A lot of families will wait until the Fall to do their family photos. Most people do so because they want to also use their images for holiday cards. However, just because that’s the norm, doesn’t mean there isn’t an alternative. In fact, Summer is a great time of year to capture those family photos and you can still use your gorgeous images for those Christmas cards. Here are some reasons why Summer on Long Island is the perfect time for family photos.

1. THINGS ARE A LOT LESS HECTIC

The summer is so much more relaxed than any other season. Once the kids start school in the Fall, parents find themselves once again over-committed to activities. Sports start up again, school meetings, and before you know it, you are prepping for the holiday season. If you are anything like me, schedules can be pretty overwhelming during the Fall months, which is why summer works so well. Aside from July 4th and Father’s Day, there aren’t any major holidays. You can enjoy a slower pace, longer days, and actual sunshine.

2. SCHEDULES ARE A LOT MORE OPEN

Although families travel during the Summer, there tends to be a lot more availability in your schedule. Even if your weekends include outings with family and friends, weeknights are typically an option for most. Sunset is later in the evening in the Summer months, so you don’t need to take a day off from work to have your family photos captured. My schedule tends to be more open as well. The Fall tends to be busy with holiday themed mini sessions that book up in advance. This doesn’t mean that you should wait until the last minute to book a session, especially if you want a weekend date.

3. THE HEALTHY GLOW OF SUMMER

Let’s face it, everyone looks better with a healthy summer glow. In the Summer, you and your children will be naturally tanned just from being outside! This looks amazing in photographs. So, schedule your photoshoot right after a vacation, or head to the beach a few times to soak up the rays. Just remember to apply sunscreen so you don’t get burned, and enjoy a beautiful tanned look in your portraits!

4. EVERYONE IS WELL RESTED

Summer often means having the ability to sleep in a bit.. both for the parents and for the kids. With school starting so early in the morning , we tend to be on a pretty crazy schedule. But in the Summer, camps typically start around 8:30am or 9am, which means everyone is probably getting a lot more rest as a result.

5. IT FEELS SO GOOD TO NOT HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT IT IN THE FALL

It feels like every fall things get more and more hectic. Holidays tend to be close together, with long to-do lists, and seemingly no time to do anything with all the family obligations. Being able to get one of these important to-do items (get family portraits for holiday card) off your list before fall even starts is the best feeling! This means more time to devote to getting everyone else done, not waiting until the last minute, and sparing yourself a whole lot of stress during a time when you’re supposed to enjoy being with your family.

6. YOU ARE LESS LIKELY TO HAVE SICK KIDDOS

Somehow the cold and flu season starts earlier and ends later every year. Nothing is more frustrating than having to reschedule a photo session because your child is sick. I have kids, so I always understand when a client needs reschedule and I leave room in my calendar for this reason. However, in the Summer, it is less likely that your child will be sick. This means less stress for you.

7. YOU WONT BE COLD DURING YOUR PHOTO SESSION

Although many people prefer the chilly Fall weather, I am a Summer girl at heart. I prefer Summer fashion to Fall and I hate being cold. If you are like me and want ideal temperatures for your photos, then the Summer months are should be when you schedule your session. If you don’t like the heat, schedule your session at the beach. There is always a cool breeze blowing on the Long Island beaches, even on the hottest of Summer days. If you love Fall weather, that is OK too. I schedule family sessions outdoors from April to late November, so you can choose the season that best suits your needs.

8. SUMMER SUNSETS ARE FIRE

There is nothing like a fiery Summer sunset. Late August and early September seem to be the best months ot capture those gorgeous sunsets during which time the sky is lit up with hues of purple, pink and orange. The beach is a great location for sunset sessions and Summer is always the best time to be at the beach. Fall light is super pretty as well, but there is just something about that Summer sky that gives me all the feels.

So, if you haven’t thought about getting your photos done a little earlier this year, I urge you to consider it. Don’t wait until the last moment during the Summer, either. Family sessions are typically booked 2-3 months in advance, so reach out as soon as you think this might be a good idea so we can reserve the best date for your family. Contact me to strat planning your Summer session now.