Celebrate Summer Holidays with Family Photos
Why December and January are the Perfect Time to Update Your Family Portraits
Summer in New Zealand brings long warm days, golden evenings, and a feeling of celebration as the year winds down. With the kids finally on school holidays and families spending more time together, it’s the perfect moment to slow down, reconnect, and capture the people you love most.
Whether you’re dreaming of sun-soaked outdoor portraits or prefer the comfort of a cool, calm studio, summer offers beautiful opportunities to update your family photos.
Why Summer Photos Are So Magical
Golden evening light: Summer sunsets are later, softer, and beautifully warm — creating a flattering glow that makes outdoor photos feel dreamy and effortless.
Relaxed, happy kids: With school out and routines a little looser, kids are generally happier, more playful, and more open to exploring. Their natural joy shines through in photos.
Bare feet, light colours, summery vibes: Flowy dresses, soft natural tones, and breathable fabrics help create a relaxed, timeless look.
Outdoor Family Sessions — Perfect for Summer
If you love natural backdrops and candid, playful moments, summer is ideal for outdoor sessions. Some of the best locations around Auckland include open fields, shady parks, and tree-lined reserves.
Not all kids love staying up for sunset — and that’s okay!
While golden hour is beautiful, it doesn’t always suit every family. Some little ones are simply done by dinnertime — and forcing a tired child into a photo session rarely leads to joyful, natural expressions.
The good news:
Summer also gives us long, bright days with beautiful shaded light earlier in the morning or late afternoon. Shade is incredibly flattering and gentle — perfect for younger children who are happiest earlier in the day.
Benefits of shaded sessions:
Soft, even light without harsh shadows
Cooler temperatures for comfort
Happier, more relaxed children
Flexible session times that suit your family’s rhythm
I always help choose a location with plenty of natural shade so we can create stunning images — without needing to keep little ones up past their best.
Prefer to Stay Cool? Studio Sessions Are a Great Summer Option
A studio session is a wonderful alternative if you’re worried about heat, sun, wind, or unpredictable weather.
Why families love summer studio sessions:
Perfectly controlled temperature
No harsh sunlight or squinting
Simple, timeless backgrounds that keep the focus on your family
Great for babies and toddlers who tire easily in the heat
Consistent results, no matter the weather outside
School Holidays Make It the Ideal Time to Book
December and January are some of the easiest months for families to coordinate schedules:
No rushing after school
More flexibility for weekday sessions
Kids are more relaxed and rested
Ideal for siblings or extended family visiting
If you’ve been meaning to update your family photos, the holidays truly make it easier.
What to Wear for Summer Family Photos
Whether studio or outdoors, these tips always work:
Soft, natural tones (beige, cream, olive, muted blues or pinks)
Avoid logos or busy patterns
Choose breathable fabrics
Keep comfort in mind — especially for kids
Light layers or textures photograph beautifully
Make This Summer the One You Capture Your Family Story
Your family will never be exactly as they are today. Summer is the perfect time to document their personalities, their connection, and the way your family fits together right now.
Whether you choose a golden outdoor session, shaded morning light, or a calm, air-conditioned studio shoot, you’ll walk away with images that feel warm, natural, and true to your family.
If you’d like to book a summer family session, I’d love to chat — December and January dates fill quickly, but I always try to make space for families during the holidays.