Excited to plan your outdoor family photo session but unsure what time of day to book it? I get it!

While I always prefer scheduling sessions close to sunset or sunrise because the light gives off a lovely, soft glow, I understand those times may not work for everyone! The practicalities of family life may mean you need to work around breakfast time, naps, and bedtime routines. 

In this blog post, I’ll explore the various options for when we can book your family photo session, and share a few pointers on how we can make it a great experience no matter the time of day. 

Sunrise Sessions

I know that getting everyone out of bed early in the morning may not be the most enjoyable experience for parents, but the payoff is definitely worth it. Imagine the gentle, golden morning light over the ocean or streaming through the trees, providing a soft background for your photo shoot. That is what you could experience if you book your family photo session at sunrise. And guess what? Because there are barely any people out and about at that time of day, you’ll get to enjoy your chosen location all to yourselves.

Sunset Sessions

Sunset is another great option for those who don’t want to drag their littles out of bed early in the morning! You get to take advantage of the same soft golden glow without the early-morning wake-up call. This is the most ideal time for photo sessions due to the “golden hour” which gives you the most flattering light. It’s also a good option in the cooler months when the weather is just a bit too nippy to be shooting at sunrise.

Cloudy or Overcast Days

You might think that cloudy or overcast days are a recipe for disaster. But, unless it rains, they’re not! In fact, as long as it’s not too dark, they provide the perfect conditions for shooting. The diffused light during these conditions acts as a natural softbox, creating even lighting and reducing harsh shadows. So if your scheduled photo session falls on an overcast day, don’t worry, I’ll make it work in your favour! 

Any Time of the Day

While I prefer golden hour sessions, I’m flexible with your family’s schedule. I understand that working around little kids can be tricky, and it’s important to choose a time that works best for your family. After all, we want everyone at their happiest! If mid-morning is the most convenient time for your family, we can make it work. In that case, we’ll seek out locations with plenty of shade to use filtered light, ensuring your photos look great.

If you want to book your family photo session, I’d love to hear from you! Enquire about my services here.