The Best Time for Family Photos in Steamboat Springs During Summer

Why I Only Recommend Golden Hour for Summer Family Photos in Steamboat Springs

One of the questions I get asked most often is:

"Can we do our family photos a little earlier? Our kids usually go to bed before sunset."

As a mom, I completely understand. Summer schedules are busy, little ones get tired, and bedtime matters.

But here's the truth I want every family to know before booking their session.

In the summer, if we're photographing with the beautiful Steamboat Springs mountains behind you, the sun sits directly behind me until around 7:45 p.m. That means you're often looking straight into bright sunlight.

The result?

• Squinting eyes

• Harsh shadows on faces

• Kids who are uncomfortable and frustrated

• Washed-out skies

• Photos that simply don't reflect the quality you deserve

I care too much about your gallery to settle for "good enough."

Golden hour isn't just about getting those dreamy, glowing colors everyone loves. It's about creating the best possible light for your family. Once the sun drops behind the mountains, everyone can relax, open their eyes naturally, and enjoy the session instead of fighting the sun.

Tips for Families with Young Kids

If you're worried about keeping little ones up later, here are a few things that almost always help:

• Let them nap a little later that day if possible.

• Pack an easy picnic or snacks before your session.

• Bring pajamas so they can head straight to bed afterward.

• Tell them it's a special family adventure instead of "picture day."

• Don't stress if bedtime is a little later for one evening—it'll be worth it!

You'd be surprised how many kids actually do better during an evening session because it's cooler outside, they're not overheated, and they have room to explore between photos.

Trust the Timing

When you hire a photographer, you're trusting them to know not only how to use a camera—but how to use light.

The timing of your session is one of the biggest factors in creating the natural, joyful images you see throughout my portfolio. I'd much rather recommend a later start time than deliver photos where everyone is squinting into the sun.

If you're visiting Steamboat Springs this summer and want mountain views, beautiful light, and a relaxed experience, I promise the extra hour or two is worth it.

Years from now, you won't remember that bedtime was pushed back by one evening—but you'll cherish the photographs that captured your family exactly as you are.