Why Winter Is an Underrated Time for Family Photos
When most people think of family photos, they picture golden autumn leaves or sun-drenched summer evenings — but winter? It doesn’t always come to mind.
And yet, winter might just be one of the most magical times of year to capture your family.
Whether it’s the soft light streaming through your lounge room windows, the extra snuggles between siblings on chilly mornings, or the way kids light up when they get to show off their favourite toys at home — there’s something really special about slowing down and photographing your family in the heart of winter.
In-home sessions bring out the best in kids
There’s something really beautiful about photographing children in their own space. They’re relaxed, confident, and they don’t have to warm up to a new environment.
Whether they’re showing me their favourite LEGO creation, cuddling up with a much-loved soft toy, or jumping on the couch with their siblings, I get to see them — the real, authentic version of your family that makes your heart melt every day.
And yes, the occasional snack break is totally welcome too.
Winter light = soft and dreamy
If you’ve ever had to squint through harsh summer sun during a photo shoot, you’ll understand just how nice winter light can be. It’s soft, flattering, and fills a room in the most gorgeous way — especially in the morning or early afternoon.
Outdoors, there’s often a beautiful calmness to winter sessions too. Less harsh shadows, more chances to cuddle under coats or blankets, and (bonus!) no flies or overheating.
You don’t need a “perfect” house — just your home
I know one of the most common concerns about in-home sessions is this: “But my house doesn’t look like it’s out of a magazine!”
Honestly? That’s not what I’m there to photograph.
I’m there for the moments — your toddler perched on the kitchen bench helping to make pancakes, your family piled together on the bed in a pile of giggles, your baby playing with the dog in the hallway. These are the details that matter.
You might not realise it now, but the background of your everyday life — the couch with a throw you love, the scribbles on the fridge, the favourite window seat — will one day be full of nostalgia. And it deserves to be remembered.
So… is winter the right time for your family session?
If you’ve been thinking about family photos but were waiting for “better weather,” I hope this gives you a new perspective.
Winter might just be the perfect time to slow down, soak it all in, and document the warmth and love inside your home.
📅 I’m currently booking pre-shoot planning appointments for July sessions! If you'd love to chat through the possibilities — whether at your home or outdoors — I’d love to hear from you.