Choosing The Best Time For Your Photo Session | Tampa Bay Photographer
Who’s Being Photographed
The first thing you want to consider is who is being photographed?
If you have young children and want to have a family session done, mornings are usually best. Young kids are usually early risers and they are well rested and less likely to have meltdowns.
If you have older children and you want a family session, evenings are probably the best fit. Teens aren’t typically early risers and that will show in the pictures, so your best bet is to pick a later time that suits them best.
If you have a multi-generational photo session, it’s best to do early evenings as elders get tired earlier.
And if you’re doing a branding session, it’s best to do it right in the morning when your makeup is fresh (if applies) and you’re hair is done neatly.
Lighting Conditions
The important thing to remember is that the photographer knows which times are best. Trust the photographer. She/he knows when the best lighting presents itself.
If you’re wanting a warm glow, one hour before sunset (the golden hour) is your best bet.
If you’re wanting a business headshot, finding some open shade during your lunch hour is an easy way to fit a quick photo session into your day.
If you’re wanting a bright and airy feel, morning can be an ideal time for that.
Regardless of what you are after, be sure to communicate your vision with your photographer.
Location
A good photographer should be able to give you some options when choosing a location.
Most photographers provide a list of areas that they are willing to do photo sessions at.
For example, I offer my clients to choose from woodsy/parks, urban settings, or beaches.
Once you choose what you prefer, allow the photographer to make some suggestions. They know where the best spots are and where to get the best images. You hired a professional to take your photos, allow them to do their job and take the stress out of you having to choose it.
If you’d like to see the local spots that are my absolute favorite, you can do so here.
Weather
Watching the weather on your photo session day is very important, especially if you live in a tropical area like I do, and rainy afternoons are part of the climate.
That being said, sometimes some of the best photo sessions are overcast days. Don’t be afraid of dramatic clouds. Your photographer should know how to use them to amplify the pictures.
If you live in a cold climate, snowy photography sessions can be magical. Just dress appropriately (in layers) and be ready for a speedy photo session.
If it’s windy (like 20-30 MPH), this is where I might think about rescheduling a session. A little wind is beautiful and tosses the hair to give to an organic look. But hair dramatically going in every direction doesn’t lend well to a nice photo.
Seasons
It’s important to consider which season you want to have your photo session in.
Spring is light in colors (think pastels), cooler temperatures, new beginnings, trees budding, flowers sprouting.
Summer is full color, often hotter, full blooms, a lot of greenery, longer daylight hours.
Fall is warm fall colors, mild temperatures, leaves are falling, and offers a more rustic vibe.
Winter is cool colors, cold temperatures, no leaves or foliage (unless you live in a tropical area) and the daylight hours are short.
Which ever season you choose, you can have successful session no matter which season it is.
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