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Guide · October 13, 2026

The Best Time of Year for Family Photos in Scottsdale

Scottsdale has amazing light pretty much all year round - but the season you pick does change the feel of your photos (and how comfortable everyone is!). Here's a quick guide to help you choose.

Family walking with their dog in the Scottsdale desert at golden hour

Fall & winter (October - February)

This is the most popular time for family photos here, and it's easy to see why. The weather is lovely, the light is soft & warm and nobody is melting. It's also when most families want photos ready for holiday cards, so October & November book up quickly - it's worth getting in touch early.

The sun sets early in winter, so sessions are usually late afternoon - perfect for little ones who go to bed early.

Family walking across a park at sunset

Spring (March - May)

Spring is gorgeous in the desert. Depending on how much rain we've had, there can be wildflowers and bright yellow brittlebush everywhere, and by late spring the saguaros start to flower too. Temperatures start creeping up through May, so later in the season we'll go a little closer to sunset.

Family in the desert among saguaro cactus, shot on 35mm film

Summer (June - September)

Summer is hot - there's no getting around it! But you can still have a lovely session. We'll start as close to sunset as we can, keep it a bit shorter & bring plenty of water, especially for the kids & dogs.

The lakes & parks are a great choice in summer, as there's more shade & grass. Monsoon season (roughly July - September) can also give us some really dramatic skies.

Family of five smiling at each other by a lake at sunset

What time of day?

Whatever the season, around an hour before sunset is my favourite time to shoot. The light is soft & warm, it's flattering for everyone and it's cooler too. Sunrise is lovely as well, if your family are early birds!

Ready to book?

Have a look at my family session prices & favourite spots around Scottsdale, then get in touch with a rough date & I'll let you know what's available.

FAQ

Questions

What is the best month for family photos in Scottsdale?

October through March is the most popular, with mild weather & soft light. October & November book up quickly because of holiday cards.

Can you do family photos in the Scottsdale summer?

Yes! We shoot as close to sunset as possible, keep sessions a little shorter & choose spots with more shade, like the lakes & parks.

What time of day is best for family photos in Arizona?

Around an hour before sunset. The light is soft & warm, and it's cooler for everyone.

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