Hong Kong Family Portrait Studio | The City as My Studio
Not Your Usual Four-Wall Studio
Let’s be clear: I don’t shoot inside a traditional Hong Kong photo studio. Instead, I treat the entire city as my portrait studio. For families, this means every session becomes a mix of creativity, personality, and the unique beauty of Hong Kong.
After years working on motion picture sets with movie directors such as David Cronenberg, I’ve learned that two things make or break a portrait: setting and light. Hong Kong delivers both in spectacular fashion. From neon-lit streets to quiet gardens, the city is the most dynamic family portrait studio I could ask for.
Sheung Wan Family Photos
Urban Studio: The Streets of Hong Kong
For many, the classic Hong Kong family photo happens on the island around Hollywood Road and the Man Mo Temple. But I love to push further — into Kowloon, or “the Dark Side.” (If you know, you know.)
Spots like Mong Kok, Yau Ma Tei, and Jordan are full of energy: old shop houses, bright signage, funky parkettes, and textures everywhere. These make amazing backdrops that no indoor studio can replicate. And yes, if time allows, we’ll even stop for a bo lo bao at Mido Café.
Other great “urban studio” locations include Stone Nullah Lane and the Blue House, or the terraces of Kennedy Town. Each offers its own character and light.
Beach Studio: Natural Portraits by the Sea
Few people realize just how many beaches Hong Kong has. On the south side of the island alone, I shoot family portraits at Deepwater Bay, Repulse Bay, South Bay, Chung Hom Kok, Shek O, and Big Wave Bay. Many of them are empty on weekday mornings, giving us a private studio with sand, sea, and soft natural light.
Further out in the New Territories, Clearwater Bay and other coastal spots provide even more options for a relaxed, natural family session. I am very adept at working on busy beaches as well, like Repulse Bay Beach on Sundays. It’s crazy, but completely doable.
Clearwater Bay Photoshoot | This is one of my favourite shots of all time.
Park Studio: Green Escapes in the City
Hong Kong’s parks are some of the most photogenic in Asia. Kowloon Park is one of my all-time favorite family portrait locations — it works in any season, with endless backdrops to explore. Other favorites include Hong Kong Park, the Botanical Garden, Lingnan Garden, and Victoria Peak Garden. But each presents considerations, so please let’s chat about what is best for your family!
For families who want greenery without leaving the city, these parks are the perfect “studio” settings.
Botanical Garden Family Photo Session
Why the City is the Best Studio
A traditional studio limits you to one backdrop. My Hong Kong family portrait studio is different: it’s the whole city. Parks, beaches, and urban streets allow families to choose settings that reflect their personalities. And because kids can move, explore, and play, the photos feel more natural, more alive, and frankly more Hong Kong.
Book Your Hong Kong Family Portrait Session
While my blog title might sound like I’m working out of a studio, the truth is even better: my studio is every corner of Hong Kong. From urban alleys to hidden beaches, I’ve spent years mapping the city’s best spots for family photography. (I have over 100 public location options.) Many locals tell me I know the city better than them, which I highly doubt! But, I use the entire place, and I’m always happy to take your suggestions for new locations. That’s how I found so many of the special ones!
