The Best Time to Book Family Photos in Buffalo
If you’ve ever said, “We should do family photos this year!” and then suddenly it’s October and every photographer is booked… you are definitely not alone 😅
One of the questions I’m asked most often is:
“When is the best time to book family photos in Buffalo?”
Between unpredictable weather, busy school schedules, holidays, sports, and the fall rush, timing can feel confusing. So I wanted to put everything in one place to make planning easier and less stressful.
Whether you’re dreaming of wildflowers, cozy fall colors, or a playful summer session with the kids, this guide will help you plan ahead so the process feels relaxed and enjoyable.
Why Timing Matters More Than We Think
A few things influence when to book:
• Popular seasons fill earlier than people expect
• The prettiest light happens at specific times of day
• Weather plays a role
• Families often want prints in time for holidays or gifts
Planning ahead gives you:
• More date options
• Time to choose the right outfits
• Flexibility if someone gets sick or we need to reschedule
• One more thing off the mental load
Most families are surprised by how early certain months fill, especially fall.
Month-by-Month Guide: Buffalo Family Photos
Here’s a simple overview to help you picture the year.
🌷 Spring (April–May)
Spring is really nice when the green finally starts returning and the spring blooms are gorgeous.
Pros:
Cooler temps
Soft, gentle color (neutrals and pastels work great here)
Great for families who don’t love heat
Things to remember:
Buffalo springs are very unpredictable and it can still be chilly and muddy
Layers and neutrals work beautifully
Best time to book:
➡️ about 2–3 months ahead
☀️ Summer (June–August)
Summer sessions are playful and relaxed. Barefoot kids, fields, beaches, and absolutely gorgeous golden sunsets.
Pros:
Long evenings
School-free schedules
Lots of location options
Things to remember:
Sunset is later (sometimes past bedtime)
It can be hot and humid
Best time to book:
➡️ 2–4 months ahead
If evenings feel too late for little ones, we can talk through options and find what works best for your family!
🍁 Fall (September–November)
This is the busiest season of the entire year.
Fall colors, cozy clothing, and the upcoming holidays make fall very popular, especially in Buffalo.
Pros:
Gorgeous color
Earlier sunsets (kid-friendly!)
Perfect for holiday cards + gifts
Things to remember:
Weekends go first
Dates disappear quickly
Best time to book:
➡️ 3–6 months ahead (even earlier if you need weekends)
If I offer mini or petite sessions, they typically sell out fast. Joining my email list is the best way to hear first.
❄️ Winter (December–March)
Winter is quiet, cozy, and surprisingly beautiful, especially for newborn and at-home lifestyle sessions. Also, for outdoor sessions - the sun doesn’t get as high in the winter which results in a beautiful soft light when the sun happens to be out. It’s very flattering and the glow adds so much to images.
Great for:
Newborn sessions
Family sessions at home (you don’t have to have a newborn! In-home family sessions with older kids or even just you and your pets are adorable too!)
Occasionally, magical snowy sessions
Best time to book:
➡️ Newborns: schedule during your second/early third trimester
➡️ Lifestyle families: 1–2 months ahead
Winter has more flexibility and a slower pace, which many families love.
Special Session Types
Maternity Sessions
The sweet spot is usually 28–34 weeks, when your bump is showing but you’re still comfortable.
➡️ Book during your second trimester.
Newborn Sessions
Newborns photograph beautifully within the first 2–3 weeks when they’re still sleepy and small. However, you can do newborn photos anytime! Older babies are more smiley and just as cute. The newborn phase is crazy as it is, so if you have a 3 month old and feel like it’s too late for photos - it isn’t!
➡️ Book before baby arrives. I’ll hold a spot and we adjust as needed.
Extended Family Sessions
Coordinating multiple schedules takes time.
➡️ Plan 2–6 months ahead, especially for weekends.
Are you reading this and it’s already October and you haven’t scheduled photos yet?
It’s ok! Life is full and crazy.
Even if you think you’ve already missed the ideal window, please still reach out.
I keep a small number of flexible dates, and cancellations do pop up. And if nothing works for this year, we can plan ahead for the next season so you’re first in line.
There is always a beautiful time to photograph you and your loved ones!
Ready to Start Thinking About Photos?
If you’re starting to picture what your session might look like this year, I’d love to help you plan something relaxed and meaningful for your family.
Click the button below to reach out, ask questions, or choose a date. I’m happy to help you figure out what would work best for you. Can’t wait to make some beautiful memories with you!
