What is the Best Time of Year for Family Photos?

Whether your family has booked a family photoshoot in the past or you’re considering booking for the very first time, you may be wondering how to book your photo session and what time of year is best. There are a lot of things to consider when deciding on the timing of your family photoshoot, and it all comes down to preference. Here are a few things to consider when selecting the best time of year for family photos. 

What is the goal of your photoshoot? 

What are you hoping to get out of your photoshoot? 


The purpose of a storytelling family photo shoot is to capture authentic moments and emotions within a family in a natural and unposed manner. Unlike traditional portrait sessions where subjects are often directed to pose and smile for the camera, storytelling family photography aims to document real-life moments as they unfold, telling the story of a family's life candidly and genuinely.


The goal is to create a collection of images that reflect the unique dynamics and personality of the family members, preserving memories and creating a visual narrative that can be cherished for years to come.


It is important to think of what aspects of your family life you want to have documented when planning your session. Storytelling photoshoots can happen any time of year, so the timing of your session should depend on your visual preference, what time of year your family enjoys the most, or scheduled around a particular activity you want to incorporate (playing in the snow, on location at the beach, playing in the fall leaves).


You also might be getting photos done to celebrate a milestone, holiday, or anniversary and are planning on using them in the event. Keep in mind that most photographers have a turnaround time- mine is 3-4 weeks for the fully edited gallery- so make sure you consider that when booking your session.

Do you want to be indoors or outdoors? 

Consider whether you’d like your photoshoot to be outdoors or inside. Indoor photoshoots can happen year-round, while the weather can be an unpredictable factor in outdoor photo shoots. Deciding on a location for your shoot might determine the best time of year for your photos, and your photographer can help you decide what will be best based on your chosen location. Regardless of what you choose, there are many creative options for photoshoots indoors or outdoors.  And don't forget! You can choose both- sessions at home are a great way to fully document your family life- starting inside the home and then ending the session in your backyard.

Outdoor Options

  • Your home/yard 
  • An on-location shoot (I have a location guide with beautiful locations I frequent)
  • My flower garden (It is blooming June-later September) 
  • A local farm
  • Your family's favorite hiking trail

Indoor Options

  • Your own home 
  • My professional in-home studio
  • A museum
  • Your favorite playplace
  • Antique shop
  • A greenhouse


How Might the Weather Impact Your Shoot?

If you choose an outdoor photoshoot, don’t underestimate the impact that weather can have!


Many people want fall photos, but forget that the temperatures are colder and can require lots of layering. Another thing that can make family photos uncomfortable is when you are sweating profusely from the hot temperatures of summer. Make sure you are considering this when you book your shoot, so that you set up your family for success.


Choosing your family's favorite time of year can be the best time to schedule your photo session.


Questions you can ask yourself:

What activities are your family's favorite to do together?

Do you have a time of year you think is exceptionally more beautiful, or love the most?

Do you want photos filled with bright greens and flowers (pick spring/summer), or do you favor more earth tones (fall)?

How Frequently Would You Like Family Photos Taken? 

Many families who enjoy storytelling photography choose to have multiple sessions throughout the year to capture a variety of special moments and family traditions. If you’d like to take photos more than once a year, consider spacing out your photoshoots and shooting in a variety of settings, so you can have full documentation of your family's entire life. After you book your first full storytelling session you become a member of my Storytelling Club and can book shorter sessions that can document other moments for your family.

So, what’s the best time of year to book?

Ultimately, the best time of year to book a photoshoot is the time of year that works best for your family and your photographer. Many photographers book weeks/months in advance, so it’s good to contact your chosen photographer well in advance to understand their availability and to work with them to choose the right location and time.


Coordinating timing based on your family schedule can also be an important factor- especially for extended family sessions! It can be quite the challenge to find a date that works for all involved AND your photographer, so scheduling your session months in advance can be the best bet.

Ready to Book Your Family Photo Shoot? 

I’d love to hear more about what you’re looking for and discuss what you envision for your family photoshoot.

Contact me to get more information about my approach and to get started booking your session!