3 reasons to book a sunset session | Bucks County PA Family Photographer

Do you worry that a sunset session would be past your child’s normal bedtime?

It’s normal to worry about your children’s normal routine when planning a portrait session. After all, who wants a cranky toddler for picture day? I appreciate the investment, time, and effort involved in planning for family portraits so I wouldn’t ever suggest something that would be uncomfortable for one of my family’s. BUT- 

There are a few reasons I suggest booking a sunset session, and in my experience both as a photographer and as a parent, I find that most little ones do just fine! Let me explain why I always prefer to shoot as close to sunset as possible 🙂  

1. Sunset timing allows me to work in the most flattering light. You might think that 10am on a Saturday is the best time for your family to have pictures taken (post-coffee, breakfast, time for the family to get dressed at a leisurely pace- I get it!!), but I assure you we wouldn’t get the quality of work that I am known for if we shot at that time. We can choose to shoot in a fully shaded spot during the hours of high sun, but that type of light is not as interesting or beautiful to me. It is also rather limiting to have to encourage children to stay in the shade instead of running out into the bright sun. 

2. Squinty eyes and raccoon shadows in full sun. Need I say more??

3. Not only is sunset light more flattering, it adds depth to the images and creates a mood we just can’t replicate during full sun.  (Of course I love shooting in full sun in certain situations- it can be fun to play with deep shadows and colors pop in a whole different way- but to me it’s not as pleasing for portrait work.)

So what do you think? If I’ve convinced you about the quality of light, what about the bedtime routine??

What I’ve found after many years photographing families is that when little ones are outside enjoying the fresh air, getting all those extra snuggles and attention from their family, they usually are so content they don’t even notice it’s close to their normal bedtime. In fact, older toddlers and children feel excited like they are doing something special to be out a little later. 

I still have a few more dates open for sunset sessions. With all the colors of autumn it will be splendid!

I just love the light and the peace at Lake Nockamixon. This sweet family from Buck’s County PA wanted a relaxed family portrait session to celebrate their baby boy’s first birthday. Most children just love being close to the water, and are so happy to be outside on a warm night splashing in the lake, skipping rocks (or trying to put them in their mouths as with this sweet one-year-old boy!) If you’d like to book a session at the lake please contact me to get on my calendar!