Family Photographer in Polanco: A Walk Through Lincoln Park
As a family photographer in Mexico City, I have the opportunity to meet all kinds of wonderful people. Every session has its own story. This one began with an email in my inbox.
Table of contents:
- Planning the session
- A leisurely walk to the park
- Impressions of Lincoln Park
- Mixing up the combinations
- Playing with light
- Wrapping up
- Gallery
Hello Cristian,
We’re visiting from Chicago next month and would love to have family photos taken in Polanco. We’re a family of five plus our little schnauzer. We’ve seen your work online and love how natural and candid your images feel. Could you recommend a location and tell us more about how it works?
Best,
Sophie & Daniel
Reading their note made me smile. For me, as a family photographer, Polanco happens to be one of my favourite neighbourhoods for shooting family sessions. Not only is it full of stylish cafés and boutiques, but Avenida Presidente Masaryk itself is one of Mexico City’s most expensive and pedestrian‑friendly streets. Its wide sidewalks and leafy trees make it perfect for a warm‑up walk.
Planning the session, important for me as a family photographer
I replied to Sophie and Daniel with a few suggestions. We agreed on an evening session in Polanco. After confirming their preferred date and collecting a small deposit to secure the booking, we planned to meet in front of Campomar Masaryk. If you don’t know Campomar, it’s a seafood restaurant right on Avenida Masaryk – a convenient spot and a landmark you can’t miss.
In the days leading up to the shoot, I encouraged them to coordinate outfits without matching exactly and to bring along the dog’s favourite leash and a simple blanket. On the day of the shoot, the weather was perfect. The sun was setting, creating that blue light that photographers love.
A leisurely walk to the park
When I arrived at Campomar, they were already there – two parents, three kids, and a very shy Yorkie. We greeted each other like old friends. Walking together down Masaryk gave us time to chat and helped the children feel comfortable. We talked about their trip and what they love about Mexico City. I snapped a few candid photos as they window‑shopped along the wide sidewalks and admired the upscale boutiques that line the avenue.
The stroll also served as a chance for me to observe how the family interacted. I could see that the girl was almost shy, while her older brother preferred to walk ahead with the dog. These small observations help me guide families later on without having to pose them in stiff, unnatural ways.
Impressions of Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park (Parque Lincoln) is one of the city’s most manicured and elegant parks. It’s surprisingly expansive and includes reflection pools, a clock tower, statues, and even a small aviary. As we entered the park, the guys’ eyes lit up at the sight of the two long pools where people sail model boats. We could hear laughter from the playground nearby, which happens to be one of the largest in the neighbourhood.
In the distance, the statue of Abraham Lincoln stands tall. We found a quiet spot near the reflection pools. I started with a few full-family portraits, keeping the poses natural and relaxed. The parents had the kids between them and the dog in their arms. I guided everyone into playful interactions – whispering secrets, tickling toes – and captured those genuine smiles.
Mixing up the combinations
Once I knew we’d nailed the group shot destined for their living room wall, it was time to break into smaller combinations. Dad and the kids had a blast together–as much as a man loves to be in front of the camera. I asked him to interact with his girl. Next, dad and his sons posed for a more traditional portrait.
Then it was mom’s turn. I also photographed her with each child separately. Finally, the parents enjoyed a few minutes together while I captured their connection. Including the dog in some of these shots brought out natural expressions. There’s something about a furry family member that makes everyone forget about the camera.
Playing with light
As the evening unveiled, Parque Lincoln took on a different mood. The lamps around the pools were on. The “blue hour” is magical and any family photograpehr loves it. I set my camera to be able to capture the available streetlights and the blue sky. I finished up with a couple of wide shots that showcased the closeness of the family.
Wrapping up
Before we said goodbye, I thanked Sophie and Daniel for trusting me with their family memories. They remarked on how relaxed the session felt. Moments like these remind me why I love family photography – it’s not just about the final pictures; it’s about the experience of spending quality time together.
If you’re inspired to create your own family portraits in Polanco or anywhere in Mexico City, I’d love to help. You can learn more about my packages and see more examples on my Family Portraits page.
I am flexible to shoot at most times in Polanco. The booking process is simple, and you will talk directly with me as I am a one-man band. Reach out today, and let’s make memories that will last a lifetime.
Gallery
Share my work to help others know about me!
Tweet
