What is the best time of year for your family photography session?
The truth is, you can have your family photography session at any time of year! Each season brings something special, so it really comes down to what suits your family best. That said, there are a few key things to consider when choosing the perfect time, and I’ll walk you through them here. Hopefully, this will help you decide when to book your session, but if you’re unsure, I’m always happy to chat through options!
The Two Big Factors
The two biggest factors to think about are the weather and the light. Understandably, most families worry about the weather when booking their session (it’s the No.1 question asked on our Discovery Call).
The Weather
If the forecast isn’t looking great, don’t worry; I’m not going to force you all outside if it’s pouring down. The kids might love it, splashing around in puddles, parents less so! The good news is I’m always flexible with rescheduling if needed.
We’ll have regular check-ins on the run-up to your session if the weather’s looking unsettled and a backup plan in place if needed. Sometimes, it can be as easy as moving the start time of your photo shoot by an hour to dodge the showers.
The Light Quality
What’s even more important than the weather is the light quality. Lighting plays a huge role in photography, and it can completely transform your photos. Depending on the season, there are certain times of day when the sun is harsh and bright, which isn’t ideal for capturing soft, flattering photos.
Early morning is ideal for families with young children, as little ones tend to be at their happiest and most engaged before the day wears on. By the afternoon, they can start to feel tired, making it harder for them to enjoy the session.
For families with older children and teens, a late afternoon session can work well. They no longer need naps and are often more relaxed and willing to take part later in the day.
Spring Family Photography
Springtime is always a popular option with families looking to capture new memories and document their growing family. The days are growing longer and warmer, and due to more overcast days, there’s soft, even lighting, which is ideal for photos. It’s the perfect excuse to get out into nature and enjoy the season.
Pros of a Spring Family Portrait Session
Mild Temperatures
Spring offers comfortable weather, not too hot or too cold, making it easier for families (especially young children) to enjoy the session without discomfort.
Longer Days
As the days get longer, there’s more flexibility for scheduling, whether you prefer a morning or early evening session.
Soft, Even Light
Overcast spring days can provide beautiful, diffused light that’s perfect for flattering portraits without harsh shadows.
Fresh Greenery & Vibrant Colours
Parks, woodlands, and gardens start to look lush again, adding a fresh and lively feel to photos.
Cons of a Spring Family Portrait Session
Unpredictable Weather
Spring can bring rain showers, sudden temperature changes, and gusty winds, which means rescheduling may be necessary.
Mud & Damp Ground
Even if the rain holds off, the ground can be damp or muddy, making certain outdoor locations less practical for sitting or playing.
Allergy Season
Pollen can rocket in spring, which might be a concern for families with hay fever or other seasonal allergies. I myself suffer from hay fever and take antihistamines when the pollen count is high to tackle the symptoms.
Busy Schedules
With school terms, sports, and Easter holidays, family calendars can start to fill up, making it trickier to find a suitable date. I always recommend booking in early to secure your preferred date.
Summer Family Photography
Summer is a wonderful time for family photography, offering long, warm days and plenty of opportunities to get outside for a relaxed session. With extended daylight hours, there’s lots of flexibility for scheduling, whether you prefer an early morning start or a softer evening light.
Meadows are in full bloom, woodland walks are dappled with sunlight, and the summertime vibe makes for beautifully candid, joy-filled photos. It’s the perfect time to embrace the outdoors and capture special family moments together.
Pros of a Summer Family Portrait Session
Longer Days & Golden Hour Flexibility
With extended daylight hours, you have more flexibility for scheduling your session, whether in the early morning or during the beautiful golden hour in the evening.
More Availability for Families
With school holidays, it’s often easier to find a date that works for everyone without the usual term-time rush.
Warm Weather & Comfort
No need for heavy layers—light, breezy outfits work beautifully, and you won’t have to worry about chilly temperatures.
Water Locations Work Well
If you love the idea of a lakeside, beach, or riverbank session, summer is the best time to make the most of these settings. Here are my top 5 family photo locations in West Sussex for a little inspiration.
Cons of a Summer Family Portrait Session
Harsh Midday Light
When the sun is at its highest and brightest, it can create strong shadows and make it harder to get soft, flattering photos (but not impossible). That’s why early I recommend morning or late evening sessions to make the most of the best light.
Insects & Pollen
Wasps, midges, and hay fever can be an issue, especially in fields or wooded areas.
Hot & Sticky Weather
Depending on the day, high temperatures can lead to sweating, discomfort, and restless little ones. We check the weather in the run-up to your date, mainly for rain but also for how warm it will be and make plans to avoid the warmest part of the day.
