With the holidays on everyone’s mind right now, Fall is the busiest season for Austin family photographers. But, would it surprise you if I told you the best time for planning your family portraits may not actually be in the Fall?

As a Mama, I know you have so much on your to-do list during the Fall season. Adding a session to your calendar just adds to the busy rather than giving you a chance to soak it all in with your kids. And as much as I love Fall sessions, Austin has so much to offer for sessions at other times of the year!

3 Reasons to Consider Scheduling Family Portraits before Fall

ONE – More Availability

As holiday season rolls around and families start to think about holiday cards, my schedule fills up fast. Fall sessions are usually booked months in advance. This is because First Year Collective families and past clients receive priority booking before dates open to the public. Weekends are the first to fill up!

I know everyone is busy during the Fall season. So by booking a session before then, you’ll have more options for scheduling your session on a day that works best for you!

TWO – Timeless Portraits

When my clients ask what they should wear for their Fall family session, they tend to think they have to gravitate toward darker colors and jewel tones. But, if you’re only planning one family session throughout the year, those may not be the colors you’ll want to see hanging on the walls of your home.

Here’s the thing… family portraits are an investment. I firmly believe they should be timeless heirlooms for your family. You will enjoy your portraits year-round, not just during the holidays.

So plan your session with artwork in mind. That way your images will look beautiful in your home no matter the season.

For this session below, both Mom and Dad joined me for their styling appointment so they could see how their outfits would look together. I love that they did this! It’s not always possible for the whole family to be involved during the holiday season. That’s why it was fun to let them enjoy this time together as they prepared to celebrate their baby girl’s first birthday.

THREE – Beat (or avoid!) the Holiday Rush

When you book a family session in the Winter or Spring, you have a major advantage that most families don’t even think about! It’s not just about schedule flexibility. By the time holiday card and gift giving season comes around, your portraits are already delivered and ready to use.

That also means artwork has been installed on your walls, styling appointments are complete, albums are ordered for grandparent gifts, and your cards can be waiting for you to mail out all before the busyness of the season kicks in.

This sweet family below decided on a stunning four-piece gallery wall. And guess what?! Their frames will be delivered and installed for them with plenty of time before hosting family for the holidays!

If you’re considering planning your family portraits but the idea of adding it to your Fall to-do list seems like a lot, let’s chat!