When Should You Book Family Photos in Vancouver, WA?
A helpful guide so you don’t miss the moments you meant to capture.
Family photos aren’t something most people schedule on a whim. Between work, school, sports, weather, and budgets, planning ahead makes a huge difference in both availability and experience. If you’ve ever thought, “We should get family photos done this year,” only to realize the season slipped away, you’re definitely not alone.
Booking early gives you the best choice of dates, the best seasonal look, and the peace of mind that it’s taken care of. Here’s a breakdown of when to book and what to expect in each season here in Vancouver, Washington and the surrounding Pacific Northwest.
How Far in Advance Should You Book?
In general:
Peak seasons (spring + fall): 2–4 months in advance
Summer: 1–3 months in advance
Winter: 2–6 weeks in advance
If you need a weekend date or have a very specific timeframe in mind, earlier is always better. My calendar typically fills in waves based on seasons, school calendars, and holidays, so reaching out early helps ensure you get the timing and look you want.
What Time of Year Is Best for Family Photos?
There isn’t one “perfect” season. It really depends on the feeling, environment, and experience you want. Here’s what each season offers.
Spring Family Photos in Vancouver, WA
Spring in the Pacific Northwest brings fresh greens, soft light, and an overall feeling of newness and life. It’s a beautiful time for families who love color, gentle light, and a peaceful outdoor atmosphere.
Spring is great if you want:
Fresh greenery and blooming landscapes
Softer, more pastel color tones
A calm, gentle, hopeful feel to your images
Ideal booking window:
Book in late winter to early spring to get the best availability.
Summer Family Photos in Vancouver, WA
Summer brings long evenings, warm light, golden fields, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. It’s relaxed, happy, playful, and full of personality.
Summer is great if you want:
Golden hour glow and warm sunshine
Carefree, joyful energy
Kids running, laughing, and playing
A nostalgic, childhood-summer feel
Ideal booking window:
Reach out 1–3 months ahead, especially for golden hour sessions when every family wants those beautiful evening time slots.
Fall Family Photos in Vancouver, WA
Fall is by far the most popular time of year for family photos. The PNW gives us rich tones, cozy wardrobes, and that timeless family photo look that so many people love for albums, prints, and holiday cards.
Fall is great if you want:
Warm tones and earthy colors
Cozy sweaters and layered outfits
A nostalgic, emotional, “family togetherness” feeling
Photos to use for holiday gifts and cards
Ideal booking window:
Plan 2–4 months in advance. These dates disappear first every year.
Winter Family Photos in Vancouver, WA
Winter sessions in Vancouver and the surrounding PNW can be incredibly beautiful. Think misty fields, soft light, moody forests, and families snuggled together. It’s quiet, cinematic, and deeply emotional in a way no other season is.
Winter is great if you want:
Moody, dramatic Pacific Northwest vibes
A calm and intimate feeling
Jackets, boots, and cozy textures
A storytelling, atmospheric look
Ideal booking window:
Winter usually has more flexibility, but it still helps to reach out a few weeks in advance, especially if you need weekends or specific timing.
So… When Should You Reach Out?
If you know you want photos sometime this year, it’s never too early to start the conversation. Reaching out early doesn’t lock you into anything immediately — it simply helps you:
Claim the best dates
Plan ahead stress-free
Build a session experience you actually love
Whether you’re thinking about updating family photos, planning for holiday cards, celebrating a new season in life, or just wanting to finally get in the frame with your kids, we’ll make the process simple, relaxed, and meaningful.
Ready to Plan Your Session?
If you’re even considering booking family photos, reach out and let’s talk through ideas, timing, and what would work best for your family. I’m happy to help you plan from start to finish.
Not quite sure on timing yet? Reach out anyway and we can talk through the best season and date for your family.
