One of the most common questions I get as a family photographer is: “When is the best time for photos?” And the truth is—there’s no single answer. Every season in Wisconsin offers something uniquely beautiful, from the lush greens of summer to the warm, golden hues of fall. The best time for your Wisconsin family session depends on the look you love, the personalities of your little ones, and the kind of memories you want to capture.
If you’ve been wondering whether to book in the spring, summer, fall, or winter, this guide will walk you through what to expect, how the lighting and colors change throughout the year, and how to make the most of each season for your family’s photos.
Spring: Soft Light, Fresh Colors & Earlier Sunsets for Your Wisconsin Family Session
Spring is a season of new beginnings, and that feeling carries into your photos. After a long Wisconsin winter, the world comes back to life with blooming flowers, fresh greenery, and soft pastel colors. The air feels lighter, the temperatures are milder, and your little ones are just as eager as you are to step outside and enjoy the change in seasons.
One of the biggest perks of a Wisconsin family session in the spring is the earlier sunset. If you have young children who can’t quite make it to a late summer golden hour, spring allows us to capture that same dreamy light—without pushing past bedtime. The sun sets early enough that we can shoot in the evening while still keeping your little ones happy and well-rested.
Spring sessions can take place in a variety of locations, from open fields dotted with wildflowers to charming gardens filled with cherry blossoms. If the weather is unpredictable (because let’s be honest, spring in Wisconsin can be a little moody), my lifestyle studio is a cozy alternative where we can create soft, natural family portraits without worrying about rain or chilly winds.
Summer: Golden Light, Playful Energy & Water Adventures
If you love vibrant colors, playful movement, and sun-soaked moments, summer is the perfect season for your Wisconsin family session. The lush green landscapes, golden sunlight, and long evenings create an ideal setting for fun and relaxed family photos.
One of the unique aspects of a summer session is the chance to incorporate water play. Whether it’s splashing in the shallows of a lake, running through a sprinkler, or dipping toes into a stream, summer offers opportunities for families to let loose and enjoy an adventure-filled photoshoot.
The challenge with summer sessions is the later sunset. While the long days mean we have plenty of time to work with, golden hour doesn’t happen until later in the evening. If your little ones struggle with staying up past their usual bedtime, a sunrise session might be a great alternative! The morning light is just as soft and beautiful, and we can capture those magical, glowing images while your kids are still fresh and happy.
Fall: Warm Colors, Cozy Vibes & the Most Popular Season
Fall is by far the most requested season for family photos, and it’s easy to see why. The crisp air, vibrant autumn leaves, and golden sunlight create the perfect setting for cozy, heartwarming images. Everything about fall photography feels intimate—families naturally snuggle a little closer, and the warmth of the season shines through in every photo.
One of the biggest advantages of a Wisconsin family session in the fall is the earlier sunset. Unlike summer, when golden hour happens late into the evening, fall’s earlier sunset makes it easier to capture beautiful evening light without interfering with your child’s bedtime.
Dressing for a fall session means embracing layered textures, warm neutrals, and deep, rich colors. Think cozy knits, flowing dresses paired with cardigans, and warm earth tones like rust, mustard yellow, and deep reds. The layering isn’t just for style—it also gives little ones the option to add or remove pieces depending on the temperature that day.
Because fall is such a popular season, it’s always a good idea to book early. If you want to catch peak foliage, the best window is often mid-to-late October (though this can shift depending on the year). Sessions fill up quickly, so securing your spot in advance ensures you don’t miss out on that golden autumn magic.
Winter: Cozy, Intimate & Perfect for a Lifestyle Studio Wisconsin Family Session
Winter might not be the first season that comes to mind for family photos, but it has its own quiet, magical beauty. Snowy landscapes bring a soft, dreamy quality to outdoor sessions, while indoor lifestyle studio sessions offer warmth and coziness, perfect for capturing snuggly moments with your little ones.
One of the biggest benefits of a Wisconsin family session in the winter is the soft, diffused lighting. With the sun sitting lower in the sky all day, we get that golden glow without having to wait for sunset. The earlier sunset also means that golden hour happens at a much more reasonable time for families with young children.
For those who love the idea of a snowy session, winter can be absolutely breathtaking. Snow acts as a natural reflector, brightening faces and creating a magical, almost storybook-like atmosphere. Of course, winter weather can be unpredictable, so having a backup plan—like a cozy studio session—is always a great option.
Dressing for winter sessions is all about embracing the cozy aesthetic. Chunky knit sweaters, soft neutral layers, and warm accessories like scarves and hats all add texture and depth to your photos. If we’re shooting indoors, soft lounge-style clothing keeps things relaxed and natural.
If you’re planning a winter session, keep in mind that midday tends to be the best time for outdoor shoots. With the sun setting early, we want to capture the best light while also keeping everyone as warm and comfortable as possible.
When Should You Book Your Wisconsin Family Session?
Each season tells a different story, and the best one for your family depends on what kind of memories you want to preserve. Do you love the soft colors and fresh newness of spring? The vibrant energy and golden light of summer? The warm, cozy tones of fall? Or the snuggly, intimate feel of winter?
No matter what time of year you choose, I promise to make your session stress-free, fun, and filled with genuine moments that reflect the love within your family. Since certain seasons—especially fall and summer—book up quickly, I always recommend reserving your spot as soon as possible.
If you’re thinking about booking your Wisconsin family session, let’s chat and find the perfect time for your next session!
- More About Tara
- Read More Posts!
Tara Fay is a newborn, maternity and family photographer with a full service studio in Cedarburg, WI. She’s been in business for 4 years, and specializes in bold, colorful imagery and a seamless client experience.
