Why you shouldn’t wait until Fall to book your family photography sessions
Has this ever happened to you? You’re savoring a warm pumpkin spice latte on a crisp October morning, feeling relaxed—until it hits you. You never booked your family photography session. In a panic, you reach out to your go-to photographer, only to find they’ve been booked solid for months. Desperate, you check with your backup photographer, but they’re fully booked too. Suddenly, the realization sinks in—you’ve missed out on the perfect fall session yet again.
Fall is undoubtedly one of the most popular times for family photography sessions. The golden leaves, crisp air, and warm tones create a picturesque backdrop that many families love. However, with its popularity comes challenges—overbooked photographers, crowded locations, and often unpredictable weather (Helllllo Bellingham wind and rain!) If you’ve been stuck in the cycle of booking fall sessions year after year, it might be time to consider other seasons for your next family photoshoot. Here’s why spring, summer, and winter can offer just as stunning—if not better—family portraits.
Spring: A Season of Renewal and Vibrancy
Spring is one of the most underrated times for family photography, yet it offers so much potential for breathtaking images.
1. Blossoming Beauty
Spring is a season of renewal, with flowers blooming, trees regaining their lush green leaves, and nature coming back to life. The pastel tones of cherry blossoms, tulips, and daffodils create a soft, dreamy background for family photos. If you love vibrant colors and floral landscapes, spring is the perfect time to book your session.
2. Comfortable Temperatures
Unlike the sometimes chilly and unpredictable fall weather, spring offers mild temperatures that make outdoor sessions more enjoyable, especially for young children. You won’t have to worry about bundling up in layers or dealing with extreme heat.
3. Unique Wardrobe Options
Spring allows for playful and light wardrobe choices. Flowing dresses, pastel outfits, and cute rain boots paired with umbrellas can create a whimsical and fresh look for your photos. This variety lets you step away from the typical earth-toned sweaters and jeans often seen in fall portraits.
Summer: Warm, Fun, and Full of Adventure
Many families overlook summer as a prime season for photos, but it can be a fantastic time to capture joyful, sun-kissed memories.
1. Extended Daylight Hours
One of the biggest perks of summer photography is the long daylight hours. This flexibility means you can schedule your session later in the evening, capturing stunning golden-hour light without rushing before it gets too dark. Sunset sessions in the summer produce warm, glowing images that are hard to achieve in other seasons.
2. Vacation Vibes
If your family enjoys beach trips, mountain hikes, or lake getaways, summer is the ideal time to document these special moments. Imagine capturing your children playing in the sand, splashing in the water, or hiking through scenic landscapes. These images often feel more natural and candid, preserving genuine family fun.
3. Casual, Breezy Wardrobe Choices
Summertime outfits tend to be more relaxed and effortless. Sundresses, shorts, linen shirts, and sandals not only keep your family cool but also add a lighthearted and cheerful aesthetic to your photos.
Winter: A Magical Wonderland
Winter may not be the most popular season for family photos, but it offers a unique and enchanting charm that no other season can replicate.
1. Snow-Covered Scenes
If you live in an area that experiences snowfall, winter provides a breathtaking white backdrop that makes family portraits look straight out of a fairytale. Snowy landscapes add an ethereal quality that enhances the beauty of winter photography.
2. Cozy, Intimate Moments
Winter sessions often involve cozy clothing—think warm scarves, knitted sweaters, and stylish coats. These elements add texture and depth to your photos. Plus, capturing moments of your family sipping hot cocoa, wrapped in blankets, or playing in the snow creates heartwarming and authentic images. Cozy outdoor sessions are some of my favorites!
Cozy family studio session
3. Holiday-Themed Photos
Winter is also a great time to capture holiday-themed pictures that can be used for greeting cards, gifts, or home decor. Whether it’s an intimate indoor session by the fireplace or a playful outdoor shoot with twinkling lights, winter photography has a magical essence that makes it truly special.
Breaking Away from the Fall Rush
One of the biggest benefits of scheduling your family photography session outside of fall is avoiding the seasonal rush. Many photographers are fully booked during autumn months, which means you’ll likely have to plan months in advance to secure a slot. By choosing spring, summer, or winter, you’ll have more flexibility in scheduling, less competition for prime locations, and a more relaxed experience overall.
Final Thoughts
While fall undoubtedly offers beautiful scenery, every season has its own unique charm that can elevate your family portraits in unexpected ways. Whether you prefer the fresh blooms of spring, the golden warmth of summer, or the magical coziness of winter, scheduling your photography session outside of autumn can result in stunning, memorable images that truly stand out. So, next time you’re thinking about booking a family photoshoot, consider stepping outside the fall tradition—you may just be surprised at how much you love the results!
