Kimberley As a family photographer in Tampa, Florida, I often get asked, “When is the best time to schedule our family photo session?” Living in a state known for its sunshine and beaches, we also deal with intense heat, humidity, and, of course, our rainy season. These factors can play a significant role in planning your perfect session. So, let’s talk about the best times to capture your family’s moments in this beautiful city!
1. Spring: March to May
Spring is one of the most popular times for family photo sessions in Tampa. The weather is warm but not too hot, with average temperatures ranging from the 70s to 80s. The humidity is manageable, and you’ll avoid the summer downpours that often roll in during the later months.
Spring is also a beautiful time to capture Tampa’s natural scenery. Parks, gardens, and outdoor spaces are lush with greenery and blooming flowers, making for stunning backgrounds. Whether you’re planning a beach session, a park shoot, or an urban vibe in downtown Tampa, spring offers the perfect combination of weather and scenery.
2. Summer: June to August
Florida summers are HOT! With temperatures regularly soaring into the 90s and humidity that can make it feel even hotter, summer sessions can be a challenge, especially for little ones. To avoid overheating, I recommend scheduling your session early in the morning or later in the evening when the sun isn’t as strong.
That said, if summer is the only time your family is available, I have a studio option to keep everyone cool and comfortable. My studio is fully air-conditioned and equipped with beautiful props and backgrounds, allowing you to skip the heat while still getting those perfect family portraits. Plus, summer storms are unpredictable, so indoor sessions guarantee you won’t have to worry about rain canceling your session.
3. Fall: September to November
Fall is another favorite time for outdoor photo sessions in Tampa. The weather starts to cool down, especially in late October and November, making outdoor sessions much more pleasant. The humidity also begins to drop, creating a crispness in the air that’s perfect for capturing cozy, family moments.
The rainy season typically tapers off by mid-September, so you’re less likely to deal with sudden storms. Fall is also a great time for holiday-themed sessions, giving you plenty of time to send out those Christmas cards featuring your new family photos!
4. Winter: December to February
Winter in Tampa is mild compared to other parts of the country, with temperatures averaging in the 60s and 70s. These cooler temperatures make it an ideal time for outdoor family photos. You won’t have to worry about sweating through your outfits, and the lighting during winter months is often soft and diffused, creating a natural glow in your images.
While we don’t get snow, Florida’s winter skies can provide some stunning sunsets, especially for beach photo sessions. If you’re looking for a more formal or cozy vibe, my studio is always available for indoor shoots, where we can create timeless portraits in a controlled environment.
The Rainy Season: May to October
Florida’s rainy season generally runs from late May to early October, so if you’re planning an outdoor session during these months, it’s essential to be flexible. Rainstorms often pop up in the afternoons but are usually brief. I always monitor the weather closely and can adjust the timing of your session to avoid getting caught in a downpour. In case of rain, having my studio as a backup option is a great way to ensure you still get those beautiful family photos without rescheduling.
Best Time of Day for Outdoor Sessions
Whether you’re scheduling in spring, fall, or winter, the time of day is just as important as the season. The best light for outdoor family photos in Florida is typically during “golden hour”—the hour just after sunrise or the hour before sunset. The light is soft, warm, and flattering, making everyone in your family look their best.
If you prefer a morning session, early mornings can offer that same golden light while keeping everyone cool. For beach sessions, mornings are particularly ideal as the beaches are less crowded, and the light is gorgeous.
Final Thoughts
Tampa offers endless opportunities for beautiful family portraits, but it’s essential to plan around the weather and seasons. Whether you want to capture your family on the beach, in a lush park, or in the comfort of my air-conditioned studio, there’s always a perfect time for your session.
If you’re ready to book your next family photo session or have questions about the best timing for your shoot, feel free to reach out! I can’t wait to help you create timeless memories that you’ll cherish forever.
Very interesting guide. I’ve never been into doing any photography sessions, so I guess now this is on my to-do list!
This is such a fantastic guide! Florida has some majorly extreme weather patterns, and the summers can be so brutal. This is a huge help to make sure the shoot is the best it can be.
On #2, the problem in Florida, in my opinion, is not so much the heat. It’s the humidity. I’m sure your A/C takes that into account, otherwise people wouldn’t be able to sit for a photo session.
Scheduling your photoshoot is important because it will be forever and not be erased that’s why this should be important.
I love winter-themed family photos. I plan to book a photo session for December this year. It’s been a great year for all of my family.
Thanks for the fantastic guide on scheduling family photo sessions in Tampa! Timing really makes a difference in capturing those perfect moments.
Kimberly, your are so organized. This is what makes you a fantastic photographer. I can see that your photo shoots are well thought out and successful!