Fall leaves and sweaters are cute, but summer nights might just be the secret sauce for the best family photos. I know Fall is the “classic” family photo season, but trust me when I say that Summer offers some serious perks. After years of photographing families, where is my advice for making the most of the Summer season to get the most beautiful and stress-free images for your family.
Longer Days & Dreamy Light
Summer in Ontario means long days and late sunsets. This gives us way more flexibility for session start times, and having Golden Hour a little bit later means families can avoid dinner time for their session start time. Not only do those later sunsets give us more time to play, but it also is THE BEST LIGHT. Summer sunsets in Ontario can’t be beat, and we have some incredible locations in our area that absolutely shine during the summer months.
Warm Weather = Happy Kids (And Parents!)
Warmer weather also makes that golden hour and blue hour (right after the sun sets) more accessible because you don’t have to bundle up. You can hang at the beach knowing your kids won’t freeze on their way back to the car. Your kids can play in the lake, run barefoot, and enjoy the sunshine without having to layer up.
More Availability & Less Rush
Not only am I more flexible with my availability in the summer, but also generally your schedule is more flexible. There are less commitments, no school and often parents take a week or two off during the summer months. During that week off when you’re enjoying a staycation is literally the best time to book your family session. Fall calendars get full real fast – back to school, sports and shorter days mean time for everyone is limited. Make the most of that relaxing summer schedule and book a laid back family session!
Outfit Options Galore!
Summer clothing options endless! You can wear pants, skirts, dresses, tank tops, bathing suits – the list can go on and on! It is much easier to coordinate summer outfits with your crew without the added challenge of incorporating extra layers , hats and coats. Summer clothing is more relaxed and flowy, which can also help you relax and go with the flow for your session. Bare feet and flowy dresses are two great ingredients to start with when planning your summer family photography session.
Perfect for Outdoor, Playful Sessions
Summer is the best time for us to get outside and have some fun. Whether you choose to hit up Erieau beach, or a picnic in Canatara Park, a trip out on Lake St. Clair in your boat, or even bike riding under the bridge in Sarnia: the activity possibilities are endless in the summer months. I always suggest we start planning your session location around an activity you all love to do together and summer is ideal for whatever you choose!
Bonus: You’ll be Ahead of the Game
Everyone is rushing in the fall to get a family session booked. For those who order Christmas cards, this can seem like a big rush. Booking your session in the summer gives you not only more flexibility with the time and location for the session, but also you can beat the holiday rush and order your holiday gifts or cards early. Fall is also a crazy time for most families in Ontario, with school starting back up and many fall sports and activities, everyone’s schedule is already full!
Summer might not be your family’s traditional time for a photography session, but it just might be your new favourite! Ready to book your relaxed summer session? Let’s find the perfect golden evening in Chatham-Kent or Sarnia – reach out today to start planning!
