Hello, Summer: Why Now’s the Perfect Time to Book Your Family Photos

Angela Haig
Oct 23
3 min read

Updated: Oct 30

Summer in Dunedin is made for family photos, long golden evenings, kids running barefoot, and that soft, honeyed light that makes everyone look like they’ve had a week off. If you’ve been thinking about updating the frames on the wall (or finally printing that big statement piece you’ve promised yourself), the upcoming summer season is the sweetest time to do it.

What makes summer sessions special?

Later light, happier kids: Sunset comes later, which means we can plan around dinner and naps and still catch the prettiest glow.
Colour everywhere: From the lush greens of the gardens to wild coastal scrub, summer gives us a beautiful, natural palette.
Easy, relaxed styling: Linen, cotton, bare feet, soft florals—summer clothes photograph effortlessly and move with the breeze.

A recent favourite: Jo and her family at the gardens

Last month I photographed Jo and her family at the gardens, and it was the perfect reminder of why I love this work. We wandered the daffodils, stopped by a stand of dappled trees, and let the kids lead us from flower to flower. There was a moment, Jo scooping up her oldest where everything just clicked. No stiff poses, no “say cheese,” just a family being themselves. Those are the frames that end up becoming heirlooms.

If you love that timeless, natural feel, the garden locations around Dunedin deliver it in spades: soft light, colour, and plenty of space for kids to be kids.

Your vibe, your way

Every family has a different rhythm. Some sessions are lively and playful; others are quiet and cozy. My job is to read the room (or field!) and guide you into moments that feel like you. I’ll help with where to stand, what to do with your hands, and how to keep little ones engaged, while making it feel effortless and fun.

What to wear (stress-free)

Think coordinated rather than matching. Choose 2–3 complementary tones across the family, soft neutrals, earthy greens, dusty blues, gentle pinks and mix textures (linen, knits, cotton). Avoid heavy logos and neon. If you’re unsure, send me a quick photo of your outfit ideas and I’ll help refine. Comfort first, if you feel good, you’ll photograph beautifully.

Where we can shoot when you Book Your Family Photos

Dunedin Botanic Garden: Lush, classic, and close to everything—perfect for that timeless look (hello, Jo’s gallery!).
Local beaches (St Clair, Tomahawk, Brighton): Breezy, open, and great for playful sessions.
Parks & reserves: Long grasses and quiet corners for intimate, pared-back frames.
At home: Real, relaxed storytelling in your own space—perfect for newborns or toddlers.

Make it a meaningful gift

Summer sessions make a beautiful Christmas present for grandparents (or for yourself). I offer gift vouchers and can help you choose wall art or albums after your session; something tangible you’ll treasure long after the sand is out of the car.

What you’ll receive

A relaxed, guided session tailored to your family
A curated gallery of images to choose from
Options for fine-art prints, framed pieces, and albums

I keep the process easy from first message to final delivery, so you can focus on being with your people.

Booking tips (summer fills fast)

The warm months are my busiest for family photos. If you’d like a December or January session, now’s the moment to get your date locked in, especially if you need weekends.

If Jo’s garden session sounds like your kind of afternoon, playful, and full of connection, I’d love to create something beautiful for you, too.

Ready to book your summer family session? Book Your Family Photos: Pop me a message with your preferred dates and location ideas, and I’ll take care of the rest. Your vibe, your way.