Spooky, Sweet & Stylish: A Family Halloween Photoshoot in Aspley Woods, Milton Keynes
Because Halloween isn’t just for jump scares—it’s for gorgeous, joy‑filled family photos you’ll love long after the sweets have mysteriously disappeared.
Halloween is one of my favourite excuses to go a little extra—rich colours, playful props, and a touch of drama in the most beautiful woodland. This year I styled a family Halloween photoshoot in Aspley Woods, Milton Keynes, and it was everything I love: cosy layers, cinematic light, and kids who could run wild like friendly little woodland spirits.
Instead of full-on horror (no gore here!), we leaned into storybook spooky: think warm knits with velvet capes, mini pumpkins, lanterns, and a palette of burnt orange, forest green, charcoal and plum. The result? Family photos that feel timeless with a wink of Halloween magic.
We began with gentle, low-key portraits to warm everyone up, sitting together on a blanket under the pines, eating toffee apples. We then moved into exploring the woods with prompt-led play: who can float their cape the highest, who can you see in the mirror. These simple games bring out natural expressions and keep little ones engaged.
Family “Ghost” Photos: Sheet-Ghouls with Shades
Yes, we absolutely did the classic sheet‑ghosts, which were a hit! Families popped on white cotton sheets and added sunglasses for that retro cool spooky look. It’s instantly iconic, super comfy, and perfect for shy kiddos who love the idea of dressing up without face paint.
Why Aspley Woods?
If you know, you know. Aspley Woods gives you towering pines, ferny undergrowth with shafts of golden light, even in late autumn. There’s space to play, winding paths to explore, and plenty of natural “sets” to create variety; mossy logs for seated portraits, tree-lined avenues for movement, and open glades when the sun drops.
Practical perks:
Easy access from Milton Keynes and surrounding Buckinghamshire villages
Sheltered woodland that photographs beautifully even on breezier days
Underfoot is mostly firm trails which is great for little feet (and the grown-up kind)
Thinking of Booking Your Own Autumn/Halloween or another seasonal photoshoot?
I’d love to be able to offer seasonal mini photoshoots next year, so please watch this space and sign up to my newsletter, and follow me on my socials to be the first to know when I do announce them.
If you’d like to book a family photoshoot with me, please contact me