Spring in New Zealand’s North Island is a season bursting with vibrant colours, making it the perfect time for families to embark on thrilling photography adventures. With nature in full bloom and the weather just right, it’s the ideal opportunity to capture the magic of the season and create unforgettable memories. Here’s how families can turn spring into a colourful and exciting photography journey, filled with fun challenges and creative projects that will have everyone eagerly snapping away!

1. Explore local parks and gardens.
The North Island’s parks and gardens come alive with colour in spring, offering endless opportunities for stunning photos. Imagine yourself wandering through the Hamilton Gardens, where vibrant flowers and themed garden rooms paint a stunning landscape, or exploring the Auckland Botanic Gardens, where every corner is filled with the bright hues of blooming flowers. In Wellington, the Botanic Garden provides a kaleidoscope of native and exotic plants just waiting to be captured. Challenge the kids to a photo scavenger hunt—who can find the most colourful flower or snap the best close-up shot?

2. Create a spring colour palette.
Transform your family outing into a colourful quest by creating a spring colour palette challenge. Before heading out, pick a few colours and see who can find them and photograph them first. Maybe it’s the rich purple of jacaranda trees lining the streets, the golden yellows of kowhai in full bloom, or the soft pinks of cherry blossoms dotting the parks. This fun game turns a simple walk into a vibrant adventure, sharpening your kids’ observation skills while they explore the rainbow of colours that spring brings.

3. Capture wildlife in action.
Spring is the season when the North Island’s wildlife comes to life, offering incredible photo opportunities. Imagine the excitement of spotting a playful tui flitting among the flowers, capturing a cheeky kaka in the trees, or photographing the vibrant plumage of the kereru. Head to wildlife sanctuaries like Zealandia in Wellington or take a bushwalk in places like the Waitakere Ranges in Auckland, where the chances of snapping a unique shot are high. Encourage the kids to be patient—nature often rewards those who wait with the perfect picture.

4. Experiment with macro photography!
Get up close and personal with the tiny wonders of spring! Macro photography is all about discovering the intricate details that might otherwise go unnoticed—the delicate veins of a leaf, the intricate patterns on a flower petal, or the tiny dewdrops on a spider’s web. You don’t need fancy equipment; even a smartphone can capture impressive close-ups. Challenge your kids to find the most interesting tiny subject and watch as they dive into a world of hidden beauty.

5. Family Photo Walks
Why not turn a regular walk into a lively family photo adventure? Choose a scenic route—whether it’s the rugged coastline of the Coromandel Peninsula, the rolling hills of the Waikato, or the lush landscapes of the Bay of Plenty. Make it a fun competition by setting themes for different sections of the walk: “wildflower wonders,” “best action shot,” or “most colourful scene.” At the end of the day, gather around to share your favourite snaps and create a spring photo album that captures the excitement of the day.

6. Capture candid moments.
Sometimes, the best photos are the ones you don’t plan. Candid shots capture the real, joyful moments of family life—the laughter, the curiosity, and the pure fun of exploring together. Encourage the kids to snap photos of each other when they’re least expecting it, whether it’s during a game of chase in the park, exploring a new trail, or simply enjoying the fresh spring air. These candid moments will bring the day’s adventures to life when you look back on them.

7. Create a spring-themed photo book.
Turn your photography adventures into a creative project by making a spring-themed photo book. Let the kids help select their favourite photos, add fun captions, and even write short stories or poems inspired by their experiences. This collaborative effort will not only keep the spring excitement alive long after the season has passed but also result in a beautiful keepsake that the whole family can treasure.

8. Participate in a photography challenge!
Up the ante by participating in a spring photography challenge! Create a list of fun prompts like “most epic sunset,” “craziest flower shape,” or “cutest animal moment,” and see who in the family can capture the best image. This challenge not only makes photography more engaging but also sparks creativity as everyone tries to outdo each other with their unique shots.

9. Learn basic photography techniques together.
Is someone in the family showing an interest in photography? Spring is the perfect time to teach them some basic techniques. Explore concepts like the rule of thirds, how to use natural light, and the importance of framing a shot. Practicing these skills while surrounded by spring’s vibrant scenery will help them develop a real passion for photography.

10. Celebrate Spring with a Family Photo Day!
Why not dedicate a full day to celebrating the beauty of spring through photography? Start the day with a breathtaking sunrise shoot at a North Island beach like Piha, enjoy a picnic in a colourful park in Rotorua, and end the day capturing the golden light of sunset from a scenic lookout like Mount Victoria in Wellington. Throughout the day, focus on capturing the vibrant energy, the laughter, and the pure joy of spending time together during this beautiful season.