A Family Playdate at Sydney’s (not so) Hidden Paradise
There’s a certain intimacy that comes with watching a family grow over time. The Pham Family’s winter photo session at Wendy’s Secret Garden marks our fourth time working together, and what a joy it was to see how they’ve blossomed from a family of four to five with the addition of their youngest son.
Despite the winter chill, the soft golden light filtering through the lush greenery created the perfect backdrop for their photographs. The last time we met, this beautiful baby was just a newborn. Now he proudly holds his own among his siblings, smiling, being his little lovely curious self throughout the session.
The Magic of Wendy’s Secret Garden
Tucked away in Lavender Bay, Wendy’s Secret Garden offers one of Sydney’s most charming spots for family photos. This hidden gem combines harbour views – think lush plants, winding paths, and artistic touches that make every frames a one of a kind.
The Story Behind the Garden
The garden was created by Wendy Whiteley following the death of her husband, artist Brett Whiteley. What began as a way to channel her grief has become a public treasure that offers:
- Stunning harbour views
- Secret pathways lined with exotic plants
- Whimsical sculptures and artworks
- Private nooks for intimate family moments
The Phams have a beautiful tradition that makes every session memorable. Without fail, every session dissolves into the most beautiful chaos: arms wrapped around shoulders, little ones squeezed between parents, laughter spilling over until everyone is breathless and glowing.
Watching this ritual unfold session after session has been like witnessing love learn to stretch and expand.
When we recreated their wedding photo (at the exact same spot, except this time with little hands and tiny happy faces between them); I found myself holding my breath behind the camera. There, in that single frame, was the stunning evidence of how two people’s promise had bloomed into something even more extraordinary than they could have imagined on that first day together. Their love hadn’t just endured; it had multiplied, creating new hearts to hold and new ways to embrace the beautiful tangle that is their family.
Want to see more outdoor family sessions like this? Here are some of my recent outdoor family sessions for inspiration.
5 Tips for Planning Your Own Garden Family Session
Planning a photo session at this Sydney gem? Here are some tips to make the most of your experience:
1. Time Your Visit Wisely
The garden looks beautiful year-round, but morning or late afternoon light creates the most flattering photos. Weekday sessions mean fewer visitors in the background of your shots.
2. Dress for Success
The garden’s green backdrop works beautifully with either neutral colors and soft patterns; or coordinated lively colours . Coordinating (not matching) outfits create a cohesive look without appearing staged. For detailed tips, I have this Stress-Free Outfit planning guide made for you.
3. Be Weather-Ready
Sydney weather can change quickly. Have a backup date in case of rain, or bring light layers that can be added or removed as needed.
4. Let Kids Explore
Some of the best photos happen when children are allowed to wander and discover the garden at their own pace. Build in time for exploration and play.
The Best Spots in Wendy’s Secret Garden for Family Photos
The garden offers several stunning locations for family portraits:
Harbour View Terrace
The upper sections of the garden provide breathtaking Sydney Harbor views, making for dramatic backdrops with the water and city skyline.
Secret Pathways
Winding paths surrounded by lush plants create natural framing for intimate family moments and candid walking shots.
Garden Nooks
Small benches and hidden corners throughout the garden offer perfect spots for seated family groupings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wendy’s Secret Garden free to visit?
Yes! The garden is free and open to the public daily from dawn until dusk.
Do I need permission for professional photos?
For small family sessions, no formal permission is needed. However, large groups or commercial shoots may require permits.
Is the garden accessible with strollers?
Parts of the garden have steps and narrow paths. While not impossible with strollers, be prepared for some challenging terrain.
What if it rains on our planned photo day?
Sydney’s weather can be unpredictable. Always have a backup date in mind, or consider embracing the moody atmosphere that light rain can create.
How much time should we allow for a family session?
Most family sessions at Wendy’s Secret Garden take about 1-2 hours, allowing time for multiple spots and natural moments to unfold.
Book Your Garden Family Photographs in Sydney
Watching the Pham family grow through our sessions has been such a gift. From a family of four to five, each session captures not just how they look but who they are together – the giggles, the cuddles, and the love that grows stronger with each passing year.
Want your own set of garden family photos? Let’s make it happen. Whether your crew’s getting bigger (and louder) by the year or you just want to bottle up this chapter in time, Wendy’s Secret Garden is the kind of place that makes photos feel like magic—not just pictures.
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