5 Reasons to book your family outdoor session for the summer in Ohio
In Ohio, we live in an area with four strong seasons. Personally, I don’t offer outdoor photography in the winter here, between the extreme cold and unpredictable snowfall, it’s not for me. I do however have an outdoor season that goes from spring to fall. If I HAD to choose a favorite season for outdoor photo sessions, though, it would be summer, by far.
If you’re looking to book your next session, chances are, you are by default gravitating towards fall. It’s just what people seem to do! The leaves, the colors, for some reason fall has become such an ‘IT’ season, even for weddings!
But, here is the thing most people don’t think about when it comes to fall:
Sunset is earlier, there is a lot more rain/cold and weather becomes somewhat unpredictable, and there is no guarantee you’ll get the pretty vibrant, leaves backdrop with your photos. Some years they turn early, others they change colors very late. There is just NO telling how long they’ll last, when they’ll be at peak, or who will get the coveted fall foliage photos. And one storm with strong winds, and all those pretty leaves come flying off the trees pretty fast.
Now, if you aren’t convinced yet that summer really IS better than fall for photos here in Ohio, here are 5 reasons why I LOVE summer photo sessions, with some pretty summer photo examples!
ONE: EASIER SCHEDULING
Sunset as late as 9 pm means PLENTY of time for you to get ready after work and grab dinner before heading out for your session. Also, if we have a pop up shower or weird weather (as we know Ohio LOVES to do) we have a lot more hours to be flexible with working around before it gets dark. All of my outdoor sessions take place on weeknight evenings at sunset, and while you may THINK you want a weekend, having a ONE hour photo session take up your ENTIRE Saturday actually kind of sucks. Plus, summer is usually when kids after school activities and sports are either on a break, or at least a bit more relaxed and flexible than during the school year or spring and fall. Have younger children who go to bed super early and want an earlier start time? Then spring or fall may be a better fit for you. But those of you with kids in school/sports/extracurricular activities, summer is prime time and pretty perfect with less obligations.
TWO: BETTER WEATHER
Spring can be pretty rainy, and fall can be cold and unpredictable, but summer (especially more July and August) we have the LEAST amount of rain and the warmest temperatures. This means MORE opportunities for different types of photos and locations. Want something near the water? Want to go to a shallow river and walk through or stand at the edge of a shore on a lake with the kids? Summer is the best time for photos in or near water since it’s plenty warm! Also, less rescheduling and hassle due to inclement weather. If I’m honest, I love the warmth, and I think the sunsets are something else in the summer!
THREE: THE WARDROBE
Everyone loves a good fall sweater and boots, and I get it, I’m a sucker for layers too. However, many of the dresses I have available in the client closet for women do best in summer months. Long and flowing, strapless and more relaxed, do super well during warmer months. Plus, kids don’t like to be cold. They also don’t always love tons of layers on, and can get a bit finicky. If you have younger children, chances are they would rather be out in the warm sunshine than outside in the wet, cold, leaves in the fall. Cold kids don’t make for happy kids for photos. Trust me.
FOUR: MORE RELAXED
Honestly there is something SO MUCH more relaxed about summer sessions. I know I am going to sound like a broken record repeating myself a bit here, but it’s true. It’s just more chill of an experience. We aren’t as rushed and pressed for time because of an early sunset. No one is worried about school the next day, or 15 obligations they need to attend too. Summer just has that relaxed, slow vibe of plenty of time, nowhere to go, and carefree happiness I want to shine through in your photos.
FIVE: THE MEMORIES
When you look back on your children’s childhood, chances are, a lot of those feel-good memories will revolve around summer breaks. Pool days, vacations, spending more time together as a family. Summer is such a good time to make memories with your loved ones, and I promise you that will really shine through in your photos naturally.
BONUS NUMBER SIX - HAVE YOU NOTICED ALL THE GORGEOUS WILDFLOWERS IN THESE PHOTOS?! I MEAN COME ON…!!!
Have I convince you yet to get outside with me on a warm summer night to capture your families memories in the BEST season in Ohio? Head on over here to my contact form, fill it out, and I’ll be in touch about getting you on the schedule!