Planning Family Photos with Little Ones This Summer ☀️

As we head into the sweet summertime and enjoy later sunsets, I’ve been getting a common question:
“Do we have to shoot during golden hour?”

With sunsets pushing past 8 PM over the next month, golden hour sessions aren’t always ideal—especially if you have little ones with earlier bedtimes.

The short answer is: No, we don’t have to shoot at golden hour!

While golden hour provides beautiful, soft, and even lighting, it’s not worth it if your child is tired, cranky, or ready for bed. Happy, comfortable kids always make for the best photos, no matter the light.

Here are a few ways we can work around it and still get gorgeous family photos:

• Opt for an earlier session time.
  We can schedule your session earlier in the evening, closer to your child’s natural rhythm. Well-rested, happy kids help create joyful, natural images you’ll love.

• Be selective with location choices.
  Choosing spots with lots of shade—like tree-lined parks, gardens, or wooded areas—gives us softer, more even lighting even when the sun is higher in the sky. Shade acts like nature’s diffuser, helping us avoid harsh shadows and squinting.

• Use outdoor flash when needed.
  If you have your heart set on an open beach or wide-open field (which usually has little to no natural shade), I can bring my professional lighting setup. Outdoor flash allows us to balance bright sunlight and still achieve soft, flattering images—without them looking “flashy” or artificial.

• Focus on the moments, not the clock.
  The heart of your photos will always be your family—your connections, your laughter, your cuddles—not just the lighting. Lighting is simply a tool; the genuine emotions you share are what truly make your portraits beautiful and meaningful.

When everyone is relaxed, comfortable, and having fun, that's when the real magic happens—no matter what time of day we’re shooting!

In the end, it’s not about chasing perfect light. It’s about creating memories you’ll treasure forever. I'm here to guide you every step of the way, so you can focus on soaking up these sweet moments with the people you love most.

Ready to book your summer family session? With thoughtful planning and a little flexibility, we’ll create beautiful, timeless images you’ll cherish for years to come. Get in touch today and let’s design the perfect session for your family’s needs.