South West London Family Photography: Best Locations in Wimbledon, Clapham & Earlsfield
Over the years I have photographed many families across South West London - from Wimbledon Common to Clapham Common, and parks in between. Each area has its own character, and knowing where to go makes a real difference to how your session feels.
As a family photographer working across Wimbledon, Clapham, Earlsfield and surrounding South West London, I've found the spots that work best for natural, relaxed family photos. Here's what you need to know about each area.
Wimbledon Common
Wimbledon Common is vast - over 1,100 acres - which means space to move, explore, and forget about the camera.
Best spots:
The Windmill area - Open grassland, iconic landmark, great for wider shots
Queensmere Pond - Water, ducks, children love it
Woodland paths - Dappled light, natural feel, less exposed
What works: Families who want a wilder, less manicured setting. Children can run properly here. The scale means you're unlikely to have other people in your shots.
Practical notes: Car parks at Windmill Road and Cannizaro Road. Can be muddy after rain. Bring wellies in autumn/winter.
Cannizaro Park
Just off Wimbledon Village, Cannizaro Park is more formal than the Common but still feels natural.
Best spots:
The walled garden - Seasonal flowers, structured beauty
Woodland paths - Quieter, more intimate
Open lawns - Good for energetic children
What works: Families who want beauty without the full wilderness of Wimbledon Common. Accessible for prams and younger children. Less walking required.
Practical notes: Smaller than the Common, free entry. Can get busy on sunny weekends.
Clapham Common
Clapham Common has a completely different feel - more urban, more open, more social.
Best spots:
The bandstand area - Iconic, architectural interest
Long Water pond - Reflections, ducks, children feeding birds
Tree-lined paths - Shade in summer, structure for photos
What works: Families who want an urban park feel. Good for older children who don't need as much "wildness." Easy to combine with a café visit after.
Practical notes: Multiple entrances and car parks. Very accessible. Popular with other families, dog walkers, runners - embrace the life of it.
Wandsworth Common (Between Clapham & Earlsfield)
Often overlooked, Wandsworth Common sits between Clapham and Earlsfield and offers lovely variety.
Best spots:
The Scope - Natural pond, peaceful
Open grassland - Space to run
Tree-lined paths - Natural canopy
What works: Quieter than Clapham Common. Good for families who want green space without traveling far if you're Earlsfield-based.
Practical notes: Parking on surrounding streets. More residential feel. Less formal than other commons.
King George's Park (Wandsworth/Earlsfield)
Smaller, more local, but well-maintained and beautiful.
Best spots:
The rose garden (seasonal)
Wide pathways
Play area backdrop
What works: Local families in Earlsfield, Wandsworth, Southfields. Quick access. Good for shorter sessions or families with very young children.
Practical notes: Smaller park means less variety, but that can work well for focused sessions. Free parking nearby on streets.
What to Expect from a Session
Whether we're at Wimbledon Common, Clapham, or anywhere in between, the approach stays the same: relaxed, natural, child-led.
We walk, explore, let children set the pace. I watch for real moments - hand-holding, running ahead, coming back for hugs.
We can stay in one location or, if you're local and know the area well, combine spots - start at home, then head to your nearest park.
Seasonal Considerations
Spring: Cannizaro Park for flowers. Wimbledon Common for fresh green.
Summer: Any common works. Early evening light is beautiful everywhere.
Autumn: Wimbledon Common for leaves and acorns. Any woodland paths.
Winter: Shorter sessions. Wrap up warm. Winter light can be stunning, especially at Wimbledon Common with low sun.
Family Photography Across South West London
I regularly photograph families throughout Wimbledon, Clapham, Earlsfield, Tooting, Balham, Wandsworth and the wider South West London area.
If you're looking for natural, documentary-style family photography that captures real connection rather than perfect poses, I'd love to work with you.
You can find more information about my Wimbledon family photography services, pricing, and availability, or get in touch to discuss which location would work best for your family.
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