This summer has been unusually hot with countless days with excessive heat warnings. Not being a fan of excessive heat I was more than thrilled with the recent development of monsoon storms. (Though, admittedly, it gave me a bit of stress watching it pour one afternoon knowing I had a session that evening. Thankfully, it cleared up and was a gorgeous evening, but it was a stressful few hours.) As I went on my morning walk the next day- after waiting out yet another storm – it got me thinking about planning for my own family’s yearly pictures.
It may still be the beginning of August but things are quickly moving into fall. The weather is giving us a preview of the cooler weather to come. Fall sports are starting, kids are gearing up to go back to school, and schedules are quickly filling up after a laid back summer. I know my evenings and weekends are! Despite it still being summer, I wanted to share how to help your future self out as you think about scheduling and taking your own pictures; whether that be an anniversary session (my personal favorite), updated headshots for work or social media, senior or family session. The seasons are going to change faster than you think and there are some things you’ll want to consider when planning your next photo session.
What to Wear:
When you think about the type of clothing you want to wear for your session is it geared more for warm weather or cooler? Is the gorgeous floor length flowy skirt you’ve had your eye on something that you’d feel comfortable wearing in cooler weather, or do you have visions or pairing it with a lighter top? Being comfortable in your clothing choices makes such a different in the final images. If you’re not comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing it will show. You may consider scheduling sooner, if you’re hoping to wear cute strappy shoes next to your husband who is wearing a short sleeved shirt. If you have the perfect jacket to pair with your husband’s suit coat, you might wait a little longer. Simple or layered styles both photograph beautifully, you’ll just want to make sure to dress appropriately for the weather.
Get it on the Calendar:
Whenever your ideal time is, make sure to get it on the calendar as soon as possible. With activities ramping up, make your photo session a priority so you’re not frantically finding a date to fit it in. Knowing it’s already on the calendar will give you peace of mind and will give you time to prepare. Last minute plans always create stress, (especially for littles!) no matter what the activity. Fall is also known as the photographer’s busy season. Schedules fill up fast so booking early ensures you can find a session time that will work with your schedule. I always hate turning people away once my schedule fills up. As an added bonus, it gives you time to gather all your outfits without a fast approaching deadline. Nothing is worse than watching the tracking of a staple piece wondering if it’ll make it on time. Give yourself plenty of time to try things on and make sure they’re exactly what you’re looking for.
Timing of Sessions:
I schedule all of my sessions 1-2 hours before sunset for the most even light to make sure you look your best. Summer sessions can be hard for little ones staying out past bedtime, but as we move into fall the sun will start to set earlier. There are sunset calculators, like this one, that will tell you the time of the sunset for the dates you’re looking at. Likewise, it’s important to know that you have enough time to prepare for your session. If your session starts at 6:00 for a 7:00 sunset, are you going to have enough time to get off work, get everyone ready, and travel to the location? Factor in things like rush hour traffic, what time you and/or your spouse get off work, after school activities, etc. Plan for more time than you think to ensure that everyone will be ready and prepared. Skip the stress of getting off work late, struggling to get everyone ready to go with a limited time, and then sitting in traffic hoping you’ll make it on time. Unfortunately, the sun doesn’t wait and you’ll miss out on some of the best light on the session. If you need more time to prepare, consider scheduling on a date with a later sunset time.
Unpredictable Weather:
If the last few days of monsoon weather have shown us anything, its that late summer and fall weather can be anything but predictable. Highs can drop overnight, storms can pop up, and it can be hard to know what the weather will be like in advance. I’m always looking at the weather as sessions approach and will be in contact if things are looking like they’ll be anything but ideal. I love pulling out clear umbrellas and leaning into rain, but if that isn’t something you’re looking for, you might want to consider scheduling your session closer to August.
If you or your husband are taking time off of work, you’re getting your hair done, etc, you might not want to worry about the added stress of an incoming storm. Not to mention, nothing kills a session faster than kids, a dad, or a senior who is cold because the weather decided to drop 15 degrees overnight. (Especially if you have more summery clothing.) If the weather is severe, of course there is the possibility of rescheduling. I offer one free reschedule due to the severe weather. Though peak times always vary with the changing leaves. fall shoots always add a stunning pop of color
What Type of Images do you Want to Display?
Think about your home and the types of things you choose to display in it. Is there a color palette you tend to stick to? Is there a certain style or many? When thinking of locations and clothing, keep those things in mind. It can help to narrow down what you want with how it will look displayed in your home.
Thinking through these points will help you narrow down exactly what type of session you want and will set you up for success. Preparing early will ensure you arrive to your session ready and confident. You’ll be able to relax and only worry about having fun, which is my favorite part! I can’t wait for all the sessions to come the next few months!