This is one of the things that makes the Coleraine area so special for family photography — within a fifteen-minute drive of the town centre, you have beaches, cliffs, forests, riverbanks, and open countryside. Here are my favourite spots for family sessions in and around Coleraine.

Not sure which location suits your family best? That's part of the conversation when you get in touch. I'll ask a few questions about your children's ages, your family's style, and what feel you're going for — and we'll choose the perfect spot together.

What to Expect from a Family Photography Session Near Coleraine

If you've never had professional family photos taken before — or if you've had an experience that was a bit stiff and stressful — let me walk you through exactly what a session with me looks like. The short version: it's far more enjoyable than most families expect.

Before the Session

Once you book, I'll send you a welcome guide covering everything you need to prepare. This includes advice on what to wear, how to talk to younger children about the day ahead, and what to bring with you. You'll also receive a personalised style guide tailored to your chosen location — whether that's the coast, the woodland, or the countryside — so your outfits will work beautifully with the setting.

On the Day

We'll meet at your chosen location and I'll ease everyone in gently — usually starting with a walk together so the kids can explore and burn off some energy before the camera comes out. From there I work around your family, giving gentle direction when it helps and stepping back to capture the natural moments as they unfold. Sessions typically run for 60 to 90 minutes — long enough to capture real variety, short enough to keep even the youngest children engaged.

After the Session

Within two to three weeks, you'll receive a link to your private online gallery. Every image is carefully edited and ready to download, share, or print. If you'd like something on your walls — and I'd encourage you to consider it — I also offer a range of stunning wall art and framed prints that are made to last a lifetime.

What to Wear for a Family Photoshoot Near Coleraine

The North Coast has a distinctive colour palette — deep greens, sandy neutrals, grey-blue skies, and warm golden light. Outfits that work with that setting will always produce the most timeless, beautiful results.

• Coastal neutrals and earthy tones — creams, warm greens, soft blues, and terracotta all complement the Coleraine area landscape beautifully
• Coordinate rather than match — choose a palette and let each family member wear their own variation of it for a relaxed, modern look
• Layer up — the North Coast can be breezy even in summer, and layers photograph beautifully and keep everyone comfortable
• Dress for movement — especially for younger children. If they can't run in it, it won't work outdoors
• Wellies are always welcome — rock pools, wet sand, and puddles are part of the Coleraine experience, and muddy boots make for great images
• Avoid bold logos and busy patterns — these distract the eye and tend to date quickly in photographs

Every client receives a personalised style guide at the time of booking, so you'll have plenty of time to plan your outfits before the session day arrives.

Areas Covered Near Coleraine

While Coleraine is a core part of the area I work in, I cover the entire North Coast and much of County Londonderry and County Antrim. If you're based in Portstewart, Portrush, Castlerock, Limavady, Ballymoney, Ballycastle, or any of the surrounding towns and villages, I'd love to hear from you.

For sessions within roughly 30 miles of Ballymoney, there are no additional travel fees. For locations beyond that, a small travel supplement may apply — just mention where you're based when you get in touch and I'll give you a clear picture of costs from the outset.

Frequently Asked Questions