The best time of year to book a family photoshoot in Dublin
What is the best time of year for your family session?
Planning a family photo session can feel a bit overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to figure out the best time of year to book a family photoshoot in Dublin. As a family photographer in Dublin who works exclusively with natural light, I’ve learned that the season you choose has a real impact on the mood, colours, and overall feel of your images.
Here’s a simple, honest guide to help you choose the moment that suits your family best.
Spring: soft light, new beginnings, and mild weather
Spring in Dublin (March to May) is one of the most beautiful seasons for photos.
Why families love spring sessions:
- Gentle, flattering light
- Fresh greens everywhere
- Flowers beginning to bloom
- Temperatures becoming milder
- Kids can finally play outside again
It’s a perfect season if you want images that feel fresh, airy, and full of life, especially for outdoor sessions in parks or your own back garden.
Best time of day: afternoon
Best locations: Phoenix Park, Farmleigh, Howth, Saint Stephen’s Green, Saint Anne’s Park…
A peek at some of my favourite spring sessions: Spring sessions in Dublin
Summer: golden evenings and easy living
Summer (June to August) offers the longest days of the year, which means more flexibility for families with naps, school schedules, or younger kids.
Why choose summer:
- Long, golden evenings
- Predictable(ish) weather
- Beautiful, lush scenery
- Beach or garden sessions
- Happy kids who can run barefoot
If you love warm tones and playful vibes, summer evenings are perfect. And if you’re planning a staycation or hosting visiting family, this season is ideal.
Best time of day: 4-7pm for outdoors
Best locations: Portmarnock, Howth, Clontarf promenade, Phoenix Park, Sandymount beach…
A peek at a fun and relaxed summer session: Sandymount beach & ice creams session
Autumn: the most beautiful colours of the year
Autumn (September to November) is extremely popular, and often, the fastest season to book out.
Why families love it:
- Rich, warm colours
- Crisp air (perfect for cuddly photos)
- Kids look adorable in layered autumn outfits
- Soft diffused light nearly all day
If you want a cosy, intimate feel to your photos, this is the season. It’s also the best time for families who prefer staying in Dublin parks rather than the beach.
Best time of day: morning or afternoon
Best locations: St Anne’s Park, Phoenix Park, St Stephen’s Green, your home
A peek at some of my favourite autumn sessions: Stephen’s Green autumn session and cosy in-home newborn session
“Aurélie is incredible at her job. We felt so relaxed as she photographed us in our home. We also had great fun with her as she is so friendly and kind.”
– Petra
Winter: intimate indoor sessions (and beautiful coastal light)
Winter (december to february) is often overlooked, but it’s one of my favourite times for in-home documentary sessions.
The winter season works beautifully when:
- You prefer a cosy, relaxed session at home
- You have a newborn or young baby
- You love the idea of capturing your family’s daily life indoors
- You want a slower, more intimate atmosphere
Outdoors, the days are short, but the light is soft nearly all day, especially along the coast.
Best time of day: 10am–2pm
Best locations: your home, the coast on clear days, or the city center in december for the holiday vibes.
A peek at some of my favourite winter sessions: a Dollymount in-home session and an afterschool siblings session with newborn
So… what’s the best time of year?
The truth is:
The best time of year to book a family photoshoot in Dublin is the moment that matches your family’s rhythm and feels right for you.
If you want…
- lush greens → choose spring or summer
- warm tones → choose autumn
- cosy, intimate moments → winter is perfect
- playful outdoor energy → summer afternoon and evenings
- a calm, slow-paced session → winter or summer mornings
- beautiful photos that are “so you” → anytime of the year, really!
Every season brings something beautiful, the real question is: what vibe fits your family and your lifestyle right now?
As a Dublin family photographer working with natural light…
I help you choose the season, time of day, and location that suit your family best.
Learn more about outdoor sessions and at home sessions and see info and pricing.
Special dates & busy seasons: what books out first
Some moments of the year disappear from the calendar faster than others.
School breaks, long weekends, birthdays (july and august have the most birthdays!), and holiday periods like Christmas are always the first to go. Families are together, everyone is relaxed, and it’s the perfect opportunity for a session. If you’re hoping for a shoot during one of these special times, it’s best to reach out early so you can secure the date that works for you.
These seasonal moments often become the photos families treasure the most.
Ready to book your session?
If you already have a season in mind — or simply want guidance — I’m here to help you choose the perfect time for your family.
Get in touch and let’s plan something beautiful and fun together.
