Many families often wonder and ask, “When’s the best time to take our family photos?” or “What is the best season for family photos?” This is a hard question to answer, because there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Each season has its own pros and cons, and every family has a different need or desired outcome from a session. However, I can give you a little guide into each season to help you find the season that fits your family best! Here are my honest thoughts on each season, as well as which ones I prefer.
Spring
Spring is a solid option, especially for families with young kiddos that don’t want to be out super late. This is also a great time to schedule sessions after work and school since daylight lasts a little longer and temperatures are warming. Another perk to the mild weather is that everything is usually starting to bloom, which means there are plenty of beautiful backdrops!
Plus, if you’re the kind of person who likes to get ahead of the game, and you can plan to use the photos for holiday cards. That means, you’ll not only have a head start, but you will avoid the fall chaos! No scrambling come October when everyone else is rushing to squeeze in a session.
However, springtime does have a few downsides. For one, the weather can be unpredictable. It can be pretty windy and rainy, which isn’t the best for photos! Another thing to consider, which a lot of people don’t think of initially, is allergies. Spring brings out all sorts of pollen and irritates, which could make it uncomfortable to be outside. Lastly, depending on when we shoot, like very early spring, the trees and grass might not be fully green just yet. That is just something to be mindful of when it comes to timing and location in the spring.
Summer
If your family loves being outdoors and soaking up that golden light, summer is your season. Summertime brings all the warmth and those deep green backdrops. Another advantage of summer sessions is the scheduling flexibility for families since kids are out of school, or home from college.
That said, sunset can be really late. We’re talking 8:30 or 9 p.m., which can be tricky with little ones when trying to capture golden hour portraits. Also, as most Texans know, it is usually VERY hot, and there might be a few bugs flying around, especially if we’re near water or tall grass. Heat and bugs might create a less than desirable session, as no one wants to be soaked in sweat or swatting away bugs in their pictures. Shooting close to sunset does help when it comes to the heat, but not always.
However, if your crew is up for it, summer sessions have such a dreamy, carefree vibe, and the summer sunsets are epic with the most beautiful light.
Fall
It’s easy to see why fall is the most popular season. The golden tones, cozy sweaters, and earlier sunsets make it a dream. It’s also prime time if you’re hoping to use your photos for Christmas cards. While fall is the most popular and for good reason, there are few downsides to consider.
For one, since it is the most popular, it’s also busy. Like, really busy. Everyone is trying to fit in their session before the holidays, which means less availability and a little more hustle. The weather can also shift quickly. It isn’t uncommon for it to go from sunny to windy and chilly at the last minute.
Winter
Winter sessions don’t get enough love, in my opinion, and they definitely have their own vibe. However, there’s something so peaceful and timeless about bare trees, cozy layers, and that moody winter light. It’s also a slower season for photography, so it’s easier to snag a date that works for your family.
Winter is also the perfect time for in-home sessions or to try something a little different. Studio sessions are also a wonderful option during this time of year. Both in-home and studio sessions are cozy and weather-proof. In-home sessions can be great to add in personal touches.
Of course, if we are doing an outdoor session, it is cold outside – sometimes realllly cold. Not to mention, daylight is limited and there is not much greenery outdoors. That means we might spend some time finding the right location that has a beautiful backdrop, unless we get lucky with a magical snowfall.
My Honest Take: The Best Season for Family Photos
In my opinion, the best time to book family photos is in the spring or early fall. These seasons offer the perfect balance with mild weather that isn’t too hot or too cold, which makes it way more enjoyable, especially for families with little ones. Earlier sunset times during these seasons provide soft, golden light without needing to stay out late trying to catch the best lighting. This allows for a more relaxed session, and the added benefit of avoiding the stress of the fall holiday photo rush when everyone’s calendar gets packed and weather becomes more unpredictable.
No matter when you choose to book, the most important thing is that your family feels comfortable, relaxed, and like yourselves. When that happens, the magic naturally follows. Whether you’re surrounded by wildflowers, an epic sunset, or snuggled up on the couch at home, we will make sure your session reflects you and captures the precious moments of this season of life for your family!
If you’re thinking about a family session this year and aren’t sure when to book, I’m happy to help talk through the options and find the perfect season for your story. Contact me today to get started! I can’t wait to talk to you and bring your vision to life.
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