Busy Locations
Popular outdoor spots can be crowded with families, picnickers, and tourists, making it harder to get quiet, relaxed shots. We will chat about options to avoid the crowds on our planning appointment.
Autumn Family Photography
Autumn is a very popular time for family photography sessions, and with only a limited number of weekends available, photographers often get booked up early. Many families love this time of year for its cosy atmosphere, stunning colours, and softer light, making it an ideal season to capture warm, timeless portraits.
It’s also the perfect opportunity to plan ahead for Christmas. Gifting beautiful family photos makes thoughtful presents for loved ones, whether in prints, albums, or framed wall art. With high demand, booking early to secure your preferred date is always best.
Pros of an Autumn Family Portrait Session
Beautiful, Rich Colours
The warm autumnal tones, deep reds, oranges, and golden yellows create a stunning natural backdrop for family photos.
Comfortable Temperatures
Cooler but not too cold, autumn offers a pleasant middle ground between summer heat and winter chill, making it a great time for outdoor sessions.
Soft, Flattering Light
The sun sits lower in the sky, providing a softer, more even light throughout the day, which is perfect for natural and flattering portraits.
Layered Clothing Looks Great
Cosy jumpers, scarves, and boots add texture and warmth to photos, creating a timeless and stylish look.
Cons of an Autumn Family Portrait Session
Unsettled Weather
Autumn can bring everything from crisp, sunny days to sudden showers or blustery winds, making flexibility key when booking a session.
Shorter Days
With daylight hours decreasing, there’s less flexibility for scheduling, and sessions need to be planned earlier in the day.
Limited Availability
Autumn is a very popular time for family photography sessions. With a limited number of weekends available, photographers can get booked up. Scheduling your session early is always recommended for family portraits at this time of year.
Potential for Dull Skies
While autumn light can be beautiful, overcast days can sometimes feel a little grey and flat, requiring the right approach to get the best results.
Winter Family Photography
Winter may not be the first season that comes to mind for a family photography session, but it has a unique charm that makes it well worth considering. The soft, flattering light and peaceful, quiet locations create a beautifully intimate setting, while cosy knitwear and layered outfits add warmth and texture to your images.
While shorter days and unpredictable weather require a little more planning, the timeless, neutral backdrops and quieter schedule can make for truly special, relaxed sessions.
If you’re open to embracing the season, winter offers an opportunity for stunning, atmospheric portraits that stand out from the rest.
Pros of a Winter Family Portrait Session
Timeless, Neutral Backdrops
With trees bare and nature stripped back, the right winter landscape can provide beautifully simple, neutral-toned backgrounds that let your family be the focus of the photos without distractions.
Quieter Locations
Popular outdoor spots tend to be less busy, meaning fewer distractions and a more relaxed, intimate setting for your session.
More Availability
Since winter is a quieter season for outdoor photography, you may find it easier to book your preferred date and get more flexibility with rescheduling if needed.
Ideal for Indoor Sessions
If the weather isn’t great, winter is the perfect time for cosy, at-home lifestyle sessions, capturing natural, everyday family moments indoors.
Cons of a Winter Family Portrait Session
Bad Weather
Rain, wind, and damp conditions can make outdoor sessions trickier and require flexibility for rescheduling.
Shorter Daylight Hours
With daylight hours decreasing, there’s less flexibility for scheduling, and sessions need to be planned earlier in the day.
Cold Temperatures
Chilly weather means bundling up, and younger children may get cold quickly, requiring breaks to warm up. For Winter sessions, I usually suggest a location not too far from your home so we can pop back for some fun at-home photos in the warm.
Bare Landscapes
Trees have lost their leaves, and gardens aren’t as colourful, meaning family photography locations need to be chosen carefully for interesting backdrops. For this reason, the beach is a popular choice for families in winter.
Which Season is Right for Your Family?
Ultimately, the best time for your family photography session comes down to what works best for you. Each season brings its own unique beauty, whether it’s the fresh energy of spring, the warmth and vibrancy of summer, the rich colours of autumn, or the cosy charm of winter. The most important thing is capturing your family just as you are, relaxed, happy, and enjoying the moment together.
If you’re unsure which season would suit your family best, think about your lifestyle, your children’s routines, and the type of backdrop you’d love in your photos. Do you love the idea of playful sessions in open meadows, cosy autumn walks wrapped up in layers, or a fresh, bright springtime setting? Whatever your vision, there’s a perfect time to make it happen.
Ready to plan your family session?
I’d love to help you find the perfect time and location to create beautiful, natural images that you’ll treasure forever. Get in touch, and let’s start planning your session!
