Living in Seattle means we get to experience some of the most beautiful natural backdrops for family photography—when we time it right. After years of photographing Seattle families throughout the Pacific Northwest and raising three kids here myself, I’ve learned that timing your Seattle family photography session isn’t just about pretty light. It’s about working with Seattle’s unique climate, your family’s schedule, and yes, our famously unpredictable weather. Here’s my insider guide to the best times for scheduling family photos in Seattle, including the seasons most Seattle family photographers won’t tell you about but absolutely should.

Spring family photos in Seattle: Hidden Gem Season (April – May)

Everyone talks about fall for Seattle family photos, but spring in Seattle is actually my secret weapon for family photography sessions. Late April through May offers some of the most gorgeous light and backdrops you’ll find all year for Seattle family photos. The cherry blossoms at University of Washington Quad are spectacular for family photography, but they’re just the beginning. Magnolias are blooming throughout Seattle neighborhoods, everything is lush and green, and the light has that soft, dreamy quality that makes every family member look amazing.

The best part about spring Seattle family photography? Spring sessions are much easier to book than fall family photography sessions. While everyone’s fighting over October dates with Seattle family photographers, you can secure beautiful spring family photo sessions with more flexibility. Plus, your kids are past the winter grumps but not yet in full summer vacation mode—it’s the sweet spot for cooperation and genuine smiles during your Seattle family photography session.

Weather-wise, late spring in Seattle gives you the best of both worlds for family photography: mild temperatures (perfect for layering those cute outfits without anyone being uncomfortable) and longer days that aren’t yet blazing hot. Pro tip for Seattle families: aim for late April through mid-May for the most reliable weather and peak bloom season for your family photos.

Fall Family Photography in Seattle: Peak Season (Sept – Nov)

Fall in Seattle is stunning for family photography. The changing leaves at locations like Lincoln Park and Discovery Park, that golden Pacific Northwest light, the cozy sweater weather—there’s a reason it’s the season every Seattle family wants for their photos. Late September through mid/late October gives you those gorgeous warm tones and comfortable temperatures that make for magical Seattle family photography sessions.

But here’s what I tell my Seattle family photography clients: fall books up fast, and I mean fast. If you’re dreaming of fall family photos in Seattle, you need to book by July at the latest. The demand is intense because everyone is trying to get their Christmas card photos done, and the window for perfect fall weather in Seattle is shorter than you might think.

That said, if you can plan ahead and secure your fall Seattle family photography session, you won’t regret it. The natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest in autumn creates backdrops at places like Washington Park Arboretum and Volunteer Park that feel like something out of a magazine. Just remember to book early with your Seattle family photographer and be flexible as the fall weather in Seattle can be unpredictable, but that’s part of our Pacific Northwest charm.

Working with Our Moody Season (January – February)

Let’s be honest about winter family photography in Seattle—it’s not the easiest season. The frequent rain, early darkness, and bare deciduous trees create challenges that other seasons don’t have. But here’s what I’ve learned after years of Seattle family photography: winter can still create beautiful, unique family photos when you know where to go and what to expect.

The key to successful winter Seattle family photography is choosing the right locations. While many trees are bare and the weather can be dreary, we can head to parks with evergreens or even venture into the nearby mountains for stunning backdrops that stay beautiful year-round. For families who want something truly magical, we can also drive out to Snoqualmie Falls (about 90 minutes from Seattle) to shoot in the snow, creating winter wonderland family photos that feel completely different from typical Seattle sessions.

What winter Seattle family photography lacks in colorful foliage, it makes up for in atmosphere. The soft, diffused light on overcast days is actually gorgeous and forgiving for family photos. Plus, that moody Pacific Northwest vibe is at its peak during winter months—misty mornings, dramatic skies, and those quintessentially Seattle moments that feel authentically PNW.

And here’s a bonus for Seattle families: winter family photography sessions are typically easier to book since it’s the off-season for most Seattle family photographers.

Summer in Seattle: Golden Hour Magic (June – August)

Here’s the truth about summer Seattle family photography: it’s actually one of the most beautiful times for family photos, with one important caveat. Summer in Seattle offers the most reliable weather and absolutely stunning light—but you need to time it right. The key to gorgeous summer family photography in Seattle? Evening sessions during golden hour when the light is dreamy and magical.

Yes, the midday summer sun can be harsh for family photos (which is why I never schedule sessions during those hours), but the payoff for evening Seattle family photography sessions is incredible. We’re talking about that warm, golden light that makes everyone glow, reliable weather that means no rain backup plans, and longer days that give us flexibility with timing. Summer evening family photography sessions in Seattle are some of my absolute favorites.

The challenge? Those beautiful golden hour sessions happen later in the evening when little ones might be getting tired. But don’t let that scare you away—I have tons of strategies for keeping kids happy during evening family photography sessions. In fact, I wrote an entire guide on tips for successful photo sessions with little kids that covers exactly how to make evening sessions work beautifully for Seattle families.

Summer is perfect for Seattle families who want that bright, cheerful, summery vibe in their family photos. The lush green Pacific Northwest landscapes are at their peak, flowers are blooming throughout Seattle parks, and the energy is relaxed and joyful. Just remember: we’ll be scheduling your summer Seattle family photography session for evening golden hour, not midday sun.

Seattle Family Photography Recommendations by Family Type

For Seattle families with toddlers (ages 1-3): Spring or early fall family photography sessions work best. The weather is mild, kids are comfortable, and you’re not dealing with holiday stress or summer vacation disruption during your family photos.

For Seattle families with school-age children: Late spring, summer or very early fall family photography sessions are ideal. You’re working around the Seattle school schedule but avoiding the holiday rush for your family photos. The bonus? The sun sets late during these seasons, so we can easily shoot after school hours. By late fall, we start to lose light by 3-4pm, making after-school sessions nearly impossible.

For Seattle families with newborns: Any season works perfectly for newborn photography since these sessions are done in the comfort of your own home. This means we can focus on capturing those precious early moments regardless of what’s happening outside.

For extended Seattle family sessions: Spring or summer work best for larger family groups. These sessions take longer and need adequate space, so we typically shoot in parks or open fields. While fall locations are beautiful, they tend to be packed with other photographers during peak season, making it harder to get the space and privacy your extended family needs for a relaxed session.

No matter when you choose to schedule your Seattle family photography session, remember that the best time is ultimately when it works for your family. Beautiful family photos happen in every season when you work with a Seattle family photographer who knows how to make the most of our city’s unique beauty and unpredictable Pacific Northwest weather.

Ready to schedule your Seattle family photography session? Contact me to discuss the best timing for your family and see my current availability across all seasons for Seattle family photos.

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Family, newborn and motherhood photography by Tanya Zagumenov