I often get asked when is the best time of year to have a family photo session. I always say you’ll never get this time again - your kids will grow, change, lose teeth and what they love today, they may intensely dislike tomorrow! Embrace it all, they are only young once and the best time to capture you all is right now!
So, while there isn’t one “best time”, here are some of my tips for a memorable family photo session, no matter what time of year it is.
Winter Photo Sessions
The trees are bare and ethereal looking, and the winter light is generally soft, even and flattering on the skin. Think fun snuggly images, gumboots and scarfs streaming out as you all run around to keep warm and make some awesome memories! The light is amazing at the end of the day in winter, and this can be the best time to get beautiful sunset images for young families, since it happens at around 5.30pm in the winter months.
Family Photos in Spring
The light is still soft in spring, similar to during the winter months. There are loads of new growth and fresh green shoots in the trees… it gives a sense of newness and freshness to your photos. It’s also warm enough to dip your toes at the beach, and play a bit in the sand.
Summer Photos in the Sunshine
Think bright and colourful, very strong clear light and lots of backlit images with sunny halos. Bare feet, tanned skin, shorts, tees and cute, frilly dresses. Summer is the best time to include water, which ideal for children to play, let loose and be themselves. Head to the beach, or even use the hose at home! You’ll get great images in the early morning or late in the evening before sunset… although since sunset in summer is around 9pm, this usually works better for older families.
Photos in Autumn
So much colour! The trees are amazing and your kids playing in the leaves adds an air of whimsy and fun to your images. The light is a bit softer than summer and it’s not too cold yet, so you can still pull out those summery clothes. The beaches and parks tend to be less crowded and foggy, misty, crisp mornings look amazing if you are lucky enough!
Give me a call or email me and we can talk through how to make your photos the absolute best they can be. Maybe you’ve thought of some fab new ideas you’d like to try too!
