The 8 Best Family Photoshoot Locations in Queenstown

As a family photographer in Queenstown, I am truly spoilt for choice regarding locations! During my time here I have been slowly accumulating locations that I think are the best for family photo sessions. If you need some help picking a spot for when your family / whānau visits Queenstown, have a look through the list below.

1. Deer Park Heights

Located only 10 minutes from the airport and 500 metres above lake level, Deer Park Heights is a popular location with breath-taking views. Not only is it home to a variety of animals, it is also the site of multiple Lord of the Rings filming locations. Joshua Yates Photography is one of the exclusively selected vendors for the site and once you see his photos you’ll understand why! To read more information and see photos taken at this location click here.

2. Moke Lake

Moke Lake is a stunning location that showcases mountains, grasslands and of course, the beautiful lake itself. Hidden away down a gravel road, this location is popular for hikes, bike trails, picnics and camping. As remote as this location feels, it is conveniently located 20 minutes away from town.

To read more information and see photos taken at this location click here.

3. Kelvin Heights

Kelvin Heights is a picturesque peninsula in Queenstown which hosts many hidden little beaches. It’s no wonder the locals love it here! This is a great location if you are wanting family photos with sparkling water and Queenstown City in the background. This beach has not one, but two piers which are charming for the whole family to be photographed on. To read more information and see photos taken at this location click here.

4. Jack’s Point Beach

Tucked away in Jack’s Point with a stunning backdrop of the Remarkable Mountains, this location is a hidden gem. Jack’s Point Beach offers an expansive view of Lake Wakatipu and surrounding peaks such as Cecil Peak & Bayonet Peak. On a sunny day, the water is a vibrant and shimmery - certainly worth the visit!

To read more information and see photos taken at this location click here.

5. Skipper’s Road Lookout

The Skipper’s Road Lookout has a lot to offer. It sits on the road leading up to Coronet Peak, one of the local ski fields and overs 360 degree views of Queenstown City, Arrowtown and the Remarkables Mountain Range. Not only is this a stunning location for photographs, but it is a great sight-seeing opportunity, too! It looks absolutely majestic in the Winter months with snow coating the surrounding peaks.

To read more information and see photos taken at this location click here.

6. Lake Johnson

Hidden away behind the hills, Lake Johnson is a dreamy, secluded location. Not to mention, this is only an 8 minute drive from the airport! This spot is ideal for picnics, so you and your loved ones may like to organise a picnic to enjoy after your photoshoot!

To read more information and see photos taken at this location click here.

7. Arrowtown

Steeped in gold rush history, Arrowtown is a great and photogenic town to explore. If you’re visiting in Autumn / Fall, Arrowtown is well-known for its charming deciduous trees that paint the town gold! In Arrowtown you can enjoy family photos taken along the historic river amongst the storybook-like trees.

To read more information and see photos taken at this location click here.

8. Old Lower Shotover Bridge

This picturesque location offers 360 degree views of the Shotover River; with the option of seeing it from riverbed or from the footbridge above! You and your family might like to explore the riverbed, skip stones across the river or walk across the footbridge whilst having your photo taken. When on the bridge, you’ll be treated to views of surrounding mountain peaks as well as the Shotover River. During Lupin season (mid-late November) the sides of the riverbed are dotted with gorgeous lupin flowers.

To read more information and see photos taken at this location click here.

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