Nestled in the heart of Cherry Hill, NJ, Barclay Farmstead is a hidden gem that combines historic charm with natural beauty, making it one of the best locations for family photography. This summer, I discovered just how magical it is while photographing a sweet family of three. The journey to this session was anything but ordinary—it was a testament to patience, flexibility, and a little bit of weather luck! Let me tell you why Barclay Farmstead has become one of my favorite locations for family photography and why it might be perfect for your next session, too.

Turning Rainy Days into Radiant Smiles


This session was an adventure from the start. We originally planned to shoot at another location, but July had other plans, with heavy rains causing us to reschedule not once, but three times. By the time we finally got to our third date, I was determined to make it work.


When I arrived at the original location that day, it started to drizzle—again. Thankfully, I had a backup plan: Barclay Farmstead. As soon as I suggested it, the family agreed, and we made our way over. They lived nearby but had never visited, so it felt extra special to explore the grounds together for the first time. Despite racing against the clouds, we were greeted with soft, overcast skies that created the perfect natural light. The rain held off, and the serenity of the farmstead made everything feel magical.

What Makes Barclay Farmstead So Special?


This was my first time shooting at Barclay Farmstead, and I immediately fell in love with its serene atmosphere and rich history. From the weathered barn to the blooming community gardens, Barclay Farmstead provides a diverse range of settings, making it one of the top photo locations in Cherry Hill for family photography. Each corner of the property offers something new. Here are a few highlights from our session:


The Community Gardens:

Did you know that Barclay Farmstead has a 'plant a patch' initiative where you can rent a plot and grow your own vegetables or flowers? My neighbor has a plot, and it’s been a source of inspiration for her—and it’s actually how I first heard about the farmstead! During the summer, the community gardens are in full bloom, showcasing the vibrancy of the season and bursting with color. These gardens create vibrant, picturesque frames for family portraits, and on our overcast day, they were perfectly lit without any harsh shadows.

A family sits together on a white blanket in front of yellow sunflowers blooming in the community gardens at Barclay Farmstead.
Family wearing white sits on blanket together for outdoor portrait with wildflowers in Cherry Hill, NJ.
Family of three at Barclay Farmstead, a family-friendly photography location in Cherry Hill.
Family hugging together in community gardens at Barclay Farmstead, a picturesque backdrop for family portraits in Cherry Hill, NJ.

The Farmstead Brick Building:

The farmstead’s centerpiece is a stunning red brick building that exudes history and charm. This historic structure offered a beautiful contrast to the surrounding greenery, adding depth and character to the photos.

Family hugging baby near the historic red brick building at Barclay Farmstead, capturing timeless memories.
A loving family interacts with baby near the historic red brick building at Barclay Farmstead, in Cherry Hill, NJ.
Baby sitting on daddy's shoulders. Family Photography at Barclay Farmstead, Cherry Hill, NJ.
A couple shares a joyful moment with their toddler under overcast skies, with Barclay Farmstead's herb garden in the background.
Daddy playing airplane with his baby as they pose for family photography at Barclay Farmstead in Cherry Hill, NJ.

The Green Field:

Open and inviting, this spot right next to the brick building was perfect for capturing playful, candid moments. I had the family sit on a blanket to relax and enjoy the moment, interacting with their little one and soaking in all his cheeky smiles.

Family of three sitting cross-legged on a white blanket, smiling warmly at the camera in a green field at Barclay Farmstead.
Family sitting on a white blanket, with the toddler standing up and giggling at a family photoshoot in Cherry Hill, NJ.
Family of three sitting on a blanket in the green field at Barclay Farmstead, sharing smiles and candid moments.
A baby sits between his parents looking up at them while posing in a green field at Barclay Farmstead.
Parents sitting on a white blanket with their toddler standing, creating candid family portraits at Barclay Farmstead.
Baby in striped onesie sits between parents wearing white on picnic blanket outdoors during family photo session at Barclay Farmstead.
Family enjoying playful moments on a white blanket in the lush green fields at Barclay Farmstead, NJ.
Family session at Barclay Farmstead featuring parents and toddler on a white blanket under soft, overcast skies.
Family of three sitting close on a white blanket, surrounded by nature at Barclay Farmstead in Cherry Hill, New Jersey.
Candid family moment on a white blanket, capturing the joy of outdoor family photography in South Jersey.
Mother holding her baby in her lap as he looks up at the sky, photographed at Barclay Farmstead in Cherry Hill.
A heartwarming outdoor portrait of a dad holding a smiling baby at Barclay Farmstead, perfect for family photography in Cherry Hill, NJ.

The Wildflower and Herb Garden:

A treat for the senses, the wildflower and herb garden added a whimsical, storybook-like quality to the family’s portraits. As we explored, the family delighted in the sweet and aromas wafting through the garden.

Family standing in a vibrant herb and wildflower garden at Barclay Farmstead, smiling at the camera under soft overcast skies in Cherry Hill
Parents standing in the lush wildflower garden at Barclay Farmstead, looking lovingly at each other while surrounded by blooming flowers.
Mother holding her baby in a colorful herb and wildflower garden at Barclay Farmstead, for a family photoshoot in Cherry Hill, NJ.

BONUS: The Playground

One of the unexpected perks of Barclay Farmstead is the playground located on the premises. For families with little kids, this is a game-changer! After the session, children can enjoy some playtime as a “reward” for their patience, making the whole experience feel fun and rewarding for everyone.

Why Families Love It


The peaceful, calm, and family-friendly atmosphere of the farmstead sets the tone for a relaxed session. Kids have space to explore, which helps create candid and joyful moments. For my clients, discovering this hidden gem so close to home made the experience even more meaningful. As we walked and captured their love and connection, they couldn’t believe they’d never visited before. This session was a reminder that sometimes, things don’t go as planned—and that’s okay. The unexpected detour led us to a location that was not only perfect for photos but also a memorable experience for the family.

Close-up of a baby looking straight at the camera while resting on dad’s shoulder, surrounded by trees at Barclay Farmstead.

Tips for Your Barclay Farmstead Session


  1. Dress Comfortably and Coordinate: Neutral tones or soft pastel colors work beautifully against the natural and historic backdrops.
  2. Choose the Right Time of Day: Late afternoon or early evening/ sunset provides soft, flattering light.
  3. Bring Comfortable Shoes: With so much to explore, you’ll want to be ready to walk around.
  4. Embrace the Adventure: Even if the weather seems unpredictable, the beauty of Barclay Farmstead can turn any session into something magical.


Let’s Plan Your Next Session


Whether you’re a Cherry Hill local or just visiting, Barclay Farmstead offers the perfect setting for Cherry Hill family photo sessions to capture your family’s memories. I’d love to help you experience its charm and plan a session that feels authentic and stress-free. So click the button below to book your next session—and let’s make Barclay Farmstead part of your story!

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